“We hosted my bachelorette party in St. Augustine, and it was absolutely perfect! The location was easy for all my girls to travel to, and it had such a charming, laid-back vibe. The theme was “Last Toast on the Coast,” and the entire weekend felt like something straight out of a Nancy Meyers film—cozy, fun, and full of laughter.

We packed in so many unforgettable activities! We had a movie night, went mattress surfing, made pizzas, and even watched the sunrise on the beach. We ate at amazing restaurants, hired a hibachi chef for a private backyard dinner party, and spent lazy days by the pool and on the beach. We also went on a ghost tour, which was a blast! The weekend truly had everything I dreamed of, and I couldn’t have asked for a better time with my closest friends.

We originally had a completely different honeymoon planned, but just three days before we were set to leave, a tropical depression was headed straight for our destination. So, we made a last-minute decision to change our plans entirely—and we couldn’t be more grateful for that change. Instead of heading to an all-inclusive island resort, we booked a trip to Paris.

Paris, the city of love, was everything we could have hoped for and more. We spent nine unforgettable days exploring the city’s art, food, and culture. From strolling along the Seine to enjoying world-class museums and indulging in delicious French cuisine, it truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It was the perfect way to begin our married life together.”

“We used lounge furniture and glassware from Kate Ryan Event Rentals, and they truly helped elevate the entire atmosphere of our wedding. The lounge setup created a warm, inviting space for guests to relax and connect—it added a touch of sophistication and comfort that really brought the venue to life.

The glassware added a refined, cohesive look to our tablescapes and bar, tying in beautifully with the rest of our design. Working with Drue and her team was such a joy—they completely understood our vision and helped us select pieces that felt timeless, elegant, and perfectly us.”

“One of the most meaningful touches that night was having the groom’s family bake homemade chocolate chip cookies as the evening’s sweet treat—something that felt warm, welcoming, and very personal

For the table numbers, we displayed photos of each of us at the age corresponding to the table number, which became a fun, nostalgic conversation piece.

Our wedding day began with a meaningful Mass, during which we included family members as readers and gift bearers. We also honored my godparents—who were longtime Tampa residents but couldn’t attend—with a traditional Spanish mantilla ceremony and blessing. The mantilla, from Spain, held special significance as it tied back to my godfather’s heritage.

Our reception was held at the Centro Asturiano de Tampa, a place close to my heart as both an employee and legacy member. We wanted to honor its Spanish-Asturian heritage, so guests were welcomed with traditional Asturian sidra and the sound of a bagpiper—bagpipes are a celebratory tradition in Asturias.

Inside, every room of the historic venue offered a unique experience. The Cantina featured bourbon, brandy, and custom-labeled cigars with our wedding monogram. In the library, guests enjoyed a grazing table and watched a traditional Spanish jamón being carved. The Centro’s grand theatre hosted a jazz band and a slideshow of photos of us through the years.

Our reception was filled with heartfelt touches: a table of old family wedding photos, traditional wedding cookies baked by a close friend, Judy Lombardia, custom cocktail napkins and stirrers with our monogram (which also appeared on our invitations), and a nod to heritage and family with a table of candied almonds, an Italian wedding tradition.

Every name card had a hand-sewn silver rooster—lovingly crafted by my mom—as a tribute to the famous roosters of Ybor City.

One of the most meaningful details of all was our cake topper, which originally belonged to my great-aunt. We displayed a photo of her wedding day beside it from over 60 years ago.

For a fun twist, my husband’s groom’s cake was a surprise styled like a Masters Tournament caddy uniform, playing off our last name.”

“My husband and I share the same favorite moments from the day—each one was filled with emotion, meaning, and pure joy.

Walking down the aisle with both my dad and stepdad was incredibly special. It was a moment that symbolized the love and support I’ve been lucky to have throughout my life, and it meant so much to have them both by my side.

Our first dance as husband and wife to Nothing Can Change This Love by Sam Cooke was unforgettable. It was such a sweet, grounding moment in the middle of a whirlwind day—just the two of us, completely present.

The speeches from our co-maids of honor, co-best men, and both my dad and stepdad were another highlight. They had everyone laughing, crying, and feeling the love in the room. We’ll treasure their words forever.

Instead of a bouquet toss, I chose to dedicate my bouquet to my mom and grandma—two of the most important women in my life. It was such a meaningful way to honor them and the generations of love and strength they represent.

And of course, our late-night snack was a hit—Chick-fil-A and a surprise appearance from the Chick-fil-A cow! It was such a fun, unexpected moment that had everyone back on the dance floor, ending the night on the perfect note.”