CELEBRATE Y O U R
L G B T
L O V E .
Customized WEDDINGS
When you’re looking for the perfect place to bring family, friends and your beloved together, DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando Downtown sets the stage. With a heart-ofthe-city location overlooking Lake Ivanhoe, a beautifully renovated ballroom and a love for creating custom wedding celebrations, our experienced staff is ready to make your day one to cherish. Call our Wedding Specialist today.
Where the little things mean everything.TM 60 South Ivanhoe Boulevard | Orlando, FL, USA 32804 T 407.425.4455 www.DoubleTreeOrlandoDowntown.com
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NOW BOOKING 2017-2018 WEDDINGS Call to set up your free consultation today.
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Image courtesy of Amy Arrington Photography
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WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
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CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
PHOTO BY JENNA MICHELE PHOTOGRAPHY
CONTENTS Introduction
7
Marry All Your Friends
10
Have Your Cake and Eat It Too
15
Nothing But Flowers
21
Dress You Up
24
Pretty Parties
27
LGBT-friendly wedding vendor guide
30
ON THE COVER: Photo by Jenna Michele Photography, JennaMichelePhotography.com WEDDING GUIDE GUIDE 2017 PUBLISHED BY WATERMARK PUBLISHING GROUP, INC. FOUNDER & GUIDING LIGHT
Tom Dyer OWNER AND PUBLISHER
Rick Claggett OFFICE MANAGER
Kathleen Harper
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Billy Manes STAFF WRITER
Jeremy Williams ART DIRECTOR
Jake Stevens CREATIVE ASSISTANT
Adam McCabe
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Holly V. Kapherr CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Chris Stephenson, Snap Out Loud! Jenna Michele Photography
Contents of this Wedding Guide 2017 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.
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WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
THE PERFEC T DESTINATION FOR
PRIDEFUL CELEBRATIONS.
Stunning poolside terraces. Luxurious lawns and gardens. Elegant ballrooms for themed parties to black-tie affairs. Rosen Shingle Creek has an array of gorgeous settings to host any special occasion of any size. Not to mention an entire team of dedicated event staff to ensure every exquisite detail exceeds your expectations. Visit RosenShingleCreek.com or call 407.996.9939 | 9939 Universal Blvd., Orlando, Florida 32819
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
6
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
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ou know the drill. In January 2015, a Florida court made marriage legal for LGBTQ individuals to do what most of society is expected to: Fall in love, consider futures, make plans and formalize in marriage. There are many ways to view that, obviously. Some saw the normalization of LGBTQ culture to be a point of controversy, as if we were, as a subculture, somehow homogenizing our difference, our brightness, our otherness.
LOVE IS LOVE IS
Love
But the fact remains the marriage is something many of us have always looked forward to – the tilted heads in photographed glory, the glossiness of it being your day and your day alone, the legal imperatives provided by legitimate coupling – only to be surprised in our suspensions by the speed bumps that brought us out of the shadows and into here. Fortunately, at least for now, we’ve obtained the ability to achieve all of the above and then some after the federal ruling on same-sex marriage in June 2015. And what a sweet release that was. There were parties, weddings at public offices, giant cakes and all the rice thrown in the air that you can imagine. We won. But the political pathos and its present settling haven’t made the planning portion of weddings any easier, not for one of us. It’s almost like we grew up speaking a different language than our parents and the heterosexual community. We wished and washed against the notion of heteronormative behaviors for so long that the words “I do” seemed a long way off, and somewhat worthy of a scowl. Look at us now, though! There may not be exact numbers released as of yet, but the percentage of marriages being performed for same-sex couples has, naturally, increased
businesses that don’t see fit to serve you.
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE IS HERE TO HELP TO UNTIE THE DIFFICULT ISSUES AND OFFICIALLY TIE THE KNOT. CONGRATULATIONS!
Oh, and by the way, we do.
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
7
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
PHOTO BY CHRIS STEPHENSON, SNAP OUT LOUD PHOTOGRAPHY
B
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WEDDING CEREMONIES & PLANNING EVENTS
9
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
PHOTO BY JENNA MICHELE PHOTOGRAPHY
Marry
ALL YOUR FRIENDS! HERE’S A QUICK GUIDE ON HOW AND WHERE TO GET REGISTERED AS A WEDDING OFFICIANT
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ust over two years ago, I was married by an actual circuit judge – Circuit 9’s lovely Bob LeBlanc, who graciously offered his service – to my husband Tony Mauss. It wasn’t so difficult for us, really. Tony proposed in bed, I hopped up, nabbed a venue by laptop, got LeBlanc on the horn, started the catering march (Mexican and cupcakes!) and promised to have it all done in a pinch. CONTINUED ON PG. 12 | |
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
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CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
A L L
L O V E
I S
B E A U T I F U L
A Botanical Experience At the St. Petersburg Marriott Clearwater, we're ready to help you craft a wedding that is just your style. Imagine your dream wedding at a venue that offers modern and contemporary event spaces, exquisite cuisine and the service to make your dreams a reality! 12600 ROOSEVELT BLVD. N. ST. PETERSBURG, FL 33716
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STAY & PLAY ON YOUR BIG DAY CELEBRATE IN STYLE WITH ALOFT Enjoy special rates during your big event when you and your guests stay at Aloft Tampa Downtown. Special benefits include: • Special group room rates available • Special rate on the bridal suite with every signed group contract • Free local transportation Enjoy airy 9-foot-high ceilings, plush platform beds, and fast & free WiFi. Connect over cocktails and Music at W XYZ bar, and step out for more entertainment at Tampa Riverwalk for great dining and entertainment. With 130 urban-inspired guestrooms, we are ready to welcome your friends and family. ®
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Call Alison Asher, Director of Sales, at 813 898 8000 or by email at alison@alofttampadowntown.com to find out how you can get the most out of your big day.
©2017 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Starpoints, SPG, Preferred Guest, Aloft and their respective logos are trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
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WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
LET’S GET THIS PARTY GOING
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nyone who has gone through a wedding (or five) will tell you that there a million details to be hammered out. The general questions are all there: where,
when, who, why, what the hell am I doing? Fortunately, as officiant, you don’t have to dig into the Bridezilla hope chest for tears and tiaras. That’s the couple’s – or their planner’s – job. What you do need to know is what the couple wants when it stands before friends and family, who the couple really is. Be generous with your emotions, maintain a respectful pace (God knows they could use some calmness after all this planning), meet in advance and form a relationship. For me, that meant knowing the man who married Tony and me. It just doesn’t feel right when a stranger reads a script and tells you what the rest of your life should be. Find some intimacy. Make it a shared experience.
REHEARSE
CONTINUED FROM PG.10 ABOVE:
SIGN YOUR NAME: Love comes with its licensing and support from friends.
PHOTO COURTESY PIXABAY
That pinch, however, was one month, as it was January 6 that Florida legalized same-sex marriage, and my date – as my mother’s – was going to be on Valentine’s Day. So, one month in frenzied paradise, then.
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here are things you won’t expect from your wedding experience, even as an officiant. There could be awkward family squabbles, a dabble of booze, a
timing constraint, screaming babies. It’s better that you have some knowledge of the experience you’ve been hired to exact.
But just recently, two of my friends got engaged and
If you’re honoring a marriage at noon, you should likely
insisted that I seal their deal in public. It’s a daunting
have a walkthrough that morning, early times. The couple
thought, really. Me, an atheist with absolutely no interest in
certainly hasn’t slept, even if you’ve spent the better part of
holding hands on Bibles; they, a genuinely loving couple who
your night in sweet slumber. In my opinion, it’s better to do
feel the same about the holy water and swishing flasks of
it on that day because it breaks the nerves. Others will tell
Sixteen Candles. I just wanted to be able to stand in front of the
you that there should be a rehearsal followed by a rehearsal
crowd and the world and validate their love legally. Is that too
dinner, but that depends on how much money you’re
much to ask?
throwing at the affair. An officiant, however, should probably
No.
keep his cool on the wine and booze. This is a solemn act, one
In the past few years, the numbers have grown as to those
many LGBTQ couples have been seeking for decades. You’re
who seek to send their friends into marriage. The first I
the principal of this school. Keep a tight jaw.
remember is Sinead O’Connor, but I’m clearly grabbing at the obvious. Lady Gaga, Conan O’Brien and Tori Spelling could marry you if you know their digits. Local Orlando hero Michael Wanzie is likewise ordained. You don’t have to sell your soul to marry your soul mate. You can just be your own, loving self who wants other loving selves to be happy. And you should.
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here are differences between state regarding the issuance of marriage licenses and the cost therein. In Florida, marriage licenses cost $93.50; couples
can take what must be a horrific pre-marital class on how to be married, and then they save over $30, plus the three-
HOW TO GET STARTED
W
HELP THE COUPLE OUT
day waiting period. Remind the couple that you are not a
ell, the internet is where everything starts.
superhero. They still have to go to the local clerk of courts
According to the wedding experts at The Knot,
and apply for their license, after which, in Florida, they
you may have to weed your way through
have 60 days to make it a reality. Oh, and they’ll need to be
nondenominational, interfaith and religious organizations
at least 18.
to find your perfect starting point. Suggestions for those without crosses and genuflection, American Fellowship Church, Universal Life Church, Universal Ministries and Rose Ministries are among the magazine’s top choices, though, as they note, you need to check the standing of each organization with the Secretary of State just to be sure. Each organization will have its own hoops through which you’ll have to jump, but it should be painless. The American Fellowship Church reportedly doesn’t have any waiting time (except for snail mail). Just keep all your paperwork in line and you’ll be fine, you know, like a prayer. WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
12
SHOW YOUR WORK
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ccording to the Universal Life Church, there are a series of steps required to codify your ordination ability. Fortunately, their website provides those
forms, so you can and should present your documentation to the clerk at an advised three weeks before the ceremony. Just make sure that the couple has its license well in advance and make sure that you have a pen to sign it. There you have it. Now go marry everybody you know!
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
inn-LOVE
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4/10/17 11:53 AM
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WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
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CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
Have your
CAKE
A N D E AT I T, T O O NO BIGOTED BAKERY NONSENSE REQUIRED. THESE PLACES WILL MAKE YOUR PALATE – AND YOUR DAY – FABULOUS B
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eople will come to your wedding for two main reasons: To support your vow to love your new husband or wife for as long as you both shall live, and also to eat free food. So it better be good. Wedding trends come and go, but there
dessert. “It’s a swing I notice every year,” says
should always be cake. As Julia Child wisely
Hopke. In terms of theming, Hopke’s fondant
said, “a party without cake is just a meeting.”
work is second to none. From Star Wars to sea
Two-time Cupcake Wars winner Jillian
life, brightly colored sweets are her signature.
Hopke has provided the sweets for many
For weddings, though, the rustic trend from
a same-sex celebration during her years
2016 is getting an extra dose of glam from
owning Jillycakes bakery in Winter Park.
metallics. “My same-sex weddings have been
According to Hopke, cupcakes alternate years
leaning rustic, but adding on metallic gold or
– sometimes dominating, while other times CONTINUED ON PG. 18 | |
traditional layer cakes are the most-requested
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
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WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
Make your special day historic in subtle elegance and unmatched beauty 633 Osceola Avenue Winter Park, FL 32789 407-636-9317 | capenhouse.com
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
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CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
Tucked away in a private corner of Lake Buena Vista, Paradise Cove is an idyllic oasis on the shores of Lake Bryan. Twinkling lights and tiki torches add to the magical glow of this secluded paradise.
Rainbow-hued Adirondack chairs, a palm tree thatched cabana and a sandy beach lend an island vibe to the setting.
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
17
Paradise Cove will customize a wedding to fit your vision and budget.
13245 Lake Bryan Drive, Orlando, Florida 32821 407.239.6939 paradisecoveorlando.com facebook.com/paradisecoveorlando
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
where food happens in all shapes and sizes. Cuisiniers
CONTINUED FROM PG.15
Catering. Located in Orlando’s East End Market, chef Jamie
ABOVE LEFT:
SWEET LOVE: JIllycakes brings a pop of color to your table and a lot of character to your wedding
PHOTO COURTESY JILLYCAKES ABOVE CENTER:
LOVE ON TOP: Tampa Bay’s Alessi Bakery serves it up with love, and it has served Bon Jovi!
PHOTO COURTESY ALESSI BAKERY
McFadden’s delicious dishes are fit for all foodists.
copper as an accent,” she says. There are so many options for your baked pleasantries, ranging from simple to over-the-top, pretty to huge. Looking for a little rock to go with your rolls? Oh, and some family love in the flour? Tampa’s Alessi Bakery has had this beat down since 1912. Head baker Melissa Maggiore has even baked for the hair of Bon Jovi. You’re half way there! Jillycakes, a Food Network champion baker in Winter Park that favors fondant and fun flavors like “pancake breakfast” and cookie butter could bring some pizazz to your nuptials. Think outside of the normal frosting. Look to the comfort foods and the sweetness that follows. But if you’re going to be a who’s who with a what’s what in Central Florida, you know the number; it’s probably on your cell phone. John Michael Exquisite Weddings and Catering Michael Thomas, a custom caterer who’s served just about every venue in Central Florida since 1995, pulled off every event, knows all the trends that will make your wedding
ABOVE RIGHT:
AW, SUGAR:
butterflies smile and rest. Full-service wedding planning is also available, so expect fancy napkins and the food that makes them necessary. Not every bride and bride or groom and groom is looking to
St. Pete’s Cakes by Carolynn says it has the best cakes. You can’t go wrong here.
be incredibly fancy, though, at least in appearance. Consider
PHOTO COURTESY CAKES BY CAROLYNN
has provided farm-to-table cuisine and inclusive bar services
the farm-to-table option proffered at Spotlight Catering & Bar Services. For more than 37 years, this full-service caterer from Lakeland to Venice. Your wedding should feel organic, right? This is the farm, these are your wedding guests, open the roof and see all your friends. If you’re gazing toward the artisan route, you might look out of the corner of your eye to Orlando’s East End Market,
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
18
Another consideration, naturally, is the presentation, the guffaws of your friends. For that, Chantilly Cakes in Tampa Bay promises to deliver mountains of cupcakes and layers and layers of lovely traditional wedding cake. The store’s specialty is buttercream, hear told, so smooth it looks like fondant. Smooth one! Looking for a little rock to go with your rolls? Oh, and some family love in the flour? Tampa Bay’s Alessi Bakery has had this beat down since 1912. Head baker Melissa Maggiore has even baked for the hair of Bon Jovi. You’re half way there! Growing out of its humble beginnings and into a catering behemoth to be reckoned with, Little Lamb Catering and Events) takes off its Hammered Lamb moniker and runs for the sterno for some of the best event catering you’ve seen. Owner Jason Lambert is a well-known force in this Orlando, and his food choices should please just about everyone at your wedding. And if you’re looking for superlatives on your special day, a shopkeeper at Cakes by Carolynn in St. Petersburg tells us that their cakes are the best in the region, which makes us hungry and lovey-eyed. The store is more than happy to provide the just desserts for same-sex couples, even excited to. “Our cakes taste better than any of the cakes in the surrounding counties,” she says. “Our icing may use less sugar, but we’ve always been happy to serve same-sex couples on their wedding days.” Orlando favorite Se7en Bitesis all about pleasing its customers, no discrimination allowed. They offer “rustic” cakes, says a staff member, and are more than happy to make your special day even sweeter than you imagined. Their reimagined take on baking has become the talk of the town.
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
We’re not just a
Flower Shop.
We’re not just a Flower Shop. We have cards, • Weddings • Special Occasions gifts and of course, December Diamonds • Cards • Gifts and Nudes from Unicorn Studios.
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Say ‘I do’ in memorable style. We’ll handle the details.
Let the wedding professionals at Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa cater to your every need. Featuring sophisticated style and breathtaking views of the gulf, our hotel offers everything for the celebration you’ve always imagined. Mention this ad and receive a 10% discount when you book and hold your wedding by December 31, 2017. For more information, contact one of our wedding professionals at 727 373 4444 or visit clearwaterbeach.regency.hyatt.com. HYATT REGENCY CLEARWATER BEACH RESORT AND SPA 301 South Gulfview Boulevard Clearwater Beach, Florida, USA, 33767
Photo by Djamel Photography Offer is valid at Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa through December 31, 2017. Offer is based on availability and blackout periods including holidays may apply. Offer includes a ten percent (10%) discount off of published 2017 Wedding Packages. For full terms and conditions, please contact the hotel Catering Department. HYATT name, design and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. ©2017 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.
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CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
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WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
3/20/2017 11:14:06 AM
“...the next best thing to seeing Streisand herself!” (N.Y. Post)
WEDDING OR RENEWAL OF VOWS UNIQUE SCOTTISH TRADITIONAL CEREMONY HANDFASTING BRAVE HEART CEREMONY PIPER PLATINUM CEREMONY BAGPIPER
“I would be proud and honored to be part of your wedding celebrations! It ‘ll be like Buttah” Ever dreamed of having Barbra Streisand herself sing at YOUR wedding? Carla DelVillaggio is an award award--winning artist, whose tribute to The Greatest Star is available for LGBT weddings, receptions, parties. Customized music for your special occasion! To book this artist: 407 407--432 432--0015 or maineventagency@aol.com.
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WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
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flowers NOTHING BUT
YOU CAN’T HAVE YOUR NUPTIALS WITHOUT THE BURST OF BEAUTY THAT FLOWERS BRING. HERE ARE SOME GREAT PLACES FOR YOU TO START. B
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ove is beautiful. Flowers are beautiful. Weddings are beautiful because both. For decades, Lee James Floral Designs has set the trend for wedding flowers in Orlando.
His shop, located in Ivanhoe Village, is a
and palms, perhaps? – James’s creativity and
must-stop for couples tying the knot. If it’s
enthusiasm for his clients’ vision is infectious.
ultra-traditional you seek (red roses are sexy and
James specializes in showpieces, too, so consider
romantic, after all), or something a little more
an entryway piece to make a statement right away,
experimental – veritable bushels of orchids, callas
like a bamboo and orchid tower he recently created
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
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WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
CONTINUED FROM PG.21
shop takes pride in translating their clients’ individual personalities into floral designs with a “hands-on”
ABOVE LEFT:
TABLE IS SET: Lee Forrest Designs makes a big deal out of your big deal.
PHOTO COURTESY ROOTS WEDDINGS ABOVE RIGHT:
CATCH IT FIRST: Your bouquet could mean a bright future for one of your friends!
PHOTO BY MASTERWORKS PHOTOGRPAHY
for the JW Marriott Orlando. Flowers aren’t your thing? James is also adept at designs featuring subtler décor,
approach. What’s that you say? You want a traditional bunch of
like nautical-themed succulent arrangements, ferns and
flora for your special day in Kissimmee? Forty years of
greenery or topiary.
experience – enough said. This husband-and-wife team
But there isn’t only one Lee with which to trust your bouquets! Lee Forrest Design is all about coloring outside
at Kissimmee Florist have south-central Florida’s flower game aced. And if you’re just a little further to the west, watching
the lines – or inside, should you choose.
the sunset instead of the sunrise, you ought to check
“Our look is very clean and modern with lots of inspiration from traditional sources,” the business
out The Flower Centre of St. Petersburg. And there will
says on its website. “Whether we design in an opulent
be no hassle from staff as to your LGBTQ needs. “We’re
European style with garden flowers and fruit or in a
gay owned and gay friendly and we’ve been 35 years in
dramatic Asian style with tropicals and exotics, our work
business,” ownership tells us. Don’t think you’ll have
is always anything but run-of-the-mill.”
a problem getting the best wedding flowers from The Flower Centre. We love them.”
So, fancy, then!
If you want the whole kit and caboodle taken care of
At Pixies and Petals, go gaga for Jennie Maretti’s glam-girl taste, which has amped up more than 150
with flowers on top, try Tied the Knot Beach Weddings,
events in Florida and New York. “We’re in love with love,”
which specializes in, well, beach weddings, especially
its website states. And with a rolodex of testimonials on
LGBTQ beach weddings. “Imagine the turquoise water
its website, you’d be a foolish bride – or husband – not to
lapping on the shore, a magnificent sunset on the
check the place out.
horizon, tropical flowers everywhere, and the two of you
If you’re in the Tampa Bay region, you might want to give a gander to Apple Blossoms, a floral company
in the center of it all. What a great way to say ‘I DO,’” the website reads. Imagine that.
that certainly enjoys its LGBTQ clientele. This Tampa
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
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CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
WEDDINGS ~ RECEPTIONS ~ PRIVATE DINING ~ CATERING ~ CORPORATE EVENTS ~ OUTDOOR PATIO DINING
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
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WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
Dress Y O U U P
LOOK FANCY FOR YOUR BIG DAY, AND DO IT KNOWING THAT YOUR CLOTHIERS SUPPORT YOUR LOVE B
ABOVE LEFT:
LOOK SMART: Tampa Bay’s Bib ‘N Tux brings the glam
PHOTO COURTESY BIB ‘N TUX ABOVE CENTER:
TWEET THIS:
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hen Orange is the New Black’s Samira Wiley married her wife, writer Lauren Morelli, everyone drooled over their wedding whites.
Wiley, in a traditional off-shoulder ball gown and
If you’re looking for high-end bridal boutique in
Morelli in an anything-but-traditional white crepe
Winter Park Village, which carries all the hottest trends
jumpsuit with rhinestone collared chiffon cape, both
like bridal separates, pantsuits and even rompers –
by Project Runway alum and designer-to-the-stars,
meaning, be who you are, girl, check out Calvet Couture
Christian Siriano. Stunning. If there’s anything
Bridal.
same-sex couples can buck tradition on and come out
Blue, brown, grey, plaid – Absolutely Fitting in Winter
wedding winners, it’s style. Guys can opt for matching
Park will have every guy in your wedding party trying on
Tweet’s Bridal and Tux will make your photos shine.
or complimentary tuxedos, women can mix and
suits all at once. Signed, sealed, even delivered. From
match the masculine-feminine trend to their heart’s
shabby to extremely chic, they’ll make a cleaned-up man
PHOTO COURTESY TWEETS BRIDAL AND TUX
contentment. Some of the best spots for renting or
out of you yet!
ABOVE RIGHT:
PURPLE REIGN: Bib ‘N Tux pops some color.
PHOTO COURTESY BIB ‘N TUX
buying wedding wear are combined bridal and tuxedo
Bib ‘N Tux in Tampa isn’t playing it the easy way.
boutiques, including Calvet Couture Bridal in Winter
Beyond excellent prices on tux rentals, this Fowler Avenue
Park and Tweet’s Bridal and Tux in Tampa. If nothing
shop has just about every colored cummerbund combo
else, these spots are efficient one-stop shops. But there’s
you can think of. You want splashes of color – even with
so much else. Outfit all your bride’s men and groom’s
shades of camo – you’re covered here.
maids there, too, and it’s almost certain you’ll score some serious discounts.
Tweet’s Bridal & Tux serves up tuxes that are a perfect fit for any body, plus a vast selection of vibrant, sparkly
Here are a few places to start getting hooked up for your hooking up! By no means is this a complete list, but here
formalwear, in case white just isn’t in your color palette. It’s your wedding day. Light it up the way you want to!
are some hot tips for wedding trendiness we know about.
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
24
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
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WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
Waterside Weddings at
Celebrating 25 years of Fierce ˙ Fabulous ˙ Flowers
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
Beautiful Outdoor Venue available for Wedding Ceremonies, Engagement Parties, Receptions or Rehearsal Dinners 26
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
Pretty PA R T I E S
ABOVE:
TOP OF THE WORLD: The Abbey in downtown Orlando puts on the glitz for your reception.
PHOTO BY KATHY THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY
ONCE YOU’VE SPOKEN THE WORDS AND YOU’RE A MARRIED COUPLE, IT’S TIME TO GET DOWN IN THESE VENUES PRIMED FOR A BLOWOUT BASH. B
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ou’re a distinctive couple, and your wedding weekend should express your individuality as much as it conveys your couplehood. Where you’ll say “I do” and your reception location are a good starting spot for setting the tone. Artsy couples will drool over the geodesic
restaurant. If you’re partying at the Epicurean,
atrium and surrealist gardens at the Dali
we suggest leaving a sweet surprise for your
Museum, and guests will get the message –
guests from the bakery at check-in to start the
you’re one-of-a kind. At the Epicurean Hotel in
wedding weekend right.
Tampa, food enthusiasts will be charmed
Bonnie Kelly, sales manager at the Epicurean,
immediately by the wine crate reception area, culinary-themed spa menu (bourbon pedicure, boys?) and Chocolate Pi, the on-site dessert CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
27
has overseen some of the hotel’s most glorious CONTINUED ON PG. 29 | | WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
“I would love to make your special day memorable with classical guitar music.”
Frederic P. Hodes Classical Guitarist
To Listen to the classical guitar music go to www.fredericphodes.com or use the QR code
407-295-3286
Have a classical guitarist at your wedding or event.
Other than your amazing love, THIS is what they’ll be talking about the most...
…a cake as unique as the two of you and as sweet as your happily ever after.
Visit us at our updated address:
617 N Primrose Dr. Orlando 32803 Or Call 407-203-0727
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
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CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
CONTINUED FROM PG.27 TOP:
LUSH LIFE: The Courtyard at Lake Lucerne offers a gorgeous backdrop for your wedding bliss.
PHOTO COURTESY THE COURTYARD AT LAKE LUCERNE
gay bashes. “The location of the hotel is a main draw. Located in the heart of the popular SoHo district, it’s an easy walk to local, hot restaurants, shops, bars and more, for a weekend of wedding fun.” The Epicurean is a food-themed hotel, so certainly when it comes to catering, your wish is their command. When the same-sex marriage SCOTUS decision was announced, the hotel hosted a mass wedding for gay couples in the Tampa Bay area, and continues to be an advocate for the community. “Just as we do with any of our
MIDDLE:
LOVE OUTSIDE: Sunken Gardens in St. Pete brings Flora and Fauna.
PHOTO COURTESY POTTER MEDIA LLC BOTTOM:
CLASSIC ROMANCE: Thornton Park’s The Veranda brings it home.
PHOTO COURTESY THE VERANDA
couples, we would do everything we could to accommodate and special requests,” says Kelly, referring to a question about unisex bathrooms for transgender wedding guests. The Epicurean is a destination hotel, and many couples can make a weekend out of their nuptial stay: brunch at onsite restaurant Elevage, cocktails at the rooftop lounge, dinner at Bern’s Steakhouse across the street. “We do have a lovely ballroom, but it seems the most popular wedding venue is the second-floor Garden Terrace,” says Kelly. So you say you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path? Check out Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg, where hundreds of flowering plants minimize your floral budget. Say “I do” on the historic lawns or in the Oak Pavilion and then party the night away Thornton Park in downtown Orlando has many charms, most of which highlight the brick-paved nature of the historic houses surrounding The Veranda. With an open
dinner theater venue with a stage and multi-level floors
space surrounded by a gorgeous building, the Veranda is
for dancing and dining the night away. Your wedding and
the perfect place to tie the knot and then get a little feisty
reception have all been balled up into one safe space. You’ll
with your friends thereafter. It is an all-outdoor venue in
like that in the end.
the heart of historic Thornton Park bungalows, trimmed in Key West colors.
One of our favorite traditional wedding spots, Courtyard at Lake Lucerne in Orlando, provides an excellent opportunity
Have you heard of The Abbey? It’s at the foot of the
to let your love resonate throughout the city. Vow to love each
Sanctuary condominiums in downtown Orlando. It’s also
other forever under the twinkle lights in the courtyard of
one of the easiest places to rub shoulders with Orlando’s
this historic bed and breakfast near Lake Lucerne. Marrying
brassiest and best. Party like a rock star at this music and
couples also get an included night at the inn
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
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WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
John Michael Exquisite Weddings and Catering
Celebration Gardens
407-894-6671
orlandocelebrationgardens.com
johnmichaelevents.com
Se7ven Bites
I DID! N O W W H AT ?
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.
se7enbites.com
Stillwaters Tavern
DoubleTree by Hilton SeaWorld
TooJay’s 407-205 – 4612 toojays.com
Pillar’s Martini Bar 407-369-8900 pilarsmartini.com
Plantation on Crystal River 352-795-1605 plantationoncrystalriver.com/ weddings
CEREMONY & RECEPTION LOCATIONS 310 Restaurants
727-895-5515 bellabrava.com
727-373-4444
407-930-1700 dovecoteorlando.com/groups-events
Hammered Lamb 407-613-2519 littlelambcatering.com
House of Blues 407-934-2009 houseofblues.com/orlando/events
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Lake Fairview Marina 407-295-0117 lakefairviewmarina.com
Lowry Park Zoo 813-935-8552 ext.255 lowryparkzoo.org/weddings
Marriott St. Petersburg Clearwater 727-456-1348
Art & History Museums-Maitland
marriott.com/TPASB
407-539-2181
Mission Inn resort and Club
At Journey’s End Bed and Breakfast
Dove Cote Brasserie
WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Resort & Spa
407-730-6249
rentals@artandhistory.org
Bella Brava
407-934-2009
310restaurant.com
813-898-8000
310restaurant.com
House of Blues
clearwaterbeach.regency.hyatt.com
Alison@alofttampadowntown.com
407-730-6249
941-366-9017 ext.364
houseofblues.com/orlando/events
Aloft Tampa Downtown
310 Restaurants
Florida Studio Theatre floridastudiotheatre.org
THE VENDORS LISTED ARE “W.E.D. (WATERMARK EQUALITY DIRECTORY) APPROVED.” WATERMARK IS DEDICATED MAKING YOUR SPECIAL DAY THE BEST IT CAN BE. IF YOU HAVE AN EXPERIENCE WITH THESE VENDORS THAT MAKES YOU FEEL LESS THAN COMFORTABLE, PLEASE CONTACT EDITOR@WATERMARKONLINE.COM.
CATERING / CAKES
407-625-1100 doubletreeorlandoseaworld.com
memorable. Need a cake? We’ve got you covered. Some flowers?
407-425-4455 doubletreeorlandodowntown.com
727-350-1019
S
endeavors, and often cost a
DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown
407-203-0727
stillwaterstavern.com
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. Weddings can be complex
407-896-0314
352-324-3916 missioninnresort.com/weddings
Orlando Eye
904-829-0076
866-228-6444
atjourneysend.com
officialorlandoeye.com
Bay Harbor Hotel
Orlando Science Center
813-574-3880
407-514-2290
bayharbortampa.com
HTillem@osc.org
Bella Brava
Orlando Museum of Art
727-895-5515
407-896-4231
bellabrava.com
omart.org
CELEBRATE YOUR LGBT LOVE.
Paradise Cove
Lindsey Leigh Music
407-239-6939
47-271-3140
paradisecoveorlando.com
facebook.com/lindseyleighmusic
Pillar’s Martini Bar
Strings Etc.
407-369-8900
407-257-0610
pilarsmartini.com
Plantation on Crystal River 352-795-1605
GIFTS REGISTRY / INVITATIONS, ACCESSORIES & FAVORS 407-207-1264
EVENT PLANNER
winterparktenthousandvillages.com
weddings
386-402-4060
407-513-7207
Beautiful Bridal Ceremonies
orlandoairportrenaissance.com
407-282-7892
727-360-1881 doncesar.com
407-644-8404
OFFICIANTS Beautiful Bridal Ceremonies
HONEYMOON & TRAVEL
floridaknot.com
Renaissance Orlando Hotel
The Don CeSar
papergoatpost.com
Ten Thousand Villages
A Lovely Engagement
407-996-9939 rosenshinglecreek.com
Paper Goat Post
stringsetc.net
plantationoncrystalriver.com/
Rosen Shingle Creek
Aloft Tampa Downtown 813-898-8000
407-282-7892 beautifulbridalceremonies.com
Celtic Rainbow Weddings 321-666-5244
Alison@alofttampadowntown.com
celticrainbowweddings.com
beautifulbridalceremonies.com
Rosen Shingle Creek 407-996-9939 rosenshinglecreek.com
At Journey’s End Bed and Breakfast
Over the Rainbow Weddings 407-797-4145
904-829-0076 atjourneysend.com
overtherainbowweddings.com
Sunken Gardens 727-551-3106
Sparkleigh Productions
sunkengardens.org
407-505-5772
407-331-7520 stmarkspc.org
Stillwaters Tavern 727-350-1019 stillwaterstavern.com
The Capen House at the Polasek 407-636-9317 capenhouse.com
The Don CeSar 727-360-1881 doncesar.com
ENTERTAINMENT & MUSIC Carla DelVillaggio, Simply Streisand
813-8395564 ceremoniesbynan.com
DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown
Orlando Area Officiant
407-425-4455
407-341-5430
doubletreeorlandodowntown.com
orlandoareaofficiant.com
Cloud9 Wedding Flowers
DoubleTree by Hilton SeaWorld
PHOTOGRAPHY
319-504-5066
407-625-1100
cloud9weddingflowers.com
doubletreeorlandoseaworld.com
Jenna Michele Photography, Weddings & Portraits
EO Inn
jennamichelephoto.com
sparkleighproductions.com
St. Marks Presbyterian Church
Ceremonies by Nan – Tampa Bay Wedding Officiant
FLORAL & DÉCOR
407-257-5813
Flourish Floral Productions
407-481-8485
407-644-7474 flourishproductions.com
Jennie’s Flowers 813-471-1111 jennies.com
eoinn.com
Snap Out Loud Photography
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Resort & Spa
snapoutloud.com
727-373-4444
UNIQUE SERVICES
clearwaterbeach.regency.hyatt.com
Kissimmee Florist kissflowers.com
727-456-1348
Lee Forrest Design leeforrestdesign.com
marriott.com/TPASB
HPL Wealth Advisors Group
Mission Inn resort and Club
hplwealth.com
352-324-3916 missioninnresort.com/weddings
Mac Wren, Financial Advisor macwren@edwardjones.com
407-432-0015
Lee James Floral
carlaissimplystreisand.net
407-897-5300
Plantation on Crystal River
leejamesfloral.com
352-795-1605 plantationoncrystalriver.com/weddings
407-295-3286
727-823-3432
fredericphodes.com
theflowercentre.com
407-425-6005 fairvillamegastore.com
407-605-5912
407-770-0440
The Flower Centre
Fairvilla Megastore
Marriott St. Petersburg Clearwater
407-846-4113
Frederic P. Hodes, Classical Guitarist
407-963-4580
407-426-2820
Tyrone Frame and Mirror
Renaissance Orlando Hotel 407-513-7207 Orlandoairportrenaissance.com
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WATERMARK’S WEDDING GUIDE 2017
727-344-1000 tyroneframe.com
PREFERRED FOOD AND BAR CATERER FOR THE VERANDA AT THORNTON PARK
CONTACT OUR CATERING DEPARTMENT AT 407-613-2519
www.littlelambcatering.com