Claribel and JC's luxurious St. Pete Beach wedding featured a modern, timeless candlelit ballroom ceremony and reception filled with romantic florals and a rooftop cocktail hour overlooking the sunset views of the Gulf of Mexico.
“I really wanted our wedding to be clean and crisp. I wanted that ‘wow' factor when you walked in. I wanted a lot of white but didn’t want roses, and I love white orchids. Our wedding was timeless, sophisticated, and classy,” the bride explained. “I had my bridesmaids in emerald green, which was rich and timeless, and we integrated the green into the invitations and menus. I wanted white and gold, which went really well with the green.”
The Tampa couple selected the historic Don CeSar as their wedding venue due to its pristine grounds, picturesque beachfront location, and its iconic architectural design. They believed it was the perfect location to host their 100 guests with its convenient access to everything St. Pete Beach has to offer.
“We had family and friends that were coming from out of town, so we needed to find a place that was timeless, sophisticated, and able to accommodate our guests. We wanted a place that was beautiful and had character,” Claribel revealed. “The Don CeSar's service was great. The hotel is a landmark, and they were amazing in assisting us.”
The Jewish wedding ceremony and reception were a true display of luxury and elegance. The decor was centered around an abundance of white flowers, with orchids being the star of the show.
The vows were exchanged in a candlelit ballroom room, with acrylic ghost chairs and a chuppah that radiated under the soft glow of the candles. The reception tables were a sight to behold, with emerald green menus adding a pop of color, tall floral centerpieces towering over the guests, and a sweetheart table that was enveloped in a sea of flowers. The overall effect was breathtaking, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
The fall reception was as beautiful as it was lively, with showstopping entertainers and interactive performances. As Claribel thought back on her favorite moment of the day, she realized every moment was unforgettable.
“From the ceremony to the last dance, we had an amazing time,” the bride beamed.
The Proposal:
It took us a long time to pull the trigger; we have been engaged for over 14 years. We were both in medical school.
We went to walk our dogs, as we normally did, and JC decided to walk through a park and proposed. It was very sweet and unexpected.
How would you describe your theme/wedding design inspiration?
I really wanted our wedding to be clean and crisp. I wanted that “wow' factor when you walked in. I wanted a lot of white but didn’t want roses, and I love white orchids. Our wedding was timeless, sophisticated, and classy.
What were your colors?
I had my bridesmaids in emerald green, which was rich and timeless, and we integrated the green into the invitations and menus. I wanted white and gold, which went really well with the green.
Where did you spend your honeymoon?
We went to Savannah as a getaway. Due to Covid and our busy schedule, we haven’t done the honeymoon we wanted to do.
“I really wanted our wedding to be clean and crisp. I wanted that ‘wow' factor when you walked in. I wanted a lot of white but didn’t want roses, and I love white orchids. Our wedding was timeless, sophisticated, and classy.”
-The Bride
What did you look for in a wedding venue?
We had family and friends that were coming from out of town, so we needed to find a place that was timeless, sophisticated, and able to accommodate our guests. We wanted a place that was beautiful and had character.
The Don CeSar's service was great. The hotel is a landmark, and they were amazing in assisting us.
Which vendors really exceeded your expectations and how?
The flowers from FH Events and rentals from Gala.
What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay couples?
If you’re going to do it, do it right. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for both of you. Don’t get stressed out over small details. Let the planners handle that.
