Wedding Day

Welcome to Our Wedding We’re so excited to celebrate our love with you in beautiful Miami, Florida, on July 11, 2026. What started as a simple connection has grown into a beautiful journey of faith, friendship, and love. Surrounded by our closest family and friends, we can’t wait to say “I do” and begin this new chapter together. Thank you for being part of our story — your love and presence mean the world to us. Please check back for the most current updates as we get closer to our special day. love,Karen &amp; Joseph

Our Wedding

💕 The Story of Karen &amp; Joseph (“Joe”) Our story began in Chicago — a moment of God’s perfect timing. What started as a spark of mutual attraction soon grew into late-night conversations, laughter, and a friendship rooted in faith. That friendship blossomed into love — one that endured distance, change, and growth. Through long-distance seasons, we learned patience and commitment, trusting that God would keep our hearts close. When Joe moved to Miami, we began our new chapter with just a TV, an air mattress, and full hearts — proof that love isn’t about what you have, but who you have beside you. Now, as we prepare to say “I do,” we look back in awe of how far God has brought us. From Chicago, Arizona to Miami, from friendship to forever — our story is living proof that when God writes it, it’s always worth the wait. “Let all that you do be done in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14

Our Story

Wedding Party

Miami International Airport

✈️Recommended Airport: Miami International Airport 🔹Airport Code: MIA 📍MIA Airport to Rusty Pelican is approx. 8 miles distance

Airport

Approximately 18 minutes away from the venue.

Thesis Hotel Miami Coral Gables

Coconut Grove - Approximately 15 minutes away from the venue.

Mayfair House Hotel & Garden

Coconut Grove - Approximately 15 minutes away from the venue.

Mr. C Miami | Coconut Grove

1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33134&nbsp;Coral Gables - Approximately 22 minutes away from the venue

Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables

Coral Gables - Approximately 20 minutes away from the venue.

Loews Coral Gables Hotel

Downtown Miami - Approximately 20 minutes away from the venue.﻿

Kimpton EPIC Hotel

The Grayson Hotel Miami

Downtown Miami - Approximately 20 minutes away from the venue.

Marriott Miami Biscayne Bay

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Hotel Nearby

Dress Code

🏨 Recommended Areas to Stay for Our Wedding 📍 Venue: Rusty Pelican, Key Biscayne📅 Wedding Date: July 11, 2026 We recommend the following areas based on accessibility, atmosphere, and things to do during your stay in Miami: 🏙️ Brickell Best for: Convenience, dining, nightlife, and central accessBrickell is one of the closest and most central neighborhoods to Key Biscayne, making it a great choice for guests who want to be near restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Hotel RecommendationsEAST MiamiFour Seasons Hotel MiamiJW Marriott MiamiInterContinental MiamiHotel AKA BrickellNovotel Miami BrickellCitizenM Miami BrickellHampton Inn &amp; Suites Miami/Brickell-Downtown Why Stay Here🚗 Approx. 15–20 minutes to the venue🍽️ Walkable restaurants, bars, and shopping🚕 Easy access to Uber/Lyft and public transportation Things to Keep in Mind🚦 Traffic can be heavier during rush hours🏖️ Not a beach neighborhood 🌿 Coconut Grove Best for: Relaxed, charming, and scenic staysCoconut Grove offers a quieter, laid-back atmosphere with lush greenery and waterfront views. Hotel RecommendationsThe Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, MiamiMr. C Miami | Coconut GroveMayfair House Hotel &amp; GardenArya Hotel &amp; Suites Coconut GroveThe Mutiny Hotel by ProvidentHampton Inn Miami-Coconut Grove/Coral Gables Why Stay Here🚗 Approx. 20–25 minutes to the venue🌴 Local Miami charm with cafés and boutiques😌 Calm, romantic atmosphere Things to Keep in Mind🏖️ Not directly on the beach🌙 Quieter nightlife compared to Brickell or South Beach 🏖️ South Beach / Miami Beach Best for: Beach lovers and guests turning their trip into a vacationSouth Beach and Miami Beach offer the classic Miami experience—sun, sand, dining, and nightlife. Hotel RecommendationsFontainebleau Miami BeachThe Palms Hotel &amp; SpaKimpton Surfcomber HotelSetai MiamiHotel Riu Plaza Miami BeachMondrian Why Stay Here🌊 Direct beach access🎉 Iconic nightlife and dining🏖️ Great for extended stays and vacation vibes Things to Keep in Mind🚗 Approx. 30–45 minutes to the venue🚦 Traffic can be heavy on weekends👥 Livelier, more tourist-heavy area 🌊 Key Biscayne Best for: Proximity, tranquility, and a resort-style stayKey Biscayne is the closest area to our venue and offers a peaceful, upscale beach atmosphere. Hotel RecommendationThe Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami Why Stay Here📍 Closest option to Rusty Pelican🏖️ Beautiful beaches and relaxed resort vibe🌅 Quiet and family-friendly Things to Keep in Mind💰 Higher nightly rates🏨 Limited hotel availability🌙 Minimal nightlife and shopping 🏠 Airbnb &amp; Vacation Rentals Great for: Families, groups, or longer staysAirbnbs and vacation rentals are available throughout Brickell, Coconut Grove, Miami Beach, and Key Biscayne. Why Choose an Airbnb👨‍👩‍👧 Ideal for families or groups traveling together🛏️ More space and privacy🍳 Kitchen access for longer stays Things to Keep in Mind🚗 Some locations may require a car📜 Please check local rules, parking, and check-in details🚕 Confirm travel time to Key Biscayne when booking 💡 Helpful Notes 🚕 Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Miami🚗 Please allow extra travel time on weekends and during peak hours ☀️ July is warm and sunny—light clothing and sunscreen recommended We can’t wait to celebrate with you and hope you enjoy everything Miami has to offer! 💕🌴

Where to Stay

Miami & Beaches

🌅 Every visit to Miami is not complete without the glamour of South Beach. Enjoy a walk along the iconic shoreline, admire the Art Deco architecture, and unwind at one of the many beachfront restaurants or lounges. While in South Beach (SOBE) - We recommend visiting :🌊 South Pointe ParkRelax and take in breathtaking ocean views at South Pointe Park, located at the southern tip of Miami Beach. With walking paths, green spaces, and pier views of the Atlantic, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a serene afternoon by the water

🌊 Ocean Drive Miami Beach

For a sophisticated day of shopping and dining, explore Brickell City Centre. From world-class boutiques to elevated rooftop dining, it’s a modern oasis in the heart of the city. Visit East Rooftop

🏙️ Brickell City Centre

Located downtown, Bayside offers live music, shopping, and open-air dining with stunning bay views. You can also catch a boat tour from here!

🎡Bayside Marketplace

Beat the summer heat with a relaxing spa day or a rooftop pool — great options include the Mondrian South Beach, 1 Hotel South Beach and The Gabriel Miami for day passes, Faena.

☀️Cool Off at a Rooftop or Spa

For those who love art, fashion, and architecture, the Design District is a must-visit. This elegant neighborhood features world-class designer stores, modern art installations, and some of Miami’s most acclaimed restaurants.

🛍️Miami Design District

Step into Old-World charm at this breathtaking waterfront estate. With Italian-inspired architecture, lush gardens, and stunning bay views, Vizcaya is one of Miami’s most romantic and historic landmarks.

🍃 Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Discover the wonders of science and technology at the Frost Museum of Science. With interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and an impressive aquarium, it’s a captivating experience for guests of all ages.

🔬Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Immerse yourself in contemporary and modern art at PAMM, located on Biscayne Bay. With thought-provoking exhibitions and stunning architecture, it’s a cultural highlight that perfectly captures Miami’s artistic spirit.

Karen & Joseph