Dancing In The Dark at Tampa Garden Club

We love the elegance and details of Vanessa and Nick’s Tampa Garden Club wedding. It was clear from the special touches they incorporated into their day that they thought of their guests.

 

Starting Their Wedding Day

Vanessa’s day started with her wedding party. They shared some special moments, had on-site hair and makeup while the wedding accessories and details were photographed, and got dressed.

 

 

Meanwhile, across town, Nick was busy getting dressed with his guys. Next up for him was his first look.

 

 

 

We Love First Looks!

With both the bride and groom-to-be dressed and ready for the day ahead, Nick headed off to see Vanessa. Their first look was so sweet, nothing fancy, just the two of them sharing a moment. And, of course, nothing makes a first look better than when it includes the couple’s fur baby!

 

 

Some Fun With Their Wedding Party 

After their first look, the couple and their wedding party headed for photos together before heading down the aisle.

 

 

 

 

Candles and Crowns and Lots of Love

There is just something special about a Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony. The sanctuaries are filled with beautiful religious artwork, and the ceremony details are steeped in tradition.

With everyone in place, Vanessa made her entrance, walking toward her anxiously awaiting groom.

 

 

 

The couple’s ceremony was incredible to watch, and of course, their pledges to each other were sealed with a kiss.

 

 

 

BUBBLES!!!

Once outside the sanctuary, the couple were showered with BUBBLES! And they weren’t messing around with any tiny bubble wands. They pulled out the big Bubble Guns, and they helped create spectacular photos!

 

 

 

Cocktail Hour at Tampa Garden Club

After the ceremony, family and friends made their way to the Tampa Garden Club for a cocktail hour that included some delicious bites.

Passed Hors d ‘Oeuvres included Seafood Shooters, Bacon Wrapped Scallops with Water Chestnuts, Mini Rueben Sandwiches, and Vegetarian Spring Rolls.

 

Meanwhile, Inside The Ballroom

Inside the ballroom, a magical transformation had taken place. Soft draping filled the room from floor to ceiling, and the canopy twinkled with lights.

Tables were draped with soft ivory linen, floral arrangements in shades of pink anchored the tables along with floating candles and votives. Glass charger plates with gold beading held blush napkins with custom menu cards. Additionally, each place setting had delicious locally made chocolates as a wedding favor.

 

 

Off to one side was the couple’s three-tiered white wedding cake. But that wasn’t all. Later in the evening, guests would enjoy hand scooped Gelato and a table filled with Baklava and other traditional Greek sweets.

 

 

 

Eat, Drink and Be Married!

Following introductions, the newlyweds took to the dance floor for their first dance. The evening continued with parent dances, toasts, and some delicious food.

 

 

Between the Salad and Entree courses, the couple snuck outside for photos as the sunset. Returning, they joined their guests for an incredible dinner.

 

 

The entree selection included:

Grilled Filet Mignon on Toast Round with Herb Butter or Boneless Breast filled with Fresh Spinach and Boursin Cheese topped with Sourdough Bread Crumbs and Herb Sauce. Both entrees were served with Duchess Potatoes and a Seasonal Vegetable Bundle.

The Vegetarian option offered was a delicious Marinated Portobello Mushroom and Vegetable Stack over Quinoa served with Vegetable Bundle.

Following dinner, the couple cut their wedding cake and took to the dance floor. Music included traditional Greek and Cuban music and some of the couple’s favorite contemporary music.

After the last song of the night, the couple exited through a shower of sparklers!

 

 

But WAIT There’s More!

Vanessa and Nick ended their night with a private dance before heading off for the night. We’ve seen this done before. But this moonlit dance in the dark stole the show!

 

 

Congratulations, Vanessa and Nick! We wish you a lifetime of happiness and special moments.

 

Tampa Bay Wedding Vendors

Wedding Ceremony: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

Wedding Reception: Tampa Garden Club

Tampa Wedding Planner: Special Moments Event Planning

Hair and Makeup: Lasting Luxe Artistry Group

Photography: RLF Photos and Films LLC

Floral Design: Monarch Events and Design

Catering: Delectables Fine Catering Inc

DJ: Boone’s Professional Events

Rentals: Gabro Event Services

Linens: Connie Duglin Linens

Transportation: Embassy Limousines and Sedans

Wedding Cake: Chantilly Cakes

Gelato Cart: Paciugo Gelato and Caffe

Hotel Accommodations: The Westin Tampa Waterside