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  • Maureen Ella

St. Augustine Beach Elopement: Mcklevey and Ryan's Love Story


Bride Hair and Makeup
Photographer: My Nguyen Photography

On the serene morning of August 26th, 2023, Mcklevey and Ryan embarked on their journey as a married couple, creating a beautiful elopement story in St. Augustine Beach, Florida. As a bridal hair and makeup artist, I was privileged to be a part of their special day, starting as early as 5 am to prepare Mcklevey for the special occasion. The morning preparations were not just about beauty; they were about the love and support surrounding Mcklevey. Her mom and sister along with the rest of the family joined her, sharing in the excitement and joy of the day, adding warmth and togetherness to the getting ready experience.


Mcklevey, a bride of natural beauty, had radiant skin, thanks to her regular facials. She desired a bronzed minimal makeup look, which perfectly matched her well-cared-for complexion. With subtlety in mind, I crafted a "no makeup" look that accentuated her innate charm. Her hair, effortlessly styled in a low, messy bun with delicate face-framing strands, exuded an air of relaxed elegance, striking a perfect balance between undone and refined.



Bride in Wedding Dress

Mcklevey's pearl drop earrings, adorned with something blue, beautifully complemented her simple solitaire-shaped engagement ring. This delicate touch added a special significance to her bridal ensemble, symbolizing tradition and the couple's commitment to a future filled with love and happiness. Mcklevey's choice of a simple A-line silk silhouette wedding dress was a testament to her simple yet timeless style. The dress elegantly framed her silhouette with gentle drapery and revealed an exquisite back design, perfectly capturing the essence of her beauty and the serenity of the occasion.


Originally, the couple had planned to exchange their vows on the beautiful island of Maui on September 26, 2023. However, unforeseen events in Maui led them to pivot and swiftly put together an alternative elopement in St. Augustine Beach, Florida. The ceremony took place at Ocean Hammock Park, a place of natural beauty and tranquility. The backdrop of the serene beach and the early morning sunshine, was a deeply heartfelt affair. Family and close friends gathered to witness Mcklevey and Ryan's commitment to one another. As they stood together, the gentle breeze carried their vows, making them even more meaningful.


Wedding rIng
Wedding Ring Exchange

The boardwalk, a perfect walkway through the wetland and the trees, led them straight to the low tide with white sugar-like sand. This spacious setting provided an ideal backdrop for their vows exchange. As they declared their love for each other, the quiet breeze carried their vows, the sound of the waves crashing gently in the background and the warmth of the sand beneath their feet added to the serenity of the moment.


Elopement wedding
The Newly Weds

After sealing their vows with a loving kiss, Mcklevey and Ryan took their first steps as a married couple, hand in hand, along the pristine Florida shoreline. The intimacy of the setting and the significance of their commitment made this intimate ceremony truly magical.


Following the ceremony, the couple strolled through historic St. Augustine, from the Magnolia Avenue’s oak trees to the back alleys filled with greenery, florals and brick-laid backdrops. Every corner of this historic town provided a unique picturesque scene for beautiful portraits that captured their love and the magic of their wedding day.


In conclusion, Mcklevey and Ryan's elopement was a celebration of love, natural beauty, and the serenity of the early morning. Their ceremony, with its breathtaking coastal setting and heartfelt vows, was a testament to their commitment and the deep connection they shared. Their story serves as a reminder that love knows no bounds and can thrive even in the face of unexpected challenges, ultimately resulting in a day that was nothing short of perfection.



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