Julia and Kellen’s magical Sarasota wedding brought childhood dreams to life with their dreamy circus-themed celebration. With vintage glam decor, a photo booth and live performers, this unique wedding for 250 guests was a nod to the bride’s family history.
“In honor of being a third generation circus performer on both my mother’s and father’s side, we went with a vintage circus themed wedding,” the bride shared. “It was very important for me to honor the legacy of my family and the Sarasota community. To really capture the ambiance we were going for, we incorporated plenty of glitz and glam. From sequins to feathers to pearls to lace, a lot of different elements played a role in helping me nail our look.”
MORE: SARASOTA WEDDING INSPIRATION
Given the bride’s historic family background, Julia and Kellen knew they wanted their special day to pay tribute to her grandfather’s legacy.
“My late grandfather was Lou Jacobs, a famous circus clown who performed with Ringling Brothers for over 60 years. He was featured on the cover of Time magazine and was on a U.S. postage stamp in the 1960’s. He can also be seen in the movie the Greatest Show on Earth in his famous tiny car,” the bride beamed. “Choosing our theme was the best way I could pay tribute to my grandfather and luckily, Kellen is just as fun and energetic as me and he completely embraced my vision!”
The couple’s hometown is known for its rich entertainment history, making Sarasota the perfect backdrop for their circus themed wedding.
“Kellen’s grandfather was involved in the foundation and development of Sarasota in the early 1950’s, and my grandfather came to Sarasota with Ringling Brothers Circus and he made it his home,” the bride shared. “Our wedding really was a spectacle. With the tent, performance, and costumes, we really tried to keep the theme included in as much as possible. The circus is truly a magical place, and it was a joy to be able to share that magic with all our family and friends.”
Looking back on their fabulous day of bliss, the bride and groom felt more than blessed with their magical celebration.
“Our invitation envelopes said ‘Once in a while in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives you a fairytale,’ and our wedding day was a beautiful dream brought to reality,” the bride reminisced. “As I walked to the center ring as I have so many times in my life, having the first dance with my husband was surreal, and everything leading up to it was more than perfect.”
The Proposal:
Kellen proposed during my birthday party in January of 2018, when all of our friends and family were gathered for a spectacular night. When it came to the gifts, everyone insisted that I open the largest one last. Box after box, nothing was found until Kellen dropped to one knee professing his love and asked for my hand in marriage assisted by his family and friends with balloons spelling out “Marry me?”
How would you describe your theme/wedding design inspiration?
Vintage circus themed, in honor of being a third generation circus performer on both my mother’s and father’s side.
What were your colors?
To really capture the ambiance we were going for, we incorporated plenty of glitz and glam. From sequins to feathers to pearls to lace, a lot of different elements played a role in helping me nail our look.
What advice would you give to other Sarasota couples?
Give yourself plenty of time to plan, but when it comes to the big day, soak up every minute, enjoy your vendors, dance, eat, and love!
Ceremony Venue: Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church
Reception: Circus Sarasota under the Big Top at UTC and The Ringling
Photographer: Christine Wozz Photography
Videographer: Bill Wagy Productions
Planner: SRQtees Events
Florist: Victoria Blooms & Purple Lotus Flower Shop
Caterer: Mattison’s
Food Trucks: Chic-fil-A, Polpo Pizza Co., Manny’s Tacos to Go
Rentals: Palacio Events
Cake: Crave Cakes SRQ
Violinist: Divina Strings
Band: The Kara Nally Band
DJ: DJ Imminent Jay Gordon
Officiant: Father Jerry Hogan & Father Michael Scheip
Invitations: Etsy
Transportation: Siesta Key Trolley
Dress Shop and Designer: Something New Bridal Boutique, Isabella Talya
Veil: The Perfect Dress Sarasota
Hair: Bottle Blonde 76
Makeup: Makeup by Simone
Photo Booth: Hello Gorgeous Photo Booth
Entertainment: Sailor Circus Academy
