A few weeks ago, my boyfriend and I decided to take a spontaneous day trip down to one of my absolute favorite spots in the Florida Keys: The Moorings Village in Islamorada. It’s a place that feels almost dreamlike, a tucked-away sanctuary where time slows down and beauty seems to stretch endlessly in every direction. This visit was especially exciting because we were there to work with KT Merry—one of the most talented wedding photographers in the country—on a very special shoot.
Since she shoots everything on film, we’ll have to wait a few weeks before seeing the final images (worth every second of patience, I’m sure). But the day itself was too beautiful not to share in the meantime.
Arriving at Sunrise
We set out early, and as the sun began to rise, the palms lining the entrance to The Moorings swayed gently in the morning breeze. That first glimpse always takes my breath away. There’s something about that stretch of road that feels like an exhale, as though all the stress and noise of daily life gets left behind the moment you arrive. I smiled, knowing I was back in a place that has always felt like a home away from home.
The Keys have a way of grounding me, but The Moorings in particular holds a kind of quiet magic. I’ve visited several times before, and each trip leaves me more inspired than the last.
The Gift of Perfect Light
We couldn’t have asked for better weather. More often than not, the Keys greet us with soft, rolling clouds—which I secretly love because they filter the light into something almost ethereal. But this time, the skies were clear and the light was golden, wrapping everything in warmth.
While waiting for KT and her husband to arrive later in the afternoon, we took full advantage of the setting. My boyfriend, Pete, picked up the camera to snap a few photos of me. Now, let me be clear: photography is not exactly his passion (he’ll be the first to tell you that), but he humored me with patience and a smile because he knew how much it meant. And honestly? He did an amazing job capturing the moment. Sometimes, love looks like holding the camera even when you’d rather not.
Inspired by Place
The Moorings has always been a muse for me. There’s something about its balance of serenity and beauty that sparks creativity the moment I step foot on its grounds. The lush palms, the endless horizon, the rhythm of the ocean nearby—it’s an environment that invites you to slow down, breathe, and notice the details.
It’s easy to see why so many artists, photographers, and dreamers are drawn here. Every corner feels like a frame waiting to be captured, every breeze a reminder to pause and take it all in.
Looking Ahead
Though I can’t wait to share the film photos once they’re developed, I’m grateful for the in-between moments Pete and I captured ourselves. Those candid bits of sunshine and laughter will always hold a special place in my memory, because they weren’t planned—they were simply us, enjoying the day, caught up in the charm of a place that never fails to inspire.
Now, as we pack our bags for the Amalfi Coast and officially step into “out of office” mode, I’m carrying The Moorings with me in spirit. Travel has a way of layering memories, each destination shaping the next, but Islamorada will always remain one of the places that feels like coming home.
Until I can share those finished images, I’ll hold onto the light, the palms, and the peaceful rhythm of that day. Sometimes, the most beautiful escapes don’t need to be grand or far away—they just need to be filled with love, inspiration, and the willingness to see beauty in the moment.
