Rustic Cross Creek Ranch Wedding near Tampa, Fl
Mandee and Christopher's Cross Creek Ranch wedding was full of rustic elements, including white lanterns adorning the large tree where they said their “I Do's,” a wooden guestbook and burlap runners with vintage clock centerpieces.
The bride chose light green bridesmaid dresses and white floral arrangements to complement her pastel colors.
Their cupcake dessert table was a showstopper, with a rustic, tree inspired wedding cake and Atlanta Braves groom's cake by Alessi Bakery.
What were the deciding factors for the venue you chose?
I knew I wanted to get married under a big tree, and I loved the rustic atmosphere at Cross Creek Ranch. It was the only place we looked.
There is an infinite amount of great things to say about this place. The fact that so much was included made planning easy for two busy people. They have everything planned out for you and guide you through the whole process. I appreciate that they took the time to secure great vendors, and I didn’t have to spend hours doing research and hoping that people pulled through.
Everyone at the Ranch was so nice and genuine. They truly care about making your experience as personal and special as possible.
MORE: CROSS CREEK RANCH WEDDINGS
How did you incorporate you and your husband's personalities into the wedding?
My husband and his groomsmen all had socks with their favorite team on them.
I skipped out on the typical wedding shoes and chose to wear peach ones with a cute floral detail. (I totally switched into wedges after the ceremony)
Also, instead of a more traditional song, we exited the ceremony to Dirty Water, the song the Red Sox play after every win.
How would you describe your theme? What made you choose it?
We had a rustic theme. I loved incorporating older items. I like that we were able to keep the wedding fairly relaxed with accents such as burlap and mason jars. Add in some lace and it’s still a wedding without looking too fussy.
MORE: RUSTIC TAMPA BAY WEDDINGS
What were your colors and why did you chose them?
Our colors were peaches, creams and light greens. I liked that at least one of the colors looked good on every skin tone. Also, I think the colors went well with an outdoor May wedding. They were natural and somewhat unique.
What elements of your wedding were the most important?
Family was the most important element. We actually had photos of all of our passed relatives displayed on a nice cabinet in the sitting area of the stable. It was a great personal touch and meant a lot to everyone.
“Alessi Bakery made a great groom’s cake that was delicious and also customized a dessert menu of mini items.” – The Bride
What made your wedding unique?
At the end of the night when everyone was getting their sparklers, we had our last dance with just the two of us and no one else in the barn. It was my favorite moment of the night.
What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay Brides?
Prepare yourself for rain, especially if you are getting married in the summer when there are so many pop up storms. The weather predictions will never be 100% accurate.
We were lucky enough to have the most perfect day, but I was prepared to have rain (and we did the three days before). That way if it doesn’t rain, it’s an extra gift, and if it does, you won’t have a melt down.
Also, don’t give too many details about the wedding to your guests. Let them be surprised. Our family and friends are still saying that it is the best wedding they have ever been to.
Wedding Venue: Cross Creek Ranch *Preferred Marry Me Tampa Bay Wedding Venue
Contact Cross Creek Ranch
Wedding Photographer: Regina as the Photographer
Wedding Florist: Alta Fleura
Wedding Caterer: Hungry Harry’s
Wedding Cake: Alessi Bakery *Preferred Marry Me Tampa Bay Wedding Vendor
Contact Alessi Bakery
Wedding Dress: Alfred Angelo
Wedding Hair & Makeup: Trend Studios (Orlando)
We are proud to have Cross Creek Ranch as a Marry Me Tampa Bay member!
