A Grand Celebration for Alana & Elizabeth at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort

Katelyn Pike
Sep 5, 2023
2 min read

Updated: Jul 21

What a magical weekend it was celebrating Alana & Elizabeth!

From the beginning, their story was about compromise, joy, and deep love. Alana had always dreamed of getting married at Disney, while Elizabeth had her heart set on Hotel Del Coronado. The perfect solution? Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa - designed with the same architectural charm and elegance.

Getting to the big day wasn’t without its challenges. Nearly every venue they were excited about was under heavy construction. But, in true Disney fashion, something magical happened: the Grand Floridian Lobby construction wrapped the day before their wedding. Walls down. Floors polished. Chandeliers sparkling. It was finally ready just in time for their first look.

They both got ready in some of the most stunning rooms at the resort, surrounded by their closest friends. The laughter, the tequila, the tears, it was a room filled with warmth and anticipation. The emotion was already flowing before the first look, and Alana was in tears even before turning around. That moment, set in the newly completed Grand Lobby, was unforgettable. There wasn’t a dry eye in sight.

We then made our way to the Wedding Pavilion, one of the most breathtaking venues we’ve ever filmed (and where we got married!!). Bright white interiors, glittering chandelier, and stained glass windows that casts magical light everywhere. Plus a perfect view of Cinderella’s Castle right behind the altar.

Alana walked in arm-in-arm with each of her three children, who took turns escorting her down the aisle. At the end, she waited for Elizabeth to walk down with her parents. Alana’s emotional reaction to seeing her bride was everything. Their ceremony was deeply personal, especially with Alana’s children sharing heartfelt vows of their own to Elizabeth. It was a true testament to the family they’ve built.

After some golden hour portraits, everyone gathered at Whitehall Rooms & Patio for their reception filled with delicious appetizers, a dessert spread, and the best-smelling churro bar you could imagine. The night was cozy, heartfelt, and full of connection as guests mingled, laughed, and celebrated.

But that wasn’t all! The celebration ended with a bang at the Grand Floridian Marina, where they hosted a private fireworks and dessert party. Instead of stepping away for romantic shots, Elizabeth and Alana chose to stand side-by-side with their guests, singing every single word of “Happily Ever After.” It was pure joy.

A Last-Minute Booking That Was Meant to Be

Though they found us last-minute, we were so honored to capture their love story exactly how it deserved to be told. Alana and Elizabeth booked our 6-hour highlight package with two videographers, and added on extra hours of coverage to make sure every part of the day, from getting ready to fireworks, was fully preserved. This was a video-only collection, with no interviews, allowing the visuals and emotions to carry the story in full cinematic beauty.What a magical weekend it was celebrating Alana & Elizabeth!