Little did Rachel Ritlop know that she would meet the love of her life, Eric Dresdale, at a pool party and later get acquainted with him on social media. However, after their first meeting, fate took its course and the two happened to be at the same restaurant at the same time. Eric sent her a Facebook message later that night, which would soon turn into a first date and eventually a romantic proposal on the beach in Miami. 

“Eric was so nervous that his voice was shaking and he could barely pull the ring from his pocket! I have worn that ring ever since that November day in 2014 and will continue to wear it until our last days,” confides the bride, the blogger behind "The Confused Millenial."

The pair eloped on the beach – honoring where they became engaged – and decided to commemorate their nuptials with a post-wedding shoot a few months after their “I dos.” For their formal portraits, the couple pursued an elegant oceanic theme that incorporated Floridian details. They selected local vendors and decided to hold the stylized shoot at an iconic property in Palm Beach to stay true to the character of their beloved state.

Rachel wore a gorgeous off-the-shoulder ball gown in blush, accentuated with a sweeping veil. Her bouquet incorporated white, blush, and pink hues that were offset with greenery for a fresh feel. Eric wore a blue suit, which spoke to nautical ambience of the theme. Photos were taken inside and outside the venue in an aim to fully embrace the persona of the striking property. The couple had a blast laughing and posing in the luggage carts, hallways, and rooms of the hotel. The garden, rooftop, walkways, and upscale Worth Avenue also served as beautiful scenery for the day.

To further complement the setting, details and décor showcased gilt elements, fanciful palm prints, and bright colors. The florals chosen by the couple beautifully complemented the abstract room with their yellow, coral, and blush hues. This palette was also found in the save-the-date postcards and Florida-themed welcome basket. Not only did the shoot capture the Dresdales’ adoration of their state, but it also captured their love and the wedding they envisioned for themselves had they not eloped. The special day was truly the best of both worlds for the new Mr. and Mrs.