Brian and Amanda share Tampa roots (they went to the same PreK class and grew up only a quarter mile down the street from each other) so they knew they wanted to get married in the city they grew up in and loved. They began planning their nuptials for their 300 closest friends and family in historic Ybor City, known for the area's former life as a cigar capital of the US. The bride wanted to make sure the wedding was above all else FUN, and she didn't want anything too theme-y, but rather wanted classic elements and to embrace the feel of the city.
While the ceremony was originally intended to take place in the Ybor City Museum and Garden, rain thwarted those plans and the ceremony was moved inside the renovated theater of the Cuban Club, which turned out to be a gorgeous plan B once the stage was adorned with draping, amber lighting, and lots of candlelight. A string duo serenaded the bride as she made her entrance in her fitted lace illusion back gown.
The skies cleared long enough for the wedding party to snap a few pictures along the cobblestone city streets.
Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktail hour in the theater lobby before heading to the top floor ballroom for the reception. Tables featured gold accents including chiavari chairs and candelabras, and clusters of flowers in soft pastel shades reflected in the vintage painted murals and moldings of the ceilings above.
Custom signage in chic gold frames directed guests to their table assignments and menu selections, and even included a custom scales of justice guestbook for all to sign.
Guests enjoyed a gourmet plated meal before dancing the night away to a percussion DJ complete with live drums and colorful glow stick accessories to 'light up the dance floor'.
A decadent dessert bar offered sweets like cookies and milk, macarons, and cupcakes.
When the clock struck midnight, guests lined up on the staircase for a glow stick send off for the bride and groom.
The A-team who made this day possible include:
- Venue: The Cuban Club, Ybor City
- Photography: K&K Photography
- Florist: Christine de la Grana
- Catering & Cake: Catering by the Family
- DJ: Wild Out Entertainment
- Videography: Lexoria Wedding Films
- Draping & Lighting: Bay Stage Live
- Musicians: Bella Musica
- Transportation: Suncoach Transport
- Custom Signage: Salty Sisters