Rusty Pelican Wedding | Waterfront Wedding Venue Tampa
Kaitlin and Pete met in preschool, where the young girl just couldn’t take her eyes off her classmate, as photo evidence would later reveal. After six years at elementary school kept them apart, fate reunited the young tweens as they rode the same bus to middle school, beginning a lifelong friendship. After attending different high schools and colleges, the pair crossed paths again, thanks to a particularly funny text message that Kaitlin sent Pete. Within three weeks of Pete moving back to Tampa, the pair were inseparable.
The Tampa couple hosted an outdoor, waterfront wedding ceremony followed by a ballroom reception. Kaitlin chose a romantic, pink, gold, blush and white theme with lavish centerpieces from Northside Florist.
Northside Florist blew me away. Kathy [the owner] was professional, easy to talk to and really listened to what I wanted delivered,” the bride gushed. “It says something when even the guys were commenting on flowers left and right.”
It was important to Kaitlin to hire talened wedding professionals who gave her peace of mind.
“Andi [of Andi Diamond Photography] and I meshed well, and I knew we could trust her,” the bride explained. “I liked her style of editing and the moments she could capture behind the lens.”
MORE: ANDI DIAMOND PHOTOGRAPHY WEDDINGS
Looking back, the unity ceremony was one of the bride's most cherished moments.
“Tying of the hands during our ceremony and pronouncing us as husband and wife were most memorable,” Kaitlin reminisced.
Describe your bridesmaid dress shopping experience:
My bridesmaids were from all over the country and Bella Bridesmaids, a national company, made it an easy process. There were plenty of dresses to choose from, but not overwhelming.
The Proposal:
It was the day after Christmas, and we had made plans to meet up with his out-of-town college friends at Pete's parents' beach condo in Redington Shores, FL. When we got to the beach, Pete told me his friends would not be joining us and that he brought me out here to ask for my hand in marriage. Ultimately, we made it a family affair when Pete had both families out for an intimate post proposal after party. It was one of the most emotional and happiest days of my life.
How would you describe your theme?
Romantic.
What were your colors?
I wanted a soft, elegant, and romantic look. Blush, pink, gold, white and a pop of grey/blue to tie it all together. The bridesmaid’s dresses were larkspur.
What did you look for in a wedding florist?
Affordable, but unforgettable. It says something when even the guys were commenting on flowers left and right.
Northside Florist blew me away. Kathy [the owner] was professional, easy to talk to and really listened to what I wanted delivered.
What did you look for in a wedding photographer?
Andi [of Andi Diamond Photography] and I meshed well, and I knew we could trust her. I liked her style of editing and the moments she could capture behind the lens.
What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay Brides?
Have fun with the process. It will be worth it! Enjoy every moment on your big day.
Somethings might go wrong, but just shake it off and remember you are starting a life with your best friend.
Ceremony and Reception Venue: The Rusty Pelican
Photographer: Andi Diamond Photography *Preferred Marry Me Tampa Bay Wedding Vendor
Videographer: Tampaniac Pictures
Florist: Northside Florist
Decor: Arlene Floral Designer
Band: De Leon Entertainment
Officiant: Father Ruiz
Invitations: Minted
Transportation: Tampa Bay Brew Bus
Dress: Allure
Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids – Dessy *Preferred Marry Me Tampa Bay Wedding Vendor
Hair & Makeup: Marissa Phelps
