Emily + Liam Step Into The Limelight | The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Longboat Key, FL

A Coastal Celebration at Longboat Key, FL

Emily and Liam’s love story began in college and came full circle on the beach, where Liam proposed and where they exchanged vows. Their wedding at Longboat Key Resort was the perfect reflection of who they are laid back, connected to the coast, and deeply in love.

The ceremony took place on the North Lawn with a view of teal waters and a soft ocean breeze. A violinist played as they walked down the aisle, adding a romantic and intimate feel to the moment.

The celebration continued at Spike ‘n Tees, an open air restaurant at The Resort at Longboat Key Club overlooking the golf course. Guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, putting on the green, and rounds of beer pong while Emily and Liam mingled with friends and family.

Every detail was personal. A mini boat at the bar held custom koozies. Emily designed all the signage. Bottles of sand decorated the tables. Instead of a traditional guestbook, guests left notes in a message-in-a-bottle. These thoughtful touches gave the day its charm and character.

After dinner and heartfelt speeches, we headed back to the beach for golden hour portraits. The light was perfect. Emily and Liam were completely in the moment, taking in the view and the love surrounding them.

The night wrapped back at Spike ‘n Tees with more laughter, games, and memories made. It felt less like an event and more like the gathering of one big family; exactly how they wanted it.

Emily and Liam, thank you for letting us tell your story. Your day was beautiful, meaningful, and completely yours!

With love,
Jeff

📸 Let’s capture your love story! Reach out today to schedule your consultation or explore our portfolio.

Lead Photographer | Jeff Mitchell
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa

Bridesmaid Dresses | Azazie
Cake | Cakes by Ron
Caterer | Resort at Longboat Key Club
Ceremony Site | Resort at Longboat Key Club 
Event Planner | Swanky Soiree Events | Christina
Florist | Flowers by Fudgie
Hair Stylist | POSH Bridal
Make-up Artist | POSH Bridal
Reception Venue | Resort at Longboat Key Club (Spike N Tees)
Wedding Gown | Truly Forever Bridal

Kaitlin + Graham Step Into The Limelight | The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Longboat Key, FL

Kaitlin & Graham’s Joyful, Romantic Celebration at The Resort at Longboat Key Club

From the moment I captured their engagement session, I knew Kaitlin and Graham’s wedding would be filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and beautifully personal details. These two are best friends who bring out the joy in everyone around them — and their wedding day at The Resort at Longboat Key Club was everything a celebration should be: vibrant, meaningful, and truly unforgettable.

As a Sarasota Florida Photographer, I’ve had the honor of photographing so many incredible love stories — but Kaitlin and Graham’s is one I’ll never forget.

A Love Story Years in the Making

They first met at the University of Florida — Kaitlin was just starting her freshman year, and Graham, affectionately known as “the green guy,” was a preview staffer. One corny joke and a big smile later, and Kaitlin was hooked. Their friendship blossomed through marching band and service organizations, and after months of mutual crushes, Kaitlin finally made the first move in March of 2022. Since then, they’ve been inseparable adventure buddies — from college football games to European travels and adopting their two kittens, Clara and Luna.

The Sweetest Surprise Proposal

Longboat Key isn’t just beautiful — it’s meaningful to them both. Graham pulled off the ultimate surprise there, with a beachside proposal that caught Kaitlin completely off guard (she thought she was helping plan a dinner for him to celebrate a job offer — he had her fooled!). With champagne, family, and a perfectly timed sunset, Graham asked Kaitlin to spend forever with him. The look on her face said it all!

A Banyan Tree Ceremony & First Looks That Melted Us

Their ceremony took place under the canopy of a breathtaking banyan tree — one of the most serene, romantic spots you could imagine. With the ocean breeze and Spanish moss above, it felt sacred and magical. It was the perfect setting for the heartfelt vows they wrote for each other.

Before the ceremony, Kaitlin shared a tear-filled first look with her dad — such a powerful and emotional moment that had us all misty-eyed. Not long after, she met Graham for their first look — one of the most tender and genuine moments of the day. The way they held each other, smiled through tears, and soaked in the quiet before the festivities… it was absolute perfection.

Details Full of Heart and Personality

No detail was overlooked. Graham wore a custom sage green tux (his signature color), and Kaitlin’s bridesmaids looked radiant in varying shades of soft blue — her favorite. Her gown was a dream — romantic, timeless, and perfect for the lush, coastal setting.

Their DIY touches — including custom signage, place cards, and stationery made by Kaitlin herself — added so much heart. And don’t even get me started on the kitten cocktail napkins. Clara and Luna, you were well-represented!

From their music choices (subtle nods to Star Wars, Disney, Marvel, and more!) to their signature drinks and custom vow books, the day felt like a complete expression of them.

Pure Joy from Start to Finish

This wedding was everything I love about photojournalistic photography — raw, candid moments that tell the real story. From the laughter on the dance floor to the quiet glances between them during the ceremony, every image captured something real and meaningful.

Kaitlin and Graham — thank you for letting me be part of your story. It was truly an honor to document your love and all the magic that surrounded it.

If you’re planning your own dream day and want timeless, meaningful wedding photography in Sarasota Florida, I’d be honored to help tell your love story.

✨ Let’s capture your day with heart and joy. Contact Limelight Photography!

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | PJ

Bridesmaid Dresses | Revelry
Cake | Cakes by Ron
Caterer | The Resort at Longboat Key Club
Ceremony Site | The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Banyan Cove
DJ | Tampa Bay DJ Co.
Event Planner | Swanky Soiree Events 
Florist | Flowers by Fudgie
Hair Stylist | DS Hair and Makeup Creations
Invitations | The Knot
Reception Venue | The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Harbourside Ballroom
Videographer | Limelight Photography 
Wedding Gown | Calvet Couture | Eva Lendel

Faith + Christian Step Into The Limelight | The CURRENT Hotel | Tampa, FL

Faith & Christian’s Intimate Wedding at The CURRENT Hotel

As a Tampa Florida Photographer, I absolutely love capturing weddings that are all about meaningful connection, and Faith and Christian’s wedding at The CURRENT Hotel was exactly that — relaxed, personal, and full of heartfelt moments.

Faith and Christian’s love story began in Texas while they were both in college. Their shared passion for sports brought them together — first as student-athletes, now as coaches — and as loving parents to their adorable daughter, Mavrie. Watching the three of them interact throughout the day was so special. You could feel the strength of their bond and how much joy they bring each other.

Their vision was clear from the start: a small, intimate wedding with their closest friends and family. With soft, neutral tones and a classic yet casual vibe, every detail felt authentic to who they are. The ceremony took place with beautiful waterfront views, and the love in the air was undeniable. Faith’s nana created a custom bouquet cover, adding a sentimental touch to an already meaningful day.

Their day was peaceful and deeply rooted in love. As a storyteller who values photojournalistic photography, it was an honor to capture the small, candid in-between moments: Faith and Christian exchanging sweet smiles, Mavrie holding her parents’ hands, and guests soaking in the joy of the day.

As someone who specializes in wedding photography in Tampa Florida, I’m always reminded that the most beautiful weddings aren’t always the loudest — they’re the ones that feel most true to the couple. Faith and Christian’s day was a perfect example of that.

If you’re planning a wedding that’s simple, classic, and focused on genuine moments — we would be honored to document your love story with wedding photography Tampa Florida style.

📸 Let’s make your day unforgettable — reach out to Limelight Photography today!
Contact us here!

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | PJ

 Caterer | The CURRENT Hotel
Ceremony Site | The CURRENT Hotel 
Reception Venue | The CURRENT Hotel
Wedding Gown | Dora Grace Bridal

Elise + Tyler Step Into The Limelight | Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel | Tampa, FL

A Timeless Celebration in Tampa

Elise and Tyler have known each other since fifth grade, but it wasn’t until five years ago that their story as a couple began. What followed was a relationship grounded in ease, shared values, and a love for the simple joys like cooking dinner together, traveling, and always choosing each other.

Tyler proposed during a trip to Switzerland, over a quiet picnic in Lauterbrunnen, with waterfalls in every direction. It was thoughtful, personal, and perfectly them.

Originally planned for the Rusty Pelican, their wedding was relocated to the Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel due to unexpected hurricane damage. With the help of their coordinator, Brittany, the day came together seamlessly.

The ceremony took place outside in the hotel’s courtyard, officiated by Elise’s uncle. Guests gathered in the open air as the couple exchanged heartfelt vows surrounded by greenery and sunshine. After portraits by the fountain, everyone moved inside to the ballroom for dinner and dancing.

Elise took a moment after dinner to thank everyone for being there and gave a special, heartfelt thank you to Brittany, who helped them navigate the last-minute venue change with care and dedication.

The evening continued with a private cake cutting and then straight into the celebration. One of the standout moments came when “Sugar, We’re Going Down” played, an all time favorite of Elise’s, setting the tone for a fun, energetic night. The celebration closed on a high note with “Mr. Brightside,” as guests formed a circle around the newlyweds, bubbles filling the air while everyone sang along. It was the perfect ending to a day that felt personal, relaxed, and full of love.

Planning Your Dream Wedding in Tampa, Florida?

Limelight Photography is proud to be a preferred vendor for wedding venues all across Tampa. Whether you're planning a sunset ceremony, a river-front reception, or an intimate elopement, our experienced team will ensure your story is told with heart and artistry—without breaking the bank. We offer affordable wedding photography packages that never compromise on quality or care.

📸 Let’s capture your love story! Reach out today to schedule your consultation or explore our portfolio.

Limelight Photography. Romantic. Timeless. You. Preferred Vendor at the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach. Affordable Wedding Photography with Heart.

Lead Photographer | Jeff Mitchell
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa

Bridesmaid Dresses |  Birdy Grey
Cake |  Alessi Bakery
Ceremony Site | Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel
DJ | DJ by CJ
Event Planner | Brittany's Brides
Hair Stylist | Art by Izzy Hair and Makeup
Invitations | The Knot
Make-up Artist | Art by Izzy Hair and Makeup
Reception Venue | Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel
Wedding Gown | The Dressing Room

Elizabeth + John Step Into The Limelight | Sirata Beach Resort | St. Pete Beach, FL

A Christ-Centered Beach Wedding | Sirata Beach Resort

As a wedding photographer in St. Pete, Florida, I have the privilege of capturing so many beautiful love stories — but Elizabeth and John’s wedding at Sirata Beach Resort was one I’ll never forget. From the very first moment I met them, I could feel that their love was rooted in something deeper — a shared calling, unwavering faith, and a sense of purpose that shaped every detail of their day.

Their story began on the cobblestone streets of Prague, where John proposed on Christmas morning just before the sunrise. It was the perfect start to a journey marked by adventure, grace, and heartfelt connection. Together, they’ve traveled across Europe, shared their passion for ministry, and now — they've said “I do” with their toes in the sand and the ocean at their backs.

Elizabeth, a proud Michigander, always dreamed of a beach wedding like the ones she grew up admiring along the Lake Michigan shoreline. And while she didn’t get Lake Michigan, she found the next best thing — the stunning Gulf Coast right here in St. Pete. It was a meaningful tribute to her roots, and a perfect match for John, a Miami native and avid diver who feels most alive by the water.

Their wedding was filled with intentionality and spirit. It was held on what would have been Elizabeth’s Grandma Ingersoll’s birthday — a woman who played a major role in her life and who had once gifted her a gold wedding band in hopes it would lead her to the man of her dreams. That ring, and her presence in spirit, made the ceremony even more profound.

The moment Elizabeth walked down the aisle to an instrumental version of Goodness of God, the atmosphere was drenched in love and reverence. John’s eyes welled with tears. They exchanged personal vows and sealed their union with a tender first kiss, just as the waves lapped gently behind them. As a St. Pete photographer who specializes in photojournalistic photography, I live for moments like these — raw, honest, and completely unposed.

The reception was equally joyful. Guests laughed and cried during the speeches, and everyone was stunned when Elizabeth and John performed a secretly rehearsed first dance. These two may be quiet behind-the-scenes people, but their love speaks volumes — especially when they’re twirling barefoot on the sand, beaming with joy.

Elizabeth’s DIY centerpieces added a beautiful touch to the evening, but the remembrance table truly stood out. She honored not only her grandparents, but the legacies of her great-grandparents too — including their wedding anniversaries and how many years they were married. It was a tender nod to the generations who paved the way.

As the sun dipped low behind the horizon, we snuck away for their sunset portraits — just the two of them. That quiet space, away from the crowd, allowed for some of the most intimate and emotive wedding candids of the day. The love between them was palpable, glowing just as golden as the sky around us.

Elizabeth and John’s wedding reminded me why I love capturing wedding photography in St. Pete. It’s not just about beautiful scenery or perfect lighting — though those things help! It’s about telling the stories that matter. The ones that echo long after the day is done.

To Elizabeth and John — thank you for sharing your journey and allowing me to witness a day overflowing with purpose, love, and the presence of God. May your marriage be as rich and radiant as your wedding day.

With love,
Dafne

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | Isabella Santos
Content Creator | Allie Vogel | Limelight Photography 

Caterer | Sirata Beach Resort
Ceremony Site | Sirata Beach Resort 
Reception Venue | Sirata Beach Resort