Katie and Kellie (whose engagement session was also featured on the blog!) had their wedding at Walt Disney World Swan Reserve and it was the kind of wedding that reminded me why I love photographing celebrations that truly reflect the couple.

From the moment I arrived, everything felt intentional. Elegant without feeling stuffy. Luxurious without trying too hard. And most importantly, completely them.

As a Disney wedding photographer, I get to see a lot of magical weddings, but this one had so many personal touches woven throughout the day.

A Love Story That Started With Disney ✨

Katie and Kellie actually met while working at Disney! Years later, after life took them in different directions, they reconnected through WAKA kickball and the rest is history.

Their wedding felt like a full circle moment.

They chose Disney’s Swan Reserve Resort for their celebration and it was the perfect setting. Modern, elegant, and right in the heart of Walt Disney World.

Getting Ready at Swan Reserve

The morning started with both brides getting ready in separate suites. After each having a first look moment with their dads in the room, we headed outdoors for their first look.

One of my favorite moments was how they choose to do their first look. Rather than walking toward each other, they stood back to back before turning around at the same time.

The reactions were immediate. Smiles, tears, laughter. All the emotions you’d expect when you finally see your person fully dressed and ready to get married!

And yes, both gowns were absolutely stunning.

An Elegant Indoor Ceremony Filled With Florals

The ceremony took place inside one of the Swan Reserve ballrooms, which had been completely transformed with flowers.

A lush floral-lined aisle led to a statement installation at the front of the room created a beautiful backdrop for their vows.

The ceremony music was performed by a string quartet, which added such a classic and romantic atmosphere to the space. It was definitley giving Bridgerton.

The entire room felt soft, elegant, and timeless.

The Disney Bus That Almost Stole the Show

Every wedding has at least one unexpected moment.

Ours happened while we were heading across the street for portraits near the resort.

A Disney bus somehow managed to run a red light and got much closer to us than anyone would have liked. Thankfully everyone was completely fine, but it definitely got our attention!

We’ve decided the driver was simply distracted by two beautiful brides walking through Walt Disney World in wedding gowns. I mean who wouldn’t be?!

It’s the only valid explanation.

A Reception That Kept the Dance Floor Lit 🔥

The reception design featured a classic ivory and gold color palette with subtle blush accents throughout the ballroom.

Everything felt elevated and timeless without being overly formal.

While the guests were enjoying cocktail hour on the terrace, Mickey Mouse himself made a special private appearance just to congratulate the couple and greet their nieces & nephews.

After cocktail hour, guests made their way inside for an evening that felt more like a concert/nightclub than a reception.

A live band kept the dance floor packed all night, and there was never a point where the room felt anything less than energetic.

One of my favorite parts of the evening was watching Kellie’s sorority sisters tribute to the newlyweds on the dance floor. The energy in that room was truly contagious.

Mickey Glow Wands, Late Night Snacks, and a Packed Dance Floor

Toward the end of the night, guests were surprised with light up Mickey-shaped glow wands that quickly became the unofficial stars of the reception.

If you’ve ever wondered whether adults get excited about glow wands, the answer is absolutely yes.

The dance floor somehow got even busier after they came out.

To keep everyone fueled for the party, late night snacks included sliders and pizza, which disappeared almost immediately.

Honestly, that’s usually a pretty good sign that the wedding was a success.

Disney Weddings for Couples Who Want Their Day to Feel Like Them

One of the things I loved most about Katie and Kellie’s wedding was that it never felt like they were trying to fit into a wedding trend or checklist.

They built a day that reflected who they are, from the elegant ceremony and live music to the glow wands and late night pizza.

It was beautiful, emotional, fun, and completely authentic to them.

From the moment they turned around for their first look to the last song of the night, there was so much joy in the room. Weddings like this are why I love being a Disney wedding photographer and working with LGBTQ couples in Orlando. While the beautiful details are always a bonus, it’s the energy, connection, and authenticity that make a wedding unforgettable. Enjoy a handful of my favorite images from this incredible wedding day below! 🌈 😍

Orlando Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Captured by Elle
Wedding Planner: Marylen Exposito Weddings
Wedding Coordinator: Just Marry!
Venue/Catering/Cake: Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
Brides Dresses: Boca Raton Bridal
Floral/Decor: Raining Roses
Hair and Makeup: LeJune Artistry
Invitations + Menus: The Invitation Stand
Ceremony Music: Classern Quartet
Wedding Band: The Headliners
Videographer: Luxecine Cinema

 

 

 

 

Planning a Disney wedding or LGBTQ+ celebration in Orlando?

I’d love to hear what you’re dreaming up. Whether you’re getting married at Disney’s Swan Reserve, one of the Disney Fairytale Wedding venues, or anywhere else in Central Florida, you can get in touch here to learn more about photography and videography coverage for your special day. 

 

Hugs,
-Elle