A Venue That Surprised Me in the Best Way
As a wedding photographer, I’ve worked with several venues, but wedding venue 520 on the Water left a big impression on me. Located on the waterfront in Sanford, Florida, it offered a peaceful setting and a golden-hour glow that lit up the sky. This space truly felt like a dream. But it wasn’t just the aesthetics—it was the way this venue supported the heartfelt wedding of Shai and Chana.
One of my favorite things about Orthodox Jewish weddings is how I walk in as the photographer, and by the end, I feel like part of the extended celebration. Their ceremony was full of emotional traditions, warm family moments, and a connection that was impossible to miss.
A Morning of Meaning: The Ktuba Ceremony
The day began with the Ktuba ceremony, a quiet and sacred moment before the whirlwind of the wedding day. It’s a part of Jewish tradition that always feels intimate, and it gave me the chance to witness the depth of Shai and Chana’s relationship.
That morning, I noticed Shai—normally calm and composed—looking overwhelmed. Planning an Orthodox Jewish wedding comes with so many moving parts, and he was carrying the mental load of making sure everything went smoothly. I paused my photography for a few minutes, stepped in to help with some last-minute organizing, and it completely shifted our dynamic. It built trust. He knew I wasn’t just there to take photos—I was there to support.
The Venue Comes Alive: 520 on the Water’s Sunset Glow
520 on the Water truly shines—literally—at sunset. The ceremony took place just as the sun began dipping behind the lake, turning the sky into a watercolor wash of oranges, pinks, and purples. That light reflected off the water in a way that gave every photo a dreamy, cinematic feel.
The couple’s chuppa—which had only been assembled a few hours before—stood beautifully against this natural backdrop. Its simplicity, paired with the vivid sky, felt raw and romantic in the best way.
One thing I loved about wedding venue 520 on the Water is how it blends modern charm with natural serenity. The clean ceremony space doesn’t compete with the scenery. It frames it. And as a photographer, that’s gold. The open space, the waterfront breeze, and the ambient light made it feel effortless to create images that were as meaningful as they were beautiful.
When Light Fades, Flexibility Matters
Because the ceremony started later than planned, we lost natural light quickly. But that’s where experience and a great venue come together. Even in the dim evening, the soft reflections off the water and the ambient lighting from the venue allowed me to create warm, intimate imagery.
I adapted my settings, leaned into shadow, and let the moment guide me. These aren’t the kinds of photos you can stage—they come from being present, knowing the couple, and understanding how to work with what you’ve got. And again, 520 on the Water gave me the space and flexibility to do exactly that.
Why I Recommend Wedding Venue 520 on the Water
If you’re looking for a wedding venue that offers more than just a pretty backdrop, here’s why I wholeheartedly recommend wedding venue 520 on the Water:
-
Golden Hour Magic: The sunset views over the lake are unlike anything I’ve seen in Central Florida.
-
Feels Intimate, Never Crowded: Even with a large guest list, the space feels personal and open—not overwhelming.
-
Perfect for Tradition: Whether it’s a chuppa or another meaningful ceremony, the venue supports cultural elements beautifully.
Closing Thoughts: A Place Where Stories Shine
520 on the Water isn’t just a venue—it’s a stage where love stories unfold naturally. For Shai and Chana, it became the setting for a day filled with family, faith, and unforgettable moments. And for me, it became one of those rare wedding days I’ll never forget—not just because of the photos, but because of the feeling.
If you’re planning your wedding in Sanford or the greater Orlando area, and you’re looking for a space that feels peaceful, romantic, and full of heart—this is your spot.