Emily and Matt's Filmy, Editorial Elopement at the Sarasota Courthouse

Elopements have a way of stripping away the chaos and focusing on what matters most—love, family, and meaningful moments.

This stunning Sarasota courthouse elopement was no exception. With multiple beautiful locations, heartfelt moments, and a blend of modern elegance and timeless charm, the day was as magical as it was intimate.

 

Getting Ready & The First Look

The day began in St. Pete, where the bride prepared for her big moment. Anna with Style Hair and Makeup worked her magic, creating a timeless look with classic matte makeup and loose glam waves that perfectly complemented the bride’s style. The bride's choice of not one but three outfits brought an extra layer of excitement and variety to the day.

For the first look, the couple chose Granada Terrace, a charming neighborhood in St. Pete. The venue’s stunning white stone features and lush greenery created the perfect backdrop for their emotional first meeting. The groom, dashing in his sleek black tux, waited with anticipation as his bride approached. The moment they saw each other was full of love and joy, beautifully captured for them to cherish forever.

A Timeless Elopement at the Sarasota Courthouse

The couple exchanged vows at the historic Sarasota courthouse, one of our absolute favorite venues in this area of Florida. Its elegant, old-world charm made it ideal for creating editorial, timeless images. Surrounded by their immediate family, the intimate ceremony was heartfelt and deeply personal—a true reflection of their love story.

Adding a touch of luxury to their day, the couple rented a high-end vehicle for the occasion. Not only did it elevate their experience, but it also served as a stylish accessory for their photos. This thoughtful choice added sophistication and allowed them to stay relaxed and confident throughout the day.

Newlywed Photos at The Ringling & Dinner at Pia’s in Gulfport

After the ceremony, we headed to The Ringling for more photos of the newlyweds. This iconic location, with its stunning architecture and gardens, provided a perfect blend of elegance and romance. We made the most of the golden light, capturing candid moments and posed shots that truly reflected their connection and joy.

The celebration concluded at Pia’s Trattoria in Gulfport, a cozy and romantic spot ideal for their intimate dinner. The candlelit ambiance paired with heartfelt toasts from family made the evening unforgettable. As photographers, it’s always a privilege to be invited to share in these personal celebrations, and we captured some of the most genuine moments here.

The Magic of 35mm Film

One special touch to this elopement was our use of 35mm film for a selection of their photos. Shooting on film adds a layer of nostalgia and artistry that’s hard to replicate digitally. The classic grain and warm, rich tones of film evoke a timeless quality, making these images feel like treasured heirlooms. There’s something about film photography that connects us to the past while preserving the present, and it was the perfect choice for such an intimate and meaningful day.

Final Thoughts

This Sarasota courthouse elopement was the perfect blend of romance, elegance, and heartfelt moments. From the getting-ready shots to the emotional first look, the timeless ceremony, and the joyful celebration at Pia’s, every detail came together to tell a story as unique as the couple themselves.

If you’re planning your own intimate wedding or elopement, we’d love to be part of your journey. Whether you’re drawn to the classic charm of a courthouse or envision a multi-location celebration, we’re here to capture your day with a blend of creativity and timeless style. Reach out to learn more about our approach to destination and luxury wedding photography!




Dewitt for Love is a husband and wife photography team based in Tampa Bay, Florida. Serving St. Petersburg, Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando, Miami, West Palm Beach, and available for destination weddings anywhere! :)