December 31, 2016
The excitement and anticipation in the air the morning of Janelle and Roberto’s wedding, was unlike any I had experienced. These two were so ready to celebrate their marriage!
The girls got ready for the day at the beautiful Le Meridian hotel in downtown Tampa. The light streamed through the large windows as the girls got ready. Through the window, you could see Sacred Heart Church, where Janelle and Roberto would be exchanging vows just hours later.
Janelle wore a beautiful lace gown with a layered skirt – she looked like an angel. She wore her grandmother’s pearl earrings and necklace. Her hair hung in a loose fishtail braid, with intricate beaded adornments.
Roberto and Janelle’s ceremony tugged on everyone’s heart strings. They have such a strong and inspiring faith. The way they looked at one another at the alter was heart stopping.
The celebration continued at Wishing Well Barn – an open air barn in Plant City. The tables were set with vintage china and centerpieces of olive branches and rosemary. There were so many personalized details throughout the barn. My favorite detail was the ornament guest book. Each guest wrote their wishes for the couple on a wooden ornament that Janelle and Roberto will read during the holidays every year – a fun way to to remember their wedding and celebrate their anniversary.
As the sun set, the twinkle lights in the barn became brighter – and oh my word – all the heart eyes! Janelle and Roberto shared their first dance under the twinkle lights and it took my breath away.
The rest of the evening flew by with dancing and entertainment. There was an anniversary dance, where all four sets of Roberto and Janelle’s grandparents celebrated their decades and decades of marriage. At 9:30, a Puerto Rican band entered the barn and kept the floor alive for an hour with their instrumental music and chants. It was truly unlike anything I had ever seen!
The night concluded with sparklers and fireworks as Janelle and Roberto made their exit home and husband and wife!
Janelle and Roberto, thank you so much for including us in your day! The love you share is so special! You make a wonderful pair and set an example for so many couples – young and old. Congratulations on a beautiful wedding and an even more beautiful marriage!