Playful & Laid-Back Panama City Beach Elopement | Makenzie + Manuel

Makenzie and Manuel’s Panama City Beach elopement was the perfect mix of heartfelt vows, sunshine, and spontaneous fun. These high school sweethearts brought a playful, best-friends energy to their entire day—and their elopement was a true reflection of that.

A Sunrise Ceremony on the Sand

We started the morning just after sunrise at a quiet beach access away from the busier parts of PCB. The light was golden, the skies were perfectly clear, and the beach was almost entirely ours. Makenzie wore a stunning wedding gown while Manuel looked sharp in a black tux—an effortlessly cool pair from the start.

Their first look took place with the sound of waves in the background, followed by a relaxed ceremony where they read vows to one another with their pup Chapo by their side. One of the sweetest moments? Chapo “signed” their marriage license with an inky paw print—proof he was the goodest witness.

Panama City Beach Picnic &Midday Break

After the ceremony, they enjoyed a luxury beach picnic breakfast, complete with cozy seating and plenty of time to soak it all in. We spent time capturing portraits as the morning light spilled over the ocean, highlighting the carefree energy of the day.

After the picnic wrapped up, the couple took a midday break to relax, reset, and change for the evening.

Pier Park Adventures & Sunset Fun

Later that evening, we met back up for a completely different vibe. Makenzie changed into a sleek white satin dress and Manuel stayed classic in his tux. This time, we headed to Pier Park, where the fun really kicked up a notch.

We explored the area, wandered down to the beach again for a few golden hour portraits, and then hit up all the fun spots: axe throwing, arcade games at Dave & Buster’s, and even a ride on the Sky Wheel. One of the most playful and personal parts of the night? They made custom bride and groom Build-A-Bears—a perfect souvenir from their uniquely them elopement.

What Made This Panama City Beach Elopement Unique

Makenzie and Manuel wanted a day that felt personal and pressure-free. Their Panama City Beach elopement was exactly that. From the quiet morning vows to the laughter-filled night, their wedding was all about spending quality time together, making memories, and letting the day unfold naturally.

If you’re planning a Panama City Beach elopement and want something that’s laid-back, a little adventurous, and completely centered around your relationship—take notes from M + M. Elopements don’t have to follow a script. They can look like morning vows, a beachside breakfast, and a night filled with arcade tickets and belly laughs.

Ready to plan your own unforgettable Panama City Beach elopement? Let’s make it happen.