Victoria and Benjamin’s Four Seasons at The Surf Club wedding was an unforgettable blend of old-school Miami charm, Italian elegance, and genuine joy. From a heartfelt ceremony honoring two faiths to a martini toast in a ‘30s bungalow, every detail was intentional, emotional, and exquisitely designed. As wedding photographer, it was a privilege to capture a day that felt both personal and cinematic.
A Transatlantic Love Story
Victoria and Ben’s love story spans continents. She’s an American fiction writer; he’s a witty Brit. They met at a Shabbat dinner in London before a mutual friend’s wedding — both were best friends of the couple getting married. Despite their many near-misses over the years, it wasn’t until that night that the stars aligned. What followed were whirlwind dates, a trip to India, and two years of love. This led to this joyful celebration in Surfside, Florida.
While the couple now lives in the UK, Victoria dreamed of getting married in Miami. It was a way to return to her roots and share the beauty of her home with loved ones across the pond. The Surf Club was a natural choice. Her family had celebrated milestones there for years, and the venue offered the perfect mix of nostalgia, Mediterranean elegance, and storied history.
Getting Ready in Iconic Style
The day began in one of the Surf Club’s historic ‘30s bungalows, where Victoria woke up with her sisters to an Italian breakfast. She got ready surrounded by the women in her life — her mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, and sisters-in-law. The Florida sunshine streamed in throughout the morning.
Victoria wore a classic lace gown by Dana Harel, its detailing exuding timeless romance. Earlier in the weekend, she had kicked things off in a vintage Prada dress borrowed from her mother — an effortless nod to her signature style. Her evening look was a Chloé crochet-detailed slip dress. It was perfect for dancing the night away.
Ben prepared nearby with his father and brother, equally excited to wear his Ralph Lauren Purple Label suit and Manolo Blahnik shoes — yes, both bride and groom wore Manolos.
A Ceremony of Unity and Tradition
The ceremony took place under a breathtaking chuppah that felt like something out of a storybook. A light breeze and soft drizzle only added to the romantic, cinematic energy. In a powerful moment of unity, both a rabbi and a priest draped their shawls over the couple’s shoulders. This symbolized their beautifully blended heritages: Victoria’s Italian Catholic American roots and Ben’s Jewish English background.
After the ceremony, Victoria and Ben slipped away to their bungalow for a quiet martini toast — a shared favorite. Meanwhile, guests enjoyed trays of Aperol spritz and live music on the terrace. Vocalist Yoli Mayor serenaded the crowd with soulful covers of Fleetwood Mac, Carole King, and Cat Stevens. This set the tone for an evening rooted in love, art, and joy.
An Italian-Inspired Dinner to Remember
As cocktail hour faded, guests were invited into the terrace for dinner — but not without a bit of theater. The blinds lifted to reveal Louis Amanti under a spotlight, crooning “Fly Me to the Moon” as guests entered. Tables were dressed in striped linens and florals by Petal Productions, featuring yellow ranunculus, fresh basil, and mint. It truly felt like Ravello had come to Surfside.
Each place setting included a numbered pouch of five sugared almonds — traditional Italian “confetti” symbolizing health, happiness, fertility, longevity, and wealth. Guests dined on handmade pasta, toasted the couple, and danced at their seats. Amanti moved through the room with Sinatra and Elvis classics. One especially moving surprise? Victoria’s grandmother was serenaded with her favorite song, “Can’t Help Falling in Love With You.”
Speeches, Dancing, and a Towering Tiramisu
As a photographer, one moment that really stuck with me was the couple’s speeches. Ben’s humor had everyone in stitches — joking about the quirks of American English. “Why do Americans say horseback riding? Where else are you going to ride the horse — on its head?” The crowd roared. The warmth between the couple was felt in every word they exchanged.
The party moved into full swing with Yoli Mayor and Les Greene leading the band in iconic rock and soul hits — from Queen to Van Morrison. Victoria and Ben (almost!) nailed their first dance to “Days Like This.” She shared a heartfelt, air-guitaring moment with her dad to Tom Petty’s “American Girl.”
Instead of a traditional wedding cake, guests were treated to a massive tiramisu rolled onto the dance floor — a fitting finale for an Italian-inspired evening.
A Storybook Ending
The night ended in the Hemingway Tower, a space named after the legendary author. It was the perfect place for Victoria, a writer herself, to close the chapter on such a meaningful day. From heartfelt traditions to laughter-filled speeches, every detail of this Four Seasons at The Surf Club wedding felt like a love letter to family, culture, and connection.
Planning Your Own Four Seasons at The Surf Club Wedding?
If you’re dreaming of a wedding full of timeless elegance, heritage, and personality, the Four Seasons at The Surf Club offers the perfect blend of style and story. I’d love to help you capture every meaningful moment — get in touch here to begin planning your day.
Venue: Four Seasons at the Surf Club
Planning: Daughter of Design
Floral & Decor: Petal Production
Hair & Makeup: Daniela Gozlan
Wedding Gown: Dana Harel Design
Videography: Modern Love Productions
Ceremony & Dancing Reception Entertainment: Yoli Mayor & Les Greene
Dinner Entertainment: Louis Amanti
Cake: Four Seasons at the Surf Club
See what Victoria & Ben had to say in “More Reviews” on our Experience Page.
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