This lakeside wedding venue was exactly what Martha & TeVaun’s wanted for their outdoor ceremony and reception. Both were held at the Lakeside Enclave in Groveland, Florida. The Lakeside Enclave is a sprawling property that includes a lakefront ceremony area and outdoor covered reception area made of repurposed storage containers. Additionally, there is a quaint and stylish guesthouse on the property. As well as a firepit and lakeside dock area. Without a doubt this property is a nature lover’s dream that celebrates the beauty of Central Florida and its many lakes.

getting married under a tree at Lakeside wedding venue
outside wedding reception at The Enclave
getting ready room is a cottage at The Enclave wedding venue
lakeside wedding venue in Florida The Enclave

Getting Ready

To get ready on site ,the Bride took advantage of the guest house. Her photographer from M.A.D. Images came early to get photos of her during the hair and makeup process. As a result they were also able to get some beautiful photos of Martha and her Mother putting on her veil. Meanwhile, TeVaun was already dressed and ready. He had photos taken with close family and friends outside while they waited for the ceremony to begin.

wedding dress hangs in getting ready room at The Enclave
bride looking in mirror by Mad Images
bride getting ready in bride cottage at The Enclave
mom helps bride get ready with he rveil
groom getting ready for Florida wedding
bride and her bridesmaid at Florida wedding

Lakeside Wedding Ceremony

The couple had an intimate wedding with 29 guests present. As you can see, the ceremony took place at the lakefront area under the large Oak Tree. Further, the long brick aisleway underneath the trellis made for a gorgeous entrance. One other thing, the couple added a fun triangular arch behind them during the ceremony. The trellis has bougainvillea flowers growing around it and the couple hung beautiful white draping to complete the romantic ceremony look.

here comes the bride at The Enclave
wedding ceremony by the lake at Florida wedding
groom sees his bride for first time
groom cries when he sees his bride
They said I DO at The Enclave

cocktail hour

After the ceremony, guests headed over to the cocktail hour area. Allowing the wedding party to take the remainder of their photos. The Lakeside Enclave venue offers ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception spaces all at the same location. Therefore, guests are able to walk to each event space. During this time, Martha & TeVaun’s DJ got the party started while their guests enjoyed some adult beverages and passed appetizers provided by Cocktails Catering.

intimate wedding party at The Enclave Central Florida
under the night lights at Florida wedding venue
cigar lounge area at lakeside wedding, Florida

Dinner & Reception

After Cocktail Hour, guests headed to the covered reception space to get ready for the dinner portion of the evening. The reception space at Lakeside Enclave is like no other. For example, the reception area can seat 150 guests. And has fresh brick paving, as well as, market lights. In fact, the two outsides of the covered area are made up of repurposed storage containers. Admittedly giving a different look than your typical outdoor wedding. Inside the storage containers there are designated spaces for catering staff and buffet, bartender, DJ, and cake. There are cutouts in each storage container so that they operate similar to service windows.

The guests enjoyed the unique setup and the couple had their dance floor in the center of the dinner area. Before dinner, the couple had their first dance as husband and wife. Dinner was served buffet style and provided by Cocktails Catering.

reception area at The Enclave
me and you lakeside wedding
lakeside wedding at The Enclave Central Florida

Following the cutting of the cake, the guests enjoyed dancing and cocktails for the remainder of the evening. Even after dark, the cocktail hour and reception area remain well-lit by the market lighting throughout the venue.

cake cutting at The Enclave
bride enjoys reception at outdoor wedding Florida
groom dances at backyard wedding at The Enclave Groveland FL
grand exit from The Enclave under the lights

At the end of the evening, Martha and TeVaun did a grand exit by running through the lit trellis while their guests wished them well!

Blog content provided by The Enclave. The following wedding vendors helped create the perfect lakeside wedding for Martha & TreVaun:

Photography M.A.D Images  | Catering Cocktails Catering | Venue Trellis 925 Lakeside Enclave | Flowers Kim E’s Florals | Cake B Cupcakes  

Find more wedding planning inspiration, real weddings and expert advice on the I Said Yes! Wedding Blog and the I Said Yes! Wedding Magazine.

This rustic ranch wedding venue provided a stunning backdrop for this real wedding in Apopka, FL. Certainly Club Lake Plantation and its lush landscape and venue options are wonderful just as it is.  However, Brittney and Michael wanted to add their personality into their wedding. For instance, fun glasses, silly photos and socks to name a few.

rustic ranch wedding ceremony
bride and her bridesmaids enjoying prep time
fun socks for the groomsmen

You and Your I Do Crew

Brittney and Michael spent the morning with their I DO Crews. Without a doubt the bride and her bridesmaids celebrated the day in true style. Starting with monogramed matching outfits. Paired with love shades and of course champagne. Once it was time to get wedding ready, they slipped into their beautiful green gowns.

Similarly, Michael and the gents sported custom suits. In fact, each groomsmen personalized the lining of their suit. Adding to the style of this fun wedding was the groomsmen’s socks. 

Make your rustsic ranch wedding personal
photo on I Said Yes! by Carrie Wildes Photography
rustic ranch wedding photo of bride and bridesmaids
suit lining picked by each groomsmen
fun socks for the groomsmen
the groomsmen get ready at rustic ranch wedding in Florida on I Said Yes!
rustic ranch wedding groomsmen

Rustic Ranch Wedding Venue

Club Lake Plantation is the epitome of rustic ranch wedding venues. The property has two lakes and is surrounded by live oaks and beautiful landscape. Further the outdoor ceremony space provides an unforgettable setting for your perfect wedding day.

Before the ceremony Brittney and Michael did a first look with the lush landscape as the backdrop. Following that, Brittney entered the ceremony through a set of barn doors.

Brittney and Michael added their personal touches to the ceremony in a variety of ways. Starting with the gorgeous white, pink and green florals on the arch. And we absolutely must show off the most amazing flower guy ever!  Who may, or may not, have also passed out beer as he proceeded down the aisle. Coupled with the surprise of the best wedding pet attendants ever, who made quite an entrance of their own. Admittedly one of our favorite wedding ceremonies to date.

first look at rustic ranch wedding Apopka, FL
here comes the bride at rustic ranch wedding
I Do at Club Lake Plantation
floral detail on wedding arch for a rustic ranch wedding
flower man on I Said Yes!
best flower boy ever at this rustic ranch wedding
pet attendant on I Said Yes!
here comes the pup down the aisle

They did it Their Way

We always say, “Do your wedding your way.” Unquestionably, Brittney and Michael have a great group of friends that helped them celebrate in a uniquely personal way.  This dream wedding day was relaxed, fun and guest-focused. All the while being true to the new Mr. and Mrs. personalities. 

For example, the reception was filled with dancing, good times and a celebration of the newly married couple. Ending in a sparkler exit.

cheers we said I Do at Club Lake Plantation on I Said Yes! FL
wedding party showed their unique style
Mr and Mrs have moves on dance floor
time for some shots at this weding
sparkler exit at Club Lake Plantation

Wedding professionals who contributed to this rustic ranch wedding:

Venue: Club Lake Plantation Wedding  | Wedding Coordinator: Bella Sposa Events | Photographer: Carrie Wildes Photography |  Catering: Picese Rising Catering | DJ/Band: Michael Hill | Floral: Gather & Grace Designs | Officiant: Anthony Doane | Hair: Robert Potter | Cake: SK Sweets | Donuts: Five O Donut Co | Transportation: Apollos Chariots | Gown: CC’s Bridal Boutique

Get inspired to plan your dream wedding with more wedding blog inspiration on I Said Yes! 

This sunset beach wedding is what dreams are made of. Without a doubt the photographer, Carrie Wildes Photography, captured this bride and groom at the perfect moment. In fact, at the exact moment when a rainbow appeared in the background.

sunset beach wedding on I Said Yes! Wedding Blog

perfect photo spots everywhere

Unquestionably the Sandpearl Resort Clearwater Beach was an excellent choice for this couples wedding venue. Because it offers both indoor and outdoor options with stunning views of the beach and the ocean beyond. For this reason, Ruthann and Tony were blessed with a variety of perfect photo spots for their wedding memories.

Starting with the sweet first look. Admittedly this artwork is the photographers favorite indoor spot. Next the ceremony was performed on the lawn, overlooking the gulf. In fact, you don’t even have to touch the sand if you don’t want to.  Third, the happy couples family and friends posed for a fun photo on the balconies. Above all, the sunset photos on the beach of just Ruthann and Tony.

bride ready for her wedding ceremony on Clearwater Beach FL
first look by Carrie Wildes Photography
groom ready for his sunset beach wedding on Clearwater FL
bride and groom get married in Clearwater FL beach front wedding venue
bride and groom at sunset beach wedding FL
wedding ceremony on the beach in Clearwater, FL
fun family photo from beach wedding venue
sunset beach wedding on I Said Yes!

Intimate Sunset Beach wedding Ceremony

Along with their closest friends and family, Ruthann and Tony said I Do at their intimate sunset beach wedding. Before the wedding they enjoyed time with their friends celebrating the joy of the day. In fact, one of their dearest friends officiated the wedding. As a result, right before Tony walked down the aisle, they stopped and said a quick prayer. 

The tropical palm leaves with the bright pinks and oranges looked amazing on the arch. And we can’t forget the sounds and colors of the ocean in the background. Likewise the florals by Artistry Designs Group made a colorful statement against Ruthann’s white wedding dress. 

groomsmen toast groom at beach wedding venue Clearwater Fl
groom ready to say I Do
bride and bridesmaid before wedding at Sandpearl Resort Clearwater FL
wedding ceremony on the beach on I Said Yes! wedding blog
groom and officiant pray before wedding
bride walks down aisle at beach wedding FL
intimate beach wedding Clearwater FL on I Said Yes!

Reception Details

After the gorgeous ceremony, they moved inside for the wedding reception. Of course the pink and orange florals were used to adorn the table. Similarly a single flower was placed on each pink napkin. Then set on top of  gold charges. Coupled with white chairs and table linens, this wedding reception was a beautiful reflection of the couples love. Furthermore, sushi was served as an appetizer. Certainly fitting to the sunset beach wedding theme.

wedding reception tables set with orange and pink floral centerpieces
wedding florals by artistry designs group
detail shot of reception table by Carrie Wildes Photography
sushi served at wedding reception at Seapearl Resort

sunset beach wedding

Ruthann told the photographer they were hoping for a beautiful sunset.  Singularly true to Clearwater beach fashion, it did not disappoint! That is to say, as they went down to the water at sunset, there was a perfect rainbow behind Ruthann and Tony. Congratulations you two, we wish you a lifetime of amazing sunsets!

sunset beach wedding photos on I Said Yes Wedding blog

Wedding Vendors who contributed to this perfect wedding:

Venue: Sandpearl Resort Clearwater Beach

Florals: Artistry Designs Group

Photographer: Carrie Wildes Photography

Find more real wedding inspiration on the I Said Yes! Wedding Blog. 

This Florida backyard wedding was a dream come true for the bride and groom.  High School sweethearts, Sierra and Gabe, celebrated their love surrounded by their family and closest friends.  They prepared their list of non-negotiables and sentimental touches. Picked the perfect backyard wedding venue. Then, along with their wedding planner, created the perfect outdoor wedding.

married under a tree at backyard wedding

Wedding Day Non-Negotiables

From the beginning of the wedding planning process, Sierra had a short list of non-negotiables. That is to say, the things that absolutely must be a part of the wedding. First, get married under a tree. Second, market lights. Third, farm tables. Last, lots of greenery and white flowers. As a result, the wedding was exactly as the couple dreamed it would be. For this reason, her advice to you, as a fellow bride, stick to your non-negotiables. In other words, if it is that important to you, don’t negotiate it out of your wedding. Do your wedding, your way.

Light wood farm tables were complimented by gold Chiavari chairs and chargers. Chargers provided by Orlando Wedding and Party Rentals. Additionally softening the room was the floor to ceiling draping. Lastly, the mood was set with the market lights by Get Lit Productions

Before The wedding

Sierra and Gabe decided not do to a first look. Instead, they wanted their first look to be at the altar. Ultimately where they would join their hearts and their families together as one. Therefore, before the ceremony, they took time for some pre-wedding photos to show off their personal style. 

For example, the groom chose a pale blue suit with a tropical lining. His paprika tie coordinated with the girls’ dresses perfectly. And his suspenders matched his groomsmen.

Sierra’s dress is from David’s Bridal and she always knew she would wear tennis shoes under her wedding dress. Adding to her look is the soft, natural hair and make up by Karmel Design Team. To touch on the grooms Irish heritage, the bride’s ring has Celtic knots.

Family is everything

Celebrating their love with family was paramount for this couple. In fact, they included family members in all aspects of this big day. Starting with including their siblings in the wedding party. Along with their dog Koda.

The grooms Irish heritage is very important to him. So during the wedding, the grooms father performed a traditional Irish hand tying ceremony.  Further the brides grandfather officiated the wedding.

To demonstrate honor to family members who have passed, the couple added some sweet details. For instance, the yellow flowers were for the grooms grandmother. Likewise the bride’s bouquet was wrapped in a special fabric. It came from the bride’s grandmother’s wedding dress. Added to it was lace from the bride’s great grandmother. Finishing with hand painting by the bride’s grandmother. 

Finally, to top it off, this backyard wedding took place on family property.

Sister Squad

Without a doubt, Sierra wanted her sisters to be by her side on this special day. These sisters have been best friends since birth. From silly antics to serious poses, this sister squad is inseparable. Bridesmaids dresses are in paprika from Azazie

Brothers and the grooms best friends

When choosing his groomsmen, Gabe knew exactly who to ask.  Starting with his younger brother Drew. Then including his two best friends. One from childhood and one from college. Surely we can’t forget the best wedding pet attendant, Koda.

Sentimental Touches

Sentimental elements added to the family focus of this Florida backyard wedding. Yellow roses honoring the grooms grandmother. Likewise the bridal bouquet wrap created from family heirlooms. Subsequently, each piece kept loved ones close.

The Ceremony

This wedding was full of sentiment. But also tons of fun and laughter. For instance, the father of the bride snapped a selfie walking to the ceremony with his little girl. 

Every girls dream is to have her man love her this much. Certainly there was not a dry eye in the place when the groom saw his bride for the first time. True love is a beautiful thing.

Celebrating the Irish heritage, the grooms father performed a hand tying ceremony. Further the rope was made by the grooms father. A cord of three strands is not easily broken.

Let The Party Begin

After some puppy love, the new Mr. and Mrs. celebrated their marriage with a fun first dance. Likewise, the bride and father of the bride surprised everyone with a choreographed dance of their own. After some food and socializing.  It was cake time. Sugar Sugar Cake Boutique provided a beautiful 3 tier wedding cake and gold cake stand.

Before the evening was over, the littlest wedding guest stole the dance floor with his moves. And his killer style.

the perfect ending to a backyard wedding

Absolutely no wedding should end without a sparkler exit by FyerFly Productions. Ending the evening with a true celebration of love and life. Congratulations Sierra and Gabe, may your life be filled with happiness and joy. Let the adventure being.

Orlando Wedding Vendors who contributed to this wedding:

Venue: Family property
Planner: Seas Your Day Events
Cake: Sugar Sugar Cake Boutique
DJ and Sparkler Exit: FyerFly Productions
Hair and Make-up: Karmel Design Team
Marketing lighting: Get Lit Productions
Gold chargers / cocktail tables / linens: Orlando Wedding and Party Rentals
Photography: Steven Miller Photography
Videography (see video below): Laiacona Photography and Design
Catering: Two Chicks and a Pot
Restroom Trailer: Luxe Flush A Restroom Trailer Company
Floral: Bride’s Aunt

For more wedding inspiration, visit the I Said Yes! Wedding Blog.

This garden wedding in Orlando was created using the bride’s favorite wedding colors. That is to say, blush, nude and greenery. 

walking down the aisle at Florida Federation of Garden Clubs

The trees and greenery in the garden provided the perfect backdrop for this simple and natural wedding ceremony.

Bringing the Theme to Life

The bride worked alongside her wedding vendors to create the wedding of her dreams. To clarify, her vendors had runners, chargers, napkins and garland that matched the theme.  However, the florist, Le Fleur Atelier, used her talents to bring the theme to life, according to the bride. For example, the florist was able to implement drapes, pampas and lots of candles. Including the simple, but elegant draping over the tree limb at the ceremony. Therefore creating the intimate feeling the couple wanted for the garden wedding in Orlando. 

pampass grass, blush, pink wedding
wedding reception for Garden Wedding Orlando
dessert table by Morgan Hunter Desserts Orlando, FL

Further a vintage dresser was used as the dessert table.  Without a doubt, the bride said this display was “gorgeous”.

sentimental moments

Wedding day is an important moment in life for all family members involved. From the bride getting ready with her mother, to the groom preparing to see his bride. Also the bridesmaids celebrating with the bride. Then there is the first look between the bride and groom. 

mother of the bride on I Said Yes! blog
wedding dress for Florida Garden WEdding
bride getting ready for a garden wedding Orlando, FL
groom at a garden wedding orlando
groom wears black suit at Florida wedding
groom waits for his bride on I Said Yes! wedding blog
wedding day first look on I Said Yes! wedding blog

Next, the precious moments spent at the altar, repeating your vows and pledging your love to each other for eternity. Most important, dancing down the aisle after saying “I Do”.

saying I Do at Florida Wedding ceremony
bride and groom celebrate wedding in Orlando

It was important to the bride to remember her father, who passed away in 2019. For that reason, she included pictures of him along with a charm hanging from her bouquet. In addition, it included the saying “Siempre En Mi Corazon”, which translates to, always in my heart. 

remembering lost loved ones at wedding ceremony

Reception at a garden wedding orlando

The blush, nude and greenery garden theme was carried all the way through the reception. For instance, table runners of greenery and blush roses. Also gold edged chargers and blush napkins. Adding to the ambiance was differing heights of candles. The 2-tier wedding cake by Morgan Hunter Desserts even perfectly matched the theme. Of course you can’t forget the gorgeous backdrop of greenery, trees and floral of the wedding venue, The Garden Villa at Florida Federation of Garden Club.

wedding reception table for Florida Garden Wedding
wedding reception with gold, greenery, blush
2 tier wedding cake by Morgan Hunter Desserts

One of the bride’s most special surprises was how the overall décor of the wedding was beyond their imagination.  Madelyn and Jeff had the idea in their minds, but never expected it to turn out as great as it did.

Contributing Vendors who helped create this simple and natural Garden Wedding Orlando.

Photographer –  Gabby Girdner Photography
Wedding Venue –  The Garden Villa at Florida Federation of Garden Club
Catering – Cocktails Catering
Flowers/Décor – Le Fleur Atelier
Cake/Desserts – Morgan Hunter Desserts
DJ – Press Play Entertainment
Dress – Lily’s Bridal
Hair & Makeup – Jazz It Up Artistry

Find more wedding planning inspiration and themes on the I Said Yes! Wedding Blog

Starting With The Wedding VEnue

To create the best dang Florida barn wedding ever, Sarah and Nick started by choosing their wedding venue. BLB Hacienda is a breathtaking barn venue and horse farm where you get up close and personal with stunning retired Disney horses who now live on the property. The venue website says you will be enchanted by the beautiful landscape and features. Next the barn was decorated romantically with garden style décor. Sarah’s sister, Heather, transformed the space into the bride’s vision of her dream wedding.  As a result, they achieved the garden style look she wanted with-in the barn wedding venue. 

wedding dress hanging outside BLB Hacienda barn wedding venue
Reception venue table setting for barn wedding

Creating the Garden Style Decor

The bride wanted garden style décor. To achieve this, the wedding venue was filled with a variety of décor. For example, different height centerpieces with candelabras, floral and candles. Further with lanterns and greenery.  The sweetheart table was framed by two trees. In addition, “The Lupos” sign made a statement backdrop on the hedge walls behind the sweetheart table. Likewise the brides bouquet used the wedding colors of ivory, blush, gold and greenery.

tall wedding floral centerpiece
lantern wedding centerpiece at Florida Barn Wedding
sweetheart table at best Darn Florida Barn Wedding Ever
wedding bouquet white and greenery

The detail shots

The groom, Nick, is a whiskey and cigar guy.  So the photographer, Angelika Krug Photography created this special memento just for the groom. That is to say she shot a detail of his favorite Jack Daniels whiskey, and his wedding day shoes and tie. Similarly the brides beautiful shoes and wedding rings were also captured as a special memory.

Groom's shoes and whiskey bottle
ring photo from Just Marry! real wedding

Father of the bride

Above all, are the sweet moments shared with family. The Father of the Bride gave a speech about the couple. He told everyone a story about how his little girl was always his “Sarah Cinderella”. To clarify, from the time she was a little girl, he would dress her up for church. When he did his first look with Sarah in her wedding gown, he said that today, she truly is, his “Sarah Cinderella”. 

Father and Daughter at Florida wedding
Daddy Daughter wedding first look
Father of the Bride speech

special moments for everyone

Sarah was also able to spend special time with her sisters and mother. For instance, while she was getting ready,  her mother helped her with her veil. Further, several of the bridesmaids were her sisters. 

Mother and Daughter Bride getting ready photo
bridal party at Florida Barn Wedding

The Best Dang Florida Barn Wedding Ever

Starting with the gorgeous barn wedding venue as the backdrop. Then adding all the beautiful garden style décor. Next the simple touches of the Jack Daniels Whiskey for the groom and “The Lupos” sign. Further the special moments with the family. Last the joining of Sarah and Nick as husband and wife. In conclusion, these elements all came together to give Sarah and Nick their dream wedding and we believe the best dang Florida barn wedding ever.

These wedding vendors helped Sarah and Nick create their perfect wedding:

Wedding planner: Just Marry!
Wedding venue: BLB Hacienda
Officiant: Family Friend
Photographer / Videographer: Angelika Krug Photography
Floral/Decor: Sister of the Bride, Heather
Ceremony and Reception Music: M&N DJ Services
Hair/Makeup Artist: Moonstone Artistry
Caterer: Cuisiniers
Rentals: Orlando Wedding and Party Rentals 

For more Real Weddings Inspiration, Click Here

Pantone Colors Of the year

Don’t get tripped up on your wedding colors ideas. Consider using the colors of the year. Each year Pantone releases a new Color of the Year. However, this year they released not one, but two colors. As a result, we introduce you to Ultimate Grey and Illuminating (a bold yellow tone). Nationwide, the wedding industry has mixed emotions on this combination. We, on the other hand, are ready to show you 10 easy ways to use the colors of the year for 2021. 

Pantone Colors of the Year 2021 swatch

Floral Extravaganza

Jaclyn, owner of At Last Wedding + Event Design, is the inspiration behind this gorgeous installation. She says “I actually love the color yellow and feel it’s greatly underutilized at weddings.” She put together this event design to show how these colors can come together quite beautifully. Here are her wedding colors ideas. For example, take this floral extravaganza created by In Boom Florist. First, pops of golden, oranges and yellow were brought in. Secondly, greens were added to balance and accent the bright colors. Lastly they focused on both the smallest detail of a single flower, to the florals on the chandeliers. Speak with your florist to get their input on adding a additional colors to balance the brightness and add depth.

yellow floral centerpiece
wedding colors ideas with in your table centerpieces
simple yellow wedding floral detail
atrium fountain Bella Collina with floral chandelier
wedding floral on chandelier Bella Collina

Gray sets the tone

Gray is the new favorite neutral color. Consider using it as a backdrop to soften the bright yellow hues in your design. For instance, your stemware and place setting will stand out with the gray linen. Keep it neutral by adding silver chivari chairs. Similarly with an accent sofa and a simple vase on your cocktail tables. 

wedding reception Bella Collina greys
stemware and flatware wedding place setting at Bella Collina
pantone colors of the year 2021 with I Said Yes! FL
RLE3 Entertainment performing at Bella Collina

Mix and Match

Mix and match both your décor pieces and your colors. For example, use different styles and colors. These fun and eclectic chairs are provided by Ocean Hawks Rentals

Additionally, consider gold chargers and silver flatware on some tables. For others use white plates with gold accents and gold flatware.

On the other hand, have your florist include coordinating colored flowers. Furthermore, don’t forget to speak with your caterer to add your wedding colors into your food and beverage service.

wedding colors ideas for grey and yellow
gold charger with illuminating floral centerpiece
ways to use wedding colors of the year
add pops of color to wedding flowers
yellow mimosa for wedding colors ideas
wedding reception table centerpiece close up Bella Collina

Wedding Colors Ideas

Speak with your wedding professionals and ask them for advice on how to include your wedding colors within their product and services.

Below is a list of 10 easy ways to do just that during your cocktail hour and wedding reception:

  1. Florals; both centerpieces and décor
  2. Flatware and stemware
  3. Linens; both table and napkins
  4. Centerpieces including candles, vases and other décor items
  5. Chairs can be all the same or a mix of styles and colors
  6. Backdrops and seating areas
  7. Cocktail table linens and table décor
  8. A signature drink
  9. Dessert and food items
  10. Ask your vendors (like entertainment or your planner) to join in with matching clothing or accessories
behind the scenes with wedding planning and design
at last wedding and event design set reception table
wedding planner designs with pantone colors of the year 2021
saxaphone wedding entertainment Bella Collina Reflecting Pool

Contributing wedding professionals:
Photographer: Alexis Kline Photography
Videographer: Cinemology
Venue: Bella Collina
Rental Design: Ocean Hawks Rentals
Floral Design: In Bloom Florist
DJ: FyerFly Productions
Musician: RLE3 Music
Linen: Over The Top
Planner and Designer: At Last Wedding + Event Design
Event Host: I Said Yes! FL

same venue, two different looks

A wedding reception venue can be uniquely styled to match your wedding design. The same venue can look completely different depending on the décor and design. In this installment of our Florida Wedding Venue series, we look at Paradise Cove and two different holiday events.

Tucked away in a private corner of Lake Buena Vista, Paradise Cove is an idyllic oasis on the shores of Lake Bryan. Complete with white sandy beaches, swaying palms, and cypress trees. In addition, twinkling lights and tiki torches add to the magical glow of this secluded paradise.  The natural and scenic beauty of Lake Bryan creates a wonderful backdrop for the ultimate wedding in paradise. Continue reading to see how you can create this into your own personally designed paradise.

Chandeliers - crystal or floral?

Atmospheres Floral and Decor created two stunningly different looks with the chandeliers. First is a colorful array of florals and greenery suspended with-in gorgeous wooden chandeliers. Pulling in the bright wedding colors and the wooden elements, an almost boho-chic-modern holiday was fashioned. The chandeliers are complemented by a simple white celing drape. In contrast, the second option is adorned with crystals and lights to soften and light the ceiling. This elegant chandelier is the perfect option to compliment the-over-the-top floral ceiling installation. As a result, both options provide a completely different look and feel to this wedding reception venue.

talk about ceiling drama

We absolutely must stop to admire the floral ceiling installation completed by Atmospheres Floral and Décor in the photo on the right above. If you want a statement piece for your wedding reception venue décor – look up and dream big. You cannot go wrong with a floral installation. To sum up this wedding decoration option – go big and get married!

full floral ceiling installation at wedding reception venue

floral and décor at your Wedding REception VEnue

Work closely with your floral designer to pick the centerpieces and décor that best fit your style and budget. First choose the type of table and seating you want for your wedding reception guests. Do you want family style like the top row of photos below, or more intimate seating like the examples in the bottom row? Can’t decide – do some of both.

Second, choose your place settings and consider the amount of room each will consume on the table.

Lastly, balance the room. If you go big on the ceiling, balance it more simply on the table. If you go more simple on the ceiling – add more drama to your table. 

cake and dessert

Choose the cake or dessert option that appeals to your sweet tooth. For example, you like chocolate and your fiancé likes vanilla. That’s ok, get multiple flavors of cupcakes or different flavored tiers of cake.

Share your wedding style and décor options with your cake designer so your cake is a sweet compliment to your reception space.

In conclusion, when it comes to dessert, you can’t go wrong. The two styles featured here are simple cupcakes and a simple 3 tier cake with some flower drama.

entertain your guests

Your wedding reception is your time to celebrate love and happiness. Surprise your guests with live entertainment. If your wedding reception venue has space, the options are endless.

First start with your DJ to keep the party going all night and to control the energy in the room with the music selection.

Second provide a live entertainment performance that wows your guests. For example, the two events featured here had: Samba dancers by Spirit of Samba; an artist creating personalized wedding favors by Leo’z Arts & Photography Santa, Mrs. Claus and Elf provided by P.S. I Love You Productions; snow princess by Key Artist Group; and a champagne girl.

Santa Claus Makes Makes Appearance at Christmas Wedding Reception
ice princess serves ice cream at wedding reception
Mrs Claus, Elf and DJ entertain guests at wedding
Champagne girl entertains wedding guests at cocktail hour
Samba Dancer entertaining wedding guests
artist creating personalized wedding favors

To sum up, design your reception to match your unique wedding style. Each wedding reception venue can be decorated differently to show off you and your fiancé on your special day.  Whether you go big and dramatic or small and simple, at the end of the day, you have married your best friend. 

NAture sets the backdrop for your wedding

Nature sets the backdrop for your wedding. Florida is uniquely diversified in the types backdrops available. With 1,350 miles of coastline, 3,000 lakes, big cities, amusement parks, rolling hills, swamp and flat lands, the possibilities are endless.  However, we can’t forget that two-fifths of Florida’s land is considered farmland, and much of that being pasture. For example, take Lovelock Ranch. This family owned, working cattle farm is on Carlton Lake, just 30 minutes from Tampa.  It boasts a 5,000+ square foot barn with a modern Western aesthetic perfect for cocktail hour and reception. In addition, it has dreamy fields, cypress trees and a tee pee constructed of repurposed pine. This styled shoot is dripping with romantic charm, fall florals and an unexpected guest.

Florals set you apart

Blooming Flowers and Art created beautiful floral bridal hats. They are not only unique, but give that added flair of fall beauty. Similarly, they created a floral hoop instead of a traditional wedding bouquet style. As a result, these florals create a statement that represents you as the one-of-a-kind bride. Speak with your florist about creative ways to incorporate your personal style and uniqueness into your special day.

Unexpected guest

Surprise your wedding guests with a visit from an unexpected attendee. Fairytale Petcare are the handlers for this special guest – a llama.  That’s right, a llama made an appearance and the cuteness is on overload. Animal guests are trending at weddings, from llama’s, to sloths to beverage burrows. Many of these animals are rescues and they love the attention. Furthermore, they are adorable in your wedding photos.

wedding llama

make the food special too

Charcuterie boards and coffee – you can’t go wrong.  Make your wedding extra special by serving your guests some of your favorite things.  First, consider pleasing their pallets with a variety of cheeses, fruits and crackers at cocktail hour. These days you can even order individual charcuterie boxes for each guest. Second, choose food that represents you as a couple. Merge your favorite foods into a smorgasbord of courses so you each get something you enjoy. Lastly, don’t forget the dessert and coffee.  This 3 tier cake by  Tampa Bay Cake Company is sure to wow your guests. Most importantly, everything is made better with specialty coffee in to go cups.

chandeliers and sunset are a perfect backdrop

The stunning chandeliers inside the barn and the beautiful barn doors set a gorgeous backdrop for photos.  Almost as beautiful as the sunset over the fields with your new spouse and a llama.  Whatever type of Florida wedding venue you choose, make it uniquely you. Work with each of your wedding professionals to tell your love story the way you want it told.

sunset wedding with a llama

Thank you to the contributing wedding professionals:

Planning Coordinator: Wilder Mind Events
Photographers: Garry and Stacy Photography Co.
Venue: Lovelock Ranch
Cake: Tampa Bay Cake Company
Hair/Makeup: Just Beauty
Stationary/Placecards: Hey Hunn Paperie
Llama Handling: Fairytale Petcare
Men’s Suit: All Brides 2 Be
Dress: The Dressing Room St. Pete
Vintage Coffee Bar:  Cafe Al La Carte 
Cinema: JS Media
Cheese Board: Adored Boards
Models: @haley_dreamer @drewprobertson
Florist: Blooming Flowers and Art
Styling Accessories: ADR Decor
Harpist: Emma the Harpist
Furniture: Traditions Rentals
Linens: Elite Events and Rentals

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