Liz and Ty got married on February 21, 2026, at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota… and honestly, as a Marie Selby Botanical Gardens wedding photographer, this one settled somewhere deep. I’ve known Liz for years. So getting to witness her marry the guy who truly grounds her, loves her, and matches her energy… that’s a whole different kind of honor.
Getting Ready at Embassy Suites Downtown Sarasota
The morning started at Embassy Suites by Hilton Downtown Sarasota, right in the heart of downtown. The floor-to-ceiling windows, the downtown Sarasota skyline as a backdrop, the soft morning light… it was the kind of getting-ready suite that just feels like the day is already off to a beautiful start.
Liz’s gown was from Calvet Couture Bridal, with alterations by The Ivory SRQ. She had a spray tan with Siesta Glow Sarasota the day before, and her hair and makeup were done by the teams at Brides by Kelly Anne Co. and Cora’s Corner. Every detail, every person in that room, was chosen with intention.
And across the hotel, Ty was getting ready with his guys. Calm. Easy. Ready for the day.
The First Look at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
One of my favorite things to document is the first look… that moment before everything else begins. Liz and Ty chose to see each other privately at Selby before the ceremony, and I am so glad they did. The gardens gave us lush tropical greenery, dappled light, and complete quiet. Just the two of them.
The reaction on Ty’s face… that’s the kind of moment I live for. Calm, grounded, completely overwhelmed by love all at once. And Liz… she walked toward him like she already knew exactly where she was supposed to be.
Bride + Groom Portraits Through the Gardens
After the first look, we took a little time to wander the grounds for portraits. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is honestly one of the most beautiful backdrops in all of Sarasota. There’s something wild and soft about it at the same time. Tropical blooms, mossy pathways, water in the distance… it photographs like a dream.
Liz was relaxed, glowing, and completely in the moment. Ty was steady and present. Honestly, they were the easiest couple to photograph… because they just love each other so naturally, and it shows.
The Wedding Ceremony at Selby Gardens
The ceremony took place in the gardens themselves, surrounded by the lush tropical beauty that makes Selby one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Sarasota. Their planner, Swanky Soiree Events, and florist Lily Bella Floral brought everything together beautifully… florals that felt like the gardens grew them just for this day.
Liz had told me years before this day that if she ever got married, I would be her photographer. I don’t take that lightly. Ever. Standing there watching her walk down the aisle… it wasn’t just my job. It was something much more personal than that.
They said their vows, they kissed, they walked back out as husband and wife to the sounds of DJ Jamal. The whole ceremony felt grounded and intentional, never rushed… exactly who Liz and Ty are as people.
Golden Hour at Selby’s Waterfront
Florida gave us perfect weather and one of those Sarasota sunsets that just dissolves into the most incredible golden light. The Selby waterfront along Sarasota Bay is honestly one of the most stunning sunset portrait spots in the city, and we made every minute of it count.
These two were glowing… literally. That light, that love, that complete ease between them. It’s what I try to capture every single time, and sometimes everything just aligns perfectly.
The Reception
The celebration continued with catering by Married with Michaels and a beautiful cake from Publix Bakery… classic, delicious, and honestly perfect. Flowers throughout the reception were done by Lily Bella Floral, and the whole evening flowed seamlessly thanks to the coordination of Swanky Soiree Events.
The dance floor was full, the energy was warm and joyful, and everyone in that room was completely present for Liz and Ty. That’s the kind of wedding that stays with you long after the last song ends.
Why Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is One of the Best Wedding Venues in Sarasota
Selby Gardens has become one of my absolute favorite venues to photograph in Sarasota, and here is why I think couples keep choosing it.
The Natural Backdrops Are Endless
From tropical blooms to shaded canopy paths to open waterfront views, Selby gives photographers and couples so many beautiful settings in one place. No two galleries from Selby look the same, because the gardens themselves change with the season.
The Light is Extraordinary
West-facing waterfront views mean golden hour hits the gardens in the most stunning way. If you plan your ceremony timing well, you get that iconic Sarasota Bay sunset light during portraits… which is exactly what Liz and Ty had.
It Feels Intimate Even in a Grand Setting
Selby has a way of feeling tucked away and private even though it is in the middle of Sarasota. That creates a sense of calm and presence for couples that not every venue can offer.
It Attracts an Incredible Vendor Community
The best planners, florists, caterers, and DJs in Sarasota know Selby well. Working with Swanky Soiree Events and Lily Bella Floral here was effortless, because they know exactly how to make this venue sing.
Vendor Credits
Venue: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Planner: Swanky Soiree Events
Florist: Lily Bella Floral
DJ: DJ Jamal
Hair: Brides by Kelly Anne Co.
Makeup: Cora’s Corner
Cake: Publix Bakery
Catering: Married with Michaels
Dress: Calvet Couture Bridal
Alterations: The Ivory SRQ
Spray Tan: Siesta Glow Sarasota
Getting Ready: Embassy Suites by Hilton Downtown Sarasota
Planning a Selby Gardens Wedding? Let’s Connect.
Selby is one of those venues I genuinely love shooting… and I only have a limited number of wedding dates available each year in Sarasota. If you’re planning a Marie Selby Botanical Gardens wedding and you want a photographer who will show up fully present and protect the feeling of your day, I’d love to chat. Reach out here and let’s make something beautiful together.
More from Angela Moon Photography
If you loved this gallery, take a look at a few more recent weddings and sessions from around Sarasota… Lido Beach Resort Wedding | Emily + Jorge, Top Sarasota Wedding Venues, Why Powel Crosley Estate is a Top Wedding Venue in Sarasota, and A Proposal at Selby Botanical Gardens.
