Falling in Love with a Flagler Museum Wedding in Palm Beach, Florida

There’s something truly magical about Palm Beach.
From the charming European-inspired architecture of Worth Avenue to the palm-lined roads that feel straight out of a postcard, every corner of this place feels like a dream for a wedding photographer. I love everything about photographing here — the light, the elegance, and the effortless beauty that seems to surround you at every turn.
Rachel and Andrew’s wedding at the iconic Flagler Museum captured all of those elements and more. Their celebration, held on February 16, 2025, was a breathtaking blend of timeless architecture, heartfelt moments, and editorial elegance — all set against the unmistakable backdrop of Palm Beach charm.

Rachel and Andrew had originally planned for me to photograph their engagement session in New York, where they live. But as life often goes, busy schedules got in the way.

Just a few days before the wedding, we decided to meet in West Palm Beach for a last-minute engagement session instead.

That session turned out to be such a blessing. It helped us break the ice, find a natural rhythm, and build the kind of comfort that carried into their wedding day.

At first, like many couples, there was a little shyness in front of the camera. But by the end of our time together, the walls came down and their genuine chemistry truly shined through.

Pre-Wedding Celebrations and Welcome Party in Palm Beach

Adding to the excitement, Rachel and Andrew hosted a welcome party the night before their wedding aboard a private yacht in Palm Beach. This beautiful evening gave guests (and me) a chance to mingle, celebrate, and soak in the tropical beauty of South Florida.

By the time the wedding day arrived, Rachel felt completely relaxed and at ease in front of the camera—which made all the difference in capturing those authentic, emotional moments.

A Beautiful Wedding Morning at The Ben and First Look Moments

The morning of February 16th greeted us with perfect Florida weather: clear blue skies, gentle breezes, and that unmistakable Palm Beach warmth. Meanwhile, Rachel and her bridal party got ready at The Ben, a chic boutique hotel situated just across the water from the Flagler Museum.
As Rachel stepped into her dress, she wore a stunning Valentini Spose gown — a true masterpiece of modern romance with its delicate details and graceful silhouette. Once final touches were complete, we planned an intimate first look right inside her suite at The Ben.
Those few quiet minutes together allowed Rachel and Andrew to share their emotions privately before the celebration officially began.

The bride’s transition from a traditional Seema Gujral lehenga to a modern Retrofete dress symbolized the blend of cultures. The groom’s attire, complementing the bride’s, added to the elegance. The Ritz Carlton’s catering was a highlight, featuring exquisite dishes. The wedding cake, with its unique flavors and personalized touch, was a testament to the couple’s story.

Portraits Across the Iconic Flagler Museum Grounds

Afterward, we made our way to the Flagler Museum for portraits. We first captured beautiful, airy photos along the North and South Porte-Cochères, the museum’s elegant covered walkways with historic architectural details.

We continued our portraits inside the West Room — often used for ceremonies — where the sweeping marble floors, ornate ceilings, and stunning natural light gave their images an ethereal quality. Of course, no Flagler Museum wedding would be complete without taking advantage of the sweeping views of the Intracoastal Waterway. On the back lawn, surrounded by towering palm trees and ocean breezes, we captured some of the most iconic and joyful moments of the day.

Editorial Elegance Inside the Whitehall Tea Room

Perhaps the most breathtaking portraits of all took place inside the museum’s Whitehall Tea Room. With its intricate gilded moldings, massive windows, and Gilded Age grandeur, this room feels like stepping into a European palace.

Rachel and Andrew’s portraits inside this space were nothing short of magical — a perfect fusion of romance, history, and editorial elegance. If you’re planning a Flagler Museum wedding, the Whitehall Tea Room is an absolute must for timeless and luxurious portraiture.

A Flagler Museum Wedding Ceremony to Remember

The ceremony itself was held inside the Flagler Museum’s historic Railroad Room, a breathtaking space originally designed to showcase Henry Flagler’s private railcar. With soaring ceilings, rich Gilded Age detailing, and grand windows overlooking the water, the Railroad Room offered a timeless, elegant setting for Rachel and Andrew to exchange their vows.

As Rachel walked down the aisle, the golden afternoon light poured through the windows, creating a romantic and ethereal glow. Emotional vows, heartfelt smiles, and joyful laughter filled the space, setting the tone for the unforgettable celebration that followed.

Cocktail Hour on the Back Lawn Overlooking the Water

Following the ceremony, guests were invited outside to enjoy cocktail hour on the Flagler Museum’s back lawn. With panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway and the lush Palm Beach palms swaying in the breeze, it was the perfect transition between the ceremony and the evening festivities.

Signature cocktails, soft live music, and golden-hour light created an atmosphere that was both relaxed and sophisticated — giving Rachel and Andrew time to mingle and soak in the joy with their loved ones.

A Grand Flagler Museum Wedding Reception in the Grand Hall

After cocktail hour, guests made their way into the museum’s majestic Grand Hall for an unforgettable reception. With its dramatic double staircase, soaring marble columns, and opulent chandeliers, the Grand Hall provided a breathtaking backdrop for dinner, dancing, and heartfelt toasts.

The night flowed seamlessly, with the room filled with laughter, love, and energy that carried late into the evening. Rachel and Andrew’s first dance beneath the chandeliers was nothing short of magical — a true reflection of the elegance, romance, and joy that defined their Flagler Museum wedding.

Why I Love Photographing Flagler Museum Weddings

Rachel and Andrew’s big day was everything a Flagler Museum Wedding should be — elegant, emotional, and timeless. Their story is one I feel so grateful to have captured. It was not just about beautiful portraits (though there were plenty of those!) — it was about real connection, real joy, and the start of a beautiful forever.

To Rachel and Andrew: thank you for trusting me to document your love story. I cannot wait to continue capturing your monumental life moments as they unfold. 🤍