The sun seemed to set a little as each word of their ceremony was spoken, and as it dipped below the horizon it took it’s warmth with it. The day was officially done, a perfectly fitting representation of the chapter they were closing and the new one they were promising to write. And as a chill entered the air, their bodies moved closer, inch by inch, until finally she was in his arms and he was keeping her warm as the rabbi spoke. Not because that was the traditional way to stand during a ceremony. But because it was what was normal for them. Taking care of one another. And as a warm day turned into a brisk evening, they promised to do just that for the rest of their days . . .
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Kristen + Joel are married! They had a waterfront ceremony on the beach of the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, followed by a reception in the main ballroom. Kristen wore a cap-sleeve gown with the most beautiful neckline, which left us raving about how timeless and Audrey Hepburn-esque she looked all day. And Joel looked oh so dapper as well in a navy suit, and a giant smile he couldn’t seem to stop wearing from their first look on. After some solo portrait time their super fun bridal party joined us for a few, and then the two of them headed in to sign their Ketubah before the ceremony.
After saying their vows (and a few sunset portraits with the gorgeous orange sky) everyone headed over to the main hotel for the reception. The ballroom was decorated beautifully, with a mix of high/low floral centerpieces and the most sparkly chandeliers. And after dinner, everyone immediately hopped onto the dance floor to get things started with the hora, with the newlyweds being popped up high into the air which is always one of our most favorite parts!
Kristen + Joel, thank you both for such a fun day! It was an absolute blast and we hope you love reliving it through these as much as we did.
Love + Laughs,
Sarah & Ben
Credit Where Credit is Due:
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
Hair & Makeup: Denise Burkle (db Studio)
Wedding Dress Designer: Stella York
Wedding Dress Store: The White Closet
Bride Shoe Designer: Nina
Groom & Groomsmen Apparel: Frank’s Formal Wear
Bridesmaid Dress Designer: Lulu’s
Caterer: Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
Florist: 2Birds events
Cake Design: Publix
