Watermark's Wedding Guide 2019 by Watermark Publishing Group

celebrate y o u r

L G BT Q

l o v e .

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Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

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Contents Introduction: Dearly Beloved

Fling Before The Ring

Striking Sweets

Easy Being Green

Your Venue and You

LGBTQ-friendly Vendor Directory

Cover photo by Josie Brooks Photography JosieBrooksPhotography.com Wedding Guide 2019 Published by Watermark publishing group, Inc.

owner and publisher

Rick Claggett

business manager

Kathleen Sadler central fl bureau chief

Jeremy Williams

art director

senior advertising sales

tampa bay bureau chief

Jake Stevens

contributing writers

creative assistant/ photographer

Dylan Todd

Brianna Rockmore

advertising sales

sales director

founder & guiding light

Ryan Williams-Jent Holly V. Kapherr Tiffany Razzano

Danny Garcia

Contents of this Wedding Guide 2019 are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the permission of the publishers. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles, advertising, or listing is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or members or organizations. Watermark Publishing Group cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

Sam Callahan Russ Martin

Tom Dyer

ÂŠ Watermark Publishing Group Phone: ORL: 407-481-2243 TB: 813-655-9890 Fax: ORL: 407-481-224 TB: 813-849-2986 Publisher@WatermarkOnline.com WatermarkOnline.com

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Photo by Danny Gorman Photography

Watermarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wedding Guide 2019

Located just steps away from Epcot® and Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, experience the wonder of the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks and come home to the wonderful luxuries at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. Guest rooms featuring Westin’s Heavenly Bed®. 18 world-class restaurants and lounges including celebrity chef Todd English’s bluezoo and the renowned Il Mulino New York Trattoria. Five swimming pools plus the Balinese-inspired Mandara Spa. Not to mention complimentary Disney transportation, advance tee-times at championship golf courses, Disney’s Extra Magic Hours®, and Fastpass+ beneﬁts at the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks. In fact, with so much to enjoy, you may ﬁnd that the world does actually revolve around you.

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Dearly Beloved We are gathered here to celebrate love in ALL its forms J

elcome to Watermark’s fifth annual Wedding Guide! It seems like just yesterday we were fighting for our rights to marry the one we love and now here we are, a bunch of old pros at this wedding thing. We started making a Wedding Guide five

First, we talk about your last day on the

years ago to not only celebrate marriage equality,

market and weigh in on same-sex bachelor and

but also because while same-sex marriage was

bachelorette parties.

now a right it was also not the end of the fight.

We’ll have your eyes screaming “wow” and

Just because we can marry doesn’t mean a local

your mouth saying “yum” next, when we examine

baker has to make a cake for us or our favorite

some incredible, not-so-traditional wedding

wedding venues have to open their doors for

cakes. Then we get super green with eco-friendly

our community.

nuptials sure to make your day as happy for the

However, the businesses who are listed in

planet as it is for you.

this guide and who purchased ad space in these

Next, whether you’re more traditional or new-

pages want you to know that they believe love

aged, we have gathered a selection of local venues

is love, your marriage is valid and they want to

that are certain to provide the ideal setting for

help celebrate your special day. So be sure to

your big day.

pay attention to the products and services being

Last, we have a list of LGBTQ-owned and

advertised to you.

LGBTQ-friendly vendors in Central Florida and

Now, the editorial staff has looked at ways to

Tampa Bay. And now, by the power vested in

take your wedding to the next level and in these

us, we present to you Watermark’s fifth annual

pages we have done just that.

Wedding Guide.

c e l e b r a t e y o u r L G BT Q l o v e .

Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

Photo by August and Katherin Photography

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Watermarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wedding Guide 2019

Fling Before The Ring Bachelor and bachelorette parties before your big day are a must R

- J

y husband and I had a relatively simple wedding from the comfort of a friend’s back yard in Nov. 2016, days after an election we were eager to forget and surrounded by the majority of our friends and family who wanted to do the same. It was perfect for us, a mixture of my eccentric tastes and his sensible nature, the culmination of plenty of pre-marital planning during our nearly two-year engagement. Since we’re fortunate enough to have

bachelorettehood adieu, but we knew

LGBTQ-friendly locales, giving us a wide

a large number of generous and talented

we wanted to celebrate our upcoming

array of establishments to choose from.

loved ones, the majority of that planning

milestone ahead of time in some way.

Even when we’re apart, my husband

For our bachelor parties, we knew

and I communicate regularly. That’s

engagement. That’s because our venue,

we wanted to celebrate outside of our

the nature of a relationship. But not

where I’d also proposed, had long been

home in Tampa Bay. Our best men

this time: the beginning of the end for

decided for that reason. It’s also because

rallied the troops and we departed

bachelorhood was radio silence and sans

we knew dear friends were going to bake

for Fort Lauderdale, sharing a rented

our cell phones. Only our friends stayed

our gorgeous wedding cake, touch our

residence with our wedding party and

in communication to ensure we didn’t

hearts as they officiated, dazzle us with

creating one of the most memorable

bump into one another prematurely.

their photography skills and provide

weekends of our lives.

was done within the last six months of our

buzzworthy booze for our guests. It was

Our individual parties went on for

My husband and I are fond of our

hours, with friends bouncing back and

quite a bit off of our plate and truly made

independence from one another,

forth between the two caravans to spend

our wedding a family affair.

recognizing its importance and that

time with each of us. The evening was

two strong halves make a stronger

unique and fabulous, albeit quiet on the

else for us to figure out on our big day

whole. Still, we’ve grown quite fond

technological front, and finished at the

and you’re thinking of doing it all on your

of one another over the years—hence,

city’s largest LGBTQ hotspot toward the

own, I’d still recommend utilizing the

marriage—and knew we wanted to

end of the evening.

many advertisers featured in these pages.

celebrate the end of bachelorhood

Wedding planning is incredibly stressful,

together. Especially if we were

aisle together during our wedding, so

even with all of the assistance we had,

out of town.

there was no surprise reveal at the altar.

If it sounds like there wasn’t much

and oversights are all but guaranteed. If

My best men and his, our respective

My husband and I walked down the

The closest moment came when our

it weren’t for another friend who plans

“sides,” agreed that was all well and

bachelor parties converged. After the

professionally, we’d have forgotten

fine, especially since we wanted to

entire evening apart—dining, drinking

garbage cans for our reception that

enjoy the weekend with all of our

and dancing in another town—we were

welcomed nearly 100 guests. Can you just

friends who’d made the journey, not

reunited. He took my breath away and I

imagine the trash talk?

just some. They wanted to see one

knew I couldn’t wait to marry him.

While we’d underestimated the amount of details that go into wedding preparation, thankfully

another as well and so a compromise was struck.

One of the beautiful aspects about marriage equality being in its infancy

My husband and his side of the

is that the LGBTQ community is finally

our best men hadn’t done the same

wedding party, along with a number of

free to make marriage our own. It’s

when it came to accounting for our

our friends, began our first evening in

also a gift that applies to our bachelor

last days as bachelors.There weren’t

Fort Lauderdale on one side of town.

and bachelorette parties and that’s

many blueprints for how grooms or

My side and I began it on the other. The

exactly what we did. Make yours your

brides-to-be could bid bachelor and

city has a large number of LGBTQ and

own, too.

Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

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O R L A N D O ’ S M O S T S P E C TA C U L A R W E D D I N G V E N U E

Your Wedding at the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld PICTURE YOUR SPECIAL DAY HERE WITH US. • 100,000 square feet of flexible indoor/outdoor event space, accomodating groups up to 2,000 guests • NEW - 20,000 square foot Majestic Ballroom • NEW - Stylish Palms Promenade event space, perfect for weddings & receptions TO PLAN YOUR DREAM WEDDING, CALL 407.354.5074 or Contact our Certified Wedding Planner Rechelle Williams | RWilliams@DoubleTreeOrlandoSW.com 10100 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32821 | DTResortOrlando.com Follow Us!

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Weddings that make history

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Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

above:

Say cheese Costco’s Cheese Lover Artisan Wedding Cake is the perfect “cake” for the couple not into baked goods.

Photo courtesy Costco.com

Striking Sweets Hot trends and crazy ideas for the most memorable dessert of your life H

hether you decide to do the signature cake smash move or politely position forkfuls of frosting into each other’s mouths, your wedding cake is just one more opportunity to show your guests a part of your relationship with a sweet that’s uniquely you. And, sometimes, y’all be cray. Continued on pg. 17 | uu |

Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

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PICTURE YOURSELF HERE

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Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

Central Florida’s Premiere String Ensemble

Photo by Heather Rice Photography

Photo by BrianAdamsPhoto.com

Let us provide the soundtrack for your special day!

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Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

•

RECEPTION

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/stringsetc /fretlessrock

C o n t in u e d f r o m p g . 1 4 If you’re looking for a cutting-edge cake, ultra-outré design or—if cake isn’t your thing—a delicious dessert alternative, we have a few ideas that are certain to get your cake into the wedding hall of fame.

Crazy construction

he days of off-kilter, Mad Hatter-style cakes are over,

above:

and many couples are returning to the center-stacked,

pop culture cake

traditional look and going trendy with their decorations

and flavors instead. Another trend in cake construction: deconstruction. “Many couples are choosing to have multiple, different-sized cakes

Flavor faves

on separate pedestals,” says Hopke. This is another trend

“I

t’s all about pairing florals with fruit when it comes

made popular by the newest Royals, whose sweet featured

to trendy flavors,” says Jillian Hopke, owner of

multiple unstacked cakes instead of a Tower of London.

Jillycakes in Orlando.

Ever since Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, now the Duke

and Duchess of Sussex, featured an elderflower and lemon cake at their nuptials last year, fruits and florals for fillings and cake flavors have been all the rage. Hopke says lavender, rose and jasmine are other popular floral flavors, either infused

Cake-averse? No prob.

t’s nothing new to not serve cake at your wedding. The trend has been around since earlier this decade, and even

Jillycakes combined the couple’s love of Beauty and the Beast and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to make this animated masterpiece.

Photo courtesy Jillycakes

celebs have jumped on the bandwagon.

In her 2014 wedding to William Tell, The Hills’ Lauren

into the cake or added as essences to frosting.

Conrad had a small, two-tier cake for themselves to cut, and

above:

It’s what’s outside that counts

then served the rest of their guests apple pie (because William

Cake on the go

Tell, get it?). Costco is known for their delicious and budget-

f course it’s going to taste good—it’s cake! But visually

friendly sheet cakes, but in February, they made headlines

stunning is the name of the game, especially in the age

when they unveiled a $439 wedding “cake” made from 24

of Insta. Hopke says watercolors, drip-icing, metallics

pounds of artisan cheese wheels, including Red Leicester,

and pearlizing is ultra-popular these days. “Pearlizing cakes with an airbrush is a way to get a metallic sheen without going straight for glitter,” she says. Not that there’s anything wrong with that.

Danish Blue, Drunken Goat, Tuscan sheep cheese and White Angelique triple-crème brie. The cheese serves up to 150 people. Other options: Donut “walls,” cake pops, French cream

Hopke also gets a lot of requests for either over-the-top

puffs stacked into a traditional croquembouche, and the

themed cakes, like the cake she designed for a couple whose

ever-elegant macaron. A recent Wedding Bells feature in

favorite film was Disney’s “UP,” or adding elements of pop

Watermark showcased Tampa couple Nicholas Relyea and

culture to more traditionally styled tiered cakes. “It’s not

Harry Myers, who instead of a cake, opted for a seven-tier

abnormal for me to design a cake decorated with both sugar-

champagne fountain!

paste roses and a Star Wars X-Wing ship.” c e l e b r a t e y o u r L G BT Q l o v e .

Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

A traditional and notso-traditional cake can easily be paired up to create an amazing design that will have your guests talking.

Photo courtesy Jillycakes

WEDDINGS

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Green Easy Being

Eco-friendly wedding ideas that will make your day as happy for the planet as it is for you

lanning a wedding is chaotic for most. There are so many decisions to be made—from the flowers to the food to the outfits—that we can be so concerned with making everything perfect that we don’t consider the longer impact our choices about one day will have on the planet. Continued on pg. 22 | uu |

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Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

voted your favorite local lgbtq-friendly caterer since 1995!

For exquisite wedding planning, owner Michael Thomas is an LGBT Certified Wedding Planner who understands the nuances of planning the perfect wedding for every couple. He and his team will ensure that your day is expertly coordinated and impeccably executed. For scrumptious catering services, choose our award-winning team for cuisine that will fully satisfy your guests and is served with the care and finesse that only we can deliver.

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Lakeside Reception Hall Orlando’s Best Kept Secret

Postcard Inn is a fun, unique wedding venue located directly on the sandy shores of St. Pete Beach. Imagine your special day walking on sugary white sand to an altar of pristine waters or strolling down a palm tree lined aisle in your own garden oasis surrounded by your loved ones. Dine and dance under the stars or choose another unique, retro-inspired setting. Whether you’re looking for an intimate ceremony or a celebration with up to 1000 of your friends and family, we make your wedding dreams come true.

Come celebrate the beginning of your journey together with us!

Event Sales Manager: Chastity Hooks 4005 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL | 407-298-3473 | weddingatlakesidehall@yahoo.com | www.Lakesidereceptionhall.com

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wedding LGBT.indd 1

4/15/19 9:44 AM

top left:

Eco-mail Using recyled paper in invitations can go a long way for the planet.

Photo from max pixel

top right:

modest decor Keeping table settings simple will help cut down on waste.

Photo from PxHere

Digital invitations can also help you stay more organized as

C o n t in u e d f r o m p g . 1 9

emailed responses can be sorted into folders that can stay readily

Fret not, spouses-to-be: it isn’t very difficult to incorporate a few eco-friendly options into your wedding as long as you

bottom left:

the rings Consider reusing a family heirloom ring instead of buying new.

Photo by Michael Morse

make it an active part of the planning process. With a little added care you can make sure that the happiest day of your lives is also a pretty terrific day for the environment as well. Here are a few ways to get you started on a more eco-friendly wedding that in some cases may even save you a few bucks.

Wait a minute, Mr. Postman

Provide edible treats in reusable bags as a thank you for parting guests.

Photo from Wikimedia Commons

If you do opt to send hardcopy invitations, try finding a local printer who utilizes recycled paper and eco-friendly inks.

The right place at the right time

ne of the ways to up the eco-friendly points for your wedding is by picking a venue with the environment in mind. We are lucky enough to live in one of the

he first time most of your wedding guests will learn From the “Save the Date” to the thank you card, and

Thank yous

you will save on not having to buy return envelopes and stamps.

most beautiful parts of the planet so why go somewhere

anything about your big day is when they get their invite.

bottom right:

available on your laptop or phone. Also, think of all the money

especially the invitation itself, you are looking at quite a bit of paper that goes into notifying your loved ones. Why not try digitizing part—if not all—of the invitation process? So much of what we do in the world has gone paperless and now your invites can as well. Start by setting up a wedding website. Items like save-thedates and RSVPs can all be done online, even if you decide you still want to do paper invitations, and you’re probably more likely

else? Destination weddings sound pretty exotic but think of all the extra vehicles you are putting on the road and in the air to get you and all of your guests there. Between Florida’s amazing beaches, parks, museums and gardens, what more could you ask for in a wedding venue? Selecting an outdoor venue will also allow you to save on using too much electricity during the ceremony and reception. In addition, it will require minimal decorations— saving you time, money and letting you use the natural beauty of the planet you are trying to save. For that added

to have everyone’s email addresses than physical addresses. Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

c e l e b r a t e y o u r L G BT Q l o v e .

Continued on pg. 25 | uu |

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For more information, please contact a Sales Representative at (813) 273-4000, ext. 4288 or sales@flaquarium.org. *Reservations and additional fees required. Weather permitting.

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Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

As an active advocate for our community, I want to make sure you have the knowledge you need to enjoy equality in financial security and success. It’s simpler than you think, but each of us has a unique set of needs and wants to consider. Let me help you map your financial path, down the aisle and into this new chapter you’ve dreamed of. Sheresa “Sherri” Absher, M.B.A. Agent

New York Life Insurance Company 495 N. Keller Rd, Suite 150 Maitland, Florida 32751 Cellular Phone: (314) 479-7718 Office Phone: (407) 999-0291 http://www.sheresaabsher.com

Whether you’re walking down the aisle, marching in Washington D.C. or running to a parentteacher conference, we’re here to help you plan for the future. We have a long history of taking a stand for equality and diversity.

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In our LGBTQ+ community, New York Life has long supported such national organizations as the Human Rights Campaign, Out & Equal, Advocacy & Services for LGBT Elders (SAGE) and the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC).

YOUR WEDDING IS ONLY ONE DAY.

Today as always, New York Life remains committed to ensuring that everyone has equal access to the protections and financial opportunities that our company has to offer.

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Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

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C o n t in u e d f r o m p g . 2 2 Earth-saving bump, pick a venue that comes equipped with solar panels. That way when you do eventually have to turn the lights on for your all-night celebration you can still use the power of the sun.

Stop and smell the flowers

hat is a wedding without flowers? Well it’s still a wedding, just without flowers. When decorating for the ceremony, try using potted plants around

the altar instead of cut flowers. Big beautiful plants can add a wonderfully natural feel to your wedding and if they still have their roots at the end of the day they can be put back into the Earth from whence they came. Try using the same idea when it comes to centerpieces on the table at your reception. Keep the roots on those flowers and plant them in pots or vases so they can be replanted when the party is done. If you do decide to use cut flowers in the ceremony and/

above:

or reception, be sure to support a local florist who utilizes

take it outside

organic flowers and socially responsible methods to harvest them. By using only organic flowers you can ensure they are free from chemicals and pesticides.

Outdoor weddings not only add natural beauty to the festivities but cut down on the use of energy.

According to The Flower Expert, some chemicals banned in the U.S. are used in other countries and find their way back through imported flowers, fruits and vegetables; and studies show that roses contain up to 50 times the amount of pesticides that are legally allowed. After your big day, all your cut flowers can be composted and used to help future gardens flourish.

At the end of the night, have a prearranged plan for what

Photo from Wikimedia Commons

to do with the leftovers. Some of it may be able to be saved,

Let them eat cake

shared and/or donated.

et’s be honest, most people go to weddings for the food, so you are going to want to have an impressive and delicious spread. The best thing you can do for

taste while being eco-conscious is go local and go fresh. When planning your menu find out what produce is in season. You’re probably going to want to avoid sweet potatoes and pumpkin if you are getting married in the

Remembering your three Rs

eing eco-friendly and conscious of our environmental impact during this joyous time can be easy if you remember the three Rs we all learned in school: Reduce,

Reuse, Recycle. When picking out your attire, find repurposed dresses or

summer, and avocados and strawberries may be a no go if a

restore old tuxedos. Or instead of big, expensive clothes you’ll

crisp fall evening is what you have planned. Find out what

never wear again, go a bit more casual or add in articles of

delicious fruits and vegetables grow in abundance in your

clothing you already own that speak to your personality.

area. The shorter the travel time the fresher the taste, and the least amount of fuel and energy needed. When deciding on meats, cheeses and baked goods, make sure your chosen caterer knows where all your food

Flea markets, antique malls and even yard sales are great places to find those “diamonds in the rough” items to decorate the ceremony with. Think of the three R’s when deciding on your gift registry

is coming from. A good catering company will know if the

or party favors for guests. If you are someone who has most

butchers and bakers they utilize use locally-sourced and

everything you need, maybe ask guests to donate to your

environmentally-friendly ingredients.

favorite charity instead of getting three brand new blenders.

Also, try not to overdo it on the amount of food. There

Or provide a link on your wedding website to your honeymoon

should definitely be enough to go around but you don’t

destination and let guests donate to spa packages or

have to send the entire wedding party home feeling like

excursions at your destination.

stuffed pigs. While a nine-tiered wedding cake is sure to

For parting guests, provide edible treats, plant-based gifts

impress, you probably don’t need that much cake unless

such as seed packets or make a donation in their name to a

you have the entire population of Florida coming.

favorite charity.

c e l e b r a t e y o u r L G BT Q l o v e .

Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

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Watermarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wedding Guide 2019

Your Venue and You Traditional and non-traditional locales to say ‘I Do’ T

S LEGACY of love The Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum’s Legacy Garden in

electing the right wedding venue may be the most important decision you’ll make for your special day—other than choosing your future spouse, of course. For couples seeking a more traditional ceremony, there are plenty of LGBTQ-inclusive religious institutions throughout the region. Meanwhile, non-traditional couples have their choice of fun backdrops for their big day. Here are a few of our favorites. Continued on pg. 31 | uu |

St. Petersburg recently hosted its first samesex wedding.

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Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

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announcements

Wedding BeLLs

condolEncES

Gavin and Patrick Cooper

Former St. Petersburg resident Herschel Bowen passed away Jan. 18. He will be dearly missed.

from Orlando, Florida

EnGaGEMEnT daTE:

March 11, 2015

wEddinG daTE:

nov. 17, 2018

vEnUE:

Hyatt regency orlando

coloRS:

Burgundy, navy Blue, Gold

wEddinG SonG/ aRTiST:

“a Million dreams” by pink

caTERER:

Hyatt regency orlando

officianT:

Chris winsor

caKE BaKERy:

Hyatt regency orlando

caKE flavoR:

Marble with citrus ﬁlling

PhoToGRaPhER:

danny Gorman photography

Photo by dANNy goreMAN PhotogAPhy

Artist and former Orlando resident Paul Horan passed away Jan. 28. He will be dearly missed.

that we decided to post onto YouTube for our friends and family to see. Almost four years later, the video now has over 738,000 views!” You can see the magical flash mob proposal by going to the couple’s YouTube channel, Gavin&Patrick. The video is called “Patrick and Gavin’s Disney World Proposal.” The couple married in Nov. 2018. Their wedding day was packed with every bit of the same romance the couple had been feeling all along. Gavin describes a beautiful moment the couple shared prior to the ceremony. “I’ll never forget the last few moments we spent together before we separated to walk down the aisle to the ceremony stage. We stood together behind a wall, out of sight from our guests, and just held each other’s hands while praying and thanking God for bringing us together and for allowing us to have all the people we love in one place, in that very moment, to watch us celebrate our love for each other.” Gavin adds, “It was a feeling that I never had felt before. I think it was due in part to so many emotions running through my body. It was truly a magical moment.” For Patrick, the special moment came during the ceremony when the couple was sharing their own vows to each other. “While I was reciting mine, I stopped and told Gavin to look out at what we were able to do. I had been dreaming about that moment for so many years. It took a lot of hard work and sacrifices to get to that day and it had hit me right there on the stage that this dream was a reality, and if we were able to do that, we could do anything that we dream up together.”

AVIN AND PATRIcK cOOPER

local BiRThdayS

Orlando attorney barbara Leach, Orlando fitness guru tony edge, real estate agent eric Puzone (Feb. 7); St. Petersburg dance instructor Julia Meyerovich-Neighbors (Feb. 8); Co-owner of Hamburger Mary’s Orlando Mike Rogier (Feb. 9); Watermark columnist Melody Maia Monet, Creative Tile Design of St. Petersburg owner tom o’Keefe, St. Petersburg hair stylist Ric Castro (Feb. 10); Stonewall’s Julian Bain, LaToya Little aka Xia Adonis, St. Petersburg attorney bobby King, Tampa media specialist Bart Birdsall, Florida Council on Economic Education Executive Director Mike Bell, Watermark’s former creative assistant Patrick o’connor (Feb. 11); Tampa photographer Mark Danner; (Feb. 12); J. Meyer’s Insurance co-owner cathy Meyers-Keene, USF Vegetarian Society President Mark Weber, Tampa Suncrest Home Health director Portia Weiss (Feb. 13); Honey Pot and G St Pete co-owner ernie Webb, Tampa Bay performer Jaeda Fuentes, UCF graduating senior Steven Hogue, Orlando banking guru Diana cox, Tampa Bay realtor Ryan Thompson (Feb. 14); Gary Lambert Salon & Spa co-owner Shawn Hunt, St. Petersburg’s The Queen’s Head co-owner Darren Conner (Feb. 15); LGBTQ-friendly Pinellas County Commissioner John Morroni, The Venue Orlando owner Blue Star, Orlando man-about-town Nick Crush, Tampa activist chris goldsmith, Tampa Bay Bears president Keenan Rose (Feb. 16); Tampa Bay entertainer Iman, Downtown Arts District board member Ben Laube, Orlando playwright-actor John Ryan, Disney entertainment guru John Bearse, Punky’s cast member Monique Love (Feb. 17); Tampa’s Xtreme Total Health and Wellness consultant Ty Williams, Orange County arts hero Terry Olsen (Feb. 18); Owner of Crabtree Healthy Living toni crabtree, Stonewall Pinellas Democrat Rick Boylan (Feb. 19); Watermark husband Wade Williams-Jent aka Dixie Lynn Michaels, Tampa model and web site recruiter Michael Vought, Orlando realtor sam gallaher, Central Florida funeral director Sam Odom, Tampa Bay leather entrepreneur Billy seablom, Lighthouse Credit Foundation founder David Crow, Tampa Bay actor Jay goldberg, Sarasota realtor Michael grady (Feb. 20).

Boo’s Travel N More 727-953-7918 | boostravelnmore@yahoo.com www.boostravelnmore.com

agree they’ve been stuck on each other since the first time they met.

“A mutual friend thought that we would be good together and encouraged us to add each other on Facebook,” Gavin says. “So we did, but never took the time to really chat or schedule a time to meet in person. More than a year later, we had our first meeting and first date on Feb. 11, 2014. We were inseparable starting that very night.” Patrick describes meeting Gavin as love at first sight. “I knew I wanted to marry Gavin when I first saw him walk out of the restaurant to greet me on our very first date. He was so handsome, it almost took my breath away. I knew in that moment I wanted to marry this man.”

Gavin, an Altamonte Springs, Fla. native, currently works as a leasing professional. Patrick is a social media influencer, originally from Laguna Beach, Calif. They now live together in Orlando. With such remarkable chemistry from the beginning, it comes as no surprise that the couple’s engagement was a big to-do. Patrick was the one to pop the question. “Patrick proposed to me with a flash mob proposal at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort, the location where we had our first date,” Gavin says. “We had an amazing group of talented friends that were able to record the whole thing and edited it into a beautiful video

from Orlando, Florida

enGaGement date:

about whether I was going to end up moving to New York or he was going to move down here, and I said to him, ‘For when we get married … you are going to marry me, right?’ and he said ‘of course,’ then all of a sudden he went, ‘Wait a minute, did you just ask me to marry you?’” “I was like, ‘Back up! Wait, repeat that?!’” Rafael says. “Then he did the formal ask, ‘Will you marry me?’, and then I said yes. The waiter came by and asked us the status. She high-fived us and brought us champagne on the house. It was very sweet that she was in on it, too.” Taylor and Rafael married two years from the date of their engagement. They shared it was an outdoor wedding ceremony at the same place as their first date. The ceremony was very casual with just their immediate families and a few very close friends. They wrote their own vows. “I thought it was special that we came back to the location of our first date five years ago,” Rafael says. “Having our families and loved ones brought together in one place as witnesses made it even more meaningful.” “Lots of happy tears,” Taylor shares. The ceremony was followed by casual drinks at Stonewall and soul food at Chef Eddies Restaurant. The couple says that there was one touch in particular that made the day even more amazing. “Rafael made our rings with his own hands,” Taylor shares. “I have an arts background. I always wanted to design and make our own rings. I forged them two days before the wedding. Talk about last minute,” Rafael laughs.

Jan. 11, 2017

weddinG date:

do yoU havE an annoUncEMEnT?

See your news in Watermark! Send your announcement to editor@Watermarkonline.com

Jan. 11, 2019

iT’S ThaT EaSy!

—Aaron Drake

announcements

Wedding bells

William Taylor bulloch and rafael torres

venue:

do you have an interesting wedding or engagement story you’d like to share with Watermark readers? If so, email the details to editor@Watermarkonline.com for consideration as a future feature on this page.

Urban Wetlands at Greenwood park

COlOrs:

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Feb rua ry 7 - F eb rua ry 20, 2019 // Issue 26 .03

Black & White

weddinG sOnG/artist:

“this Must Be the place” by talking Heads

OffiCiant:

Colin Moore

phOtOGrapher:

Meche ausina photography Photo by meche aUsiNa PhotograPhy

Former St. Petersburg resident Herschel Bowen passed away Jan. 18. He will be dearly missed.

from Orlando, Florida

EnGaGEMEnT daTE:

nov. 17, 2018

vEnUE:

Hyatt regency orlando

coloRS:

Burgundy, navy Blue, Gold

wEddinG SonG/ aRTiST:

“a Million dreams” by pink

caTERER:

Hyatt regency orlando

officianT:

caKE BaKERy:

Hyatt regency orlando

caKE flavoR:

Marble with citrus ﬁlling

PhoToGRaPhER:

danny Gorman photography

Photo by dANNy goreMAN PhotogAPhy

AVIN AND PATRIcK cOOPER

agree they’ve been stuck on each other since the first time they met.

Artist and former Orlando resident Paul Horan passed away Jan. 28. He will be dearly missed.

March 11, 2015

wEddinG daTE:

local BiRThdayS

I wasn’t interested in any of them.” Taylor laughs. Taylor is General Manager at Stonewall Bar in Orlando, where he moved from Tallahassee. Rafael is a philanthropist and moved back to Orlando, where the couple now lives together. “I knew I was going to ask him [to marry me] at the Red Rooster in Harlem,” Taylor says. “We were talking about moving forward and how we were going to go about things as we had been dating long distance for three years. I just was talking

from St. Petersburg, Florida

engAgeMent dAte:

May 5, 2017

wedding dAte:

Jan. 12, 2019

venue:

Cathedral of St. peter

cOlOrs:

dark blue, purple, white

live MusiciAn:

Choirmaster dwight thomas, ashley thunder, kevin Mitchell, amanda Mayven Missbehavin’, nicole desiree Hays and Curiositorium crew

dJ service:

DJ L Mo, laMonte Monnell

cAterer:

Hyatt place

OfficiAnt:

Father Sam tallman and Canon katie Churchwell

cAke BAkerY:

Dec. 31, 2017

weDDinG Date:

March 24, 2019

venue:

Bern’s Park

colors:

Dark navy, burgundy and gold

weDDinG sonG/artist:

“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri

live musician:

String quartet

DJ service:

Grant Hemond and Associates

caterer:

Jackson’s Bistro

officiant: Brian Frey

photoGrapher:

Brian Adams Photographics and Perfect Sky Productions

Photo by bRIan aDaMS PhotoGRaPhICS anD PeRFeCt Sky PRoDUCtionS

ARRy myeRS hAD the SuRpRiSe

of a lifetime for Nicholas Relyea on his 40th birthday at Bern’s Park—a proposal. He had planned the engagement for four months and it was attended by 40-45 people. “Bern’s Park is our halfway point when we take walks at night, so it has great significance to us,” Relyea says.

The pair first met in March 2017. “We met through mutual friends on March 24, 2017, and the attraction, both physically and emotionally, were instant,” Relyea tells. “Neither of us was pursuing any kind of relationship. People say when you stop looking he will appear, and they are right! Love at first sight really does exist!” Relyea, who works as a loan underwriter, is originally from

Syracuse, N.Y. Myers grew up in Chicago, Ill., and is currently employed as a community development officer. They now live together in Tampa. “Marriage was never in the cards for either of us, so it didn’t really cross our minds until we had several conversations over the course of six months,” Relyea shares. “Our relationship was different from our previous ones and we knew what we had was

cAke/cupcAke flAvOrs:

conGratulations

Chocolate ganache layer cake, edible glamour chocolate glitter balls

orlando City Commissioners officially voted unanimously April 8 to pass a resolution to recognize LGBTQ-certified businesses in their procurement practices.

from Tampa, Florida

enGaGement Date:

artistic Whisk desserts, Jovana Boksen

announcements

Nicholas Relyea and Harry Myers

theMe:

GayStPete house celebrated 11 years serving St. Petersburg on April 14.

special. We moved quickly and recognized that at the time—but hey, when you know you know.” (The couple invites you to watch their sweet engagement video at WatermarkOnline.com.) The couple later married in the same location that Myers proposed to Relyea, at Bern’s Park. A reception followed with their friends and family at the Waterfront Room of Jackson’s Bistro. “Our processional was ‘A Thousand Years’ arranged for string quartet, and our first dance was ‘Thinking Out Loud’ by Ed Sheeran,” Relyea says. “We didn’t necessarily have a theme per se, but knew from the beginning of the planning process what our colors would be. Since the reception would begin at 7 p.m., we knew that candlelight was a must so we chose gold tapers and round floating candles—a lot of them. The tables were dressed with burgundy linens, geometric gold chargers, gold flatware and dark navy napkins.” And instead of a cake, the pair opted for a seven-tier champagne fountain! Each of the guys had their favorite moment from the day. Relyea says, “Harry loves to dance and he is really good at it! He hired two choreographers prior to the wedding, had dance routine sessions and surprised me at the reception with a dance that incorporated several songs that are special to both of us. He rocked it!” For Harry, it was all about being together with their loved ones. “The evening ended with an impromptu friendship circle dance with everyone arm-in-arm, singing and swaying together. It was a truly magical moment of friendship, love and support.”

Publisher/Owner/Editor rick claggett celebrated 17 years with Watermark Feb. 28. bradley’s on 7th celebrated its eighth anniversary March 2.

lOCal Birthdays

St. Petersburg muralist Dereck Donnelly, Tampa Bay political expert Randy Smith (March 7); Orlando Sentinel columnist scott maxwell, Orlando actor erik branch, St. Petersburg realtor matt lawrence, Jobsite Theater’s David Jenkins (March 8); St. Petersburg mail carrier Derek Wilkins, Sarasota woman about town misty smeltzer, St. Petersburg Practice Management Consulting president Jacob hamm, Southern Nights bartender cathy binkewicz (March 9); Halcyon singer/songwriter Deb hunseder, Gulfport gal caitlyn DeWitt, St. Petersburg City Councilwoman gina Driscoll, Punky’s bartender Aaron Mcbeth, Biz Buzz Inc’s bryant Dannic (March 10); O-Town actor Kevin Kelly, Orlando activist/ arts supporter margo Dixon, artist terry hummel, Dunedin dentist mike hopkins, St Pete Pride President D. chrys bundy, Foreign film aficionado bob Austin, Former Doggie Door co-owner Jeff brow (March 11); Wells Fargo regional president David guzman, Burlesque performer “Lady Siren” shena lollar (March 12); Tampa muscle man Danny Watson, Orlando Hamburger Mary’s John Paonessa, St. Pete community leader larry biddle (March 13); Quench bartender Mitch Demmons, Tampa event planner tim thompson, Orlando softball superstar Mary Johnson, Ember bartender Ramon hernandez (March 14); Tampa nutritional biochemist Debra Roche, St. Petersburg realtor bobby Poth, United Health’s Paul bradford (March 15); Publix Headquarters PR man chris mcNally (March 16); St. Petersburg City Councilman Steve Kornell, skincare genius tabor Winstead, Talkin’ Pets co-host Jon Patrick, Enigma staple Indrek Karner (March 17); Ember bartender brian Kabbash, Central Florida recruiter charles elliott (March 18); St. Petersburg massage therapist terrell Ray, Sheriff deputy becca riley storozuk, ABM Orlando’s Sheila block (March 19); Central Florida radio personality Moira, Central Florida performer William bruce, Two Spirit guru alex rey cardona (March 20).

dO yOu have an annOunCement? send your announcement to editor@Watermarkonline.com

Xanadu, You Have to Believe We are Magic.

Sawmill Resort celebrated 21 years as America’s favorite gay camping ground on April 16.

phOtOgrApher:

local BirthDays

Jeanine Halum

Orlando arts patron Jerry baumeister, St. Petersburg Stonewall Democrat beth Fountain, St. Petersburg superwoman tammy benjamin, Tampa Bay environmentalist Joey Stalker (April 18); Orlando bartender Spencer Dalberth, Tampa Bay entertainer Jacqueline St. James (April 19); Tampa Bay entertainer vivion Rachel harris Clarke, YouTuber and transgender advocate Zinnia Jones, Sarasota-area actor Peter Ruiz (April 20); Central Florida realtor Scott Penyak, LGBTQ advocate Randy Stephens, On-air personality for Magic 107.7 Chad Pitt, Tampa burlesque producer Mayven Missbehavin (April 21); “Miss Pee-Vira” aJ Pratt, Central Florida promoter neema bahrini, Tampa business owner Michael DiCamillo, Rollins College director of dance bob Sherry, Project No Labels founder Claire eli, Tampa Femmes and Follies producer Katie James (April 22); TIGLFF former executive director Scott Skyberg, former Watermark sales rep tammi Jones, Tampa Leather Club’s Joseph Mastrapasqua, artist amanda vickers, Metro Operations Manager allan hero-Shaw (April 23); Congressman Darren Soto’s aide vivian Rodriguez, St. Petersburg actor tom Campbell, former Tampa actor larry buzzeo, O-Town textbook editor Sara lyna, former St Pete Pride president Scott turner, Tampa bear bill vincent, Project No Labels Social Media Director valerie Lynn; Florida Orchestra Principal Flutist Clay ellerbroek-Pettiford, Red Ribbon Cyclist Drew Reed (April 24); Watermark contributor and “News Junkie” Sabrina ambra, Florida Democratic Progressive Caucus president Susan Smith (April 25); Iberian Rooster Kyle hill, Gender Identity in Florida Today president Jennifer Marvin, Tampa dancer Jackie huston (April 26); Metro Inclusive Health Fundraising and Event Coordinator Roosevelt Cevallos (April 27); Parliament House owner Don Granatstein, app whiz Randy Shepard (April 28); St. Pete hotel manager tom Ziri (April 29); Tampa licensed mental health counselor anthony Quaglieri, UCF’s former GLBSU president Jessica osborn, St. Pete drink-slinger Russell Sutherland (April 30); Orlando DJ brianna lee from Parliament House, Orlando Shakes marketing director Christian knightly (May 1).

PhoTo by Jeanine haLum

R. STEPHEN HAWK AND

Jonathan Soots first met in 2014 how many people tend to connect these days: online. The pair finally met in person in February 2015 at a house party.

“We first met at a mutual friend’s housewarming,” Soots says. “Our first real date was after our friend Eddie Sotomayor’s funeral.” The couple explained their mutual friend passed away during the Pulse tragedy in Orlando. Seeing each other again opened the door to them

spending more time together after they attended the funeral. Then they made things official in July 2016. Hawk is from Kansas City, Mo. and Soots is from Lenoir, N.C. The couple lives together in St. Petersburg with their dog, Dusty.

cOngrAtulAtiOns Watermark contributor Colton adkins and Caleb hernandez were engaged Feb. 3.

salty’s gulfport celebrated its sixth year Feb. 17. honey Pot celebrates its 12th anniversary March 2.

Soots recalls when he initially thought they were destined to marry. “We realized a couple months into our relationship in fall 2016 when we were apart for a couple weeks, one on a pre-planned vacation and the other staying home for work. Stephen was on a gay cruise in Europe and messaged me saying, ‘OMG, I miss you, will you marry me?’” Hawk surprised Jonathan when he popped the question at the International Mall in Tampa. “He took me to International Mall and said we were going to the Tesla store,” Soots says. “Then he took me next door for ring shopping. He said to me, ‘What rings do you like?’ And then said, ‘Marry me!’ I said yes, and we picked out our rings.” The two married at the beginning of 2019 in downtown St. Pete. Performers included soprano Ashley Thunder, baritone Luis Gonzalez, tenor Kevin Mitchell and cellist Betsy Goode Isaak from Disney. Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March” was performed by pianist Sean Bennett. The ceremony was followed by a reception at Hyatt Place with their families and friends. For Soots, the most memorable moment of the day came from the ceremony. “Kissing him in a 120-year-old cathedral where it once wasn’t always acceptable,” he says. “After coming out in 2010, I never thought I would love again. I worried about the rawness and emptiness of life, but he became my everything.” Hawk also says the most unforgettable moment of the day for him came during their ceremony. “Speaking from my heart at the reception. Giving vows in front of hundreds of important people in our lives.”

barCodes orlando celebrates 10 years on March 5.

lOcAl BirthdAYs

Orlando educator John albritton (Feb. 21); Tampa consultant bart nagy, Rollergirl Jessy “spikey” wayles, TIGLFF superstar Renee Cossette, St Pete Pride Treasurer stanley solomons, Orlando photographer/videographer savannah Powell, Graphi-ko Gallery owner wilmer e. vergara homez (Feb. 22); Orlando’s singing cowboy cub CiJay bailey, The Hammered Lamb owner Jason Lambert, Central Florida realtor david dorman, Sunrise Body Revival Chiropractic’s Dr. Travis france (Feb. 23); Metro City Realty owner Jon sheehan, St. Pete Free Clinic’s beth houghton (Feb. 24); Songbird megan monesmith, Geek Easy’s oral frier; Orlando graphic designer Lisa buck, Framing of Central Florida co-owner mike van der Leest, Tampa hairstylist Christopher nejman, Tampa Bay’s FabStayz and Outings & Adventures founder Robert geller, Tampa Bay transgender activist Janice Carney, Regions man bob sanders (Feb. 25); Come Out With Pride’s matthew Riha, Orlando City Soccer Club account executive Tiago mazzotti (Feb. 26);Tampa softballer Carlos Lopez, Sarasota Ballet marketing manager mike marraccini, A/V technician at The Social/Beacham Peter smith, Orlando aesthete extraordinaire Jim Cundiff, Tampa massage therapist eduardo Campos (Feb. 27); Orlando photographer J.d. Casto, Polk Pride’s scott guira, Disney Cruise Line’s david baldree (Feb. 28); Fields Motorcars Orlando’s Russ fowler, Orlando Gay Chorus’ Joel strack (Feb. 29); Drag beauty Chrysanthe mum, Orlando Gay Chorus founding member Joel strack (March 1); Former Joy MCC pastor Lisa heilig, Indigo Hotel’s Tim Calandrino, Orlando community activist heather Leibowitz, Tampa Bay bowler Carmen aguilar, Girls in Wonderland’s yesl Leon (March 2); Gay Days’ steve erics, Tampa photographer Todd montgomery (March 3); Tampa Bay singer and comedian Judy b. goode, Sarasota activist mark kidd, Club Orlando attendant arthur adams, Tampa mama Patty Cannon (Mar. 4); Carnival Cruise Line’s seth grunes, St. Pete socialite david hines, The Pub/Lakeland and Southern Comfort Campground owner vaughn howell (March 5); Orlando playwright, actor, and Watermark contributor michael wanzie, TIGLFF Director of Programming kJ mohr, Orlando realtor Rustin davis, Rollins College theater director Thomas ouellette, Tampa colorist Chas stickney, Les Vixens dancer allyna nikohl, Sarasota Modern agent hector esteban (March 6)

dO YOu hAve An AnnOunceMent? send it to editor@watermarkonline.com

it’s thAt eAsY!

—Aaron Drake

do you have an interesting wedding or engagement story you’d like to share with watermark readers? if so, email the details to editor@watermarkonline.com for consideration as a future feature on this page.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

announcements

Wedding BellS

nick Crush and Jason Ruggerio from Lake Helen, Florida

engAgement dAte:

Oct. 22, 2016

wedding dAte:

Dec. 7, 2018

venue:

Pass-A-Grille Beach

Feb rua ry 21 - M a rch 6 , 2019 // Issue 26 .0 4

congrAtulAtions

Community Cafe celebrated five years and old Key West bar & Grill celebrated four years Jan. 19. the hammered lamb celebrates its sixth anniversary Jan. 29.

to pop the question, I had known for years.” “I knew that I wanted to be with Nick before we were together,” Ruggerio says. “When we met he gave me a hug, and even though we were introduced as friends, I knew I wanted to get to know him and I knew I wanted to be kept in his warm, loving, secure and protective arms forever.” The two were married in a small ceremony in Dec. 2018. The wedding was organized by Tide the Knot Beach Weddings and held on Pass-A-Grille Beach in St. Petersburg. The couple shared the chairs were adorned with royal blue ribbons. The flowers were tropical with orange and red roses, blue orchids and orange birds of paradise. Ruggerio and Crush walked down an aisle scattered with red and white rose petals to Frank Sinatra’s “The Way You Look Tonight,” played by a saxophonist. “There were many special moments, but I think my favorite moment was the champagne toast with our families,” Ruggerio says. They followed up with a cocktail hour and reception on Dec. 9 at The Veranda in Thornton Park in Orlando. The colors were red and white, and it was themed “Mad Tea Party,” with guests invited to wear bowties and fun hats. The couple ditched the traditional wedding cake and went with a variety of goodies made by Ruggerio’s mom Laurie and Kaitlyn “Badvegun” Bailey.

Once you say

I DO,

announcements

wedding bells

iT’S ThaT EaSy!

wedding bellS

6s boutique celebrated its eighth anniversary Feb. 20.

Ma rch 7 - M a rch 20, 2019 // ISSue 26 .05

stephen Hawk and Jonathan Soots

do yoU havE an annoUncEMEnT?

Feb rua ry 7 - F eb rua ry 20, 2019 // Issue 26 .03

—Aaron Drake

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Rafael Torres went on their first date to Urban Wetlands at Greenwood Park.

COnGratulatiOns

Do you have an interesting wedding or engagement story you’d like to share with Watermark readers? if so, email the details to editor@Watermarkonline.com for consideration as a future feature on this page.

See your news in Watermark! Send your announcement to editor@Watermarkonline.com

—Aaron Drake

iLLiAM tAYLOR BULLOCh AND

“It was supposed to be just a lunch date and it turned into a whole afternoon thing,” Taylor says. “I remember thinking at the end of our first date, I could so marry this guy,” Rafael says. “Then after two years of talking and dating long distance, I was going back to New York after a long holiday visit together and I knew this is the one I wanted to keep.” Rafael adds, “My job was in New York City, of all places, with thousands of gay men and

condolEncES

Gavin and Patrick Cooper

Chris winsor

announcements

Wedding BeLLs

COndOlenCes

College Park resident angelyn conklin passed away Feb. 18. The activist and community champion was loved by many and will be missed.

share your story with Watermark readers.

Tampa Pride and GaYbor icons Carrie West and Mark West Bias celebrate 42 years together on Feb. 3.

locAl birthdAys

Orlando home inspector and art lover Paul Kusic, St. Petersburg performer Rolando Xavier, former Watermark intern Kim Slichter (Jan. 24); Tampa Bay performer Ashley Smith, Tampa Bay guiding light Jan Flowers, ABC7 meteorologist trevor hayes, St. Petersburg realtor and Punky’s proprietor Jim longstreth (Jan. 25); Sarasota photographer Kaje housman, Double M Band’s Mario Jooste, The Garage bartender larry Wolf, Ybor City special events promoter Chucky Ruckus (Jan. 26); CR insurance group agent miguel rullan-Calaf (Jan. 27); Orlando performer ellen Jewell, St. Matthew’s Tavern co-owner matthew Fassl, Orlando thespian tim DeBaun, Faith Arts Village Executive Director Will Benton, Tampa Bay massage therapist Michael Scranton, Tampa Bay bartender Robb Weese, Spooky Empire’s Gina mongelli (Jan. 28); Central Florida photographer Jenna Michele (Jan. 29); Lightning fast jammer haley Perry; Woodhouse Day Spa owner Mark lettelleir, FSU grad and Ocala muse Bill Bondank, Orlando performer Apple teenee (Jan. 30); Orlando drag legend leigh shannon, marketing pro Ken Kundis, WFTV News 9 anchor Jorge estevez, Orlando Gay Chorus singer holly Cowden-Feld, Orlando juggler Dantei Grace (Jan. 31); Former Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner, St. Petersburg massage therapist emily stone, Tampa Softball player thomas hale, Orlando softball hunk Jason hamm, Southern Nights owner rick Kowalczyk, Social on First managing partenr Mark Anthony, Tampa darling Bryan Chant (Feb. 1); Tampa Pride president Carrie West, The Center Orlando board member lee Kirkpatrick (Feb. 2); Enigma Show Director Daphne Ferraro, Gulfport theater addict Rob McCabe, Tampa Pride’s Carrie West, Central Florida community activist Brock Cornelus (Feb. 3); former TIGLFF executive director Margaret Murray, Tampa Sister of Perpetual Indulgence Scott Ryan, St. Petersburg painter David Rule, Orlando doctor Rafael Pinero (Feb. 4); Watermark contributor holly Kapherr Alejos, Orlando Fringe board member Daniel Blumberg (Feb. 5); Fine art photographer Josh Garrick, photographer

EMAIL DETAILS TO EDITOR@WATERMARKONLINE.COM FOR CONSIDERATION AS A FUTURE FEATURE. Do you have an announcement?

Send your announcement to editor@Watermarkonline.com

—Aaron Drake

it’s that easy!

wedding song/ Artist:

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Apr il 18 - M Ay 1, 2019 // issue 26 .0 8

colors:

Blue & khaki

“The Way you Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra

dj service:

DJ Wayne McKay

cAterer:

Pom Pom Teahouse & Sandwicheria / St. Matthew’s Tavern at the Orlando Beer Garden

Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019 wedding goodies:

Chocolate peanut butter brownie cupcakes, apple pie tartlets and homemade strawberry, chocolate raspberry and blueberry lemon Pop-Tarts

officiAnt:

Photo by tiDe the KNot beaCh WeDDiNGs

ASON RUGGERIO AND

Nick Crush met in November 2011. “On our first date, after dinner, I took him to a little playground off Mills and that’s where I proposed to him five years later,” Crush shares.

“He later told me that he had been planning it for a while and

who is employed as Operational Risk Liaison for Charles Schwab,

c e l e b r a t e y o u r L G BT Q l o v e .

C o n t in u e d f r o m p g . 2 8

available to marry same-sex couples. The only requirement for officiating is that both members of the couple are Jewish.

above:

Traditional venues

Unitarian Universalist Church

joyous

Metropolitan Community Church

supported marriage equality for decades and is one of the

Metropolitan Community Church’s all-inclusive Christian

locally, including in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Tarpon

fellowship doesn’t just welcome LGBTQ individuals, their

Unitarian Universalist congregations and clergy have entities to help pave the way for the legalization of same-sex marriage in the U.S. Numerous UU churches can be found Springs, Odessa, Sun City Center, Bradenton, Tampa,

Orlando’s Joy MCC offers a table of grace to same-sex couples for services and weddings.

Photo courtesy joy mcc’s facebook page

inclusion is an integral part of the church’s ministry. A

Sarasota, Lakeland and Orlando.

longtime supporter of equality, MCC offered Holy Union religious ceremonies to same-sex couples even before

United Church of Christ

same-sex nuptials were legalized in the United States—and

More than 1,500 churches and ministries under the United

above:

still do in countries where same-sex marriage isn’t allowed.

Church of Christ umbrella are a part of the church’s Open

Now that gay couples can marry in the U.S., MCC continues

and Affirming Coalition. This means they not only embrace

to be a safe space for everyone to celebrate their love. MCC

LGBTQ members, they also offer all sacraments and rituals

as you are

churches can be found throughout West and Central Florida,

to the community. Local Open and Affirming UCC churches

including MCC of Tampa in Seminole Heights, King of Peace

include St. Andrew UCC in Sarasota, Lakewood UCC and

MCC in St. Petersburg, MCC Church of the Trinity in Sarasota,

Trinity UCC in St. Petersburg, Good Samaritan Church in

New Life MCC in New Port Richey and Joy Metropolitan

Pinellas Park, First United Church in Tampa, First United

Community Church in Orlando.

Church of Christ in Orlando and First Congregational Church

Congregation B’nai Israel of St. Petersburg While Congregation B’nai Israel of St. Petersburg, founded in 1923, is traditional and conservative in its approach to Judaism, the congregation boasts a socially progressive mindset. In Florida, the congregation is known as a trailblazer for how it has embraced the LGBTQ community. In 2016, it became the first Florida synagogue to host Pride Shabbat services in the state, an event it has held every year since. B’nai Israel also openly welcomes interfaith and LGBTQ families, and Rabbi

of Winter Park.

St. Petersburg’s Congregation B’Nai Israel is available to LGBTQ families.

Photo courtesy b’nai israel of st. petersburg

Congregation Beth Am Longwood’s Congregation Beth Am focuses on traditional

above:

Judaism while embracing a progressive mindset regarding

safe space

many modern social issues. This means everyone, including LGBTQ individuals, is welcomed by the congregation. LGBTQ couples are also invited to marry there. The only requirement is that both members of the couple are Jewish, but even that’s a pretty loose rule, according to Beth Am staff.

Philip Weintraub actively promotes himself as a clergyman

c e l e b r a t e y o u r L G BT Q l o v e .

Photo courtesy mcc tampa Continued on pg. 34 | uu |

MCC Tampa actively supports the LGBTQ community.

Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

Before you walk down the aisle... take a stroll down ours!

Where everyday becomes Gourmet! Platters & Trays | Appetizers Skewers & Entrees | Salads | Desserts

Catering Menu at www.PettyMeats.com 2141 W SR434 Longwood, FL 32779 407-862-0400 | www.PettyMeats.com

c e l e b r a t e y o u r L G BT Q l o v e .

Watermarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wedding Guide 2019

Museum of Fine Arts and the surreal Salvador Dali Museum, which offers some breathtaking views of the bay. Meanwhile, the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, which boasts a beautiful, spacious garden, recently hosted its first same-sex wedding. In northern Pinellas County, the Safety Harbor Arts and Music Center, a funky little hippie haven, invites all couples to celebrate their love in the venue’s colorful space. The innovative Tampa Museum of Art provides a more contemporary space for wedding celebrations. The Orlando Museum of Art, with a variety of wedding packages and spaces to utilize for events, has long been a top choice for art lovers tying the knot. And don’t forget about Sarasota’s historic Ringling museum housed in the sprawling winter estate of circus owner, developer and art collector John Ringling.

A little bit of history Those looking to add a bit of history to their special day have many landmark venues to consider. The Winter Park Farmers’ Market, ripe with rustic charm, is located in a former train depot that features its original brick walls and wood sliding doors. The Tampa Theatre, a renovated 1926 movie palace, is a gorgeous throwback to Hollywood’s Golden Era. A downtown icon, the theater boasts a charming indoor Mediterranean courtyard, replica antique statuary and intricate architectural artistry that make for a stunning wedding venue. The Gulfport Casino, a historic entertainment venue in a city known for its inclusivity, overlooks the bay and creates a stunning backdrop for your celebration. For the sporty, the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club—which dates back to 1924—has numerous spaces

above:

available to rent and offers a quirky setting for your wedding.

inntricate

Gardens galore There are a number of lush botanical gardens scattered

The Postcard Inn offers a variety of options for your big day..

throughout central and western Florida that make ideal wedding venues. The Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo showcases local flora, fauna and other natural resources,

Photo courtesy the postcard inn

and also features a numerous demonstration gardens. The 15-acre Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in downtown Sarasota

C o n t in u e d f r o m p g . 3 1

offers a variety of packages whether you’re interested in above:

history The Ringling Museum’s grounds are available for your wedding.

Photo courtesy the ringling museum

Non-Traditional Venues

art Orlando MoA is a beautiful backdrop.

Photo courtesy orlando moa

an historic mansion with waterfront views. The University of South Florida Botanical Gardens, located at the university’s

A fairy tale wedding

Tampa campus, presents a living collection of more than

Those dreaming of a magical wedding need to look no further

in Lake Wales consists of a 250-acre garden, the 205-foot

than Orlando’s Disney World. The happiest place on Earth

tall Singing Tower with carillon bells, the Pine Ridge Trail,

has offered its Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons package

Pinewood Estate and a visitor center.

3,000 plants and animals. The inspiring Bok Tower Gardens

to LGBTQ couples since 2007. Couples can choose between a above:

getting married surrounded by native foliage or celebrating in

variety of wedding, honeymoon and engagement possibilities

Beach weddings

throughout their resorts and theme parks.

Many are drawn to Florida for its most natural asset: the

Artful weddings

beach. The natural beauty of the coast makes an inexpensive

Art museums and centers make a gorgeous backdrop for

like The Postcard Inn on St. Pete beach. The venue offers

weddings. St. Petersburg is home to several museums

intimate ceremonies under the stars to celebrations

available to rent for special events, including the elegant

welcoming up to 1,000 of your friends and family.

Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

and picture-perfect venue for your wedding, with destinations

c e l e b r a t e y o u r L G BT Q l o v e .

Serving Our Community For

16 Years!

Dylan Todd Photography Fine Art | Wedding | Portrait | Commercial www.DylanToddPhotography.com | 727-310-1212 c e l e b r a t e y o u r L G BT Q l o v e .

Watermarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wedding Guide 2019

CATERING/ CAKES

Lakeside Reception Hall

Char-Don Catering

LakesideReceptionHall.com

407-298-3473

407-841-3519 Char-DonCatering.com

John Michael Exquisite Weddings and Catering 407-894-6671 JohnMichaelEvents.com

Petty’s Meat 407-862-0400 PettysMeats.com

Vendor Directory

o you’re about to get married, right? Oh, you thought it was all about the proposal! Well, if you want to do it up in style but aren’t sure where to start, here’s a list of businesses we know that will make your special day shine.

Red Mesa Cantina 727-600-6309 RedMesaCantina.com

Sonny’s BBQ Catering 866-697-2872 SonnysBBQ.com/Catering

Weddings can be complex

Umbrellas 1296 941-500-4810 Umbrellas1296.com

CEREMONY & RECEPTION LOCATIONS

memorable. Need a cake? We’ve

endeavors, and often cost a

got you covered. Some flowers?

pretty penny, but keeping your

Yep. A photographer? Smile! Kiss!

vow to the business community

Though not a complete guide,

that supports your romantic

here are a few good businesses

entanglement will make reading

that you should consider for your

your vows that much more

perfect wedding.

The vendors listed are “W.E.D. (Watermark Equality Directory) approved.”

Longwood Hills Congregational Church 407-332-8253 LongwoodHillsChurch.org

Orange County Regional History Center 407-836-7035 TheHistoryCenter.org

Orlando Science Center 407-514-2290 HTillem@osc.org

Orlando Museum of Art 407-896-4231 OMArt.org

Postcard Inn on the Beach 727-367-2711 PostcardInn.com

Red Mesa Cantina 727-600-6309 RedMesaCantina.com

Watermark is dedicated making your special day the best it can be. If

Bahia Mar Ft Lauderdale a DoubleTree by Hilton

you have an experience with these vendors that makes you feel less than comfortable, Please contact Editor@WatermarkonlinE.com.

Rosen Shingle Creek 407-996-9939 RosenShingleCreek.com

954-354-5074

Royale Parc Hotel Orlando – Lake Buena Vista

BahiaMar.com

Bella Collina – Weddings and Events

407-239-8400 RoyaleParcHotelOrlando.com

407-469-4999 BellaCollina.com

Castle Church Brewing CastleChurchBrewing.com

Celebration Gardens

DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown

First Congregational Church

407-425-4455

407-647-2416

DoubleTreeOrlandoDowntown.com

FCCWP.org

DoubleTree by Hilton SeaWorld

Hilton Daytona Beach Ocean Front Resort

407-354-5074

407-896-0314 OrlandoCelebrationGardens.com

DTResortOrlando.com

Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

386-254-8200 DaytonaHilton.com

c e l e b r a t e y o u r L G BT Q l o v e .

Sirata Beach Resort 855-344-5999 Sirata.com

St. Andrew United Church of Christ 941-922-7595 SarasotaUCC.org

Sunken Gardens 727-551-3102 SunkenGardens.org

The Capen House at the Polasek 407-636-9317 CapenHouse.com

FAMILY & LIFE PLANNING

HONEYMOON & TRAVEL

Boyer & Boyer, P.A. – An Estate Planning and Elder Law Firm

Bahia Mar Ft Lauderdale a DoubleTree by Hilton

727-367-4511

407-906-1407

TheClubTI.com

CBCHelps.com

The Don CeSar 727-360-1881

Mac Wren, Financial Advisor

DonCeSar.com

407-426-2820

Sales@FLAquarium.org

OCTaxCol.com

Umbrellas1296.com

Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin

BoosTravelNMore.com

DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown

ENTERTAINMENT & MUSIC

EVENT & PARTY RENTALS

Paradigm Party Band

Orlando Wedding and Party Rentals

904-955-6725

407-739-5740

ParadigmPartyBand.com

OrlandoWeddingAndPartyRentals.com

407-257-0610 StringsEtc.net

OFFICIANT/ WEDDING PLANNER Rev. Shawn Garvey

Dream Vacations 865-235-8118

321-333-0092

SmartGayTravel.com

FCCWP.org/sr-minister-bio

Hilton Daytona Beach Ocean Front Resort

PHOTOGRAPHY Dylan Todd Photography

386-254-8200 DaytonaHilton.com

Two Spirit Health Adoptions 321-800-2922

Strings Etc.

Mavilo.com

DTResortOrlando.com

SheresaAbsher.com

TwoSpiritHealth.com

407-852-8627

813-906-1016

DoubleTree by Hilton SeaWorld

314-749-7718

407-934-4000

SOLRiseLLC.com

Mavilo Wholesalers – Experts in Diamonds

DoubleTreeOrlandoDowntown.com

Sherri Absher, Agent

SwanDolphin.com/Offers

SOL Rise Entertainment

GoldAndDiamond.com

407-354-5074

813-273-4000 ext. 4288

941-500-4810

727-573-9351

724-953-7918

407-425-4455

Orange County Tax Collector

Umbrellas 1296

Gold and Diamond Source

Boo’s Travel N More

MacWren@edwardjones.com

The Florida Aquarium

JEWELRY

BahiaMar.com

941-365-2304

The Club at Treasure Island

407-934-4000 SwanDolphin.com/Offers

954-354-5074

BoyerBoyer.com

Chad Brown Career Counseling & Consulting

Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin

727-310-1212

Orlando International Airport / MCO

DylanToddPhotography.com

Ela and Gary Photography

OrlandoAirports.com

Rosen Shingle Creek 407-996-9939

321-278-1228 Ela_GaryPhotography@hotmail.com

RosenShingleCreek.com

Royale Parc Hotel Orlando – Lake Buena Vista

Josie Brooks Photography 321-299-5333 JosieBrooksPhotography.com

407-239-8400

GIFTS, ACCESSORIES & FAVORS

RoyaleParcHotelOrlando.com

Sirata Beach Resort 855-344-5999 Sirata.com

Tyrone Frame and Mirror

The Don CeSar

727-344-1000

727-360-1881

TyroneFrame.com

c e l e b r a t e y o u r L G BT Q l o v e .

DonCesar.com

Watermark’s Wedding Guide 2019

REAL ESTATE Castle and Cottages Realty 407-620-9405 CastleAndCottage.com

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