November 22, 2016
This year, I got to celebrate Veteran’s Day by documenting the wedding of a couple in the Army. That made my heart happy! It was such a perfect day, I couldn’t be more thrilled for this deserving couple.
Olivia and Joel’s families traveled from Minnesota and North Dakota to celebrate this day with them on St. Pete beach. The whole crew got ready in a fun Airbnb right near the water. The home had so many unique touches and was beautifully decorated. The girls got ready in the mother in law suite in the back, while the gentleman suited up in the main house.
Olivia looked absolutely stunning! She wore a beautiful lace, beachy gown. Her smile is radiant! All of her bridesmaids were so excited to see her all dressed up for the first time. The bridesmaids wore light purple dresses and carried bouquets of white flowers. Olivia and Joel did a first look before the ceremony. The way that Joel looks at Olivia makes my heart stop. You can tell he just adores her.
Olivia and Joel recited their vows on St. Pete beach with thirty of their closest friends and family. After the ceremony, everyone grabbed a stone, made a wish, and threw it out into the ocean.
From there, the party got started! The wedding party spent some time running around town on a party bus (and eating Chick-fil-a of course) before making their way to the StarLite cruise.
The wedding reception took place on the water – such a fun idea! All of the guests enjoyed the first floor of the boat. Everyone enjoyed live entertainment, a delicious meal, and tearing up the dance floor. Cake was enjoyed by all – and there was even an anniversary cake for Olivia’s parents – as they were celebrating their 27th year of marriage. The night concluded as Olivia and Joel ran through a tunnel of sparklers – it was the perfect ending to a wonderful day!
Olivia and Joel, thank you so much for including me in your wedding! I truly felt like family standing by your side throughout the day. You two have such fun-loving personalities which will carry you through a beautiful marriage. I know you two will go far together, as you’ve already supported each other through so much. Congratulations you two!!
Ceremony set up and officiant: Tide the Knot Weddings // Reception: Starlite Cruises // Veil: Blanca Veils // Shoes: Betsey Johnson // Florist: Bella Botanical // Bridesmaids attire: David’s Bridal // Groomsmen attire: Men’s Warehouse // Hair: Hello, Darling // Makeup: May Rodriguez // Cake: Publix