Wedding

Tampa Overwater Pier Wedding Ceremony | The Godfrey

Tampa Bay Best Wedding Caterers | Marry Me Tampa Bay

Phamilla and Eric's waterfront Tampa wedding featured an overwater pier ceremony, stunning portraits, and blue color palette to represent the ocean.

The water has a strong significance to the Hudson couple therefore they wanted a waterfront venue for their 40 guests that also had a significant meaning to their relationship.

“Our most element important was the view, which is why we chose The Godfrey. Second, because it was a hotel. Prior to COVID, we expected about 40 people to attend who were from out of state so being at a hotel made it easier for all,” the bride explained. “We chose The Godfrey because it overlooks Whiskey Joes which was our first date.”

The September ceremony took place on the hotel's overwater pier, which extends into Tampa Bay. Guests were greeted with modern acrylic signage, which complemented the ghost chairs, putting the focus on the couple and their stunning backdrop.

“The ceremony was the most memorable moment for us! It was unique. It touched on everything, and it was us,” the bride reminisced. “We had Pastor Crystal make us a fairytale that was an ad-lib!”

Personalized Baby Converse Wedding Shoes
Sweetheart Lace Wedding Dress | Tampa Bay Bridal Shop
Modern Clear Acrylic Wedding Welcome Sign
Modern Clear Acrylic Ghost Wedding Ceremony Chairs

How would you describe your theme/wedding design inspiration?
We chose the design inspiration based on being by the ocean. 

What were your colors?
Our colors were a few varieties of blues to represent the ocean.

Bride Walking the Ceremony Wedding Aisle
Waterfront Wedding Ceremony with Overwater Pier and White Pergola with Draping and Greenery | Tampa Wedding Venue The Godfrey
Bride and Groom Exchanging Vows at Wedding Tampa Ceremony

The Proposal:
It was a cold Christmas morning in Richmond, VA and all the gifts were open, while the kids were playing. I walked away to get more coffee. When I came back, Eric said, “You forgot a gift on the mantle, but in order to open it you have to face the mantle, and you can’t turn around until it’s completely open.” Right then and there I knew it was a prank but went along with it. I opened the bag and inside is a ring box, which low and behold was empty. With all kinds of emotions built up inside, I turned around to find Eric on one knee. 

Waterfront Wedding Ceremony with Overwater Pier and White Pergola with Draping and Greenery | Tampa Wedding Venue The Godfrey
Waterfront Wedding Ceremony with Overwater Pier and White Pergola with Draping and Greenery | Tampa Wedding Venue The Godfrey

What did you look for in a wedding venue?
Our most element important was the view, which is why we chose The Godfrey. It overlooks Whiskey Joe's which was our first date. Second, because it was a hotel. Prior to COVID, we expected about 40 people to attend who were from out of state so being at a hotel made it easier for all. 

Waterfront Wedding Ceremony Portraits with Overwater Pier and White Pergola with Draping and Greenery | Tampa Wedding Venue The Godfrey
Waterfront Wedding Ceremony Portraits with Overwater Pier and White Pergola with Draping and Greenery | Tampa Wedding Venue The Godfrey

Where did you spend your honeymoon?
Sandals Royal Caribbean in Jamaica! We chose this location because of its overwater bungalow and amazing views. We are all about the views!  

What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay couples?
Don’t go on your honeymoon the day after your wedding. Give yourself a day or two to rest! Also, get a videographer.

Ceremony and Reception Venue and Caterer: The Godfrey *Marry Me Tampa Bay Preferred Wedding Venue
Photographer: Abundant Grace Photography
Planner and Rentals: Tipsy Tampa Bartender & Events
Florist: Hanky Panky Blooms
Cake: Pink Mixer Baking Co
DJ: Florida Wedding DJs
Officiant: Ceremony By Crystal
Invitations: Ocean Eyes Design & Co
Dress: Bearer of the Bling
Shoes: Nordstrom
Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie Hair & Makeup: Made up by Moscato
Rehearsal Dinner: Whiskey Joe's
Tuxdeo: All Brides 2 Be
Live Stream: Jonathan Torres

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.