Kayla + Michael Step Into The Limelight | Sunken Gardens | St. Petersburg, FL

 

Kayla and Michael's story began in the summer of 2018, thanks to the magic of a dating app, Bumble. From their first messages to their first meeting, their connection was unmistakable. Little did they know, they were about to embark on a journey that would lead to a lifetime of shared laughter.

Their love story reached a turning point during a romantic beach sunset stroll when Michael got down on one knee and asked for Kayla's hand in marriage. The moment was even more magical as a talented violinist serenaded them, setting the stage for their happily ever after.

What truly stands out about Kayla and Michael is their shared sense of humor. Their laughter is infectious, and it's clear that they are each other's best friend. This genuine bond is the cornerstone of their relationship, and it was evident throughout their wedding day.

The couple shares a wide range of interests and hobbies, from cozy movie nights and competitive board games to epic video game battles and challenging hikes. Their love for each other grows stronger as they explore these activities together, making their connection truly unique.

Their garden-themed wedding took place at Sunken Gardens, a location that perfectly encapsulated the beauty they had envisioned. The lush greenery and vibrant flowers created a magical backdrop, allowing their guests to wander and enjoy the stunning surroundings. The venue itself was the star of the show, with the couple wanting their guests to explore and appreciate every corner of Sunken Gardens.

Kayla and Michael were most excited about their private first look, cherishing those intimate moments away from the crowd amidst the beautiful garden setting.

Kayla's creative touch was evident in the DIY projects she undertook. From the save-the-dates to the table seating arrangement display with wax seals, these personalized touches added a special charm to the wedding. Kayla and Michael expressed their desire for their wedding and guests to feel "Entertained and Enchanted.”

If you're looking for a wedding photographer in St. Petersburg who can capture your love story in a documentary style, look no further. Our Senior Lead Photographer, Dafne Spencer, had the privilege of witnessing and capturing the beautiful love story of Kayla and Michael, a journey that began with a simple swipe and blossomed into a magical garden-themed wedding, bringing two families together in a celebration of laughter, love, and unity.

So, if you're in search of the best wedding photographers in Tampa, make sure to reach out to us for your special day.

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | Gabe Caldwell
Intern | Hailey Gannon

Cake | Cakes by Maritza
Caterer | Catering by the Family
Ceremony Site | Sunken Gardens
DJ | Benny Maldonado
Florist | Poise Flowers
Hair Stylist | Diana Reed
Make-up Artist | Derby Lopez
Reception Venue | Sunken Gardens
Violinist | Lemay James Olmos
Wedding Gown | David’s Bridal

Limelight Photography in St. Lucia | Caribbean Island

Chasing waterfalls in Saint Lucia…

Limelight Photography had the pleasure of photographing two gorgeous brides on location at Latille Waterfalls and Gardens in Micoud, Saint Lucia. It is always a treat to travel for work to a new beautiful location! Latille Waterfalls and garden is a small and quiet waterfall, existing of different small falls. 

Latille Falls is located in Micoud and is about 30 minutes from Dennery and almost an hour from the city. The gap leading to Latille Falls cannot be missed as there is a sign at the entrance along the Micoud Highway. The drive from the Micoud Highway to Latille Falls was cool and quiet since it is a mostly forested area. As we got closer to the entrance and headed into the garden, I heard the loud and forceful sound of the waterfall. I looked around and it was a green oasis with birds chirping. So relaxing, I felt at ease.

As we got closer to the falls, the loud rushing sound of the water was heard and it was even more powerful. I said “wow” when I saw the falls because it was spectacular.

Being at Latille Falls was a peaceful way to experience nature and be away from the outside world. This was really a tropical experience, you see a variety of birds, herbs, flowers and fruit trees. The only sounds are the waterfall, birds chirping and swaying trees. It is a perfect peaceful spot. You can mediate, destress and be off the grid. This peace enables peace of mind.

Kira is wearing a gorgeous gown and veil from Satin & Lace. Her bright red bouquet was harvested locally.

Tiffany’s gown is Melissa Sweet from David’s Bridal and wedding ring HAMILTON.

The exquisite invitation and stationary was handmade by Sadgebrush Designs, and depict the iconic Piton Mountains.

We can’t get enough of these waterfalls + tropical paradise vibes!!!

Lead Photographer | Rebecca Zoumberos

Invitations | Sadgebrush Designs
Kira Wedding Gown | Satin & Lace
Tiffany’s Wedding Gown | Melissa Sweet | David’s Bridal
Ring | HAMILTON
Venue | Latille Waterfalls and Gardens

Olivia + Ian Step Into The Limelight | Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club | Dade City, FL

Ohh these two beautiful souls…
What an honor it was to be able to witness such pure LOVE! Olivia & Ian oozed happiness on their wedding day surrounded by their loved ones.

They describe their love for each other as “the best team, its us against the world no matter what. The best partners there could ever be”. These words remained true throughout the day as they professed their love for each other.

We just adore Olivia’s confidence and JOY, she took the time on her wedding day to get a fresh hair cut and we are here for it! It was perfect! She looked stunning!

Olivia & Ian celebrated with their friends and family in a very significant yet laid back way, every moment was special, every person was loved on, every hug was intentional, every kiss… passionate.

We LOVED celebrating these two and we wish them a lifetime of great adventures together.

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | Gabe Caldwell

Cake | Cake Guru
Caterer | Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club
Ceremony Site | Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club
DJ | Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club
Florist | The Flower Box
Hair Stylist | Jayce Roman
Invitations | TheKnot
Make-up Artist | Selena Lopez
Reception Venue | Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club
Wedding Gown | David’s Bridal

Marde + Troy Step Into The Limelight | Bayanihan Arts and Events Center | Tampa, FL

Marde and Troy met in 2017 while at work. Marde was attending her nursing orientation and Troy was a Patient Care Technician. They started having outings with friends and eventually their friends decided to play matchmaker, setting Marde and Troy up to go on a date and the rest is history!

How Troy proposed, Marde’s POV: 

“He proposed to me on the day we closed on our brand new house. He suggested that we drive back from Tampa to our new house to take pictures. Even though I was already exhausted from signing infinite amount of papers, I said okay. When we got there, he surprised me by getting on his knee and asking me to be his wife. I was really surprised. It was the last thing on the mind being that it was such a hectic day. But I will never forget it!”

Together Marde and Troy not only have their own home, but they also have the sweetest little pup, Theo! Theo made an appearance in their engagement photos, as well as Marde’s getting-ready photos for their wedding day. Their wedding day as a whole was just so beautiful. The chemistry and joy that Marde and Troy have is so apparent! They tied the knot at Our Lady of Lourdes in Largo—this is a really special place for them as they have both been attending since they were young. Troy was actually an altar server when he was younger but their paths never crossed then!

Their reception was at the Bayanihan Events Center, which is a Filipino event center. You guys… it was SO BEAUTIFUL. Marde is Filipino, so incorporating her culture into their big day was a must! Everything from their first dance, parent dances, prosperity dance, delicious food, and a whole roasted pig, was the perfect blend of unity and love between Troy and Marde’s joined families. We are so happy for these two (three including Theo!). 

We wish the Baldino’s so much happiness! Congrats!

Lead Photographer | Tara Zimmerman
Associate Photographer | Emma Hintz

Bridesmaid Dresses | David’s Bridal
Cake | Bayanihan Arts and Events Center
Caterer | Bayanihan Arts and Events Center
Ceremony Site | Our Lady of Lourdes Largo
DJ | Bayanihan Arts and Events Center
Florist | Hassell Florist
Hair Stylist | Femme Akoi
Invitations | Minted
Make-up Artist | Femme Akoi
Reception Venue | Bayanihan Arts and Events Center
Videographer | Bayanihan Arts and Events Center
Wedding Gown | David’s Bridal
Photo Booth | D&K Photobooth

Michelle + Alex Step Into The Limelight | Harborside Chapel + Wentworth Golf Club | Tarpon Springs, FL

Michelle & Alex met on Bumble. They talked for about three weeks, then met on March 24th at Cask Downtown Tampa. Their absolute best memory was their second date- Downtown St. Petersburg, FL at Red Mesa.♥️ Alex proposed at Safety Harbor in the Safety Harbor Park, near the water and Safety Harbor Pier after one of our favorite restaurants. Michelle still cries every time thinking of it, the stone in her ring, is Alex’s mom’s stone. She passed away when he was 21. Michelle feels so grateful and loved. 🥰

What do you love about each other? 

I love how caring Alex is; he takes care of me all the time and supports me. He is always there when I need him as my fiancé and as my best friend. He takes such good care of me prepping my coffee each night for the next day, making me dinners literally every night- I love that he enjoys me helping him. I am learning as I go when I cook 🤣 I love how he has taught me to be more courageous and to try many new things in life! 

As for Michelle (written by Alex)…

I know it is cliché to say but Michelle is without a doubt my better half. She is strong where I am weak, and she is always there for me when I need her. We have been there together for each other through not only the great times but also the bad. I always joke that if we can get through surviving Covid together in a small one-bedroom apartment, we can get through anything together. Not only are we lovers but we are best friends and spend as much time as we can doing things together.

and here’s the sweetest thing Michelle let us know…

Describe the overall story for your wedding:

I (Michelle) never in my life thought I would ever get the opportunity to be planning such a beautiful wedding in my life. It is not about all the glam and glitter in my life, but on this day, I am fortunate and beyond blessed that it can be filled with love. I really mean it-never did I think I could have my day!

Michelle & Alex’ wedding day was pure magic! With lots of coral, navy blue with a rustic/country vibe. Rustic wood and brick with inspirations of a simpler life. We loved how Michelle & Alex kept it a little like the “older day” when the bride & groom were married on a Chapel. Michelle & Alex wrote their own vows and celebrated their love with a unity candle during the Ceremony. We also loved how they incorporated their loved ones who have passed with a beautiful “memory table” at the Ceremony entrance ♥️
We so enjoyed celebrating these two beautiful souls and wish them both a lifetime of happiness and many more sweet memories together 🥂

Lead Photographer | Rebecca Zoumberos 
Associate Photographer | Gabe Caldwell 

Bridesmaid Dresses | David’s Bridal
Cake | Chantilly Cakes 
Caterer | Wentworth Golf Club 
Ceremony Site | Harborside Chapel
DJ | Kool Kat Entertainment | Joe Vega
Florist | Janie Bean Florist | Lu B. Cushing 
Make-up Artist | I Do Brides And Beauty | Karri Sizemore
Reception Venue | Wentworth Golf Club
Wedding Gown | David’s Bridal