Modern Elegant Wedding Reception Decor, Greenery Hanging Chandelier, Silver Chiavari Chairs, White Linen Round Tables, Tall Floral Centerpieces | Tampa Bay Wedding Rentals Kate Ryan Event Rentals

Timeless, Modern Black and White Downtown Tampa Wedding | Tampa River Center

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Taylor and Nolan’s downtown Tampa wedding combined a neutral black and white color palette, waterfront vows set against the famous Riverwalk, a striking greenery chandelier suspended over the dance floor, and a chic champagne seating chart display for the enjoyment of their 104 guests.

“We envisioned modern elegance. We knew we wanted to level up in design without breaking the bank by holding true to a few details while letting go of things that are not necessary. Simplicity played a big role in our design,” the bride shared. “We chose black and white and aimed to be as timeless as we could with our design; maybe one day our grandchildren will give us the seal of approval!”

Taylor turned to social media for insight during the planning process and followed Marry Me Tampa Bay as the expert for real local weddings, vendor research, and helpful advice.

“I followed all wedding social media accounts religiously, and Marry Me Tampa Bay was in on that mix from day one. I actually remember when the account shared our engagement photo in 2019, and I thought, ‘maybe one day they’ll share my wedding,’ and here we are!” Taylor revealed. “I found the Instagram account insightful; I am always scrolling. The number of local vendors and wedding tips shared was truly appreciated!”

The local couple sought to elevate their wedding decor with modern furnishings and table settings that would both add elegance and reflect their monochromatic color scheme. The result was a polished and sophisticated style with eye-catching appeal.

Kate Ryan Event Rentals made our design by keeping a hint of simplicity yet giving the layout some flavor,” the bride beamed. “The items that really caught the eye included two white regency cocktail bars, shelving for the champagne seating chart, silver rim and hammered glass chargers, Dali black utensils, and satin black napkins. We didn’t want to overwhelm our table wear. With the few statement pieces we chose, we felt our desired level of elegance was met. Not to mention, the chargers and napkins really gave the table setting balance!”

Taylor cherished the wedding day beauty routine because she had complete faith in her hair and makeup artists. So much in fact, that she actually had her wedding day hair styled on the spot without a trial, trusting the skills of Christine Wheaten, owner of Femme Akoi Beauty Studio, thanks to countless referrals.

“I was inspired by Christine Quinn from Selling Sunset; her hair and make-up from her recent baby shower extravaganza were just gorgeous! I chose Femme Akoi Beauty Studio because they are the best in the business! When I first got engaged, I joined all kinds of local bridal Facebook groups and in almost every single one, previous brides raved about Femme Akoi. I started following Christine’s work, and wow! She really kills it,” Taylor raved. “I had an updo trial with her for a photo shoot prior to contracting so my specific wedding hair was never trialed. I told her day of what I was looking to do with full confidence that she’d execute it! I have never felt so pretty in my entire life!”

The bride and groom personalized their July wedding with unique details that would create an unforgettable celebration, such as incorporating their mutual love of boating and involving family members in special wedding formalities.

“We had my stepdad officiate the wedding, and I danced with my 93-year-old grandma as my first dance; these personal touches were truly special to us,” the bride recalled. “And because we love boating, we had a water taxi pick up 30 of our guests and transported us all back to the hotel at the end of the night.”

Some of the most memorable moments for Taylor included pampering with her favorite ladies and exchanging private vows with Nolan during their first touch. The groom’s favorite moment was when he saw his bride-to-be for the first time and had the reaction that every bride dreams of.

“Getting ready with my girls, mom, and grandma, was so special. We danced, sang, laughed at old pictures, ate, drank; we had a blast. The hair and make-up process was special; we all felt so very beautiful,” the bride gushed. “I also will always remember our first touch, I was so incredibly nervous to read our vows out loud to one another, but once I made it through that, I was ready for everything else! Nolan’s favorite memory was watching me turn the corner to come down the aisle. This was the moment he had been dreaming about since planning our wedding. He instantly started crying and said it was the best moment of his life!”

Black and White Floral Modern Elegant Wedding Invitation Suite
Beaded Embroidered Happily Ever After White Bridal Clutch
Modern Elegant Wedding Floral Bouquet, White Anemone, Greenery
Lace and Tulle Spaghetti Strap Maggie Soterro Mermaid Wedding Dress
Tampa Bride Getting Wedding Hair and Makeup Down, Loose Curls | Tampa Bay Wedding Hair and Makeup Femme Akoi Beauty Studio
Elegant Bride Laying on Bed Getting Wedding Ready in Robe and Slippers with Feathers, Natural Makeup, Loose Wavy Curls, Rose Gold Letter Balloons "BRIDE" | Tampa Bay Wedding Hair and Makeup Femme Akoi Beauty Studio

What were your wedding hair and makeup inspiration?
I was inspired by Christine Quinn from Selling Sunset; her hair and make-up from her recent baby shower extravaganza were just gorgeous! 

I chose Femme Akoi Beauty Studio because they are the best in the business! When I first got engaged, I joined all kinds of local bridal Facebook groups and in almost every single one, previous brides raved about Femme Akoi. I started following Christine’s work, and wow! She really kills it.

I had an updo trial with her for a photo shoot prior to contracting so my specific wedding hair was never trialed. I told her day of what I was looking to do with full confidence that she’d execute it; not to toot my own horn but I may as well have been Christine Quinn, she did so good! I have never felt so pretty in my entire life!

One of my favorite moments of my wedding day was seeing my mom and bridesmaids all done up. It was like a fairytale, I mean we all looked so pretty and the team at Femme Akoi just knew how to execute.

Florida Bride Drinking Champagne Laying in Bed in White Robe with Feathers, Natural Makeup, Loose Wavy Curls, Bridesmaids in Matching Black Silk Pajama Sets | Tampa Bay Wedding Hair and Makeup Femme Akoi Beauty Studio
Florida Bride Wearing White and Feather Silk Robe Opening Louis Vuitton Present from Groom
Tampa Bride Getting Romantic Lace Wedding Dress Buttoned On
Florida Bride Getting Wedding Ready, Putting on Floral Crystal Dangle Earrings, Hair in Loose Wavy Curls with Crystal Hair Pin, Natural Makeup | Tampa Bay Wedding Hair and Makeup Femme Akoi Beauty Studio
Modern Elegant Florida Bride in Romantic Lace and Tulle Skirt Mermaid Maggie Soterro Wedding Dress with Bridesmaids in Mix and Match Black Dresses | Tampa Bay Wedding Hair and Makeup Femme Akoi Beauty Studio

“One of my favorite moments of my wedding day was seeing my mom and bridesmaids all done up. It was like a fairytale, I mean we all looked so pretty and the team at Femme Akoi just knew how to execute.” -The Bride

Tampa Groom Getting Wedding Ready in Black Tuxedo Vest and Bowtie
Elegant Modern Bride and Groom Holding Hands Without Seeing Each Other Unique First Look Portrait | Tampa Bay Wedding Hair and Makeup Femme Akoi Beauty Studio
Elegant Modern Bride and Groom Hiding Behind Corners of Building Reading Letters from Each Other Without Seeing Each Other Unique First Look Portrait | Tampa Bay Wedding Hair and Makeup Femme Akoi Beauty Studio
Elegant Modern Emotional Bride and Groom Hiding Behind Corners of Building Reading Letters from Each Other Without Seeing Each Other Unique First Look Portrait | Tampa Bay Wedding Hair and Makeup Femme Akoi Beauty Studio

The Proposal:
Nolan proposed in Costa Rica at the La Fortuna waterfall. We started the day by hiking down the jungle and into the waterfall where we spent the day frolicking around. Next thing you know, he was on one knee overlooking it all and asked me to marry him. It was scenic and a day we will never forget.

Modern Elegant Black and White Wedding Ceremony Decor, Black and White Floral Sign "Pick a seat not a side" Welcome Sign
Tampa Modern Elegant Groom Reaction to Seeing Bride Walking Down the Wedding Ceremony Aisle

“Nolan’s favorite memory was watching me turn the corner to come down the aisle. This was the moment he had been dreaming about since planning our wedding. He instantly started crying and said it was the best moment of his life!”

-The Bride

Florida Bride's Happy Reaction to Seeing Groom Walking Down the Wedding Ceremony Aisle | Tampa Bay Wedding Hair and Makeup Femme Akoi Beauty Studio
Florida Modern Elegant Bride and Groom Exchanging Wedding Vows During Waterfront Wedding Ceremony | Wedding Venue Tampa River Center
Florida Modern Elegant Bridesmaids in Mix and Match Black Dresses During Waterfront Wedding Ceremony | Wedding Venue Tampa River Center
Florida Modern Elegant Bride and Groom Exchanging Wedding Vows During Waterfront Wedding Ceremony | Wedding Venue Tampa River Center
Florida Modern Elegant Bride and Groom Exchanging Wedding Vows During Waterfront Wedding Ceremony | Wedding Venue Tampa River Center
Florida Modern Elegant Bride and Groom Recessional Exit From Waterfront Wedding Ceremony | Wedding Venue Tampa River Center
Modern Elegant Florida Bride Wearing Romantic Lace and Tulle Skirt Mermaid Wedding Dress Outside Wedding Venue Tampa River Center
Modern Elegant Florida Bride Wearing Romantic Lace and Tulle Skirt Mermaid Wedding Dress and Bridesmaids in Mix and Match Black Dresses Outside Wedding Venue Tampa River Center

Where did you host your bachelorette party?
We went to San Juan, Puerto Rico! We chose PR because it was unique and somewhere that fit my adventurous side with a bit of culture! Our Airbnb was amazing and a highlight was the sunset sailing tour and hike through the rainforest. My girls also threw me a local South Tampa bachelorette night for those that couldn’t make PR that was a blast as well! Nolan and his guys went to Key West, Florida because he wanted to show his friends a slice of Florida!

Where did you spend your honeymoon?
Unico 2087 Riviera Maya Mexico. We chose Mexico because it was an easy getaway considering the pandemic. We wanted to find a nice resort we could spend all of our time at and just decompress after the last few years of craziness. Unico 2087 is an adult-only, all-inclusive resort that is known for its cuisine, top-notch service, and artfully designed rooms. We highly recommend this spot if you’re looking for something as a one-stop-shop honeymoon!  

Florida Modern Elegant Bride and Groom on Dock | Wedding Venue Tampa River Center | Wedding Hair and Makeup Femme Akoi Beauty Studio
Romantic Modern Elegant Bride and Groom Portrait | Tampa Wedding Hair and Makeup Femme Akoi Beauty Studio
Modern Elegant Wedding Reception Decor, Greenery Hanging Chandelier, Silver Chiavari Chairs, White Linen Round Tables, Tall Floral Centerpieces | Tampa Bay Wedding Rentals Kate Ryan Event Rentals
Modern Elegant Wedding Reception Decor, Tall Silver Stand with Greenery, White Roses and Hydragneas, Hanging Amaranthus Floral Centerpiece
Tampa Modern Elegant Wedding Reception Decor, Clear and Silver Rimmed Chargers, Black Silk Napkins, Custom Menus, Low Floral Centerpiece with Greenery and White Flowers | Tampa Bay Wedding Rentals Kate Ryan Event Rentals
Tampa Modern Elegant Wedding Reception Decor, Clear and Silver Rimmed Chargers, Black Silk Napkins, Custom Menus | Tampa Bay Wedding Rentals Kate Ryan Event Rentals

How would you describe your theme/wedding design inspiration?
We envisioned modern elegance. We knew we wanted to level up in design without breaking the bank by holding true to a few details while letting go of things that are not necessary. Simplicity played a big role in our design. The execution of elegance in our design, the downtown experience, the photography, and food/drink was most important.

What were your colors? 
We chose black and white and aimed to be as timeless as we could with our design; maybe one day our grandchildren will give us the seal of approval.

Four Tier Semi Naked and Textured Wedding Cake with Real Rose Flower Decor, Laser Cut Personalized Cake Topper on Table with Greenery Garland
Modern Elegant Wedding Reception Decor, Shelves with Champagne Glasses and Place Cards Attached

How did your rentals enhance the ambiance of your wedding day?
Kate Ryan Event Rentals made our design by keeping a hint of simplicity yet giving the layout some flavor! The items that really caught the eye included two white regency cocktail bars, shelving for the champagne seating chart, silver rim and hammered glass chargers, Dali black utensils, and satin black napkins. We didn’t want to overwhelm our table wear. With the few statement pieces we chose, we felt our desired level of elegance was met. Not to mention, the chargers and napkins really gave the table setting balance!

Unique Modern Wedding Reception Seating Place Card on Glass of Champagne

Which vendors really exceeded your expectations?
Our wedding planner. I am convinced there is nothing she couldn’t handle! She helped me plan two weddings essentially. First, for our 2020 wedding that was plagued by COVID, and then second, for our actual wedding! Our photo and video duo. You don’t realize how much of your wedding day is spent with your photographer. It is incredibly important to make sure you have a professional you like! Christine with Femme Akoi. I also have never felt so pretty and confident in my life. Our florist. Our incredible floral chandelier above the dance floor elevated our entire design. We danced under it all night and I felt like I was in a dream.

Florida Bride and Groom Dancing During First Dance Wedding Reception | Waterfront Wedding Venue Tampa River Center

What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay couples?
Don’t overthink the details. Many of your guests won’t know if anything goes wrong or is missing. As long as you’ve got good food, cocktails, and good music your guests will enjoy it! Also, hire a wedding planner. Ours not only navigated us through COVID, but she also made sure everything was prepared, aligned, and coordinated with all of the vendors. My wedding day was truly stress-free because of her and her team. Lastly, make a wedding email! This way, all of your correspondence is in one inbox and won’t be missed.

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.

Marry Me Tampa Bay Preferred Wedding Pros

Preferred Marry Me Tampa Bay Wedding Pros are highly respected by our local wedding community and have been personally vetted by our editor.

Feature Credits

Vendors and venues marked with

are Preferred Marry Me Tampa Bay Wedding Pros and have been personally vetted by our editor.

Ceremony and ReceptionTampa River Center
Rehearsal Dinner VenueAmerican Social
PhotographyFotoBohemia
VideographyFoto Bohemia
Cakes & DessertPublix
DJ/Band & Live EntertainmentFast Breaks Executive Entertainment
Invitations & StationeryZola
Limo and TransportationOlympus Limo
Limo and TransportationTampa Water Taxi
Dress and Bridesmaid AttireMaggie Sottero
Bridesmaids DressesAzazie
Bridesmaids DressesLulus.com

About the Author

Anna Coats

Marry Me Tampa Bay editor Anna Coats created Marry Me Tampa Bay in 2012 to showcase the area’s best local weddings and vendors. She has been featured as a wedding expert on the national talk show Daytime, Fox13, ABC Action News, Great Day Tampa Bay, and Bay News 9 (now Spectrum).

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