Laura + Jason Step Into The Limelight | Indian Rocks Beach & Shahnasarian Hall, FL

Love stories begin with fireworks, others with fate… and theirs? It started with kickball.

Yes, kickball. Eight years ago, somewhere between competitive kicks, playful trash talk, and probably someone dramatically sliding into a base like it was the World Series, these two found each other. Honestly, if that’s not the perfect beginning for a fun, adventurous love story, I don’t know what is.

From that first meeting, it was clear they shared something special an easy kind of connection, the kind built on laughter, friendship, and never taking life too seriously. Their love grew through the little things and the big adventures: kickball games, pickleball matches that probably got way too competitive, paintball battles where I’m sure someone still insists they were “definitely not out,” spontaneous exploring, traveling, and building a life filled with family, friends, animals, and unforgettable memories.

And then came the proposal.

Picture this: a beautiful day at Bunces Pass, out on the water with friends, the kind of Florida day that makes you stop and think, “Okay, life is actually pretty perfect.” They took a walk through the pathways, surrounded by nature, sunshine, and that peaceful beach energy Florida does so well… and right there, he got down on one knee.

Cue the happy tears. Cue the shocked laughter. Cue the friends somewhere nearby pretending they were absolutely not spying on the whole thing. It was simple, meaningful, and perfectly them.

Their wedding day reflected everything they love most Florida sunshine, ocean breezes, tropical beauty, and being surrounded by the people who matter most. Since they both moved to Florida about ten years ago, choosing a beach ceremony felt deeply personal. It wasn’t just a beautiful location; it was a place that represented the life they built together.

With soft aqua tones, tropical inspiration, and the dreamiest beach cocktail vibe, every detail felt like a reflection of their story. The ocean in the background, the salty air, the relaxed elegance of the day it all came together so naturally, like it was always meant to happen exactly this way.

And let’s talk about the celebration… because wow.

This was not one of those weddings where people politely clap and leave by 9 PM. No, no. This was a full-on celebration the kind where laughter fills every corner, the dance floor never gets a break, and every guest feels like they’re part of something truly special. Tons of family, so many friends, happy tears, loud cheers, and the kind of joy you can physically feel in the room.

Their favorite part? The beach ceremony itself and the unforgettable party that followed and honestly, same.

What made it even more special were the personal touches they created themselves. From bouquets to ceremony and reception décor, to the invitations, they poured their own hands and hearts into the day. Those DIY details gave everything an even deeper meaning because every flower, every setup, every carefully chosen piece told part of their story.

As their photographer, I felt incredibly honored to be part of such a meaningful day. There are weddings you photograph, and then there are weddings you truly feel and this was absolutely one of those.

Their energy was magnetic. Warm, joyful, genuine, and full of love in the purest way. Being around them felt easy, like being invited into something real and beautiful. You could see it in every glance, every laugh, every quiet little moment in between the chaos of the celebration.

As a photographer, being trusted to capture moments like these is never something I take lightly. It’s such a privilege to witness a love story so authentic and to preserve memories that will be looked back on for generations. I felt special simply being there, watching it all unfold the love, the laughter, the happy chaos, and the kind of celebration that reminds you exactly why weddings are so magical.

Their day was full of sunshine, love, sandy feet, probably a little wind in everyone’s hair, and more laughter than anyone could count.

Honestly… if every love story started with kickball and with a beach wedding like this, I think we’d all be doing just fine.

Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Adrian Nguyen

Bridesmaid Dresses | JJ's House 
DJ | Peter Eeg
Event Planner |  Jenna Rodriguez
Hair Stylist | Parlour 727
Make-up Artist | Parlour 727
Reception Venue | Shahnasarian Hall 

Amy + Derek Step Into The Limelight | Sunken Gardens | St. Pete, FL

Amy & Derek: Blooming In Love at The Sunken Gardens

On February 20th, Amy and Derek celebrated their love with a beautifully intimate wedding at the breathtaking Sunken Gardens. With the gardens in full seasonal bloom and golden winter sunlight filtering through the trees, the day was nothing short of magical.

February is one of the most sought-after months for a Florida garden wedding, and Amy and Derek couldn’t have chosen a more perfect day. The weather was mild, the skies were clear, and the lush botanical scenery created a naturally stunning backdrop. Their February wedding at Sunken Gardens showcased everything couples love about a St. Petersburg outdoor wedding venue  vibrant greenery, tropical blooms, and romantic garden charm

The couple exchanged vows during an intimate ceremony held directly on the lawn, surrounded by family, close friends, and flourishing tropical plants. Towering palms and colorful blossoms framed the ceremony space, creating a private oasis in the heart of the city.

Amy looked radiant as she walked down the aisle, while Derek’s smile said it all  a heartfelt moment set against one of the most iconic garden wedding venues in St. Petersburg. The natural beauty of Sunken Gardens required minimal décor, allowing the couple’s love story to truly shine.

Their wedding day represented more than a beautiful celebration, it marked the beginning of a new chapter and a fresh start for their little family. As they joined their lives together, they also embraced the joy and responsibility of building a future rooted in love, unity, and unwavering support.

This new season of life feels especially meaningful, surrounded by the warmth of their closest loved ones and the serene beauty of the gardens. Every vow exchanged beneath the palms symbolised not only commitment to one another, but dedication to the family they are nurturing together.

After the ceremony, the newlyweds wandered through winding pathways and vibrant landscapes for their Sunken Gardens wedding portraits. February’s abundant greenery and seasonal blossoms added rich texture and depth to every frame, enhancing the timeless and romantic feel of their wedding gallery.

From quiet moments beneath the palms to joyful celebrations with their closest friends and family, every detail reflected Amy and Derek’s vision for an intimate and meaningful St. Petersburg garden wedding.

Why Sunken Gardens Is Perfect for Your Intimate Wedding:

For couples dreaming of a romantic outdoor wedding in Florida, Sunken Gardens offers:

  • Lush botanical backdrops year-round

  • A private, intimate setting in St. Petersburg

  • Stunning lawn ceremony options

  • Natural scenery that elevates wedding photography

Amy and Derek’s February 20th celebration was a beautiful reminder that intimate weddings can be just as grand in beauty and emotion. Their day was filled with warmth, elegance, and unforgettable moments all set within one of Florida’s most charming garden venues.

Lead Photographer | Jackie Pizio 
Associate Photographer | Jalyssa Elis

Ceremony Venue | Sunken Gardens
Reception Venue | Sunken Gardens