Kristina and Alex's waterfront downtown Tampa wedding was all about enjoying the best Florida has to offer. The Memphis, Tennessee couple knew they wanted to get married near the water, but ended up getting married on the water!
“We decided to go with the Yacht StarShip because it was outdoor and on the water,” the bride shared. “Being on a yacht and sailing around Tampa Bay made it memorable and unique for not only us, but all of our guests.”
The destination wedding couple also enjoyed the comprehensive services offered by the all-inclusive wedding venue.
“We liked that most things were included: ceremony/reception in one place, food and drinks, DJ, coordinator and setup/cleanup,” Kristina explained. “During the ceremony and reception, the level of service exceeded our expectations. The coordinator Christine was quick to respond to all of our wants and needs.
It was important to the couple to honor Alex's Jewish traditions, including getting married under the chuppah and the breaking of the glass. To celebrate their love for literature and personalize their ceremony, a passage from the book Les Miserablés was read to fit their personal style.
The nautical themed wedding incorporated a bright, jewel toned color palette for the couple's waterfront Tampa wedding, with deep purple bridesmaid dresses and vibrant bouquets.
“Our colors were navy, fuchsia and purple. I chose them because I have always thought they are beautiful together, and they worked well for a fall wedding,” the bride shared.
Looking back, some of Kristina's most cherished memories occurred during the reception.
“One of the most memorable moments was the speeches made by my sister, Alyssa, who was the maid of honor, and by Alex's brother Jason, the best man. During both speeches, we and all of our guests were laughing and in tears. Another memorable moment was my father/daughter dance as this was a special moment for both of us. Finally, dancing with everyone at night over the water was unforgettable. Everyone was having a great time, which is just what we had hoped for,” the bride reminisced.
The Proposal:
Alex proposed by playing guitar and singing our favorite song, Stand By Me. He adapted the lyrics to Marry Me and got down on one knee. He then told me to pack my bags because we would be staying at the Madison Hotel in Downtown Memphis and said he had many other surprises in store for the night. These included champagne, roses, cheese and crackers waiting at the hotel, a limousine ride to our favorite dinner spot, and late night cocktails on the hotel rooftop.
What did you look for in a wedding venue?
We decided to go with The Yacht Starship because it was outdoor and on the water. Being on a yacht and sailing around Tampa Bay made it memorable and unique for not only us, but all of our guests.We also liked that most things were included: ceremony/reception in one place, food and drinks, a DJ, a coordinator and setup/cleanup.
I want to learn more about weddings on the Yacht StarShip.
The service of the Yacht was impeccable! The coordinator Christine was quick to respond and all of our wants and needs. During the ceremony and reception, the level of service exceeded our expectations. There were plenty of staff to accommodate any needs. The Yacht was responsive and attentive from the time we booked until the end of the wedding. Service was quick and all of our guests commented on how delicious the food was and how friendly the staff was.
How would you describe your theme/wedding design inspiration?
We originally hadn't planned a theme, but since we decided to get married on the yacht, we went with a nautical theme.
What were your colors ?
Jewel tones: navy, fuchsia and purple. I chose these colors because I have always thought they are beautiful together, and they worked well for a fall wedding.
Ceremony/Reception Venue, Caterer, DJ and Officiant: The Yacht Starship *Marry Me Tampa Bay Preferred Wedding Venue
Photographer: Rising Lotus Photography
Florist: Brides N Blooms
Cake: Chantilly Cakes
Invitations: Envelopments
Dress Shop and Designer: The Perfect Dress Sarasota – Maggie Sottero
Bridesmaid Dress Shop and Designer: David's Bridal
Menswear: Men's Wearhouse
Hair & Makeup: Beautiful You
Chuppah Rental: Rent My Wedding
