Amanda and Ruben’s outdoor spring Tampa Bay wedding featured a cozy S’mores station, sentimental “Marriage Braid” ceremony, and a sparkler grand exit.
The FishHawk Ranch bride envisioned a vibrant color scheme with shades of reds and pinks and a floral motif to complement the lush setting.
“We had a romantic garden theme with burgundy, rose gold, and blush colors,” the bride explained.
The feminine palette was echoed throughout their event, from the bridesmaids’ attire to the table linens, as well as the stationery and floral arrangements.
To brainstorm design elements for their big day Amanda turned to Marry Me Tampa Bay.
“I loved looking for inspiration and ideas from other featured weddings,” she recalled.
The Lithia couple selected a secluded venue only 10 minutes from their home and wanted their celebration to reflect a focus on friends and family; they even including their fur baby in the wedding.
“We wanted an intimate setting to be able to spend time with friends and family. We are animal lovers and we had our dog, Dezi, participate in the ceremony,” the bride beamed. “We were able to spend the entire weekend celebrating with friends and family.”
Amanda contacted Shauna and Jordon Photography and upon meeting they immediately felt a special bond.
“We instantly loved Shauna and Jordon. They were so fun and genuine and we really connected with them,” the bride revealed. “They were so amazing from the start. They made us feel comfortable and just felt like friends when we were with them. They are so good at what they do and take the most beautiful photos.”
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When selecting a menu for their 140 guests, the couple sought a Tampa Bay wedding caterer that offered delicious food and impeccable service.
“We wanted a plated dinner and Amici’s Catered Cuisine had really great service, and we loved the food at our menu tasting! Amanda raved. “At the wedding, the Amici’s staff was very attentive and professional. We chose chicken picatta and steak for our main course.”
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One of the most memorable experiences of the day occurred when the couple shared in a “Marriage Braid” ceremony (also known as the Cord of Three Strands), where three strands of rope are braided together to symbolize the weaving together of the bride, the groom, and God, into a marriage relationship.
“The ceremony was very important and meaningful to us. We chose to do the cord of three strands during our ceremony. The entire ceremony was memorable; our pastor held such a beautiful service,” the bride reminisced.
The Proposal:
Ruben proposed during an anniversary trip to New York City in December. We took a carriage ride through Central Park, and he proposed on Bow Bridge.
What did you look for in a wedding photographer?
We instantly loved Shauna and Jordon Photography. They were so fun and genuine and we really connected with them. They were so amazing from the start. They made us feel comfortable and just felt like friends when we were with them. They are so good at what they do and take the most beautiful photos.
How would you describe your theme/wedding design inspiration?
We had a romantic garden theme with burgundy, rose gold, and blush colors.
What were your colors?
Burgundy, rose gold, and blush.
What was your wedding menu inspiration?
We wanted a plated dinner and Amici’s Catered Cuisine had really great service and we loved the food at our menu tasting! At the wedding, the Amici’s staff was very attentive and professional. We chose chicken picatta and steak for our main course.
What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay couples?
Enjoy your day because it goes by so quickly!
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Paradise Spring
Photographer: Shauna and Jordon Photography *Marry Me Tampa Bay Preferred Wedding Pro
Videographer: A Peachy Life Productions
Planner: Love Lee Lane
Florist: Ever After Vintage Weddings
Caterer: Amici’s Catered Cuisine *Marry Me Tampa Bay Preferred Wedding Pro
Rentals: On the Move Productions
Cake: Publix
DJ: 5 Star Entertainment
Officiant: Hector Rivera – The Crossing Church
Invitations: Minted
Dress Shop: The White Closet
Bridesmaid Dress Shop: David’s Bridal
Hair & Makeup: SMP Makeup Artistry
Quotes have been lightly edited for clarity and brevity.
*Preferred Marry Me Tampa Bay Wedding Pros are highly respected by our local wedding community and have been personally vetted by our editor.
