Orange Blossom Bride Winter/Spring 2021 by Orange Blossom Bride

Wedding Inspiration for Couples Getting Married in Central Florida

Winter/Spring 2021

Top things that Affect your

Wedding Budget

Your

Finding

Wedding Style

2020: The Evolution of Weddings

Local Weddings

Real

62 17 43 In

Issue

this

INSPIRATION

Love on the Bayou 6 Intimate Black Tie 8 Old Florida Charm 10 Modern City Chic 12 Bohemian Vibes 14

TIPS

REAL WEDDINGS

Paradise Cove 40 Four Seasons Resort 43 Canoe Outpost 46 Cici & Hyatt Brown Museum of Art 50 Island Grove Wine Company at Formosa Gardens 53 Casa Feliz 56

Top Things That Affect Your Wedding Budget 24 TRAVEL Finding Your Wedding Style 26 Great Honeymoon Destinations in the United States 62 Hiring a Live Wedding Painter 29 2020: The Evolution of Weddings 32 Creative Wedding Cakes 35 Ask a Wedding Planner 60

PLANNING

Vendor Contact List 65 Wedding Timeline 68 Venue Guide 71 Vendor Guide 75

the Cover

From

Editor the

Welcome to the Winter/Spring 2021 issue of Orange Blossom Bride magazine and congratulations on your engagement! What a year it has been for weddings! So many couples have found themselves having to reschedule their wedding due to the coronavirus and state/travel mandates. Along with these reschedules have come adjustments to meet the needs of the current climate. Couples are really focusing on what is important to them when it comes to their wedding. For some that means eloping, or eloping and having a reception at a later date. For others, it means scaling down a large wedding for a more intimate one. Whatever you decide, just know that LOVE IS NOT CANCELLED! Your wedding may look a little different then planned but your love is the same and deserves to be celebrated! In this issue, we have a ton of wedding inspiration for all wedding styles regardless of size. We also look at how the new trends and practices for 2020 have shook up the wedding world., many of which will be here to stay. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve changed our real weddings up for this issue. Three of the six real weddings are those that had to adjust their plans due to COVID-19. We hope that gives you encouragement if you find yourself in the same situation.

HAPPY PLANNING!!

Amanda Schmidt

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Be Social @obbweddings

Get Started: NEVER MISS A WEDDING PLANNING DETAIL Visit our website for our wedding planning timeline so that no detail goes overlooked!

orangeblossombride.com info@orangeblossombride.com

Editor-in-Chief

Content Editor: Faith Patchett

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The Wedding Shop

All your wedding gear in one spot! obbweddingshop.com

WEDDING INSPIRATION

LOVE ON THE BAYOU

INTIMATE BLACK TIE

OLD FLORIDA CHARM

MODERN CITY CHIC

BOHEMIAN VIBES

Winter/Spring 2021

14 5

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Love on the

B ayou

AT PADDLEFISH

We are all about Disney magic! And what could be more magically than an entire wedding dress line inspired by your favorite Disney princesses? Allure Bridal has teamed up with Disney Fairy Tale Weddings to do just that. Reverie Events by Jessica Rene used their Tiana gown as inspiration for this shoot at Paddlefish, located in Disney Springs. We love that the venue is a paddle boat, which makes for the perfect setting to this Princess and the Frog love story! Lush greenery, delicious beignets, and even a live brass band brought the whole fairytale to life!

Participating Vendors:

Intimate

ie B lack T

AT ADAMS ESTATE

Although weddings have decreased in size over this past year, style doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to. This wedding inspiration shoot includes a classic color palette of black and white with gold accents. It also brings modern touches, such as an incredible painted tiered wedding cake and faceless portraits for Save the Dates. How can we not mention the star of the shoot, Minnie the Dalmatian? We always love it when couples include their fur baby into their wedding celebration and bonus if they match your wedding style!

Participating Vendors:

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Winter/Spring 2020

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Old Florida

Charm

AT UP THE CREEK FARMS

Up the Creek Farms epitome Old Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s charm. The venue spans across eight acres of land with a beautiful oak canopy, lively creek, and abundant landscaping. Since this wedding shoot is all about showcasing the Sunshine State, Up the Creek Farms was the perfect backdrop. When it comes to Old Florida, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about the details! Vibrant citrus tones of orange and yellow paired perfectly with abundant greenery and tropical flowers. A show-stopping cake features handmade sugar flowers and custom cut fondant, along Talavera inspired to tie in the Florida theme.

Participating Vendors:

Modern

CityChic

AT THE BALCONY ORLANDO

Seven stories above the streets of the City Beautiful is The Balcony Orlando. Both its outdoor and indoor space lends to any wedding style, but were perfect for this Modern City Chic shoot. The vendor team wanted to keep the design clean, using a palette of white, ivory, and gold, along with pops of blue tones. A variety of floral designs gave the shoot dimension. This shoot also doubled as a “micro-wedding”, as a way to transition to the new era of events.

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Winter/Spring 2020

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Bohemian

Vibes

AT VENUE 1902

There are so many couples that have had to reschedule their weddings due to coronavirus. Very often this means that their new wedding date is in a different season with couples who have had to reschedule their weddings; from Spring to Fall or Fall to Spring. This wedding shoot was inspired by this in an effort to help couples see that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible to still have the wedding style they wanted while merging the two seasonal color palettes. The use of yellow, light pink, and white with the rust and deep red show how you can have this stunning look any season!

Garden

Elegance

at Mission Inn Resort

Participating Vendors:

Venue: Mission Inn Resort Photographer: Ashley Jane Photography Dresses/Accessories: The Bridal Finery Florist: Le Fleur Atelier Hair and Makeup: Beauty Brigade Model: Victoria Gonzalez from P.S. I Love You Productions

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WEDDING TIPS TOP THINGS THAT AFFECT YOUR WEDDING BUDGET

FINDING YOUR WEDDING STYLE

HIRING A LIVE WEDDING PAINTER

2020:

THE EVOLUTION OF WEDDINGS

CREATIVE WEDDING CAKES

Winter/Spring 2021

35 23

WEDDING TIPS

Top Things that Affect Your Wedding Budget

One of the first things that you will do when planning your wedding is creating a wedding budget. There are a lot of things that will determine the final cost of your wedding. This is because each couple has different priorities on what they would like to include in their wedding. However, there are certain things that can determine your wedding budget regardless of the type of wedding you are having. Here are the top three things that you may not think of which will affect your wedding budget.

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VENUE LOCATION

The location of your wedding will definitely have an affect on your wedding budget. There are so many wedding venues in the Central Florida area that can accomodate a variety of budgets. Of course you want to stick to a venue in your budget, but you also want to consider what the venue rental includes. If you are looking at a venue that is a great price because you are only renting the space with no extras, make sure to calculate how much it would cost for rentals, such as tables and chairs. These costs can add up and may put you over your budget. A venue that is at the top of your budget but includes items that you will need in their rental package, in the end, might cost the same as a venue that doesn’t include these items once they are added.

BAR You want your wedding to be fun for your guests and let’s be honest alcohol usually loosens things up. However, a fully stocked open bar can definitely put a big dent into your budget. Offering beer and wine options is a great way to cut your bar costs. Many couples even opt to have signature drinks with their beer and wine options. This gives your guests a couple more options and keeps your bar tab in check.

YOUR GUEST LIST One of the biggest factors on your budget will be the number of guests that attend your wedding. Here are the things that are affected by the size of your guest list. Winter/Spring 2021

Venue: You will need to make sure that

you have a venue that can accommodate all of your guests. Not only can that sometimes mean a pricer venue, but it also limits the number of venues that would be able to hold your wedding.

Catering: Of course, the more guests you have you need more food and alcohol, which in turn means more cost. You can always work on more economically options with your caterer and go with the beer and wine option mentioned above. Rentals and Décor: For every guest table

that you have, you will need to add the cost of rentals (the tables, chairs, etc.) and the table décor. Depending on the route you decide to go with your table and chair styles as well as your centerpieces, this can add up quickly.

Cake and Dessert: When you have a consultation with your wedding baker, they will ask you what your guest count is to make sure that there will be enough cake for everyone. This can mean a larger cake, which will mean more design time and in turn a higher cost. Now don’t get us wrong, we aren’t saying to cut your list of the people you really want to be at your wedding. Rather, to just be mindful of this when you make your wedding guest list.

For more things that will affect your wedding budget visit our website.

Photo: Sophia’s Art Photography Florist: Greenery Productions 25

Your

Finding

Wedding Style by Bella Sposa Events

With so much wedding inspiration out there, there is a good chance you will have a hard time selecting what will work best for your wedding. Wedding planner, Jennifer Lopez of Bella Sposa Events provides some tips to help you select your wedding style.

VENUE SELECTION

STYLE

Your wedding venue can have a lot to do with the style of the design you choose to do on your wedding day. Will you have your ceremony at a church or at the same location as your reception? Will your venue be a barn venue or a hotel? This alone can play a huge factor on what you do and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to do, so be sure to get that booked first before you jump into the design side of things.

Rustic, boho, traditional, eclectic, vintage: These are just a few of the design styles you will see at weddings and some of the most popular. This also has a lot to do with the venue you choose and the style it leans towards. You want to make sure the two complement one another.

COLOR SCHEME

Florals can also have a lot to do with the design style you lean towards. We have noticed brides who tend to choose something like babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breath lean more towards a rustic design style and are getting married at a barn venue. Different venues call for different styles and color schemes. When planning for your wedding floral design consider this as well.

Color scheme is the one of the most important elements you will choose for your wedding day design. If your wedding venue is dark try to do a neutral color scheme to add contract or else the room will feel closed in. If your wedding venue is light and bright add in a pop of color to add contrast. Finally, choose a fun accent color, such as gold, silver, or rose gold, that will bring in a fun element, while tying all the details together. Winter/Spring 2021

FLORALS

About the Author:

Jennifer Lopez is the owner and lead planner of Bella Sposa Events in Orlando, FL for the past six years. Bella Sposa Events is a full-service wedding planning and design business. They take pride in making sure that every couple has the most amazing stress-free wedding day.

WEDDING TIPS

What to Consider When Hiring a Live Wedding Painter

by Event Painting by Jamie While artists have been creating live depictions of important events for centuries, it is only within recent years that live event painting has become a popular service for weddings. A live event painter is an artist who paints throughout a special event. When you hire a live painter for your wedding day, the artist will most often set up a few hours before your wedding begins and paint throughout your celebration. Usually, either the ceremony or first dance is the subject of the painting. If you are considering live painting services for your big day, here are some important criteria to keep in mind when choosing a live painter.

Winter/Spring 2021

CHECK MULTIPLE BOXES One of the most important things to keep in mind when deciding to hire a live painter for your wedding is the unique dual purpose of the service. Live painters are one of the only wedding service providers that can serve as both an entertainment vendor, in addition to providing a customized keepsake created during your special day. Moreover, live painters add an extra unique flair to your day that will be sure to wow guests.

FIND YOUR STYLE MATCH When choosing a live painter, be sure to study the painter’s gallery of past work to determine whether his or her style matches what you envision for your painting. Not all live event painters have the same style. In fact, most live artists’ styles are completely unique! It’s also important to keep in mind the mediums and materials your chosen artist uses. Are you looking for an ethereal watercolor portrait or a more realistic acrylic painting?

GET COMFORTABLE It’s important to get to know the artist before hiring him or her to create something as personal as a piece of artwork based on your wedding day. Avoid artists who are unwilling to answer questions before you hire them or who seem unapproachable. You will be working together to create something truly special that is about you, your partner, and your love story, so it’s imperative that you are as comfortable with your chosen artist as you are with your photographer and videographer. 30

RECIEVE A FAMILY HEIRLOOM A painting of your wedding day can be passed down from generation to generation. It’s important to consider that with constantly changing technology, it’s possible that original artwork may last even longer than photographs. Therefore, if properly preserved, a wedding painting may end up being the longest lasting memento of your wedding day. Be sure to ask the live painter you hire how to best take care of your painting in order to ensure that it lasts as long as your love story! For more tips on hiring a live wedding painter be sure to visit our website.

About the Author:

Amanda Rainear is Event Painting by Jamie’s Event Manager, covering marketing, client communication, social media and website maintenance. She and Jamie have been happily married for three years.

Above Photo: Amanda Rainear of Dovetail Events Orange Blossom Bride

Winter/Spring 2020

WEDDING TIPS

2020: The Evolution of Weddings

by Your Favorite Day Earlier this year, couples and wedding professionals scrambled to keep up with the ever changing COVID19 virus information. While no one knew what the distant future would hold, spring weddings were cancelled and postponed right and left. We didn’t know much, but we knew it wasn’t a good idea to gather; and unfortunately, gathering is at the heart of weddings. Now we’re in the last quarter of 2020 and we’ve learned a lot. As wedding experts, we often talk about “educating” our couples. The truth is - this year, the couples are educating us. They are teaching us what is most important to them about their wedding. As wedding industry professionals, we are changing, adapting, and creating. Inevitably, new practices are emerging. So what trends can you expect to see in late 2020 and beyond? 32

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INTIMATE EVENTS

Even pre-pandemic couples were opting for more intimate events and shaking up the traditional wedding format. The biggest reason for a small guest list used to be budget, but that isn’t the case anymore. With less guests, couples can spend more time with each invitee. Intimate events often prioritize dinner and conversation over dancing and formalities, but that doesn’t mean you can’t dance it out with your close group of friends! The intimate wedding couple is big on meaningful interaction and guest appreciation.

CREATIVE SEATING Physically distancing wedding guests has become a new art form and quite frankly, a high school math equation. Venues are significantly reducing their capacities and planners are designing the room with personal space in mind. Couples are opting for creative reception layouts, featuring a mix of different sized tables. Immediate families are sat together, while safely distanced from other guests. Café tables for two and four are making a comeback. Ceremony seating is allowing for extra elbow room, instead of the shoulder to shoulder configurations that had become commonplace. This shake up has its benefits. It was probably time we reconsidered squeezing 12 strangers at a 72 inch round table. A well-crafted, personalized seating layout can add some much-needed character to an event space, so get creative!

About the Author:

LIVE STREAMING Couples with large families abroad have been utilizing live wedding feeds for years. During the pandemic, many turned to online meeting platforms for a quick live streaming fix. While live conference rooms will remain popular for the workplace, many wedding professionals are including streaming services in their packages. Expect to see your favorite DJs, photographers and even officiants offering this add-on. Venues and wedding planners are proactively presenting live streaming options early in the process. Moving forward, couples will have a variety of reliable ways to include even more friends and family in their celebrations. Although they were born out of necessity, virtual events aren’t going anywhere. New trends and practices created during this pandemic are shaking things up and it might be for the better! While offering monogrammed masks as a wedding favor may wane in popularity, many of these trends will stick around. The wedding industry is evolving and working harder than ever to bring reimagined events to life. If you just got engaged, a team of professional vendors are ready and willing to guide you through this new wedding landscape. For more ways that 2020 has changed the way couples celebrate their wedding, visit our website.

Your Favorite Day, LLC is a Central Florida based Wedding Planning Company that specializes in Day Of Coordination. Beth McIntyre, Owner and Lead Wedding Planner is a Certified Wedding Planner through the Bridal Society and an All Seated Certified Professional.

Winter/Spring 2021

Photo: Elina Rose Studios Florist: The Coffee Garden 33

Brides, grooms, moms, and maids came out to the Orange County Convention Center on a recent Sunday in September to celebrate more than just an engagement and upcoming wedding. They celebrated simply being together, attending an event dedicated to this special new chapter in their lives with their â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bride Tribeâ&#x20AC;?, sipping on some champagne and strolling the wide, socially distanced aisles to see all the latest trends and find wedding inspiration in person. The Florida Wedding Expo was the first public event back to the convention center since the pandemic started and had a multitude of safety measures and protocols in place. From the requirement of face coverings for all participants and contactless ticketing, registration and mobile app options, to modified stage presentations, an abundance of extra space and sanitizer stations at every turn, attendees and exhibitors felt comfortable and so excited to be able to attend and connect with each other. The event was also live-streamed, courtesy of PB & J Studios to a virtual audience for anyone not able to attend. Guests had so much fun experiencing the variety of the latest wedding fashions from the Bridal Gown Studio and Perry Ellis, delectable food and dessert samples, gorgeous tablescapes, unique themes, trends, and dĂŠcor ideas. Most importantly, couples had the opportunity to meet and compare a comprehensive variety of vendors, venue representatives and services for their wedding and get advice, tips and solutions for planning their wedding, even during the most challenging of circumstances.

Photos: Sterling Photography International

USE CODE: OBB for $8 Tickets

Visit floridaweddingexpo.com for Tickets to the Next Florida Wedding Expo Wedding Show

Show Stopper

Thinking Outside of the Traditional Wedding Cake Box

Weddings have come a long way when it comes to design and creativity and wedding cakes are no exception! Not only is it a sweet treat for your wedding guests, but it can be a great way to bring your wedding style together.

Photo: Maddie Sullivan Photo

WEDDING TIPS

Mixed Design

by Sweet Miss Vs

Add Color

by Bake a Wish

Traditionally, a weddings cake is white. However, changing up the base color of your wedding cake is a great and simple way to bring in the color palette of your wedding design. It can also help tie in the accent elements of your cake, such as cascading florals like pictured in this wedding cake below from Bake a Wish.

Along with bringing color into the base of your cake, you can also try a variety of textures to give your cake dimension. Wedding cake baker, Sweet Miss Vâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s used white buttercream and emerald colored geometric shaped fondant for this stunning cake below. Add in fresh flowers with tones from your color palette and your wedding cake will help bring your whole wedding design together.

Top - Photo: I Got Shot by Lisa Marie, Florist: Faiella Creations Right - Photo: Kindle and Grain, Florist: Fern and Curl Designs 36

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Left - Photo: Maddie Sullivan Photo Below - Photo: KT Crabb Photography | Planner/ Design: At Last Wedding + Event Design | Florist: Bluegrass Chic

Painted Elements

by Everything Cake

Sugar Flowers

by Bakers Cottage Cakes Flowers on wedding cakes are nothing new, but sugar flowers done by a talented sugar artist will always stop wedding guests in their tracks to admire your wedding cake. Sugar flowers allow your wedding cake baker to not be limited by the seasonal availability of flowers and really get creative with the design. Bakers Cottage Cakes did an incredible job with these spring inspired cascading sugar flowers above.

A wedding cake is a blank canvas. Not only can design elements be added to them, they can also be painted on. Whether you are looking to have something simple or a custom design to match another element of your wedding, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great enliven a plain wedding cake. Everything Cake used the floral that framed a white wedding cake as inspiration for her lovely painted floral design above.

EVERYTHING to Plan Your

Central Florida Wedding

orangeblossombride.com

Local Weddings

Real

Paradise Cove 40 Four Seasons Resort 43 Canoe Outpost 46 Cici & Hyatt Brown Museum of Art 50 Island Grove Wine Company 53 Casa Feliz 56 Photo: Jessica Jones Photography

REAL WEDDINGS

Paradise Cove

Faith + Emily The love of Disney has always been part of Faith and Emily’s love story. Not only did they get engaged at Disneyland, but their first date was seeing the live-action version of Disney’s Cinderella in theaters. When it came to planning the design of their wedding, the couple decided to use Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney’s Polynesian Resort as inspiration. Faith and Emily also love Adventureland and the Enchanted Tiki Room. Combing all of these along with the tropical vibes of Paradise Cove made for the perfect “Enchanted Tiki Wedding”. 40

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Faith and Emily’s Tiki themed wedding ceremony was on the shore of Lake Bryan at Paradise Cove. The couple was framed in a lush tropical infinity arch by Atmosphere’s Floral while they exchanged their heartfelt wedding vows. After the ceremony, guests were greeted with a custom made Enchanted Tiki Room seating chart made by bride, Faith. The colorful display set the tone for the outdoor reception, which included tropical centerpieces curated by the couple. When asked what the best part of their wedding day was, Emily said, “The whole day was just genuinely so much fun and getting to spend it with all of our friends and family who came out from all over the country.” The couple even continued the tropical with a memorable honeymoon in Hawaii!

Winter/Spring 2021

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REAL WEDDINGS

Four Seasons Resort

Lauren + Jason Lauren and Jason knew that they wanted the design of their wedding to give their wedding guests the feel of being in a forest, but still have a classy and elegant backdrop. When the couple visited the Four Seasons Resort at Walt Disney World, they fell in love with the venueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s endless tall trees and brush behind the property. This made for a beautiful backdrop to their wedding ceremony and cocktail hour come wedding day.

Winter/Spring 2021

The rustic elegance with woodsy flair theme continued into the reception space, transforming the ballroom at the venue. Large trees surrounded the dance floor and smaller trees were the centerpieces on the guest tables. Tall hedge walls showcased the stage for the band, the sweetheart table, and their seating chart. With market lights over the dance floor, Edison bulbs over the tables, and accent lighting on the walls, a romantic atmosphere filled the room. When it came to the florals, deep burgundy popped in contrast to the greenery found throughout the design. Lauren credits their amazing vendor team, especially their wedding planner Debbie of Party Perfect Orlando for bringing their wedding vision to life and making the process so enjoyable.

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Participating Vendors:

REAL WEDDINGS

Canoe Outpost at Little Manatee River

Kari + Kevin With a love for the great outdoors and camping, there was no question that Kari and Kevin would include this in their wedding design. The beautiful scenery full of trees, a river, and cabins at the Canoe Outpost at Little Manatee River provided all the details the couples wanted that they couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find in a traditional wedding venue.

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Kari and Kevin’s wedding was held on their 3rd anniversary. With Kevin proposing right after coming home from deployment, they pulled their whole wedding together in just 4 months with the help of wedding planner, Carlisha of Designer Weddings by Carly Rose. The couple’s closest family and friends joined them for a beautiful ceremony in a clearing in the woods. This was followed by a picnic style wedding reception under the trees catered by a food truck and mobile bar. When asked what she would change about her wedding day, Kari said “Maybe more mosquito spray! There’s isn’t a thing I would change about my day. It was perfect!”

Winter/Spring 2021

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Love is not Cancelled

A global pandemic shook the world in early spring. However, for thousands of Central Florida couples looking to have their wedding celebration, it proved to be a wedding planning stress they never could have prepared for. Every couple has handled the adjustments to their wedding day based on their situation. Even though their original plans may have been cancelled, their love is certainly not!

REAL WEDDINGS

Cici & Hyatt Brown Museum of Art

Lyndsey + Landon With a wedding almost completely planned, Lyndsey and Landon had to make the difficult decision to cancel their large wedding. Instead, they decided to have a smaller gathering of their immediate family and friends. Still wanting to include those that could no longer make it, they opted to live stream their ceremony. This not only allowed them to share this special moment with the ones they loved but provided a special video keepsake for after the wedding.

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From Bride, Lyndsey: How did COVID-19 affect your wedding? Our entire wedding was almost planned and invitations had just gone out, then when Covid-19 happened, we had to make the decision to cancel our large wedding with extended family and friends, but still go ahead and get married, just with those who needed to be there. How did you celebrate instead? Instead of the large wedding, our wedding planner Candace Battle of The Event Company helped us pull together a beautiful intimate wedding in less than two weeks. Our wedding was held at the Cici & Hyatt Brown Museum of Art and Science with just immediate family. We also were able to have a live stream so that our friends and extended family were able to be a part of our special day!

Winter/Spring 2021

What was the hardest part of dealing with COVID-19 and wedding planning? The hardest part was not only the uncertainty of not knowing what was going to happen, but also having an idea of what my wedding was going to be like, and then having to cancel almost everything. What advice would you give other couples in a similar situation? I would tell other couples in a similar situation to first, just breathe and then take inventory of what really matters to them on their wedding day. I would also suggest that they find a wedding planner who can help them navigate through this time. The right wedding planner will know how to help you make to most of your special day during these times. Participating Vendors: Venue: Cici & Hyatt Brown Museum of Art at the Museum of Arts & Sciences | Planner: The Event Company | Photographer: Tracy Townsend Photography | Live Stream: Omarvelous Productions | Florist/Ceremony Arch/Decor: Vows & Views | Dress: Lola Grace Bridal | Groom Attire: Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wearhouse 52

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REAL WEDDINGS

Island Grove Wine Company at Formosa Gardens

Christine + Mitch When your wedding date is during a stay at home order, you have no choice but to reschedule. Christine and Mitch originally decided to reschedule their wedding. However, as the uncertainty of everything continued, they ultimately decided to cancel their wedding and have a very small ceremony at home. As things calmed down, they were able to get their vendor team together to create a beautiful styled portrait session in their wedding attire. Winter/Spring 2021

From Bride, Christine: How did COVID-19 affect your wedding? The original wedding was just as the stay at home order started and we decided to still get married on that day, but have an intimate wedding in our living room with immediate family only. We postponed the large party and everything we planned to June, but as everything continued and nothing was opening up we ultimately decided to cancel. How did you celebrate instead? We rescheduled, then canceled and had to plan an intimate wedding in the middle of everything unfolding during the beginning of the pandemic. We had an intimate ceremony with our parents and siblings, and my maid of honor married us. Although it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t what was planned, it turned out a lot better than anticipated given the circumstances.

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What was the hardest part of dealing with COVID-19 and wedding planning? Just the unknown of it all and the constantly changing rules. Also, the uncertainty, as well as watching everything you worked sooooo hard to plan and put together fall apart right in front of you, completely out of your control. What advice would you give other couples in a similar situation? Lean on each other. You’re both going through it together, don’t feel like all the pressure is on you to make the decision and the hard calls. Remember that at the end of it all it’s about the two of you and celebrating your love. It may not be the day you dreamed about, but the goal of that day was for you to spend your lives together and that’s all that matters. Participating Vendors: Venue: Island Grove Wine Company at Formosa Gardens | Photographer: Jamie Reinhart Photography | Florist: Bluegrass Chic | Hair and Makeup: A Touch of Fierce | Cake/Desserts: Sweet Miss V’s | Dress: The Bridal Finery Winter/Spring 2021

REAL WEDDINGS

Casa Feliz

Johnathon + Stephen These two castmembers originally met while working at Walt Disney World. It would then make sense that they would exchange their wedding vows at the location that brought them together. Johnathon and Stephen had planned for a small wedding at The Wedding Pavilion at Walt Disney World for the beginning of April. However, with the parks and property closed due to the coronavirus, they had to adjust their wedding celebration to an even smaller event early in the summer at Casa Feliz in Winter Park, FL. 56

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From Groom, Johnathon: How did COVID-19 affect your wedding? We had already planned to have a relatively small wedding but due to coronavirus, our wedding was delayed to September 16th. In addition to the change in date, we also changed wedding venues and scaled back our guest list even further. How did you celebrate instead? Our entire wedding was reimagined but we kept some of the same décor touches that we were hoping to include originally. We were able to celebrate our wedding with our closest family and friends and wouldn’t have traded it for the world! Re-planning our wedding let us change all of the things that we weren’t crazy about the first time and the change of venue allowed us much more control over the planning.

Winter/Spring 2021

What was the hardest part of dealing with COVID-19 and wedding planning? The uncertainty building up to the wedding day was the hardest part. As we saw COVID numbers rising and started to see the closures, we realized we needed to make the call to keep our friends and family safe and chose to reschedule. What advice would you give other couples in a similar situation? It was a hard decision to make between waiting to have the “perfect” day or compromising and making the best of the situation. We decided that it was more important for us to celebrate with our close friends and family than to wait to have our big celebration. In the end, the day went by so quickly and I don’t think it could have been any more perfect. Our advice would be that if you’re ready to get married, make the necessary edits to safely accommodate those who mean the most to you, and just go for it! Participating Vendors: Venue: Casa Feliz | Photographer: Casie Marie Photography | Videographer: Krall Cinemas | Florist: BAUGhaus Shop | Catering: Arthur’s Catering | Cake: Erin McKenna’s Bakery | Invitations: Minted | Grooms’ Attire: Alfani | Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal 58

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Ask a

r e n n a l P g n i d d We

There is so much that goes into planning a wedding and we are sure you have a ton of questions. We asked five Central Florida wedding planners to answer some of the most frequent questions that we have received from local couples going through the wedding planning process.

Is it ok to use some of our ceremony decor for the reception? “Ceremony decor is easily transferable to the reception. Decor items like bouquets and aisle decor can be used for not only centerpieces, but also additional table setups like gift, cake, and welcome tables. Using ceremony decor for the reception will always be my first recommendation and it provides a significant cost savings.”

Candace Battle The Event Company

Should I pay for my bridesmaids’ hair and makeup? “You definitely don’t have to but I always suggest to our Brides that this is a perfect bridesmaids gift. Most of the time our brides are often stuck and are unsure of a good gift to give their girls, but what better way than treating them to hair and makeup on your wedding day. They would have hd to have had to pay for it in most cases anyways so I think it’s the perfect gift!”

Jennifer Lopez Bella Sposa Events Photos: Candace Battle/Alexis Pratts Photography | Jennifer Lopez/Amalie Orrange Photography 60

Orange Blossom Bride

If I am having an intimate wedding (under 50 guests), do I need to have a seating chart? “Even for an intimate wedding, it is important to assign guests to specific tables. This will eliminate any awkwardness when it’s time to find a seat for dinner. You don’t want anyone to feel like they are back in middle school, looking for a table in the cafeteria! Also, designing a seating chart in advance allows you to get creative with a fun reception layout.”

Beth McIntyre Your Favorite Day

Should I have a band or DJ? “I have always told my clients to use their gut. Whatever they feel best suits their group and will mesh the most with the family dynamics. DJs are terrific and bands can be fantastic! What is truly important from a coordination/planning perspective is making sure someone is versed on a microphone! Someone who can truly communicate to the group and keep them informed without being obnoxious or talk too much.”

Bonny Finck P.S. I Love You Productions

Who should be invited to the rehearsal dinner? “Traditionally, the rehearsal dinner was reserved for the immediate family and wedding party only, and would typically take place in a formal, sit down restaurant. These days, couples are opting for a “welcome party” as an alternative so they can include out of town guests. This allows for a more casual setting, if preferred, like a house or bar. You can also choose to do both options, where you have the formal dinner first, then have a more casual welcome party with just drinks later.”

Casie Caldwell Sparkleigh Productions Photos: Beth McIntyre/Braddon Pictures | Bonny Finck/Wings of Glory | Casie Caldwell/ Castaldo Studio Photo & Video Winter/Spring 2021

TRAVEL

Great Honeymoon Destinations in the United States

by Get Out! Custom Travels Honeymoons are a milestone trip every couple looks forward to as part of their wedding planning. Many couples go all-out and opt for an international bucket list destination. What happens when international travel is restricted and the state of the world is uncertain due to a pandemic? Can you still have an incredible honeymoon if you stay in the United States? The answer is YES! Here are some great spots to consider for a memorable domestic honeymoon.

Orange Blossom Bride

PORTLAND, MAINE Portland is the picturesque Maine town you see in the movies. From the delicious seafood to the variety of breweries, this is the perfect place to take it easy and relax. Consider taking a few days to explore Bar Harbor and experience Acadia National Park.

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA These two destinations combine a beach vibe with a city full of southern charm. Charleston has an incredible food scene and beautiful architecture. You might recognize some places in Charleston from The Notebook. You can also take some day trips to other nearby Lowcountry towns and learn about the Afro Caribbean influences in the region.

MOAB, UTAH For the adventurous couple, this is the perfect place for a honeymoon. Surrounded by national parks such as Arches and Canyonlands, the number of places to hike and mountain bike are endless. Just because this place is ripe for adventure doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean there arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t opportunities for relaxation as well. Consider a glamping experience here or an accommodation with a view of the Colorado River. (pictured left)

ALASKA

Although many people cruise to Alaska, I think you can get a more in-depth experience by doing a land trip. This state feels like another world with its majestic scenery and rich indigenous culture. Nature lovers will enjoy wildlife sightings, as well as boat rides that take you up close to glaciers. The train ride from Anchorage to Denali is absolutely magical. Stay for a few nights in Denali National Park to increase your chances of seeing Denali (formerly Mt McKinley), the tallest peak in North America.

AboutTheresa the Author: Chu-Bermudez, owner of Get Out! Custom Travels, is a Central Florida based travel advisor who specializes in custom honeymoon experiences for couples. Learn more at getoutcustomtravels.com

Winter/Spring 2021

Wedding Vendor Contact List You will be hiring multiple wedding professionals to help make your wedding day come together. One of the best things that you can do to ensure that your wedding planning is less stressful is to stay organized, especially if you do not have a full planning wedding planner. Make sure to keep track of all of the details and contracts that you get from each.

CEREMONY VENUE Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date:

WEDDING PLANNER Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date:

RECEPTION VENUE Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

PHOTOGRAPHER Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Winter/Spring 2021

Date: Date: Date:

FLORIST

VIDEOGRAPHER Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date:

Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date: 65

BAKER Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date:

DJ/MUSICIAN Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

OFFICIANT

TRANSPORTATION Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date:

Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date:

STATIONERY Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date:

CATERER

RENTALS Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date:

Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date:

HONEYMOON Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date:

Orange Blossom Bride

OTHER DESSERTS Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Notes/Details:

Date: Date: Date:

PHOTO BOOTH Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date:

OTHER VENDOR Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Date: Date: Date:

OTHER VENDOR Contact: Phone: Email: Deposit: $ Payment: $ Payment: $

Winter/Spring 2021

LOOKING FOR GREAT WEDDING PROS? Turn to p. 75 or visit our website for wonderful wedding pros that will help make your wedding vision a reality.

Date: Date: Date:

Wedding Timeline There are so many details that go into planning a wedding and a certain time frame to get those details done. We have created a quick cheat sheet for you to stay organized and make sure you do not forget anything. Happy Planning!

12 MONTHS

make sure your engagement ring is insured decide on your wedding date create a wedding budget

select groom’s and groomsmen’s attire

decide on your wedding invitation wording

decide on your wedding style

start planning your honeymoon

create a preliminary guest list

select a baker for your wedding cake/dessert

find a ceremony and reception venue

create your wedding registry

select an officiant

schedule bridal hair and makeup trials

create a wedding website

9 to 11 MONTHS

narrow down guest list to fit in budget and venue have an engagement party order your wedding dress book your wedding planner and photographer send out save the dates decide on and ask wedding party members if your venue does not have a caterer, find and book one get estimates for decor and lighting rentals set up hotel room blocks for out of town guests

6 to 8 MONTHS

book your videographer book your florist

4 to 5 MONTHS send your wedding invitations

finalize details with caterer and rentals purchase decor/details you are not renting purchase your wedding rings start planning your rehearal dinner reserve your day of transportation start dance lessons for first dance

3 MONTHS

have your bridal shower finalize playlist details with your DJ or band get your marriage license finalize ceremony details with officiant decide on wedding favors

2 MONTHS

start brainstorming your wedding vows finalize menu create wedding ceremony programs send “thank yous” for your bridal shower gifts have your bachelor and bachelorette party purchase presents for future spouse, wedding party, and parents schedule your dress fitting

1 MONTH

final dress fitting

plan where you and future spouse will get ready day of

Orange Blossom Bride

1 MONTH CONT. book wedding night accommodations

shop for honeymoon clothing have your emergency kit for the wedding day and your “something old, new, borrowed and blue”

1 to 2 WEEKS

follow up with guests who haven’t RSVP’d give final guest count to caterer, baker, and venue make escort cards and/or display confirm all final payments and details if you are giving a toast, prepare your speech pick up your marriage license give your day-of schedule to your vendors and wedding party provide ceremony rehearsal and rehearsal dinner information to those attending

2 to 3 DAYS

pack your wedding overnight bag

2 to 3 DAYS CONT. make sure details are clear with ceremony and reception sites pamper yourself with a manicure and pedicure designate someone to take your wedding gifts home

After all the planning for your wedding celebration, don’t forget to make sure that at the end of the day you are a legally married couple. Here are the locations to apply for a marriage licence in the Central Florida area.

Brevard County

1 DAY BEFORE have your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner give marriage license to your officiant bring any ceremony details with you to your rehearsal get a good night’s rest

Clerk of the Court 400 South St. Titusville, FL 32780 (321) 952-4604

Lake County

County Clerk of the Circuit Court 122 E. Main St. Tavares, FL 32778 (352) 253-2650

Orange County

WEDDING DAY!

make sure you eat breakfast exchange gifts with spouse and give gifts to parents and wedding party

Enjoy Your Wedding Day!

POST WEDDING

freeze the top layer of your wedding cake send “thank yous” for wedding gifts

pick up groom’s attire

if you are planning to, change your name

leave honeymoon details with a family member

have your dress cleaned and preserved

Winter/Spring 2021

WHERE TO MAKE IT LEGAL IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

Clerk of the Courts 425 N. Orange Ave. Orlando, FL 32801 (407) 836-2067

Seminole County Clerk of the Court 301 N. Park Ave. Sanford, FL 32771 (407) 665-4375

Volusia County

Clerk of Circuit Court 101 N. Alabama Ave. DeLand, FL 32724 (386) 736-5911

P referred Wedding Venues Cross Creek Ranch

Cypress Creek Farmhouse

Dragonfly Farms FL

Mission Inn Resort

12950 E Wheeler Rd Dover, FL 33527 (813) 651-0934 crosscreekranchfl.com info@crosscreekranchfl.com Photo: Photo Harp Weddings p.4

13910 Corkwood Ln Astatula, FL 34705 (561) 789-6655 cypresscreekfarmhouse.com info@cypresscreekfl.com Photo: Pb&J Studios p.22

750 Osmosis Dr. Palm Bay, FL 32908 (321) 427-8683 brandy@dragonflyfarmsfl.com dragonflyfarmsfl.com see on p.48 Photo: Liz Cowie Photography p.59

10400 FL-48 Howey-In-The-Hills, FL 34737 (352) 324-3916 missioninnresortweddings.com wedding@missioninnresort.com see on p.57

Up the Creek Farms

Venue 1902 at Preservation Hall

3590 Valkaria Rd. Grant-Valkaria, FL 32950 (321) 499-4232 upthecreekfarms.com info@upthecreekfarms.com Photo: Lisa Marshall Photography p.10-11, 70

Winter/Spring 2021

Photo: Kati Rosado Photography Cover, p.16, 17-20

301 W 7th St. Sanford, FL 32771 (407) 986-8600 venue1902.com hello@venue1902.com Photo: The Pattons p.14-15, 73

Margaritaville Orlando

8000 Fins Up Circle Kissimmee, FL 34747 margaritavilleresorts.com/ margaritaville-resort-orlando weddings@margaritavilleresortorlando.com Photo: Munoz Photography

The Banyan Estate 1490 Marie St Malabar, FL 32950 (321) 536-9080 banyanvenue.com info@banyanvenue.com

Photo: Alexis Kline Photography

Visit our website to see more from these beautiful wedding venues! The Royal Crest Room 5330 Michigan Ave St Cloud, FL 34772 (407) 892-2009 theroyalcrestroom.com karen@theroyalcrestroom.com Photo: Al Dee Productions

P referred Wedding Venues

Orange Blossom Bride

Guide

Wedding Pro

The wedding professionals that you hire will be the key piece in making your wedding vision come to life. Our wedding vendor directory is the perfect place to find your wedding pros.

What makes our directory different?

The wedding professionals listed in our directory are extensively vetted. This ensures that they are not only an expert in their field and provide couples with impeccable service, but have a great record of working well with other wedding vendors. This is so important to making sure your wedding runs smoothly.

WEDDING PLANNERS The Event Company

(407) 984-4600 hello@theeventcompanyfl.com theeventcompanyfl.com p.3, 50-52, 60

Bella Sposa Events

(814) 572-0896 hello@bellasposaevents.com bellasposaevents.com p.26-28, 60

P.S. I Love You Productions (407) 603-5102 p.s.iloveyouprod@gmail.com psiloveuprod.com Cover, p.17-20, 61

Sparkleigh Productions

FLORISTS

Events by The Flower Studio

(321) 422-0823 andie@theflowerstudioonline.com eventsbytheflowerstudio.com p.22

Bluegrass Chic

(407) 900-3515 info@bluegrasschic.com bluegrasschic.com p.37, 49, 53-55

PHOTOGRAPHERS Ashley Jane Photography

(563) 528-1152 ashley@ashleyjane-photography.com ashleyjane-photography.com Cover, p.17-20, 21

Christina Janel Photography (407) 221-3966 hello@christinajanel.com christinajanel.com p.77

Fern and Curl Designs (321) 298-2676

Steven Miller Photography

Le Fleur Ateleir (352) 217-4947

Bumby Photography

fernandcurldesigns@gmail.com fernandcurldesigns.com p.36

(407) 504-7314 smiller@stevenmillerpix.com stevenmillerpix.com p.74

(321) 431-6990 casie@sparkleighproductions.com sparkleighproductions.com p.61

yolanda@idoeventandpr.com lefleuratelier.com Cover, p.7, 17-20

(407) 864-0003 bumby@bumbyphotography.com bumbyphotography.com p.43-45

Your Favorite Day

Pixies and Petals

Casie Marie Photography

(407) 318-6949 contact@yourfavoriteday.com yourfavoriteday.com p.32-33, 61

VIDEOGRAPHERS Weddings by Ty Albers Videography

(407) 614-7772 weddings@tyalbersvideography.com tyalbersvideography.com

FLORAL PRESERVATION Rejoice and Blossom

rejoiceandblossomart@gmail.com rejoiceandblossomart.com

Winter/Spring 2021

(863) 221-4939 jennie@pixiesandpetals.com pixiesandpetals.com

(352) 304-2197 hello@casiemariephotography.com casiemariephotography.com p.56-58

EVENT SITTERS

Flora Bloom Photography

Furry Ventures Pet Care

(813) 309-6874 info@furryventurespetcare.com furryventurespetcare.com p.59

FairyTail Pet Care

(813) 701-9663 woof@fairytailpet.com fairytailpetcare.com

Tootles Event Sitters

(407) 349-7749 info@tootleseventsitters.com tootleseventsitters.com

(407) 476-3513 amanda@florabloomphotography.com florabloomphotography.com p.26-28

Honeywood Photography

(407) 595-4159 honeywoodphoto@gmail.com honeywoodphotography.com

In Style Imagery

(352) 250-2935 olivia@instyleimagery.com instyleimagery.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS

HAIR AND MAKEUP

Jessica Jones Photography

Beauty Brigade (321) 430-7175

CAKES AND DESSERTS Bake A Wish

(352) 636-0227 jessicajonesphotographs@gmail.com jessicajonesphotographs.com p.46-48

info@beautybrigadellc.com beautybrigadellc.com Cover, p.16, 17-20

(407) 967-8915 info@bakeawishonline.com bakeawishonline.com p.36

Leah Langley Photography

Bella Con Stileâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Beauty

Bakers Cottage Cakes

Rachel Doyle Photography

Jazz It Up Artistry

(407) 506-8660 leah@leahlangley.com leahlangley.com

(407) 619-6020 rachel@racheldoylephotography.com racheldoylephotography.com p.12-13

Rania Marie Photography

(407) 285-7486 amanda@bcsmakeup.com bcsmakeup.com

(386) 456-7633 info@jazzitupartistry.com jazzitupartistry.com

Karmel Design Team

(407) 928-9340 rania@raniamariephoto.com raniamariephoto.com

(407) 575-5317 info@karmeldesignteam.com karmeldesignteam.com p.26-28

Rudy & Marta Photography

Marin Makeup & Spa

(321) 270-9524 info@rudyandmarta.com rudyandmarta.com

Sophiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Art Photography (407) 873-4951 info@sophiasartphoto.com sophiasartphoto.com p.24

DJ/LIGHTING DJ Danny Garcia

(407) 668-0648 danny@djdannygarcia.com djdannygarcia.com

Soundwave Entertainment (407) 905-0324 info@djsoundwave.net djsoundwave.net

STATIONERY AND INVITATIONS Two Peas Paper Co. (321) 247-6145

paige@twopeaspaperco.com twopeaspaperco.com p.8

(407) 710-5494 ashley@marinmakeup.com marinmakeup.com

RENTALS

Everything Cake

(321) 438-9408 info@everythingcake.com everythingcake.com p.37

Sweet Miss Vs

(321) 616-0646 sweetmissvs@gmail.com sweetmissvs.com p.15, 36, 55

HONEYMOON PLANNER Get Out! Custom Travels

A Chair Affair

(407) 970-0348 theresa@getoutcustomtravels.com getoutcustomtravels.com p.62-63

Orlando Wedding and Party Rentals

Two Chicks and a Pot

(386) 479-4308 ann@chairaffairrentals.com chairaffairrentals.com p.8, Back Cover

(407) 739-5740 info@orlandoweddingandpartyrentals.com orlandoweddingandpartyrentals.com

p.12-13, 31, 43-45

Mimosas & Moonshine

(772) 360-6384 mimosasandmoonshine@gmail.com mimosasandmoonshine.com

RW Style

(407) 374-2534 hello@rwstyle.com rwstyle.com p.26-28, 35

LIVE EVENT PAINTER Event Painting by Jamie

(610) 316-2113 hello@eventpaintingbyjamie.com eventpaintingbyjamie.com p.29-30, 31 76

(407) 580-7695 info@bakerscottagecakes.com bakerscottagecakes.com p.8, 35, 37

CATERER

(321) 252-5111 hello@twochicksandapot.com twochicksandapot.com p.64

PHOTO BOOTHS Party Shots Orlando

(407) 542-1292 jenn@partyshotsorlando.com partyshotsorlando.com

DANCE STUDIO

Serendipity Dance Studio

(407) 973-3409 info@serendipitydancestudio.com serendipitydancestudio.com p.74

Orange Blossom Bride

BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHERS Ashley Jane Photography

(563) 528-1152 ashley@ashleyjane-photography.com ashleyjane-photography.com p.21

Christina Janel Photography (407) 221-3966 hello@christinajanel.com christinajanel.com p.77

BB by Bumby

(407) 864-0003 info@bbbybumby.com bbbybumby.com

SPA SERVICES Marin Makeup & Spa

(407) 710-5494 ashley@marinmakeup.com marinmakeup.com

Visit our website to see more from these amazing wedding pros!