Ellese + Luke's Ocean Reef Club Wedding

Ellese and Luke’s wedding day was truly a dream on the perfect clear day in Key Largo, FL surrounded by loved ones. They couple chose a delicate palette of ivory, deep greens and soft blues accenting their dreamy surroundings.

One of our first brides to wear one of our newest designers, Mira Zwillinger, Ellese fell in love with the Joelle gown, a chic strapless silver and white gown with sequined embroidery over silver lace and matching belt. She paired her gown with a Malis Henderson veil with a blusher and bejeweled Sondra Roberts clutch from Eden Boutique. Ellese fell deep in love with her gown the moment she first tried it on. See below for more on her incredible gown shopping experience!

Ellese, it’s an absolute pleasure having you as part of the LWD family! Congratulations to you and Luke!

LWD: Tell us a little about your gown shopping experience. What were you looking for in a dress and how did you narrow it down to your favorites?

Ellese: LWD was the third store I came to and was SO happy I did. Caitlin and all of the girls were incredibly welcoming and accommodating. It is somewhat intimidating to try on wedding dresses, and these girls could not have made me feel more comfortable and beautiful. Initially, I thought I was going to want something silk and very simple. Upon arriving at LWD, my sister, mom and I grabbed EVERY dress in sight, leaving no dress behind. Upon trying on a silk gown that I thought was going to be in love with, I realized it wasn't right for my body and was so happy that I had dozens of other beautiful gowns to try on. 

LWD: How did you end up deciding on your Mira Zwillinger wedding dress? What did you love most about your dress?

Ellese: I am not an over the top girly girl, but when I tried on my dress, I actually cried. It was so obvious that this was my dress. I have never felt more confident or beautiful! I LOVE how the shape of the gown fits my body. It is truly a piece of art, with the most incredible, and intricate details. 

LWD: What was your favorite part of your wedding?

Ellese: My husband and I did not do a first look and I am so happy that we didn't. By far my favorite part of the wedding, and what I will remember forever, was Luke's face when he first saw me coming down the aisle. 

LWD: Do you have any advice for brides going through the process of finding their wedding dress?

Ellese: Try on dresses that you wouldn't necessarily think you would like. It was one of the most fun experiences of planning my wedding, and truly a once in a lifetime opportunity. Also, wear a veil. I felt beautiful with just my dress but felt like a bride when I put on my veil. 

LWD: Anything else you want to mention about your experience with LWD?

Ellese: I am incredibly grateful to LWD and these girls for the most beautiful and unforgettable wedding dress shopping experience. 

Vendors

Gown: Joelle by Mira Zwillinger from Little White Dress

Veil: Malis Henderson from Little White Dress

Clutch: Sondra Roberts from Eden Boutique

Venue: Ocean Reef Club

Photography: Margeaux Photo

Planning: Cate Tenopire Events