WEDDINGS+EVENTS
TAMPA BAY + ORLANDO’S GUIDE TO ELEGANT EVENTS
Photo:Bri and Bryce Photo & Film
Newlyweds: Chloe Blackburn and JD Falk
Photography: Bri and Bryce - @briandbrycee
Venue: Bella Cosa in Lake Wales - @bellacosaweddings
Bridal Shop: The White Magnolia - @whitemagnoliabridal
Dress Designer: Allison Webb - @allisonwebbnyc
Brides Hair: Izzy Schroeder - @Beautybyizzy
Groomsmen Tux: Men’s Wearhouse
Bridal Style
Bridal style is all about showcasing your unique beauty on the big day. From headpieces to dazzling jewelry, a stunning gown, and chic shoes, every detail works together to create a memorable look. Radiate confidence and grace as you walk down the aisle in a style that’s entirely you.
Good for the Sole Walk down the aisle in a pair of “Just Jewel: Clear Red Sole Christian Louboutin Sandals. $1,495. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.
It’s a Clutch
Carry the day’s essentials in the ELLA clutch that adds the perfect touch of sparkle to the big day. $570. Available at www.arieltaub.com.
Essence of Pearls
Wear a crown of pearls that are hand-crafted into a gorgeous tiara. All focus will be on the bride with this opulent headpiece. $750. Available at www.twigsandhoney.com.
Honeymoon Ready
Wear this sweet, pleated babydoll set and your groom will only have eyes for you. $59.95. Available at www.victoriassecret.com.
Signature Scent
Daring is a fearless fragrance that highlights the duality between airy freshness and earthy warmth. $79.96 Available at www.victoriassecret.com.
Announce It
It’s the perfect anklet to announce your new status of MRS. Made with mother of pearl and available in silver or gold. $66. Available at www.arieltaub.com.
Cakes & Flowers
When choosing your wedding day design, a big part of the day will be the florals and the wedding cake. From elegant and glam to casual and chic, there are designs to reflect every brides dreams for the big day. We showcase a few designs to provide inspiration.
Dessert Table Treats
Cake Design: SweetCakes
Venue: Bella Cosa
Photographer: Allen Reed
Garden Tiers
Cake Design: SweetCakes
Photographer: Allen Reed
Coastal Vibes
Floral Design: FH Events
Event Planner: Blue Skies Events
Photographer: Karen Shoufler Photography, www.karenshoufler.com
Venue: St. Pete Museum of Fine Art
Blooming Sophistication
Floral Design: FH Events
Event Planner: Blue Skies Events
Photographer: Karen Shoufler Photography, www.karenshoufler.com
Venue: St. Pete Museum of Fine Art
Floral Design: The Revel Co.
Planner: Blue Skies Weddings and Events
Ceremony Venue: St. Verena Coptic Orthodox Church
Photographer: Lifelong Photography Studio
Pure Love
Gown Guide 2025
By Ronda M. Parag
Step into bridal fashion’s most captivating trends with the 2025 Gown Guide. This year’s styles celebrate individuality and artistry, from hand-painted florals and dramatic scarves to flowing capes and vintage-inspired silhouettes. Drop-waist ballgowns, chic midi and mini dresses, and statement bows redefine timeless elegance, offering something extraordinary for every bride’s unique vision. Robin Wilson, owner of Paváne Couture Bridal traveled to NYBFW and saw great styles and inspirations for brides-to-be for next season. Below are Wilson’s top trends that graced the runway shows.
TOP 5 TRENDS FROM FALL/WINTER 2025 NEW YORK BRIDAL FASHION WEEK
1. HAND PAINTED FLORALS - While last season teased some colorful florals, this season they are everywhere. The delicate hand painted flowers add a touch of playful femininity to these big ballgowns. Moving away from traditional ivory, many designers are introducing soft, pastel hues to create a non-traditional, yet elevated design. Soft blues, pinks and greens seem to be the most popular options. Some designers are even adding colorful florals to veils to complete the look.
2. SCARVES AND CAPES - Scarves have made their way into bridal. As a chic alternative to a veil, scarves add a sense of old money drama. Something about the flow of the scarf creates a soft romantic design to the look. Capes on the other hand, add a Hollywood glamor aspect to the gown. With both scarves and capes, it adds more coverage for a modest bride, while also being removable, giving the option for two different looks for the same gown.
3. DROP WAIST BALLGOWNS AND VINTAGE SILHOUETTES - This season’s designers are drawing on vintage inspiration, with details and silhouettes reminiscent of the 19th and 20th centuries, including oversized skirts and corset bodices. The drop waist has been a huge topic this season, creating the most flattering figure for each and every bride. The drop waist is typically paired with a large skirt, creating a “Bridgerton” ball look. This trend offers brides a range of expressive, fashion-forward yet very traditional options, perfect for making a statement on their big day.
4. MIDI AND MINI DRESSES - Typically worn for the reception or “after party,” shorter dresses are now a must. It seems most brides now want an outfit change — if they buy one gown, they must leave with a bridal mini as well. This season, we saw a twist on the usual party-ready mini dress, and were introduced to the bridal midi. This option offers brides a more comfortable dress to dance in, while also keeping qualities of a traditional wedding gown, length wise. Everything about them screams “elegance”!
5. BOWS - Bows appeared last season, and have since taken over the bridal world. Coming in all fabrics and sizes, most designers now have at least one bow dress. We’ve seen giant, dramatic bows with tassels as long as the train, and even small ribbon bows added to a gowns belt or neckline. Any way that a bow is added, it shows a sense of drama and feminine touch. Designer Pnina Tornai is the queen of bows, making them available to add to any gown whether its lace or satin. We recommend making them detachable to create two looks out of one dress. W+E
Rami Al Ali
Ines Di Santo
Rami Al Ali
Badgley Mishka
Ines Di Santo
Badgley Mishka
Anne Barge
Anne Barge
Anne Barge
Ese Azenabor
Ines Di Santo
SOUCY
Anne Barge
Netta BenShabu
Lee Petra Grebenau
Lee Petra Grebenau
Ines Di Santo
Ese Azenabor
Ese Azenabor
Anne Barge
Badgley Mishka
Steven Khalil
Nicole + Felicia Couture
The Atelier Couture by Professor Jimmy Choo
Anne Barge
Lee Petra Grebenau
Ines Di Santo
Ese Azenabor
Claire Pettibone
October 13, 2024 | Bella
Cosa, Lake Wales
Miranda Logan and Dustin Colwell
Under the shade of majestic oak trees and beside the tranquil waters of a sparkling lake, this enchanting wedding radiated timeless elegance. Classic white florals adorned every detail, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere. With love shining brilliantly, it was a celebration of beauty, nature, and a bond meant to last forever.
LOVING DETAILS
Event Planning |Blue Skies Events
Photographer | Lifelong Photography Studio
Venue | Bella Cosa
Caterer | Savory Roots Catering and Events
Cake | Sweet Clementine
Florist | FH Events
Stationary | Citrus Press Co.
Lighting | Tylerlight
Hair/Makeup| Cindy Gutierrz – Adore Bridal Hair and Makeup
Wedding Gown | Luxe Bridal Shop
Wedding Ring | Kay Jewelers
Tux | Tom James
Videographer | Webster Media Solutions
DJ | DJ Cory Barron & Co.
April 28, 2024 | Bella Cosa, Lake Wales
Chloe
Blackburn and JD Falk
Set against the serene backdrop of a shimmering lake, this sophisticated wedding exuded timeless elegance. Majestic oak trees framed the celebration, while classic white florals and chic black attire for the bridal party set a dramatic tone. Signature bows added a playful, stylish touch, perfectly complementing a day filled with radiant love and grace.
LOVING DETAILS
Venue: Bella Cosa in Lake Wales - @bellacosaweddings
Photography/Videographer: Bri and Bryce - @briandbrycee
Flowers: The Wild Hare, Heather Coscia - @thewildhareflowers
Catering: High Steaks, Michelle Holley
Wedding Cake/Desserts: Andrea Reed - @sweetcakesbyandreareed
Brides Hair: Izzy Schroeder - @Beautybyizzy
DJ: Graingertainment - @graingertainment
Bridal Shop: The White Magnolia - @whitemagnoliabridal
Dress Designer: Allison Webb - @allisonwebbnyc
Groomsmen Tux: Men’s Wearhouse
Invitations: Humanity Letterpress
September 14, 2024 | Tampa, FL
Erica Cruz and Carl Youseff
This stunning wedding beautifully blended the couple’s cherished traditions and heritage, creating a celebration that was both meaningful and timeless. With sleek black and white accents, the reception exuded modern sophistication, while the bridal party’s all-black attire added a touch of understated elegance. A simple yet profound expression of love and unity.
LOVING DETAILS
Venues |JW Marriott - Getting Ready
St. Verena Coptic Orthodox Church - Ceremony
The Vault - Reception
Photography |Lifelong Photography Studio
Planning company |Blue Skies Weddings and Events
Dress Shop |Pnina Tornai
Tux Shop |Men’s Wearhouse
Hair and Makeup |The Destiny & Light Hair and Makeup
Group
Florist |The Revel Co.
DJ and Musicians |Impulse entertainment
Dancer |Breezin’ Entertainment
Cake |Publix
INSPIRATIONAL EVENT
Momm y & Me High Tea
An Eventing Tampa Bay Signature event benefiting Redefining Refuge and presented by TGH Muma Children’s Hospital
When: May 5, 2024
Where: Armature Works
Mommy & Me High Tea
Guests enjoyed an elevated tea party wearing their best hats, fascinators, gloves and pretty dresses dining with tea sandwiches, desserts and hot and cold teas. The special event included meet and greets and dancing with Princesses, make and take home flower crowns, cookie decorating station, makeup station, keepsake photos and a Mommy & Me Fashion Show. From the vibrant florals to floating butteries, every moment was a memory in the making. Proceeds benefitted Redefining Refuge. Get your tickets now for 8th Annual Mommy & Me High Tea at Armature Works on May 4, 2025. Visit www.mommyandmehightea.com.
Vendors:
Ad Sharp Web & Graphic Design
Bubbles & Blowouts
Cookies by Sarah
Dillard’s International Plaza
Dreams 2 Reality Design
Eventing Tampa Bay
FH Events
Flora + Palma
Flourish
International Diamond Center
Kid Collective Party Rentals
Marrin Costello
Missy Fashion Accessories
Orbal Cosmentics by Rana
Parties with Character
Party N Style
Purple Box Mobile
Puff ’n Stuff
Style House Rentals
Sweetheart Ice Cream
Tampa Bay Parenting
Wee Macree
Photography: Tracy Briggs
FH EVENTS
Celebrating nearly 20 years of creativity and dedication, FH Events is constantly on the path of innovation and one of Tampa Bay’s top design companies. Owners Marty & Stephanie Prenatt, and their team of experts, are driven to create unique events with a 360 degree experience of service and creativity. From custom fabrication, lighting, draping, florals and décor, and furniture, the FH team creates the magic for memorable events. Whether it is a wedding, a personal party, or a corporate event, the goal of FH Events is to take a client’s vision and then create something extraordinary.
1704 W. La Salle Street Tampa, FL 33607 www.fh.events events@fhweddings.com 813.390.9371
Weddings• Receptions• Banquets• Social Events
Forget the honeymoon—the cake is the real thrill of the night! SweetCakes’ Andrea Reed serves up tantalizing wedding and groom’s cakes that tease the eyes and seduce the taste buds. From the first slice to the last crumb, it’s a luxurious sensory experience that will leave you and your guests weak in the knees.
WEDDING & E VENT EXPERTS
PRISCILLA
CHARITE
OWNER, THE DESTINY AND LIGHT HAIR AND MAKEUP GROUP
As an award-winning, internationally trained bridal hair and makeup artist, Priscilla has built a successful business since 2009, specializing in creating stunning looks for brides. Leading a talented team of makeup artists and hairstylists, she trains and books professionals to ensure the highest quality service at every event. With a remarkable portfolio, her team successfully completes over 300 weddings each year, earning rave reviews for their ability to enhance natural beauty and create unforgettable bridal experiences.
Studio 813.476.8386
Fax 813.489.4002
www.destinyandlight.com
Hotel Flor
Tampa
Downtown
A Tapestry Collection by Hilton
An addition to the Tapestry Collection by Hilton and connected to the best of what the city offers, Hotel Flor Tampa Downtown provides the perfect place to experience Tampa’s charm.
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE
# OF EVENT SPACES 4 MAXIMUM CAPACITY 1,560
DETAILS ABOUT THE VENUE
VENUE STYLE
Sophisticated and modern with historic architectural accents
CATERING OPTIONS
Fully customizable; breakfast, lunch, and dinner options available
RENTAL INCLUDES
Linens, tables, chairs, plates, cutlery, glassware, and more
PARKING OPTIONS
Valet parking available
VENUE CONTACT events@hotelflortampa.com
Hotel Flor is one of the most historic landmark buildings in Tampa. From architecturally unique ballrooms to the charming Mezzanine room, you get an elegant space with a stylish backdrop. The sophisticated ambiance, modern amenities, and well-appointed rooms can accommodate guests and are suited for all wedding events.
Choose from different event spaces within the hotel, from a grandiose ballroom to a historic, intimate ceremony venue. We take care of every detail from customized menus to impeccable services.
The event planning extraordinaires at Hotel Flor proudly strive to bring to life a wedding that couples will remember all their lives.
Weddings On Water Street
Celebrate your dream wedding at the JW Marriott or Tampa Marriott Water Street. Boasting elegant ballrooms and luxurious amenities, the perfect backdrop awaits to say “I do.”
DETAILS
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE
50,000 Square Feet of Connected Event Space
# OF EVENT SPACES
Six Ballrooms, perfect for intimate gatherings to grand celebrations
MAXIMUM CAPACITY
2,000
VENUE STYLE
A mix of classic and modern can be found at each property
CATERING OPTIONS
Provided by each hotel
RENTAL INCLUDES Wedding packages include chairs, linens, dance floor and more
PARKING OPTIONS
Valet parking. Self parking is also available in various City of Tampa parking garages
CONTACT
JW Marriott Tampa Water Street Events at jwtampaevents@marriott.com or Tampa Marriott Water Street Events at mwstampaevents@marriott.com
ABOUT THE VENUE
Bring your wedding vision to life as you celebrate your love in the heart of downtown Tampa. Our collection offers six elegant and modern ballrooms, each with a spacious pre-function area, ideal for cocktail hours and more.
Marriott Certified planners are available to curate every detail of your event.
Exceptional amenities also await you and loved ones, including a full service spa, rooftop pools and Tampa’s highest dining outlet — Beacon Rooftop Lounge, offering 270-degree views of Downtown Tampa.
Innisbrook A Salamander Golf & Spa Resort
Conveniently located 20 miles from Tampa International Airport, the Resort appeals to those seeking a beautiful wooded setting with four championship golf courses, among the finest in America.
DETAILS
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE
100,000
# OF EVENT SPACES
3 Ballrooms, Numerous Outside Locations
MAXIMUM CAPACITY
600
VENUE STYLE
Grand Ballroom, Indoor, Outdoor
CATERING OPTIONS
Innisbrook Catering, Third Party Catering Permitted
RENTAL INCLUDES
Tables, Standard Banquet Chairs, China, White Linen & Napkins, Glassware, Silverware, Dance Floor and Staging, Champagne Toast, Complimentary Wedding Night Guest Suite
PARKING OPTIONS
Complimentary Parking and Resort Shuttle for Resort Guests
VENUE CONTACT
Innisbrook Wedding Experts: Kelly Lawson at 727-942-5541 or Kara De Rocco at 727-942-5238
ABOUT THE VENUE
With over 450 specious guest rooms and suites and 65,000 square feet of newly renovated conference facilities and the luxurious Salamander Spa, Innisbrook is the perfect place for getaways, group meetings and weddings.
Innisbrook offers a gorgeous, wooded setting on 900 beautiful, rolling acres and ample lakes.
The property offers six pools, 11 clay tennis courts and fitness center, four restaurants perfect for your guests. Innisbrook takes pride in personalizing their service and doing the very best to accommodate individual requests. Innisbrook specializes in creating memorable moments.
36750 U.S. Hwy 19 North | Palm Harbor, FL 34684 844.756.3325 | www.innisbrookgolfresort.com
Sandpearl Resort
The Sandpearl Resort is surrounded by the powder white sand and crystal blue waters of Clearwater Beach. The AAA Four-Diamond resorts blends premium comforts and warm, personalized service.
The Sandpearl Resort is furnished with 700 feet of pristine beachfront and 25,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, providing an ideal location to host your event.
DETAILS
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE
17,500 (indoor)
25,000 (indoor/outdoor)
# OF EVENT SPACES
3 Ballrooms
MAXIMUM CAPACITY
300
VENUE STYLE Beach Resort
CATERING OPTIONS
Sandpearl Catering
RENTAL INCLUDES
Tables, Chairs, Linen, Dinnerware
PARKING OPTIONS
Valet Only
CONTACT
Sandpearl Catering
727.441.2425
Sandpearl Resort is the area’s preferred venue for conferences, executive retreats and romantic beach weddings with beachfront settings and AAA Four-Diamond Service.
The event planning professionals will work to customize every detail, including AV enhancements and engaging activities. From toes in the sand ceremony to an elegant ballroom celebration, the them will create a once in a lifetime experience tailored to the brides vision.
The Executive Chef will design a menu to fit any occasion.
With warm personalized service, enchanting venues and outstanding accommodations, the team at Sandpearl will craft your dream wedding.
500 Mandalay Avenue | Clearwater Beach, FL 33767 727.441.2425 | www.sandpearl.com
9.14.2024 | Erica & Carl | Tampa Theatre | Photo by Lifelong Photography Studio
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando and JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes
The luxury resorts of The Ritz-Carlton Grand Lakes and JW Marriott, Orlando Grande Lakes located on a lush 500-acre property in Central Florida are the ideal venues to host a variety of business and social occasions.
DETAILS
TOTAL
VENUE STYLE
Mediterranean inspired 500-acre resort setting
CATERING OPTIONS
Yes
RENTAL INCLUDES
Chairs, Tables, Meeting Office Amenities (pencils, pads, mints/ candies), House linens, White Folding Chairs (for outdoor ceremonies), Water Station with Attendant, Non-alcoholic Beverage for Guests, Private Champagne Toast for the Wedding Couple
PARKING OPTIONS
Valet Parking Only at The Ritz-Carlton, Self-Parking available at JW
CONTACT grandelakesleads@marriott.com
With luxurious guest rooms, outdoor pool complex with a lazy river and AquaCourse 360, 18-hole golf course designed by PGA great Greg Norman and so much more, it’s ideal for a destination wedding too.
From refined indoor and outdoor venues to elegant ballroom and terraces, create the wedding of your dreams. Enjoy the Whisper Creek location for a complete farm-to-table experience.
The luxury hotel’s culinary team will create a custom menu for a delicious and spectacular reception.
Where dreams of a luxury Orlando wedding become reality.
4012 Central Florida Parkway | Orlando, FL 32837 407.206.2400 | www.ritzcarlton.com or www.marriott.com
ABOUT THE VENUE
