Megan and Parker’s classic Lakeland wedding was an elegant affair adorned with white flowers and cascading greenery set at a historic venue with Italian, Renaissance-style architecture that focused on the guest experience.
“We wanted our day to be classic and elegant, as we are both very classic people. There were lots of whites and bright whites to give a timeless feel and to complement the greenery and gold in the wedding,” the bride shared. “We are from Lakeland, and we loved the lake view at the venue.”
The Lakeland couple planned their April celebration in only four months and selected Carrie Wildes Photography to capture the stunning details of their big day. From the bride’s family traditions to the sparkler sendoff with the final kiss of the night, every frame of love was secured.
“We wanted bright and sharp pictures and did not want a rustic or edited feel to the photos,” the bride explained. “As soon as we told our wedding planner what we wanted in a photographer, she told us about Carrie Wildes. I looked her up and fell in love with her pictures. We loved working with her!”
Megan looked timeless in a long sleeve gown with delicate lace details and an open back covered in the same intricate beading and lace. Her train featured beautiful stitchwork that cascaded behind her as she walked down the aisle where her soon-to-be husband was waiting in front of a picturesque lake backdrop. She wore a dime in her wedding shoe for good luck passed down through multiple generations of her family. Though the dime is now worn and faded, the love behind the gesture is never-ending. Before the ceremony, Megan read a handwritten note from the original owner. “My father gave me this dime to put in my slipper the night of my wedding.” Sept. 18, 1912.
The couple rented grand décor to match their striking flower arrangements which complemented the delicate details of lace and softness throughout. The bridesmaids wore different styles of blush gowns, while the groomsmen donned classic tuxedoes. Softly lit candles at varying heights were nestled in garlands of greenery and bright white flowers. The flames danced off the dainty gold flatware alongside gold chargers with gold-framed table numbers providing an air of elegance. While the décor gave the decadent venue an Old World feel, everything fit perfectly with the sophistication of the wedding.
Being hospitable hosts was a priority for the couple, who made sure their 102 guests enjoyed the food and entertainment. They served everything from charcuterie boards and flatbread pizza as finger foods and ended the evening with mini eclairs and macaroons for dessert. Their distinguished two-tier white cake, which was adorned with white flowers, sat atop an elegant gold stand and matched the classic theme.
“We are big foodies and wanted the food to be amazing. However, we also made sure we were able to get everyone dancing,” the bride shared.
To achieve this, Megan and Parker worked with Lakeland’s premier wedding DJ, Graingertainment, who met their expectations and beyond.
“We wanted someone who would be entertaining and play what we wanted. We heard great things about Graingertainment, and we loved them! We were able to get everyone dancing!” the bride gushed.
Looking back, the bride and groom reflected on a day that showcased their personalities. The dainty details mixed with the larger-than-life architecture and floral arrangements gave them memories to last a lifetime.
“Some of the most memorable moments included our cake cutting and seeing the room all done up for the first time, but the moment I’ll never forget is seeing each other while walking down the aisle,” Megan reminisced.
How would you describe your theme/wedding design inspiration and colors?
Classic and elegant. Bright white, green, and gold.
The Proposal:
Parker proposed in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.
What did you look for in a wedding photographer?
We wanted bright and sharp pictures and did not want a rustic or edited feel to the photos.
As soon as we told our wedding planner what we wanted in a photographer, she told us about Carrie Wildes Photography. I looked her up and fell in love with her pictures. We loved working with Carrie!
Where did you host your bachelorette party?
Disney! I love Disney and so do my bridesmaids.
Where did you spend your honeymoon?
Disney, because we both love Disney!
What did you look for in a wedding DJ?
We wanted someone who would be entertaining and play what we wanted. We heard great things about Graingertainment, and we loved them! We were able to get everyone dancing!
What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay couples?
Having a wedding planner is so helpful because they will keep the planning on track and the day of the wedding running smoothly.
