Courtney and Quinn's historic groundbreaking Ybor City wedding featured neutral flora and classic details set in one of Tampa Bay's newest event spaces steeped in local culture and history.
After rescheduling their event during the pandemic only to find that their original space was no longer an option, the Tampa couple had to search for a new location. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise as, after an insider tip from a family member, they discovered a newly renovated wedding venue in the heart of the historic national landmarked neighborhood. The bride and groom's wedding made history as the first nuptials at the 100+-year-old cigar factory.
“We were originally supposed to be married at a different location but we had to postpone and then our venue closed down. My sister works for J.C. Newman Cigar Co. and told us they were having weddings there. We saw all of their new renovations and fell in love,” Courtney detailed. “We were the first wedding at J.C. Newman ever. It was special to be a part of that piece of history.”
“I wanted a blank slate with some character. Quinn wanted everything indoors due to the Florida weather. We also were looking for a place where we could have everything all in one place: ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception,” the bride added. “J.C. Newman incorporated the industrial feel with historic Old Tampa. We could not have asked for a better venue. Everyone was very responsive and helpful. The day ran smoothly because of their knowledge of the venue and how to work with vendors.”
To soften the industrial space, the couple incorporated a greenery-filled white ceremony arch brimming with white flowers.
“Our theme was modern industrial. I really loved exposed brick with a mix of greenery. I wanted greenery everywhere,” the bride shared. “We chose greens, whites, and accents of gold. I really liked the timeless feel of the colors accented with the industrial feel. The ceremony space completely took my breath away with all of the florals.”
Courtney incorporated luxurious emerald velvet sofas and soft seating to create cozy lounge areas for their 80 guests to enjoy during the reception.
“We wanted reliable, cost-effective, and stylish rentals. Kate Ryan Event Rentals had a variety of modern furniture to choose from [which allowed us] to create luxurious seating areas for our cocktail-style reception ” the bride articulated.
While surrounded by friends and family, one special event at the end of the evening will forever live in the couple's memories.
“Both Quinn and my favorite moment was at the end of the night. It was the final song and an impromptu dance circle started. Everyone was holding onto each other swaying, and somehow Quinn and I ended up in the middle of the circle. We slow danced to Piano Man surrounded by everyone we love. We waited so long to finally get married that having everyone there to celebrate was the most exciting part. It was the best ending to a perfect day,” the bride reminisced.
How would you describe your theme/wedding design inspiration?
Our theme was modern industrial. I really loved exposed brick with a mix of greenery. I wanted greenery everywhere.
What were your colors?
We chose greens, whites, and accents of gold. I really liked the timeless feel of the colors accented with the industrial feel.
The Proposal:
Quinn and I were celebrating our four-year anniversary, so we decided to take a mini-vacation to Gaylord Palms in Orlando. We had plans to go to brunch and then hang out by the pool and enjoy the amenities. After our late breakfast, Quinn decided he wanted a picture in front of one of the atriums. He asked a girl to get a picture of us. She said she had a feeling and switched it over to video. As we were taking our picture, Quinn got down on one knee and proposed.
What did you look for in a wedding venue?
I wanted a blank slate with some character. Quinn wanted everything indoors due to the Florida weather. We also were looking for a place where we could have everything all in one place: ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception
We were originally supposed to be married at a different location but we had to postpone and then our venue closed down. My sister works for J.C. Newman Cigar Co. and told us they were having weddings there. We saw all of their new renovations and fell in love.
.C. Newman incorporated the industrial feel with historic Old Tampa. We could not have asked for a better venue. Everyone was very responsive and helpful. The day ran smoothly because of their knowledge of the venue and how to work with vendors.
We were the first wedding at J.C. Newman ever. It was special to be a part of that piece of history.
Where did you host your bachelorette party?
We stayed at a friend's house right outside of Boca Grande. I had friends coming from all over the country so staying close to Tampa made sense. We were able to all be together for the whole weekend in one place. We did not have to go far to do anything we wanted.
Where did you spend your honeymoon?
Costa Rica. We visited Arenal and Manuel Antonio. We wanted a mix of adventure and beautiful beach views. We had the rainforest, volcanos, and beaches. It was the dreamiest place I have ever been to.
What did you look for in a wedding rental company?
We wanted reliable, cost-effective, and style.
Kate Ryan Event Rentals had a variety of modern furniture to choose from. We were able to create luxurious seating areas for our cocktail-style reception.
Which vendors really exceeded your expectations?
I absolutely loved our florist. She took my vision and ran with it and was able to create beauty everywhere you looked.
What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay couples?
Florida is hot! Get married inside, or do whatever makes you happy!
