Sarasota couple evacuates ahead of Hurricane Milton to say ‘I do’

WALTON COUNTY, Fla. ( WKRG ) — A couple from Sarasota, Florida, who evacuated their wedding plans due to Hurricane Milton, got married on Thursday, a date that holds significant meaning for them.

The couple, originally set to marry on the beach at Siesta Key, had to change their plans when the hurricane forced an evacuation from the area. Despite the storm, they were determined to follow through with their wedding on the symbolic date.

The bride’s sister, April Conrady, stepped in to help ensure the ceremony took place. According to April, the couple had chosen Oct. 10 because both had worn the No. 10 during their childhood sports teams. They had planned to marry on the same date last year, but the groom’s father passed away, causing a delay.

When Hurricane Milton threatened this year’s ceremony, the bride and groom decided to evacuate. The storm brought back memories of past delays, but the couple stayed committed to getting married, with the help of family and friends.

The couple explained that although they are familiar with Florida hurricanes, the damage from previous storms made this one particularly concerning. They quickly decided to leave the area for safety.

“We knew we had a place to stay thanks to some great friends,” Tyler Fite said. “We were just happy to be safe and together.”

The wedding, while not held at the original location, took place at a beach near where they were staying. For the couple, it wasn’t about the material details of the wedding but about their commitment to each other.

“We just wanted to be married,” Kayla Fite said. “It’s about dedicating our lives to each other. It wasn’t about the event or the details. It’s just us.”

Their story shows the resilience and flexibility required when faced with unforeseen circumstances like a hurricane. When asked how they felt about the disrupted plans, the groom replied, “You’ve just got to play the cards you’re dealt.”

In the end, they succeeded in holding a meaningful ceremony on a date that was special to them, despite the obstacles.

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