The whisper of the ocean, the salty air, the sugary sand between your toes - that's exactly how bride Chelsea and groom Arian envisioned for their destination wedding. The St. Lion’s Club on Treasure Island offered a secluded beach perfect for an intimate ceremony and reception. A lightly draped bamboo arch created a stunning backdrop for their unity paint ceremony. Amidst the wind and the waves, bridesmaids’ turquoise chiffon gowns flowed as the sun set. Guests enjoyed waterfront cocktails before dining al fresco. The décor and florals embodied the bohemian vision, with bouquets of assorted succulents, ivory roses, pastel blue hydrangeas, thistles and seeded eucalyptus. Mason jars and lanterns served as centerpieces to give a natural element to the tables. The tower of cupcakes was complete with to-go boxes, encouraging guests to enjoy cake for breakfast!
Julia and Chris - A Plantains-and-Poppies Wedding
Julia met Chris in Germany in August of 2011 where they were both serving in the military. They quickly became inseparable, and when it came time to plan their wedding, they decided on a destination wedding in the bride's hometown of Tampa. Both desired an eclectic feel for the wedding with a nod to the bride's Tampa roots as well as the couple's travels abroad. The Don Vicente in historic Ybor City was perfect. The bride's favorite flowers are poppies, and with the groom in his dress blues for the wedding, the color scheme of poppy orange, lemoncello, and aqua blue was born. Julia wanted their guests to really understand and feel the Tampa she grew up in. This inspired such details as a Cigar Bar, Cigar box centerpieces with collections of candlesticks and bottles and cans filled with colorful flowers, a Cuban cuisine menu, Florida orange marmalade favors, and even a tangelo mojito signature drink!
Jen and Alex - An Autumn Aqua and Aubergine Wedding
Jen and Alex desired a wedding filled with southern simplicity, and planned to DIY many wedding details to help maximize their budget. Their Florida roots inspired such details as the painted blue mason jars, cut log risers, collection of bud vases and lanterns, program fans, burlap table runners, and Southern-inspired menu items. They wanted a rustic Autumn feel to the day but were drawn to shades of Aqua and Aubergine (the shade of purple was in honor of the bride's Dad who passed away from Pancreatic Cancer; she was surprised with a photo locket on her bouquet so he would be walking her down the aisle). The couple wanted to honor their family members who could not be present with them that day, while also providing a great experience for their closest friends and family who were present. Although a thunderstorm thwarted their outdoor ceremony plans, they did not let it ruin our day because they remembered the big picture and what was really important that day which was being with all the people they love, and marrying your best friend (all brides and grooms should have this outlook!) The Magnolia Building's vaulted ceilings, wood floors, and stone fireplace made for a stunning backdrop for both the indoor ceremony and the reception that followed.
Lissette and Dan - A Shabby Chic Seaglass-Hued Wedding
Lissette and Dan exchanged sacred vows in a traditional ceremony at Christ the King Catholic Church before their breezy Spring reception at the Davis Island Garden Club. In this waterfront outdoor setting, the bridal party's tiffany blue chiffon dresses beautifully accented the soft and delicate cream colored roses and tulips. Centerpieces featured assorted ceramic pitchers filled with alternating white flowers, while candle filled mason jars paired with bistro lighting brought warmth to the natural setting. Guests signed a special bottle of champagne as a unique guestbook alternative, which the couple would later enjoy on their anniversary. Among so many friends and family, it’s easy to get caught up in the festivities of the day, so this gorgeous bride and groom enjoyed a few intimate moments together at their sweetheart table set in the secluded gazebo before the party kicked off. For a sweet treat, guests enjoyed pedestals filled with cupcakes from Wright's deli, the couple's favorite local bakery.