Abby Goetz & Justin Merkel – 2/24/24
- Venue: The Highland Manor
- Catering: Events by Dubsdread
- Photography: Ashley Lotus Photography
- Dress: The White Magnolia Bridal Collection in Jacksonville, Florida
- Hair and Makeup: Laura Reynolds Artistry
- Décor: Ocean Hawk Rentals
- Florist: Fairbanks Florist
- Cake: It’s Tasty Too
- Photobooth: Snapshot Orlando
- Band: The Rivertown Band
- Tux: Stitch & Tie
- Draping & Stage: Tim Webber Events
Pre-Wedding Experiences
How/where did you get engaged?
We were selected for a “complimentary” photoshoot with Josie Brooks Photography. She was my (future) sister-in-law’s photographer for her wedding, so I had shown interest in her giveaways in the past. Fifteen minutes into the photoshoot, which took place in New Smyrna Beach, I realized it was not just a photoshoot—but a proposal! Justin had coordinated the entire thing, and I was completely shocked!
What are you most excited about for your wedding day?
We are most excited about the band…other than marrying each other, of course! We are lucky to have landed Rivertown Band for our wedding day and couldn’t be more pumped.
What aspect are you excited to plan the most? (ceremony, food & beverages, photographer, DJ)
With our wedding right around the corner, a large portion of our planning efforts have been checked off (thank goodness). However, now is the time to plan/select all the little details that truly throw everything together. I have included a lot of surprise elements that I know Justin will be thrilled about.
Engagement – Josie Brooks Photography
Wedding – Ashley Lotus Photography
Wedding Planning
How do you feel the planning is going?
So far so good! The entire staff at Dubsdread and all my vendors have been AMAZING—I couldn’t be more grateful! It helps that I have a supportive (and organized) family that has helped me every step of the way.
What have you found to be more difficult than you expected?
Making decisions! It’s truly so hard to figure out the flowers you want, the decor, etc. I am trying to remain as timeless as possible, while still sticking to our own personal style.
What has been more fun about the process than you expected?
Planning out the little details! Both Pinterest and TikTok have been very helpful in coming up with fun, unique ideas that will make our wedding one to remember.
Wedding Day
What was the best, most memorable part of your big day?
It’s hard to pick! Other than getting to marry my best friend, it was one of the few times we got to have all of our best friends and family in one place. Seeing everyone laugh and smile throughout the day made my heart super happy.
If you could change one or two things about your event, what would they be?
I wish it went on longer! Everyone always tells you that the day will fly by, but I didn’t realize HOW fast it would fly.
Is there any advice you would give other couples planning their event that you wish someone had told you?
Don’t sweat the small stuff. As I mentioned above, there are very few times that you will ever get to have all of your loved ones in one place. Take a look around and absorb all of the love that is around you. While it is important to thank everyone for coming, it is crucial that you save enough time to actually enjoy the day, whether that’s getting out on the dance floor or sipping cocktails with your new spouse. At the end of the day, this is a celebration of you and your significant other!
