Some weddings feel like they were pulled straight from a storybook, and Elyse and Michelle’s intimate Disney wedding was exactly that.

From a horse drawn carriage arrival to glittery cocktails and a cake cutting inside one of Disney’s most charming restaurants, every part of their wedding felt thoughtful, relaxed, and genuinely fun.

As a Disney wedding photographer based in Orlando, these are the weddings I love most. Beautiful details, meaningful moments, and couples who prioritize being present with the people they love.

A Love Story That Started With Disney

Elyse and Michelle met on Hinge and had their first date at a coffee shop on Davis Island in Tampa. As fate would have it, their very first conversation was about Disney.

Considering where they eventually chose to get married, it feels like Disney was part of their story from the very beginning.

The proposals were equally sweet. Michelle proposed during a birthday trip to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. A few weeks later, Elyse surprised Michelle with a proposal of her own during a scavenger hunt at home.

Getting Ready at Swan Reserve 🦢

The day began at Swan Reserve, the upscale boutique style hotel located within Walt Disney World Resort. It was a perfect backdrop for the brides to get ready with of view of where they were about to get married just across the street.

Guests embraced the springtime atmosphere by wearing vibrant colors, while the honorary bridesmaids stood out in bright pink dresses that added a pretty pop of color throughout the day.

A Fairytale Ceremony at Crescent Terrace

Their ceremony took place at Crescent Terrace, a private little corner of the Swan Hotel where sunlight filtered through the trees and created an intimate setting for their vows.

The ceremony already felt magical. Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for.

Elyse arrived in a horse drawn carriage.

As the carriage rolled up to the terrace, the guests were noticeably impressed. It was the perfect Disney princess moment without feeling over the top. In fact, it ended up being one of the most talked about parts of the entire wedding day.

The carriage remained nearby throughout the ceremony, creating an unforgettable backdrop as the couple exchanged vows surrounded by the people who matter most.

Romantic Wedding Portraits Around Disney’s BoardWalk

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed champagne and light bites while we explored some of the most beautiful areas around Disney World for portraits.

We started around The Swan and Dolphin before making our way toward Disney’s BoardWalk Inn.

One of the things I love about photographing weddings in this area is the variety. Within a short walk, you can find elegant architecture, waterfront views, charming green pathways, and plenty of spots that feel distinctly Disney without needing to step inside a theme park.

The relaxed pace of the afternoon gave Elyse and Michelle a little time to soak everything in before joining their guests for the next part of the celebration.

Wedding Cake + Cocktails at The Cake Bake Shop 🍸

Instead of a traditional ballroom reception, the couple hosted an intimate celebration inside a private room at The Cake Bake Shop at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Resort.

If you’ve never been there, imagine crystal chandeliers, flowers cascading from the ceiling, pastel details, and a whimsical atmosphere that somehow feels elegant and playful at the same time. It was actually my first time there and I just remember thinking “it’s just so pretttyyyyy.”

The Cake Bake Shop has become known for its fairytale aesthetic, glitter dusted desserts and beautifully designed spaces. It felt like the perfect extension of the day’s Disney princess inspired atmosphere.

Inside the private dining room, Elyse and Michelle cut their cake, toasted with glittery cocktails, and celebrated with their closest family and friends.

The entire afternoon felt relaxed, joyful, and incredibly personal.

An Intimate Disney Wedding Done Their Way

What I loved most about Elyse and Michelle’s wedding was how romantic and dreamy, yet relaxed the entire day felt. There was no rushing from event to event and no pressure to squeeze every possible tradition into the timeline. Instead, they spent the day with the people they love, enjoyed every moment, and created a celebration that felt effortless from start to finish.

As a Disney wedding photographer, those are often the weddings that leave the biggest impression. Not because they’re the largest or most elaborate, but because everyone is fully present and actually enjoying the experience as it unfolds.

If you’re planning a Disney LGBTQ wedding or looking for a Disney wedding photographer for your princess-inspired celebration at Walt Disney World, Elyse and Michelle’s wedding is a beautiful reminder that you don’t need a massive guest list or an elaborate timeline to create something magical and unforgettable. 💕

Orlando Wedding Vendors

Wedding Planner – Just Marry!
Horse Drawn Carriage – Soul Haven Ranch
Florist – Flower Studio Altamonte
Violinist – Rachel Durrum
Reception – The Cake Bake Shop
Hair and Makeup – Kiss and Makeup
Elyse’s Dress Shop – CC’s Bridal Boutique
Elyse’s Dress Designer – Martina Liana 

Getting married at Walt Disney World?

I’d loveeee to hear all about it. 😍 Click here to get in touch, check availability, and learn more about photography and videography coverage for Disney weddings and celebrations throughout Central Florida.

Hugs,
-Elle