A Romantic Tropical Wedding at Deering Estate in Miami, Florida

Anna Anisin (from Russia) and Mitchell Hesse (from Australia) met online in September 2016. A couple years later, they tied the knot at the historic Deering Estate in Miami, Florida, not far from where they had their first date. “Nestled in the tropical hammocks of Biscayne Bay, the venue boasts a keyhole harbor lined with palm trees, a beautiful main house and an exterior stone courtyard,” the couple says. “The wedding’s design inspiration was the roaring ’20s when the Deering Estate was at its prime. It’s meant to be grandiose and antique but also tropical and romantic.” A color palette of blush, gold and green drew inspiration from the South Florida sunsets and the opulence of the estate. Going along with the theme, the couple rented vintage lounge furniture and antique dinnerware for the reception. They also played up the venue’s tropical aesthetic with coconuts, flamingos, palm trees and exotic flowers. “The style of our flower arrangements looked like they were picked from a tropical garden,” Anna says. “We had gold pineapples as table numbers that paired well with the arrangements.” Anna especially loved her bouquet, which included roses and imported proteas. She wore a detailed gown with a tight-fitting bodice and trumpet skirt with a dramatic train. “The dress was meant to be simple and elegant—something that fit into the tropical scene without taking over,” she says. As a nod to Anna’s heritage, the newlyweds served a Russian Napoleon cake with custard cream layered between light crispy pastry. “The cake is incredibly soft and delicate, so it had to be delivered and served within an hour. All of the decoration had to happen quickly,” Anna says. “I also found the perfect cake topper for my topical wedding: a pair of paper flamingos!”

Our favorite #MakeTradition Moment: “We decided to write our own vows to each other, and Mitchell went first. During his vows, he told me that he would love me forever, and he promised to be the only man in my life,” Anna says. “As soon as he said those words, Vonnie (our dog) stared at him and started growling! It was a lighthearted moment that made the ceremony even more special.”