How We Met

Brittany and Ian met through a mutual friend in their senior year of college at Florida State University’s Doak Campbell Stadium. They instantly had a connection over their shared love for professional soccer. It wasn’t until a whole two years later, however, that they reconnected. Who would have thought that a simple Facebook message in June 2014, “Are you thinking about going to the Women’s World Cup?” would lead to so much happiness, romance, love, a dog named “Doak,” and a marriage. Brittany and Ian actually shared their first year anniversary at the Women’s World Cup in Vancouver, Canada in July 2015!

The Proposal

On Father’s Day, June 19, 2016, Ian and Brittany dropped Brittany’s mom off at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport after visiting for the weekend. Brittany and Ian headed to Painting with a Twist for a fun Sunday date. When they arrived, Ian told Brittany that he had a “golf connection” with the owner of Painting with a Twist, so they got a free, private painting session. Ian had already picked out the canvas paintings that they would do: champagne glasses. Ian and Brittany of course made it into a little competition where the “best” painting would get to be hung up in their dining room/bar area (Ian’s painting won).

At the very end, the painting instructor informed Ian and Brittany that they would be playing a little game of Pictionary where the winner would get to choose any canvas painting on the wall of their choice. Brittany won the game of Pictionary and then was taken to a different room to pick out her painting. When she turned to look at the wall of paintings, only one canvas remained: “Will you marry me?” Baffled and confused, Brittany asked, “Can I pick out a different one?” Ian was already down on one knee and asked again. Her answer… “YES!” And then she yelled, “Did my mom really go home???” That moment, Brittany’s mom burst through the doors with one of Ian’s good friends, Brad, with champagne glasses and a bottle of champagne! It was the most PERFECT surprise!

The Relationship

Ian loves that she is family-first, loves kids, and loves soccer and FSU. Brittany loves that he is family and career oriented, puts up with her anal habits, loves soccer/FSU, and they can be happy together and content just doing nothing. This sweet couple enjoys binge watching Netflix shows, watching soccer, playing with Doak (their puppy) at the park, and eating out.

The Wedding

It is no surprise that Brittany and Ian chose an FSU theme with Garnet and Gold for their wedding! The wedding location at Hilton Clearwater Beach is significant for Brittany, as it is right in her backyard where she grew up. The event was semi-formal and fun. The guests felt like their were at a home away from home.

I just simply adore Brittany and her mom Gayle – we got to know each other through the planning process and felt like old friends by the day of the wedding. They are both just as organized as me (which I love!!!), so it was such a smooth day from the moment I stepped into Brittany’s suite where she was getting ready. We were ahead of schedule at one point, so Brittany and her mom were able to share an unexpected, beautiful and very meaningful moment alone. By the time Brittany’s dad Jim came in for his special moment with his beautiful daughter even I was having tears in my eyes!

I met Ian for the first moment at the ceremony. Oh what a perfect fit these two lovely people are for each other! Gayle’s brother (Uncle Ronnie) performed the wedding ceremony for Brittany’s mom and dad (his first one ever!) over 25 years ago and then also for Brittany and Ian. It was such a meaningful and beautiful ceremony under a gorgeous chuppah. The personalized vows were so touching – filled with funny and sentimental moments, and lots of talk about future babies!

The reception was energetic, upbeat and started off with a bang with the traditional horah dance! We were able to sneak outside to capture the incredible sunset for bride and groom portraits – such a treat and a wonderful way to top off an incredible experience.

Brittany and Ian are so gracious and appreciative. Mom Gayle is so kind and compassionate. Even Brittany’s dad and brother came up to Michael and myself to thank us – trust me the guys usually do not pay much attention to the photographers lol. And Gayle was so kind to donate a giant bag of brand-new soccer balls to our ministry that we work with in Z’Orange, Haiti that is so beloved to us. This family will remain dear to our hearts always.

Lead Photographers | Rebecca + Michael Zoumberos
Associate Photographer | Alexa Rodriguez