This Summer Wedding Florida is one the wedding guests won’t soon forget. Start with gorgeous views of the ocean. Next add in some fun antics by the family. Include special gifts. Then finish with the bride being the DJ. Certainly these elements helped Adriana and Matt have their perfect wedding.

bride and groom have perfect wedding in Key Biscayne Miami

Special Gifts and First Looks

This bride and groom presented each other with special and memorable wedding day gifts. That is to say, Adriana gifted Matt a pair of monogrammed sterling silver Tiffany cufflinks. Similarly, Matt surprised Adriana with a thoughtful and unique sound wave print of their wedding song, “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran.

The photographer, Laiacona Photography and Design, captured the first look.  That is to say, a sweet moment of Adriana sneaking quietly behind Matt on the lawn under the sun.

groom opens special gift from bride at Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne
monogramed cuff links for grooms wedding suit
customized wedding day sign at summer wedding Florida
bride and groom sneak peak at Florida summer wedding

Ultimate Summer Wedding Florida

The gorgeous backdrop of this real wedding is compliments of the Atlantic Ocean. Seventy five of the couples closest family and friends joined them on the lawn of the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne Miami, FL. Here they witnessed Adriana and Matt say I DO under the swaying palm trees. And not forgetting the calming music of the crashing waves.

summer wedding Florida has gorgeous views for photos of bride
views of ocean at summer wedding Florida

We must pause here and look at the stunning veil blowing in the sea breeze. Certainly the bride chose the perfect veil for this Summer wedding Florida. Without a doubt the photographer captured this photo at precisely the right moment. 

Under The Veil and family antics

Speaking of the veil… the photographer, Laiacona Photography and Design said, “We loved capturing their timeless yet beachy portraits including romantic under the veil shots.”

under the veil photo by Laiacona Photography
bride and groom photo black and white by Laiacona Photography
red and blue smoke bombs at Summer wedding Florida

Further, the photographer said, “Our favorite moment during the wedding was when Adriana’s brother and sister ran around with red and blue smoke bombs for visual effects. Inspired idea by the videographer, Joseph Pineiro. Great fun wedding photo idea and perfect for the wedding video!” 

Florida summer wedding couple hangs with DJ Gannon Events

The new Mr. & Mrs. danced on the clouds during their first dance. Continuing the fun throughout the night. For instance, Adriana took her “turn” on the tables, impressing DJ Lance of Gannon Events.

This couple loves to travel and we wish them many happy adventures together. Bon Voyage Adriana and Matt.

dancing on a cloud on I Said Yes! blog about summer wedding Florida

Contributing Vendors to the Summer Wedding Florida

Wedding Venue : Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami
Photographer: Tony Laiacona, Laiacona Photography & Design
Videographer: Joe Pineiro Films
Florist: Bayfront Floral and Event Design
DJ / Emcee / Lighting: Gannon Events

For more Real Wedding Inspiration, Click Here

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

This downtown Tampa wedding is draped in layers of emerald green with the beautiful city as a backdrop. In fact, it was an absolutely gorgeous day for Carrie and Jimmy to celebrate their love with friends and family.

wedding Party in emerald green, photo by Carrie Wildes Photography

Groom gets special treatment

Before the wedding, the groom set-up a private haircut service. That is to say, his barber made a house call to give him and his groomsmen fresh haircuts. No doubt this special treatment prepared Jimmy for his big day ahead.

groom gets private haircut before wedding day
groom gets ready before downtown Tampa wedding

After getting ready, the groomsmen enjoyed a few drinks to celebrate the groom. Additionally, Jimmy checked his watch as he patiently awaited the wedding day first look with his soon to be wife.

groom waits patiently for first look
groom shares toast with groomsmen before wedding
grooms has help getting ready on inspo blog on I Said Yes! FL

The bride

Similarly, the bride had a custom monogrammed robe to wear during her pre-wedding prep.  Hair and make up by Femme Akoi.  Additionally the back of Carrie’s dress was all lace. Paired with gorgeous Louboutin shoes and a diamond necklace and earrings. Without a doubt Jimmy is going to be wow’ d when he sees her. A few moments were also enjoyed laughing and smiling with her bridesmaids before her first look with her soon to be husband. 

bride wears monogrammed robe
brides shoes and accessories for wedding day
mom of bride helps bride get ready at Downtown Tampa wedding
the bride and her bridesmaids in emerald green gowns

In line with the wedding colors, the bridesmaids wore emerald green dresses. Also they carried bouquets of soft blush, white and greenery created by FH Events

Downtown Tampa Wedding First Look

And then it was time for the wedding day first look on the Riverwalk in Downtown Tampa. The photographer, Carrie Wildes Photography, says “It’s always such a fun moment to setup and photograph as it unfolds. There were definitely some tears. Subsequently you can always see the nerves just fall away.”

bride and groom first look with Tampa Bay in background
couple smiles in downtown tampa wedding on I Said Yes! Blog
bride approaches groom for first look at Downtown Tampa wedding
bride and groom wedding day first look
wedding day first look in downtown Tampa FL

THE Cutest Little Ring Bearers

Carrie and Jimmy’s two boys, were the cutest little ring bearers. Above all the couple tied the knot at a lovely ceremony with the water as the backdrop. 

grooms sons are ring bearers and junior groomsmen
bride and groom during a downtown Tampa wedding ceremony

Downtown tampa wedding reception

This Downtown Tampa wedding reception was decorated with emerald linens, glass and white and blush florals. Carrie’s mom actually made all the table number holders out of wine corks. Certainly a favorite element was the custom bobble heads for their cake table. Likewise the wedding favors were a bag of coffee that said “the perfect blend”. Also a hand sanitizer that said “quarantined for life.” 

 

wedding reception table at Downtown Tampa Wedding
emerald green linens with gold charger on reception table
custom wedding cake topper on wedding cake
wedding favors at downtown Tampa wedding
custom made reception table numbers

Meanwhile the bridal party made a pretty fantastic entrance. All the while the gorgeous Tampa sun set in the background for all the dances and toasts.

bridal party makes a grand entrance to reception
bride and groom enter wedding reception in style
Downtown Tampa Wedding with sunset in the background
toasting the couple at the head table

Bouquet Toss for Two

For the bouquet toss, Carrie acted like she was going to throw it, and then didn’t. Instead she grabbed another bouquet and handed them to two of her bridesmaids. Certainly because they are getting married next.

To read more about this wedding, visit Carrie Wildes Photography Blog.

To see more Real Wedding Inspiration, go to the I Said Yes! Weding Inspo Blog.

Below are the wedding vendors who helped create Carrie and Jimmy’s dream wedding:

Venue: The Tampa Club
Hotel: Aloft Tampa Downtown
Coordination: Confetti Events
Florist: FH Events
Band: Matt Winter
Hair and Makeup: Femme Akoi
Photography: Carrie Wildes Photography
Video: Pier Seven Productions
Wedding Gown Boutique: Ivory and Lace Bridal
Cake: Publix
Bridesmaids Dresses: Birdy Grey
Tuxes: Suit Supply
Stationery: Minted

Make it a #9 Please

The wedding bouquet toss is a tradition that is still performed at today’s weddings.  Therefore, we cannot feature this real wedding of Kendall and Tyler without highlighting this moment of their wedding day.  First, during her speech, the maid of honor mentioned her favorite meal, often enjoyed with the bride. Then, right before the wedding bouquet toss, she handed the wedding planner a bag of #9 meals from McDonalds. That is to say, a Filet-O-Fish meal.  Apparently the aforementioned favorite meal was said Filet-O-Fish from McDonalds. Hence the bouquet toss of Filet-O-Fish meals for the girls.

Filet-O-Fish wedding bouquet toss
wedding bouquet toss by bride at Opal Sands
bride does wedding bouquet toss at Clearwater FL wedding

Of course, after a few laughs, the bride continued on with the traditional wedding bouquet toss.

Now back to the beginning

Special Moments Event Planning assisted this Florida couple with full-service wedding planning. In contrast to the surprise wedding bouquet toss, the ceremony was elegant and beautiful. Start with the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico as the backdrop. Next add the white sands of the Clearwater, FL beach. Further, white garden chairs with gold lanterns and white rose petals as décor. As a result, the perfect scene was set for a lovely beach wedding.

beach ceremony / beach wedding on Clearwater Beach
lantern and florals wedding decor

Before walking down the aisle. The couple enjoyed precious time with their attendants and family. As you can see the bride spent time with her mother getting ready. Likewise the groom and his father. 

Mom of Bride helps bride get ready at Opal Sands
Mom of the Bride helps bride get ready
Father of the Groom helps groom get ready for wedding day
groom wears navy and tan

Certainly the couple also had some pre-wedding fun with their attendants.  That is to say, a round or two of shots.

wedding day prep with shots
Pre-wedding shots with bridesmaids

NAvy, White and Gold

From the invitations to the wedding reception tables, the navy, white and gold wedding colors were perfectly reflected. Especially in the invitations with the navy paper and gold accents. Of course the bride’s stunning gown with spaghetti straps and high leg slit took center stage. Additionally the wedding bouquets of white orchids and garden roses were set off by the bridesmaids navy gowns. The men wore tan suits with navy vests and ties. In contrast, the groom wore a navy suit with tan vest and navy tie. Accordingly, the white sand beaches and blue ocean put the finishing touches on this elegant beachside wedding at Opal Sands Resort

It's in the details with wedding planning by Special Moments Event Planning
wedding bouquets by The Brides Bouquet
wedding reception table setting Clearwater FL
Bride with wedding bouquet
groom and his groomsmen

First Looks

Kendall and Tyler chose a first look before the ceremony. Many couples use this as an opportunity to shake off the wedding day nerves. Additionally it allows for a few private moments together to reflect on the ceremony ahead.

wedding day first look photo by Kristen Marie Photography
emotional wedding day first look

Furthermore Kendall chose a first look with her father. 

Father of the Bride first look

The Ceremony

Unquestionably, tying the knot on a beach, with the sun and ocean behind. With the love of your life in front of you. And your friends and family surrounding you. Adds up to the perfect wedding day.

wedding ceremony at Clearwater Beach Opal Sands Hotel
Clearwater Beachside wedding

Before the party

Wedding photographer, Kristen Marie Photography, used the setting sun to capture memories for a lifetime for Kendall and Tyler. 

wedding day on Clearwater Beach

party time

Time to celebrate. That is to say, first dances, food service and cake cutting. And of course the wedding bouquet toss. The wedding reception began with a first dance by the newlyweds. Followed by a delicious meal prepared by the staff at Opal Sands Resort. Likewise a modern, smooth finish cake created by The Artistic Wish, with simple navy accents and fresh florals. Obviously we can’t end this post without re-mentioning the surprise wedding bouquet toss.  How about those #9 meals of Filet-O-Fish. Finally, the bride’s doggie best friend was in attendance as well. We wish Kendall and Tyler a lifetime of wedded happiness. 

Wedding professionals who contributed to creating the best day ever for Kendall and Tyler:

Wedding Planner: Special Moments Event Planning
Venue: Opal Sands Resort
Ceremony / Cocktail Hour Violinist: SRQ Violinist
Floral Design: The Brides Bouquet
Officiant: Sensational Ceremonies
Photography: Kristen Marie Photography
DJ: Grant Hemond & Associates
Rentals: Gabro Event Services
Photo Booth: Southern Event Rentals
Linens: Connie Duglin Linen Rentals
Wedding Cake: The Artistic Whisk
Welcome Party Lighting: Mobile Wind
Welcome Party Entertainment: Caladesi Steel Band

For more wedding inspiration, go to the I Said Yes! Wedding Inspo Blog.

cathedral wedding veil

wedding veil adds so much drama to wedding dress

As a little girl, Chelsea dreamed about a big, beautiful wedding. Complete with a gorgeous wedding dress. Most importantly, a sparkling cathedral veil.  As a result, she ordered a custom veil from Sorelle Vita Couture. In fact, Sorelle Vita Couture says, the wedding veil is one of the most, if not the most, important bridal accessory to wear on your wedding day. It adds the extra special touch that transforms you from a beautiful woman in a beautiful dress to a beautiful bride.

St. Augustine Sets The BAckdrop

Michael and Chelsea were married on January 31, 2021 in St. Augustine, FL. Moreover it was the last night of St. Augustine’s famous “Nights of Lights“. Therefore the town was beautifully lit up and created a stunning backdrop for this dream wedding exit. Chelsea says it was “the perfect blend of elegance and winter wonder”.  Additionally, the ceremony and reception took place inside The Treasury on the Plaza.  Further adding to the dreamy elements of this wedding with the classic details of the 100-year-old art-deco era building. 

sparkler exit from The Vault wedding day
bride and groom at St. Augustine nights of lights
bride and groom ride away under St Augustine Nights of Lights

Ceremony and REception

The happy couple said the venue was a bridal dream. That is to say, it offers state of the art event features while simultaneously maintaining the historic charm of one of St. Augustine, FL’s prized landmarks. Chelsea cried when she walked through the doors of the private reception room reveal. Speaking of crying, how touching is the groom crying when he sees his beautiful bride for the first time walking down the aisle. 

wedding reception tables at The Vault St Augustine
cathedral wedding veil adds extra drama to wedding dress
Bride cries when she sees wedding reception room reveal at The Vault
wedding dress and cathedral Veil by Sorelle Couture Veils
bride enters ceremony with Father of The Bride and Wedding Veil following behind
grooms reaction to bride entering ceremony

one perfect, magical evening

According to the bride, planning a wedding during a pandemic was challenging and emotionally draining at times. That is to say, feeling uncertain about last minute guest cancellations. Then questioning how months of distance planning would come together. Indeed loosing sleep at night. Further Chelsea says, somehow, the wedding coordinator and the entire Treasury Team found a way to make us feel so special. Our bridal party and guests were made to feel safe and the venue made it possible for everyone to briefly forget the craziness of the pandemic for one perfect, magical evening.

Wedding Veil Perfection

The cathedral wedding veil was very important to this special bride. As aforementioned, it was part of her childhood dream. We cannot end this blog without again showing off this stunning custom veil and sharing Chelsea’s touching words. “11 months of planning and agonizing over little details transformed into something more enchanting than I ever could have imagined. There are no words, I’m still speechless.”

wedding dress and wedding veil make grand revel to Father of the Bride

Wedding Experts who helped this beautiful couple create their dream wedding:

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Treasury on the Plaza
Wedding Coordinator:  Coastal Coordinating 
Officiant: Miss Patricia Febro
Caterer:  Moore Fine Foods
DJ:  White Tie Events
Ceremony Music (String Trio): String Theory Music 
Rentals: Mugwump ProductionsSt. Johns IlluminationsConnie Duglin Linen
Cake: Sweet Weddings Cakes
Florist: Jade Violet Wedding & Event Floral
Photographer: Bow Tie Photo & Video 
Videographer: The Richards Photo & Cinema
Live Wedding Painter: Event Painting by Jamie
Hair & Makeup: The Bardot Bridal
Transportation: Country Carriages
Custom Veil: Sorelle Vita Couture
Dress: Essence of Australia Style D2770
Bridesmaid Dresses: Sorella Vita 
Dress Shop: Nicole Maree Bridal

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

Live wedding music adds a personal touch to your special day.  Consider live entertainment for your wedding ceremony, transitions, cocktail hour, dinner and reception. Providing entertainment for your wedding guests is more than an experience. In short, it’s also a thank you for being part of your best day ever. We consulted with Andrea Rowlison of Music Remembrance for advice on being more creative with powerful live wedding music.

Live Wedding Music options

Ceremony Music

Live entertainment at your wedding ceremony is perhaps the most traditional and popular way to incorporate your personal style. The performers or instruments you choose put your personal stamp on the entire ceremony. 

For your walk down the aisle there is nothing more elegant  than processing to the music of live instruments.  You can choose a classic string quartet performing grand and graceful classical music. Or a string quartet performing your favorite punk rock songs.  In fact, the sky is the limit for the kind of music and the variety of ensembles available.  Professional ensembles will be able to fill requests for any song or music style.  Andrea says in Central Florida, the options are endless. First trombone choir, saxophone with guitar or swing band. Then Irish fiddler, Italian opera vocalist or accordion. Further mandolin and almost anything else you can dream of. 

Here are some suggestions to help you choose the perfect option for your live wedding music:

  1. Violin
  2. String Quarter, Trio or Duo
  3. Violin, Guitar and Upright Bass String Trio. This ensemble performs everything from classical and Irish to country and heavy  metal
  4. Brass Quintet or Brass Quartet
  5. Fanfare Trumpets. Great for a dramatic fanfare before the bride walks down the aisle. Not suited for long melodic songs.
  6. Small Orchestra or Symphony Orchestra. The couple looking for something dramatic and original should consider an orchestra. That is to say the sound of an orchestra cannot be outdone.
  7. Guitar
  8. Organ or Piano
  9. Harp
  10. Flute
  11. Vocalist
  12. Themed ensemble

live entertainment for wedding day transitions

Wedding day transitions are when you move from one part of the event to another.  As an example, moving the guests from the ceremony to the cocktail hour. Couple this movement with a parade of live performers and you are sure to have a dramatic flare. Additionally a parade into or out of the ceremony will provide a memorable moment for your wedding guests. Of course there is the New Orleans Style Parade Band. But have you considered these options – marching band, flash mob, dance troupe or even a drum line. Additionally a fanfare of trumpets to announce that dinner is being served. 

live music and parade for wedding reception

Cocktail Hour

Imagine your guests sipping cocktails and enjoying appetizers. Add to that a live musician or music ensemble.  Now you have created an atmosphere to match your wedding style. Along with any of the aforementioned musical options, there are also strolling violinist, jazz pianist and singers. Further this experience by providing unique live musical entertainment. For instance, Italian musicians to enhance Italian food or wedding theme. Similarly, a French duo to enhance a French wedding theme. Last, but not least, a Dixieland band for Great Gatsby theme.

Entertainment does not have to specifically be musicians. As an example, live artist painting scenes from the cocktail hour or caricature artist. But wait, there is more.  For instance, live cocktail tables (women with large table-like skirts with cocktails) and character actors mingling with guests and posing for pictures.

Champagne girl entertains wedding guests at cocktail hour
live wedding painter

During Dinner Service

During dinner live entertainment sets the perfect tone. Keep it in the background with soft music by a combination group. So as not to disturb dinner service and conversation.  On the flip side, a full dinner show with a big band with singer or a band with a celebrity or celebrity impersonator. In fact, you can have a dinner theater. Or even a mystery dinner show.  

live wedding music during Reception

Your wedding reception is the time to let loose and have fun with your guests. Choose unique entertainment like a disco band or sock hop band. Speak with your performers in advance to ensure they can play all your favorite dance songs.

live wedding music ensemble

The Big Surprise

Surprise your loved ones with a singing telegram with custom song lyrics. Have it presented to your parents or loved ones during the rehearsal dinner, wedding dinner or reception. Thus providing an unforgettable “thank you”. Indeed there will not be a dry eye in the house.  Want to do something extra special for your new spouse?  A surprise romantic serenade of a song written for them will be personal and magical.

romantic serenade for live wedding music
live wedding music guitarist

Be Creative

Be original. Choose a music style that reflects you. Country, classical and jazz to name just a few. Additionally, mix it up by having your live wedding music style played by non-traditional instruments. 

Real Wedding Examples

Andrea shares this special request story. Music Remembrance was asked to recreate the wedding scene from “Love Actually”.   The musicians stood up and joined in one by one performing the song “All You Need Is Love”.  It’s been several years since this wedding, but I’m sure their guests remember that unique performance! Similarly she shares this story about dancers. “One of the most breathtaking weddings that I ever performed for had an elegantly dressed dance troupe performing in the church aisles.  They danced to a brass quintet performing ‘Simple Gifts’ with beautifully colored scarves that flowed in the lights.  At the end of the ceremony the dancers led the bride, groom and wedding party down the aisle down dancing with tall dancing colorful kites to joyful pipe organ music.” 
On a smaller scale, a solo dancer is a really memorable and beautiful dancing to special music. 

dancers as live entertainment for wedding ceremony
live entertainment for weddings dancers Orlando

Using live entertainment at weddings is a great way to personalize your wedding day.  A dramatic walk down the aisle to a chamber orchestra or a cool jazz atmosphere for your cocktail hour can make your day truly personal and memorable for your guests. Choose the live entertainment that best reflects your personals style as a couple and create an atmosphere that your wedding guests will remember for years to come.

For more wedding planning inspiration and ideas, visit the I Said Yes! Wedding Inspo Blog

Blog contributor. Andrea Rowlison, Music Coordinator/Owner of Music Remembrance. Provider of professional musicians, bands and music ensembles for weddings, events, musical serenades and singing telegrams in Florida.

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

Real Advice from a real couple

Planning your wedding can be overwhelming and even tricky at times.  So many decisions to make and so many options available. But don’t worry. We have advice for you.  This couple who has been there and done that. Introducing, Sarah-Ann and Alfie. They share their wedding and their wedding planning advice.

bride and groom standing in st augustine church

Starting with the date

How do you pick the date? Do you choose the day you went on your first date? How about a lucky number combination like 2-22-22 or your favorite holiday. Sarah-Ann and Alfie chose the day they first met and their favorite holiday – October 31st. Sarah-Ann says, “We wanted our Hallowedding to feel like a fun and spooky Halloween party and our coordinator, of Costal Coordinating, and her team definitely helped to make that idea come to life!” 

choosing colors

To play to the theme, floral arrangements were created in Halloween colors. In the same vein, orange linens added a bright pop of color. Similarly, the bridesmaids wore juniper green dresses. Green also happens to be the groom’s favorite color. Meanwhile the groom and groomsmen wore navy suits. As a result, the suits became the running gag.  Due to the fact that several of the groom’s closest friends were married in the suits they wore to the wedding. Sarah-Ann wore a traditional white wedding dress.

purple orange and white wedding bouquets
bride with bridesmaids wearing green dresses
black table linen to set bright wedding colors
orange linen to match halloween theme wedding
groom and groomsmen wearing navy suits
skull place card holders for halloween wedding

The Venue

Planning your wedding should actually start with the wedding venue. Even though Central Florida alone has over 400 venues, many of the most popular locations sell out of weekend dates.  Therefore, be sure you have a signed contract with your venue securing your date before you send out your save the dates.

Alfie and Sarah-Ann chose The Treasury on The Plaza in St. Augustine, FL. This happy couple chose their venue mainly based off of how beautiful the vault and cathedral ballroom are. To make a special moment for the couple, the coordinator brought them into the reception area prior to guest arrival. Sarah-Ann said, “It was amazing to see our ideas come to life and it looked better than we imagined.” Likewise, they created a special moment for their guests by coming out of the hidden vault instead of through the main entrance.

Add your Special Touches

Add your personal details to your wedding. Make it special and memorable for you and your guests.  For instance, this couple asked their couples to attend in costume in celebration of the theme. They wanted to have a fun and spooky wedding rather than the traditional style. In addition, the bridesmaids are the sisters of the bride and the maid of honor is the bride’s best friend since high school. In the same vein, the groomsmen are all old college roommates.

wedding guests wear halloween costumes

wedding planning advice from the couple

This couple has 6 pieces of wedding planning advice:

  1. Check to see if your venue has a preferred vendor list. This is often a list of highly recommended vendors who also know the venue and it’s team really well. In short, they will help create a more seamless wedding day.
  2. Wedding planning can be intense. They suggest you slow down. In addition, plan thoroughly, so on your wedding day, you can just enjoy yourselves.
  3. Buy a book that allows you to write down and compare different vendors. The one Sarah-Ann and Alfie purchased also had suggested questions to ask. Many were questions they had not thought of.
  4. Research vendors, inspiration, ideas and tips on wedding planning resource websites like I Said Yes! FL.
  5. Let your wedding planner take the reigns. You hired them to coordinate your wedding, let go and let them do what they are trained to do.
  6. Trust your vendors to perform the job you hired them to do. They will make your day amazing.

participating wedding vendors

Married in Little Italy

Laura and James got married on July 17, 2020 with an Intimate Wedding in Little Italy.  That is to say, Maggiano’s Little Italy in Pointe Orlando.  This Florida wedding venue’s goal is to “make people feel special.” What better way to make people feel special, than on their wedding day. The ceremony, reception and photos all took place in and around this unique local wedding venue. 

A Florida Wedding Venue with a little of Italy
Maggiano's Little Italy Wedding

Small in size, big on memories

The couple kept the guest list small and intimate.  However, the memories are huge.  The big day began in the Maggiano’s hiding rooms. This is where the bride and groom got dressed and prepared for their special day.  Once dressed, James went outside on International Drive and the photographers of Steven Miller Photography prepared him for the first look. 

Once James was ready, Laura walked out.  Then she tapped James on the shoulder.  After that, he turned around and saw his beautiful bride for the first time on their wedding day. They then shared a sweet moment.  A memory captured by the photographers.  After wiping away a few tears, the bridal party joined the fun.  The small and intimate bridal party, was big on fun and even bigger on memories.  Pointe Orlando and International Drive provided the backdrop for capturing bridal party and personal portraits.

time for ceremony and reception

After the outdoor bridal party photos, it was time to go back inside for the indoor wedding ceremony. The ceremony took place inside Maggiano’s Little Italy. It was officiated by their close, personal friend.  After the ceremony, the photographers captured family portraits. Then on to the reception with food, dessert and dancing.

Maggiano’s provided a delicious meal for the wedding guests. Meanwhile, the newlyweds shared a dessert cutting.  The photographer said this couple was so fun to photograph.  Everyone in their party was extremely genuine and sweet.  They wish Laura and James the very best.

Photographers with a purpose

Steven Miller Photography is a photography company with a purpose.  They give each of their couples a sapling, small tree, to plant in celebration of their special day. Their team motto is Look Good, Feel Good, Do Good.  They cannot wait to see “James’s bonsai skills pay off with his Bald Cypress Tree soon.”

Wedding Day Contributors:
Photography - Steven Miller Photography
Venue - Maggiano's Little Italy Orlando
Floral - Southern Blooms Co
Suit - Apt 9
Hair and Makeup - B U 4 Me Services
Flower Girl Dress - Abao Wedding

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