Black Tie Wedding by the Sea

Black Tie Wedding by the Sea
📍 Gasparilla Inn, Florida

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Dress || Heels || Handbag || Bracelet || Earrings || Lip Color

After a few magical days soaking in the laid-back beauty of Boca Grande, our time on the island ended with the kind of evening you wish you could relive over and over again. A black tie wedding at the legendary Gasparilla Inn—equal parts grandeur and charm—was the perfect final chapter. There’s something truly special about an event where every detail feels meaningful, and every moment feels suspended in time. The swaying palms, the golden light, the hum of live music floating through the air—it all created a setting that felt both cinematic and deeply personal.

We were in town to celebrate the wedding of two dearest friends. The bride and I met years ago at a blogging event in SoHo, back when I had just moved to New York City. It was one of those rare, instant connections—the kind of friendship that begins easily and grows quickly. Over time, our partners formed an equally strong bond, and together we’ve shared so many unforgettable moments: late-night dinners in the city, long weekends in beautiful destinations, and more laughter than I could ever count. To witness their love story unfold and be there as they said “I do” was nothing short of an honor.

What stood out most about the wedding—aside from the sheer joy in the air—was the attention to detail. Everything felt effortless yet incredibly thoughtful. The reception was held on the Inn’s sweeping lawn, framed by towering palms and that unmistakable old Florida architecture. There was a distinct sense of place: cane furniture with monogrammed linens, citrusy cocktails, floral arrangements that felt handpicked from a garden rather than a catalog. It was elegant without being fussy, refined without ever losing its warmth. The setting sun casting a soft glow on the façade of the Inn made it all feel like something from a Slim Aarons photograph.

Since this was my first official black tie event (surprisingly!), I knew I wanted a look that felt classic and versatile. I chose a one-shoulder black satin maxi dress that skimmed the body just so—understated yet striking. I can already imagine wearing it again for future weddings or formal events, which is always a win in my book. I paired it with simple yet comfortable block heels from Margaux, which gave me height without sacrificing dance floor stamina. These heels stayed on the entire night of dancing and twirling. My handbag was a round Clare V. raffia handbag—a nod to the tropical setting, with just the right amount of texture and whimsy. Hair slicked back, gold jewelry, and a warm breeze—it all came together beautifully, without ever feeling overdone.

I have to give a little credit where credit is due: David looked incredible. There’s something about seeing your partner dressed to the nines that just hits differently. His tuxedo, a sharp black number from J.Crew, fit him perfectly and matched the tone of the evening. Instead of traditional dress shoes, he wore Rothy’s loafers—which, fun fact, I found at a thrift store during one of my treasure-hunting weekends. They’re sleek, sustainable, and unexpectedly polished. His whole look was understated but refined, and he carried himself with that relaxed confidence I always admire.

The entire weekend was filled with beauty, laughter, and moments that felt like little treasures. But that final night—standing under strings of lights, surrounded by dear friends in tuxedos and gowns, most dancing barefoot by the end of it all—was something I’ll carry with me for a long, long time. The Gasparilla Inn has a way of making time feel slower, more intentional, more beautiful. And as we packed our bags the next morning, I couldn’t help but feel grateful—not just for the memories made, but for the people who make them so special. We’re already dreaming of our next visit.

Love from Boca Grande,
Katie

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