Okay, can we just take a moment for Ashley & Doug’s epic Disney wedding weekend?! From champagne toasts in PJs to monorail magic and not one, but two rounds of fireworks, their celebration at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion and Grand Floridian Resort was the definition of luxury and love.

As their Orlando wedding photographer & videographer, we had the absolute joy of capturing every moment with 9 hours of photo and video coverage (Yours truly– Elle was the sole photographer & Bishop was the videographer). If you’re dreaming of a romantic, high-end Disney wedding with allllll the magic sprinkled in–this blog is for you.

Kicking Things Off: Welcome Party at Italy Isola in Epcot

The festivities started the night before the wedding with a dessert welcome party in Epcot’s Italy Isola. Guests arrived just in time to enjoy some drinks & light bites before the nighttime fireworks show. We got some incredible fireworks photos with glowing lagoon & Spaceship earth views as the backdrop. Epcot nights? Always a vibe.

The Big Day 🤍

Getting Ready at the Grand Floridian: PJs, Details & Champagne

Wedding day began at their club-level suite at the Grand Floridian, which had the perfect soft light for bridal details. Ashley had her grandma’s ring, elegant David Yurman pearl drop earrings, a letter from Doug, and of course—a bottle of her favorite bubbly to pop with her mom and sister.

After she got into her dress (and read Doug’s sweet card), we captured all the gorgeous prep goodness before heading to the grand staircase for first looks.

First Looks with All the Feels

Ashley had her first look with her dad next to the staircase–cue all the tears–then saw Doug for the first time in her gown. 🥹 We had decided in advance to use the section next to the staircase to provide a pretty clean backdrop while keeping the moment on the private side. From there, we took romantic couple photos on the outside patio, the grand staircase and the second-floor chandelier before heading to the Wedding Pavilion for the ceremony.

✨ Wedding Timeline Highlights ✨

Here’s a peek at how the day flowed based on the timeline we created for them.

• 8:30 – 9:30 PM (Friday): Welcome party coverage at Epcot’s Italy Isola with fireworks
• 2:00 PM: Hair & makeup done, bridal details + PJ champagne pics
• 3:15 PM: First look with dad, then groom, followed by portraits
• 5:00 PM: Ceremony at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion (Ashley’s dad sang!)
• 5:30 PM: Family photos & group monorail pic
• 6:30 PM: Cocktail hour at White Hall Patio (more monorail shots, yes!)
• 7:00 PM: Room reveal & reception doors open
• 9:00 PM: Cake cutting + more fireworks from White Hall
• 10:00 PM: Late-night Mickey pretzels = iconic Disney ending!

Ceremony at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion: A Real-Life Fairytale

There’s truly nothing like walking down the aisle at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion. The castle view, the stained glass windows, the light pouring in–it’s literal magic. Ashley’s dad even sang during their ceremony, which made the whole moment feel even more special.

They did a cheerful exit on the bridge, and then we took advantage of golden hour for romantic portraits. We had a long shot list, but working closely with the wedding coordinators we were able to get all of their must have shots! We got portraits at picture point, inside the wedding pavilion, on the bridge and (of course) with the monorail as it swooshed by. Iconic.

The Grand Finale: Elegant Reception + Fireworks Encore

After a little drinks & apps break for the newlyweds (and candid cocktail hour coverage for me!), Ashley & Doug had a first look at their reception space at the Grand Floridian Convention Center and their reactions said it all! Their sweetheart table was backed by a custom projection of Cinderella’s Castle and fireworks, and the up lighting was just chef’s kiss. Their DJ was Willie Lugo who is on my preferred list because he’s always so awesome to work with!

Later in the evening, we snuck out to the White Hall Patio for round two of fireworks photos (with the monorail, again!). It was the most dreamy end to the perfect Disney day.

 

 

Ready to Plan Your Disney Dream Wedding?

Ashley & Doug’s day was pure magic from start to finish. From double fireworks to literally the most iconic monorail shots ever, their celebration was a Disney lover’s dream done right.

If you’re planning your own luxury wedding at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion or the Grand Floridian, I’d love to help you capture it all. Let’s create something beautiful together, friend 💌