Zahra and Eric's Plant City wedding was a stunning celebration that included a vow exchange under a canopy of oak trees, followed by a romantic string-light outdoor reception in an antique wooden barn that complemented Florida's natural scenic beauty.
“Our theme was a simplistic whimsical garden style, as we love the outdoors. We used a color palette of blush, sage-green, ivory, and gold accents. I love light neutrals,” the bride shared. “I feel like this venue was very special, and not a lot of people know about it, but when the guest arrived, they fell in love with the place!”
MORE: WHIMSICAL WEDDING INSPIRATION
The Gainesville couple wanted to stay close to home for their wedding, and with both of their families living in Lakeland, this Plant City hidden gem was the perfect spot.
“For our venue, we wanted a place that was intimate and outdoorsy. We wanted a venue with a lot of trees and pretty landscapes for portraits,” Zahra explained. “Florida Rustic Barn Weddings was absolutely gorgeous! Trees completely surrounded their ceremony spot and that is what sold me on the venue. There was plenty of space for our guests as well, so nothing felt cramped. They were incredibly nice and knew exactly what they were doing.”
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While planning a reception for 125 of their closest friends and family, Zahra and Eric wanted a wedding menu that would remind them of home.
“We really wanted comfort food on our wedding day. We had chicken, mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables for a more comfort-food vibe,” the bride shared. “Catering by The Family was included in the all-inclusive package. Their service was exceptional and delicious! They were very professional and went the extra mile to put together a menu we both wanted.”
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Looking back on their wedding day, the couple cherished being able to stay in the moment because of their stress-free and enjoyable experience.
“My most memorable moment was seeing the ceremony set-up for the first time, it was absolutely breathtaking,” Zahra beamed. “Florida Rustic Barn Weddings offered an all-inclusive package that covered everything; the vendor team was professional and worked together so our wedding went smoothly.”
How would you describe your theme/wedding design inspiration?
A simplistic whimsical garden style as we love the outdoors.
What were your colors?
Blush, sage-green, ivory, and gold accents. I love light neutrals.
What did you look for in a wedding venue?
For our venue, we wanted a place that was intimate and outdoorsy. We wanted a venue with a lot of trees and pretty landscapes for portraits.
Florida Rustic Barn Weddings was absolutely gorgeous! Trees completely surrounded their ceremony spot and that is what sold me on the venue. I feel like this venue was very special, and not a lot of people know about it, but when the guest arrived, they fell in love with the place! There was plenty of space for our guests, so nothing felt cramped. They were incredibly nice and knew exactly what they were doing. Florida Rustic Barn Weddings offered an all-inclusive package that covered everything; the vendor team was professional and worked together so our wedding went smoothly.
The Proposal:
Eric proposed in the middle of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium at the University of Florida my senior year in college. I was totally shocked!
What was your wedding menu inspiration?
We really wanted comfort food on our wedding day. We had chicken and mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a more comfort food vibe.
Catering by The Family was included in the all-inclusive package. Their service was exceptional and delicious! They were very professional and went the extra mile to put together a menu we both wanted.
What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay couples?
Just be in the moment. Things will go wrong but focus on the fact that you are marrying the love of your life, and it will be the best day ever. Rain or shine!
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Florida Rustic Barn Weddings at Praire Glenn Barn *Marry Me Tampa Bay Preferred Wedding Venue
Photographer: Emma Anne Photo
Videographer: Ryan Edwards
Caterer: Catering by the Family *Marry Me Tampa Bay Preferred Wedding Pro
Cake: Petite Madelyn
DJ: Celebrations of Tampa Bay
Invitations: Minted
Dress Shop: The White Magnolia Bridal Collection
Bridesmaid Dress: Designer Show Me Your MuMu
Hair & Makeup: Jordan Kicklighter Beauty