Rustic Tampa Bay Barn Wedding | Karnes Stables Wedding
Lauren and Chris’ rustic Tampa Bay wedding showcased the pair’s devotion to one another, while focusing on family and friends.
“We’re pretty simple people, and I think the wedding reflected our simplicity and our love for each other. Both Chris and I have been through a lot to get where we are today, and our wedding was the perfect expression of our love,” the bride explained. “Plus, having all of our friends and family there was important. They’re what make us, us.”
The Tampa couple’s rustic wedding featured an outdoor ceremony under grand oak trees, while their reception incorporated burlap, lace and vintage furniture.
“Our wedding day was the most amazing day of our lives. It was the perfect barn setting we were looking for without ever really having to leave home,” the bride gushed.
While searching for a Tampa Bay wedding photographer, the bride knew she wanted someone who was “passionate and personable, yet fun to work with.”
“The moment I met with Jill [of Jillian Joseph Photography], I knew she really loved her job. Her passion for being there to capture a couple’s special day was amazing, and she was so positive and fun to talk to!” Lauren gushed. “Our photographers were amazing to work with and went above and beyond to make our day so special. It honestly felt like they were friends there to celebrate the day with us.”
Looking back, the couple both chose the wedding ceremony as one of their most memorable moments of the day.
“Walking down the aisle with my dad was so surreal and exciting, and I couldn’t take my eyes off Chris!” Lauren reminisced. “Chris says his most memorable moment was me walking down the aisle.”
The Proposal:
Chris took me to dinner at Mellow Mushroom, the location of our first date. Then, we went to Clearwater Beach and climbed up one of the lifeguard towers that we always go to when we just want some peace and quiet. We sat up on the tower and talked about life and our future. As we got ready to climb down, Chris pulled me in for a hug and when I stepped back he was holding out a ring box and getting down on one knee!
What did you look for in a wedding photographer?
Someone who was passionate and personable and fun to work with! The moment I met with Jill [of Jillian Joseph Photography], I knew she really loved her job. Her passion for being there to capture a couple’s special day was amazing, and she was so positive and fun to talk to! I knew without a doubt that she and Joe were exactly who I wanted to have capture our day. They were amazing to work with and went above and beyond to make our day so special. It honestly felt like they were friends there to celebrate the day with us.
How would you describe your theme?
Elegant, rustic.
What were your colors?
Navy blue. Both of us love the color blue, and since I can remember I’ve always wanted to have navy blue as my wedding color!
What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay Brides?
There are so many unique venues and vendors that serve our area. Don’t give up or feel frustrated if you aren’t finding what you are looking for right away. Take advantage of all of the diverse settings that the state has to offer, and you’ll surely find something.
Also, don’t feel like you need to spend a million dollars on your wedding. At the end of the day what matters most is that you are marrying the love of your life, the price tag doesn’t make that any more special.
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Karnes Stables
Photographer: Jillian Joseph Photography
Videographer: Theresa Bonzelaar
Planner & Florist: Tampa Wedding Studio
Caterer: Spotlight Catering
Rentals: Karnes Stables
Cake: Alessi Bakeries *Marry Me Tampa Bay Preferred Wedding Pro
DJ: Karnes Stables
Officiant: Sensational Ceremonies
Invitations: Simply Fetching Paper via Etsy
Dress Shop: David’s Bridal
Hair & Makeup: Tiara Styles Beauty
