Briefly describe the proposal!
Kevin proposed on January 7th, right after the craziness of Christmas and New Year’s Eve. He told me we were going to his company’s holiday party downtown and suggested we get drinks at the Vinoy before, as we commonly do. After having one drink at the porch, he abruptly suggested we try the new “pop up bar” in the tea garden. As soon as he opened the doors, I saw we were alone in the romantic garden and there was bottle of champagne on ice and two glasses on the beautiful fountain. Everything started to click and I immediately starting crying and shaking. He walked me closer to the fountain, took my hands, and through both of our tears said the most beautiful words and got down on one knee. We sat on the fountain, toasting champagne, laughing from shock, crying from happiness as his mom secretly snapped photos from the bushes (unbeknownst to me!). Later that night, he took me to a surprise party with all our family and friends waiting. It was a dream!
When it comes to choosing vendors, what advice to you have for a new bride?
Do your research and use your local resources! Meet with or have phone interviews with as many vendors as you can. Go with vendors who you think will help you make your ideas a reality, not someone that is trying to fit you into their cookie-cutter mold of weddings. Stay organized, delegate tasks and surround yourself with a good team. And most importantly- continue to cultivate and grow your relationship with your fiancé. It’s an incredibly unique time in your relationship as a couple, and it goes by so fast!
What did you look for in a wedding videographer?
We heard from multiple people that not hiring a videographer was a huge wedding regret and we didn’t want to be part of that group. We wanted a videographer with superior talent, one who would highlight, not stage, the emotion of our day and who wouldn’t break the budget. Imagery Wedding Films quickly emerged as the front runner in our videography research. Our wedding film is one of our greatest treasures.
What went into the design of invitations, save-the-dates, and thank you notes?
I wanted a local “brick and mortar” stationer that could personally get to know us and our style, support a St. Pete small business and create a beautiful wedding paper set that was uniquely ours. We cannot speak highly enough about A&P Designs. Alicia was so wonderful and patient in working with me to create an incredible watercolor crest which was woven in subtly across our entire wedding year – from the first stamp on the Save the Date to the last reply card and everything in between.
Let’s talk hair and makeup!
I wanted something classic and elegant that reflected my personality and the style of my wedding dress. Kate Middleton is my style icon, so I used a lot of her pictures to help convey my ideas.
