Matt & Kelli's Wedding | Protea Weddings & Events - Ocala, FL


A few years ago, I discovered a truly special Christmas tree farm just down the road from my where I went to high school in Citra, FL. If you’ve ever seen or participated in my Christmas tree mini sessions, you already know Gibbs Christmas Tree Farm. It’s a place full of charm, history, and heart.


Out of all the photographers who visit this property year after year, I was incredibly honored when the Gibbs family chose me to photograph their daughter Kelli’s wedding to her fiancé, Matt. It was one of those full‑circle moments that makes this job so meaningful.


Matt and Kelli first met at a birthday party, but it took a few months before Matt reached out and asked Kelli on their first official date to the Clay County Fair. Sparks flew, and the rest is history. On a beautiful spring evening, Matt took Kelli for a ride on the four‑wheeler down a quiet dirt road. Completely unsuspecting, she was surprised when Matt popped the question in the most heartfelt way.


Their wedding day was beautifully split between two meaningful Ocala locations. The ceremony took place at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, a sacred and timeless setting, followed by a joyful reception at Protea Weddings and Events. Photographing this day—surrounded by so many kind, loving, and joyful people—was an absolute honor. Every detail reflected the love Matt and Kelli share and the strong family roots that surround them.


Wishing you both a lifetime filled with love, blessings, laughter, and a long, happy, and fruitful marriage. Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Vallez!

Elegant wedding venue sign with floral wreath design hanging from decorative post.
Modern white barn wedding venue with French doors and Spanish moss draped oak trees.
Elegant wedding invitation suite with floral watercolor design and green botanical details.
Save the date wedding invitation featuring a wooden disc with date and greenery details on a light background.
Gold wedding rings with diamonds rest on white paper with text, showing elegant wedding jewelry details.
Vintage-style gold cameo earrings resting on delicate white rose petals.
Delicate cream-colored fabric roses adorned with pearl centers create an elegant floral arrangement.
Wooden jewelry display boxes with ring holders arranged in a rustic style on a white surface.
A groom smiles while someone adjusts his boutonniere during wedding preparations.
Emotional moments shared between family members during wedding preparations in formal attire.
Wedding party in navy suits and two ring bearers pose in front of white barn.
Wedding party in navy suits and dresses posed together under Spanish moss trees.
Groomsmen in navy suits lined up under moss-draped oak trees for outdoor wedding photo.
Groomsmen in navy suits pose playfully outdoors under Spanish moss draped trees.
Groomsmen in black tuxedos and bowties stand on grass with trees in the background.

Ceremony | BLESSED TRINITY CATHOLIC CHURCH

Reception Venue | PROTEA WEDDINGS & EVENTS

Officiant | FR. JAMES DORAN

Bridal Gown | MOTHER OF THE BRIDE'S & ALTERED

Bridesmaids Gowns | BIRDY GREY

Hair | HAIR BY SABRINA LYNN

Groom and Groomsman Attire | MENS WEARHOUSE

Catering | DAVID'S BBQ & CATERING

DJ | FLORIDA WEDDING DJS

Reception Decor | DAVID'S BBQ & CATERING

Cake | BRIDE'S AUNT LAURA