Kori + Keller’s Colorful and Emotional Wedding in Downtown Pensacola
Kori and Keller’s wedding day in downtown Pensacola was everything I love about documenting love stories. As a Florida wedding photographer, I’ve seen all kinds of weddings—but this one was overflowing with intentional details, bold color, and deep emotion.
Their day began in separate, cozy Airbnbs just steps from Old Christ Church. The morning energy was excited, laid-back, and centered on their people—exactly how Kori and Keller wanted it. They exchanged thoughtful gifts privately before the ceremony, and the rooms were filled with laughter and emotion as each got ready with their closest friends.
From the beginning, every part of this wedding felt like them. Kori brought her creative vision to life with thoughtful DIY touches—from handwritten signage to custom table numbers, curated with care and full of personality. Even the flatlays felt editorial, styled with heirloom jewelry, vintage stamps, and florals that popped against velvet textures. The color palette was playful yet refined—burnt orange, rich burgundy, dusty rose, soft blush, and terracotta—all beautifully layered in the floral arrangements, bridesmaid dresses, and table settings.
Kori’s bridesmaids were a blend of soul sisters from all different seasons of life. Their mismatched dresses in warm, earthy tones matched the handmade details Kori carefully curated. The mix-and-match style felt organic and intentional, adding visual interest to every group photo. They spent the morning getting ready together, laughing, and reminiscing about their friendship over coffee and mimosas.
The groomsmen wore sharp black suits and were gifted custom beer steins inspired by USMC mugs, a sentimental nod to Keller’s service. Those little touches made the day feel not only stylish but meaningful.
The celebration took place in the heart of downtown, with their ceremony held at the historic Old Christ Church, chosen for its rich history and the couple’s deep love of downtown Pensacola. . The oldest church in Florida, OCC was glowing with its wood floors and arched windows, provided the perfect mix of timeless beauty and natural light. Kori walked down the aisle in an elegant gown with lace details, carrying a bouquet of lush, garden-style blooms in vibrant oranges, corals, and dusty pinks—flowers that were custom-grown just for her. The air felt sacred and still as Keller saw her for the first time, and the energy in the room was full of love and anticipation. A stained-glass rainbow danced across Kori’s dress during their personal vows that left everyone in tears.
The reception was full of handmade magic. Kori created most of the decor herself, and the flowers were locally grown by a vendor she met at the farmers market—each one selected and cultivated just for her. Centerpieces were bursting with bright, joyful blooms, and every table included a personal touch: Polaroid photos of the guests sitting there.
Their favorite local band played for the first part of the evening, including Kori and Keller’s first dance song, and the cake was made by a close friend. In fact, most of the desserts were a team effort—baked with love by the bride’s aunts in the week leading up to the big day.
The toasts were some of my favorite moments of the day. They weren’t just funny or sweet—they were deeply personal. Kori’s maids of honor and Keller’s best man shared stories that had the whole room tearing up (and belly-laughing). Both parents also gave heartfelt speeches that left a lasting impression on everyone in the room.
After dinner, the band packed up and the DJ took over—and the tone completely shifted. The second half of the night was all-out celebration. The dance floor was packed, sweaty, joyful chaos. Every guest brought their energy, and it was clear this group came ready to party.
This wedding meant the world to me. Kori and Keller were the first couple to ever book me for a full wedding day, and capturing this day felt like photographing the wedding of old friends—because by now, they are. I’ve stayed with them when traveling to Pensacola and will always be grateful for the trust and connection we’ve built.
Their wedding was bold, thoughtful, and emotional—just like them. And it’s exactly the kind of day I’ll carry with me as a reminder of why I do what I do.
Whether you're dreaming of a historic church ceremony, a colorful DIY celebration, or a friend-focused reception that turns into a full-on dance party, I’d love to help you capture it. I’m a Jacksonville-based wedding photographer serving couples all across Florida and beyond.
Vendor Team
Photography: Emily Barrett Photo
Venue: Old Christ Church
Florals: Blossom Lane Farm
Band: Stormfolk
DJ: DJ Phatchi
Cake: Norma Jeans Cakes
Videographer: Higgins Photo & Film
Hairstylist: Volume One
Make Up Artist: Skin by Kendall
Tent Rentals: Gulf Coast Events and Rentals
Decor Rentals: Wedding Walls
Caterer: Culinary Productions
Bartender: Richies East