There are weddings that are beautifully planned, executed seamlessly, and remembered for their elegance and charm. Then, there are weddings like Kris and Missy’s—where every imaginable obstacle stood in the way, yet the love, laughter, and sheer determination of everyone involved turned it into a truly unforgettable celebration.
We at Events By Paradise had the absolute honor of planning and designing Kris and Missy’s intimate luxury wedding at the breathtaking Sea Palms Estate on Captiva Island. What was meant to be a serene and sophisticated seaside ceremony nearly didn’t happen at all. Hurricane Milton had other plans.
A Hurricane, a Washed-Out Road, and a Wedding in Limbo
Just 48 hours before guests were set to arrive in Florida, Hurricane Milton roared through the Gulf Coast, forcing Kris and Missy to make an impossible decision—cancel or reschedule. With the only road to the island washed away and uncertainty looming, it seemed like their dream wedding might never happen. But true to their resilient and adventurous spirit, the couple decided to wait for the island to reopen rather than relocate to an entirely new venue.
As their wedding planners, we jumped into action, working around the clock to reschedule vendors, adjust logistics, and reassure guests that the wedding was still happening—just not on the original date. When Captiva was finally accessible again, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that every floral arrangement, candle, and table setting was exactly as Kris and Missy had envisioned.
The Day Finally Arrives—With a Few More Surprises
After weeks of uncertainty, the wedding day finally arrived. Guests, many of whom had to rearrange travel plans multiple times, were in great spirits, ready to celebrate. The sun shone brightly over Sea Palms Estate, reflecting off the water in a way that made every hardship leading up to this moment seem completely worth it.
But, of course, the universe had one last twist in store. Just as we were finalizing pre-ceremony details, Kris realized something was missing—his pants.
Yes, despite being asked (more than once) whether he had everything he needed, the groom had managed to forget his wedding pants. The only solution? A last-minute drive to Naples to find a new pair. We don’t know what was more impressive—the fact that he made it back in time, or how perfectly the replacement pants matched his suit!
A Perfect Evening in Paradise
Once Missy walked down the aisle, all the chaos leading up to the big day melted away. The ceremony, set against the stunning backdrop of Captiva’s pristine beaches, was pure magic. Soft ocean breezes carried their vows across the shoreline, and not a single dry eye remained as they promised forever to each other.
The reception was a dream. With an intimate guest list, we curated an atmosphere of warmth and refined elegance. Crisp white florals with hints of soft blush adorned the tables, accented by flickering candlelight and crystal glassware. Lush garlands trailed across wooden farm tables, enhancing the natural beauty of the coastal setting.
Guests dined on an exquisite menu featuring locally sourced seafood, sipping champagne as the sun dipped below the horizon. Despite the hurdles that had brought everyone to this moment, laughter filled the air. The dance floor was packed from the first song to the last, proving that the best celebrations are often the ones that come after the greatest challenges.
A Love Worth Every Challenge
Kris and Missy, we cannot thank you enough for trusting us to navigate this wild journey with you. Your patience, humor, and unwavering love for one another made every unexpected challenge worth it.
To our future couples dreaming of a Captiva or Sanibel wedding—know this: No matter the obstacles, love always wins. At Events By Paradise, we are here to ensure that, rain or shine (or hurricanes and missing pants), your wedding day will be nothing short of spectacular.
Here’s to love, laughter, and unforgettable celebrations in paradise!
