Alyssa and Jason’s classic St. Pete Beach wedding featured a neutral palette of white flora and greenery, an outdoor ceremony set against the backdrop of the iconic “Pink Palace,” and a ballroom reception with dining and dancing beneath elegant crystal chandeliers.
“[Our style was] classic, lightly tropical, romantic. We love the outdoors, so wanted to incorporate lots of greenery, bright whites, and a happy classic theme. Neither of us is extravagant and just wanted a day that our families can come together and celebrate the beginning of this next stage of our lives together,” Alyssa shared. “We chose neutrals. I wanted the flowers and greenery to really stand out, especially with the venue being pink, and the beautiful water speaks for itself.”
The Orlando couple traveled west toward the bride’s hometown for Tampa Bay’s stunning beaches and sunset views.
“We are happiest near the water, and the Don CeSar is a special place near where I grew up in Treasure Island. Jason and I have shared so many happy memories here,” the bride beamed. “We wanted to have an outdoor ceremony and indoor reception. We were overall very happy with the service and aesthetic.”
The pair wanted to work with a reputable wedding planner to help ease the process of planning their 225-guest February wedding. They selected Special Moments Event Planning for their broad portfolio and years of experience.
“I wanted someone who was organized, timely, honest, and creative,” the bride articulated. “Special Moments Event Planning was incredible. We chose Special Moments because we heard Tammy was reliable and creative and was a trusted consultant in the Tampa Bay Area. My best friend worked with her and loved her! The team exceeded expectations and managed several aspects that were important to Jason and me. She was so wonderful, and we feel very grateful! We spread the good news, and she’s now working with three of my other closest friends! Tammy has a way of managing the family as well.”
The bride and groom ensured that their wedding was a true reflection of both of them, from creating a fusion ceremony combining their cultures and religions to personalizing their music choices.
“We had a Catholic-Jewish ceremony and had many Filipino traditions incorporated. Plus, we loved our music selections,” the bride detailed.
Alyssa sought a seasoned wedding photography team who offered a combination of a friendly demeanor, an organized approach, and a natural photography style. She found the perfect match with Lifelong Photography Studio.
“I searched for a photographer known for light, bright images, a personality to command a group, and high, positive energy,” the bride detailed.
After months of planning and even creating the stationery pieces herself, Alyssa will never forget the moment when she walked into the reception space and saw everything come together for the first time that evening.
“The first dance and the initial moment we walked into the ballroom seeing it for the first time [were the most memorable moments],” the bride reminisced.
What were your wedding hair and makeup inspiration?
I wanted a natural look, and I feel more confident with an updo.
What did you look for in a wedding photographer?
I searched for a photographer known for light, bright images and a personality to command a group and high positive energy.
What did you look for in a wedding planner?
I wanted someone who was organized, timely, honest, and creative. Special Moments Event Planning was incredible. We chose Special Moments because we heard Tammy was reliable and creative and was a trusted consultant in the Tampa Bay Area. My best friend worked with her and loved her! The team exceeded expectations and managed several aspects that were important to Jason and me. She was so wonderful, and we feel very grateful! We spread the good news, and she’s now working with three of my other closest friends! Tammy has a way of managing the family as well.
What did you look for in a wedding venue?
We are happiest near the water, and the Don CeSar is a special place near where I grew up in Treasure Island. Jason and I have shared so many happy memories here.
We wanted to have an outdoor ceremony and indoor reception. We were overall very happy with the service and aesthetic.”
Where did you spend your honeymoon?
Whistler, British Columbia. We chose it for the time of year so we could go skiing.
Where did you host your bachelorette party?
Sedona, because I love margaritas, hiking, and the outdoors!
How would you describe your theme/wedding design inspiration?
Classic, lightly tropical, romantic. We love the outdoors, so wanted to incorporate lots of greenery, bright whites, and a happy classic theme. Neither of us is extravagant and just wanted a day that our families can come together and celebrate the beginning of this next stage of our lives together.
What were your colors?
We chose neutrals. I wanted the flowers and greenery to really stand out, especially with the venue being pink and the beautiful water speaks for itself.
What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay couples?
Take your time with the engagement; do many of the big things up front, and then relax! Be sure to cherish that week with family as people are arriving in town.
