The Ringling Museum and Ca d'Zan

 

I've never been a "gifts" kind of person. They make me feel awkward and even guilty. My guess is that a proficient therapist could unpack this for me, but I don't feel compelled to understand the why, but rather to navigate special occasions around this eccentricity. 

Instead of birthday, Christmas, and anniversary gifts, my husband and I opt for experiences - as he loathes shopping. We consider it a win-win. 

For our nineteenth wedding anniversary we decided on a day trip to a location I've had on my wish list for awhile now: The Ringling Museum of Art & Ca d'Zan. 

As a wedding photographer, I've worked at The Ringling, but never had time to properly tour the estate. You can imagine how stunning this aesthetic would be for a wedding. 

The Ringlings were prolific art collectors with an impressive museum now showcasing gorgeous works. In addition to the art, visitors may tour the Ca d'Zan, the lavish mansion situated on the bay. 

In 1927 John Ringling moved the circus to the new winter headquarters in Sarasota, Florida. His hope was to establish a home where performers could continue work on their acts as well as a place to maintain the plethora of animals. It was also believed that he built smaller-scale homes for some of the little people working in his circus. 

Florida history is one marked by unusual characters and circumstances. I love that there's always a surprise when you dig a little.