Kaela + Ricci Step Into The Limelight | Safety Harbor Resort Spa, FL

I know I say this every time, but this wedding was truly amazing! There was something especially meaningful about seeing Kaela + Ricci’s story come full circle… from their very first consultation and call, to their engagement session, and finally to their wedding day. After getting to know them throughout the process, being there to capture this next chapter felt extra special.

Their day began with a beautiful ceremony at Espiritu Santo Catholic Church, surrounded by their closest family and friends. Watching Kaela + Ricci exchange their vows and begin this new chapter together was such a sweet moment to witness.

From there, the celebration continued at Safety Harbor Resort and Spa. With a full day of first looks, portraits, and family photos, the timeline was certainly full, so we moved some of the bridal party and family portraits to after the ceremony. It ended up being the perfect choice. Having a little more time allowed us to slow down, get creative, and capture some fun, genuine moments with the people who mean the most to them.

Once we arrived back at the resort, Kaela + Ricci took a little time to pause and enjoy the moment before joining their guests for cocktail hour. It was one of those simple moments that can easily get lost in a busy wedding day, but having that time to breathe and take it all in made the rest of the evening feel even more relaxed.

As the evening continued, the reception was filled with laughter, happy tears, and so much joy. From the candid moments with their guests to the big celebrations on the dance floor, every part of the evening felt true to Kaela + Ricci and the people they love.

When it was time for sunset portraits, we kept things close to the resort and stepped out onto a balcony overlooking the property. With the weather and timeline in mind, it turned out to be the perfect setting for a few quiet moments together. Away from the celebration for just a little while, Kaela + Ricci were able to slow down and simply enjoy being newlyweds.

There’s something so special about photographing a couple from the very beginning of their journey and then getting to be there when they finally say, “I do.” What started with a consultation and an engagement session led us all the way to this beautiful day, and we’re so grateful we got to be part of it.

Kaela + Ricci, thank you for trusting us to capture your story and for allowing us to be part of so many special moments along the way. It was truly a joy celebrating you both!

Love,
Aysia

Lead Photographer | Aysia Pagan
Associate Photographer | Gui Scheffer

Ceremony | Espiritu Santo Catholic Church
Reception | Safety Harbor Resort & Spa

Kelsey + Peter Step Into The Limelight | Safety Harbor Resort & Spa | Safety Harbor, FL

A Classic Coastal Celebration at Safety Harbor Resort and Spa

On May 23, 2025, Kelsey and Peter brought their energy, style, and a bit of Gator pride to the west coast of Florida for a celebration that was anything but ordinary. Limelight was there to document every moment! From the unexpected venue change to one of the most memorable dance floor finales we've seen this year.

Peter proposed during Thanksgiving 2023, right in the middle of their annual family brunch at the Avila Country Club in Tampa. After popping the question, the two stepped inside to find Kelsey’s family waiting to celebrate. It set the tone for what would be a wedding filled with strong family connections and big moments.

Originally planned for The Rusty Pelican, the wedding had to be relocated just weeks before the big day due to recent hurricane damage. With quick thinking and flexibility, Kelsey and Peter shifted their celebration to Safety Harbor Resort and Spa, a historic property on the opposite side of the bay. The venue’s staff made the transition seamless, and the ceremony and reception spaces more than delivered! 

The couple chose a coastal palette of Seaglass and Bright Navy Blue, which played beautifully against the backdrop of Old Tampa Bay. The ceremony was held outside, with waterfront views and a slight breeze that made it feel effortless. Kelsey’s grandfather walked her down the aisle, a moment that had many guests (and Peter) visibly moved.

Portraits were taken in the venue’s Tranquility Garden, a hidden courtyard featuring stone pathways, tree cover, and a central fountain fed by natural mineral springs. It gave us the ideal setting for bridal party photos, family formals, and golden-hour portraits of the bride and groom.

The reception leaned into a mix of classic, glamorous, and high-energy. The Bay Kings Band brought a level of performance that kept the crowd engaged all night. One standout moment? The Isley Brothers’ “SHOUT!” had everyone on their feet—complete with a full-blown Florida Gator chomp led by the band and joined by Kelsey and Peter onstage. It was loud, hilarious, and a perfect reflection of the couple’s personality.

For dessert, they kept it traditional with a classic wedding cake—but also added a nod to their Gator fandom with a custom cupcake cake shaped like an alligator, complete with green icing and unmistakable team spirit.

This wasn’t just a wedding that came together despite challenges—it was one that fully embraced them and ended up being stronger (and more fun) for it!

Kelsey and Peter, thanks for letting us be a part of it. You made the day yours, and it shows in every frame.

Planning Your Dream Wedding at Safety Harbor Resort and Spa? Limelight Photography is proud to be among Safety Harbor Resort & Spa’s preferred vendors and one of the most trusted Tampa Bay wedding photographers. Whether you're planning a sunset ceremony, a beachfront 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.

Lead Photographer | Jeff Mitchell
Associate Photographer | Adrian Nguyen

Band | Bay Kings Band
Bridesmaid Dresses | Azazie 
Cake | Publix 
Caterer | Safety Harbor Resort & Spa
Ceremony Site | Safety Harbor Resort & Spa
Event Planner | Stephanie Voth Events
Florist | Stephanie Voth Events
Hair Stylist | Lilli's Weddings 
Invitations | Canva 
Make-up Artist | Lilli's Weddings 
Reception Venue | Safety Harbor Resort & Spa
Wedding Gown | White Closet Bridal 

Heidi + Jason Step Into The Limelight | Safety Harbor Resort & Spa | Safety Harbor, FL

Love, Laughter, and a Song for Eternity: Heidi & Jason’s Wedding Story

Some love stories are written in the stars, but Heidi and Jason’s was written in music notes, laughter, and a little bit of magical serendipity. Their journey began in the early 2000s at a mutual friend’s house—a simple meeting that would lead to a lifetime of love, adventure, and a 106-pound bundle of joy named Sage.

A Proposal Straight Out of a Love Song (Literally!)

Most people dream of a romantic proposal, but Jason took it a step further—he wrote a song. Titled Love Eternity, this beautiful melody was composed just for Heidi. During a dreamy weekend getaway to Orlando, Jason sat her down, guitar in hand, and played his heart out. By the time the last note faded, he was on one knee, and Heidi was saying, “Yes!” (Fun fact: Every time Jason practiced the proposal song, he wore the engagement ring on his pinky finger to “charge the diamond with love.” If that isn’t the most romantic thing ever, we don’t know what is!).

A Love That’s Music to the Ears

What makes their love so special? According to Jason, it’s the deep conversations, the way Heidi makes him feel, and the love she has shown him—teaching him how to love in ways he never imagined. Not to mention their shared passion for music, hiking, and travel. As for Heidi, her heart was stolen at first sight. She adores Jason’s kindness, intelligence, and his infectious laugh—the kind that can turn any bad day into a good one. Together, they are harmony in its purest form.

A Wedding Two Decades in the Making

After nearly twenty years of love, laughter, and adventure, Heidi and Jason invited their friends and family to celebrate a love that has stood the test of time. Their wedding wasn’t just about vows—it was about joy, comfort, and creating a space where everyone could feel the warmth of their love story.

The Perfectly ‘Purple’ Touch

Every detail of the wedding was infused with personal meaning. Inspired by Jason’s old song Purple Flowers, the wedding theme embraced shades of purple and sage green. Why sage? Well, Heidi loves burning sage for its cleansing energy, and let’s not forget their furry family member, Sage, who was definitely part of the inspiration! Plus, purple and green are analogous colors, meaning they complement each other naturally—just like Heidi and Jason.

Forever in Tune

Heidi and Jason’s story is proof that love, much like a great song, only gets better with time. Whether they’re hiking, playing music, attending concerts, or just enjoying each other’s company, their love is a melody that never fades.

To Heidi and Jason—may your love song play on forever, filling your hearts with joy, laughter, and the sweetest harmonies life has to offer!

Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Adrian Nguyen

Bridesmaid Dresses |  AZAZIE
Cake |  Mmmm-Delicious Cupcakes
Caterer | Safety Harbor Resort and Spa
Ceremony Site | Safety Harbor Resort and Spa
DJ | Grant Hemond
Hair Stylist | Destiny and Light
Make-up Artist | Destiny and Light
Reception Venue | Safety Harbor Resort and Spa
Wedding Gown | Nikki’s Glitz and Glam Boutique

Mary + Mike Step Into The Limelight | Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church + Safety Harbor Resort and Spa | Safety Harbor, FL

What a beautiful day! Mary and Make exchanged their vows at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church surrounded by both of their families, and then partied the night away at the Safety Harbor Resort & Spa. The whole day was filled with so much love and emotion.  There wasn’t a dry eye in the room when the bride’s nephews walked her down the aisle. The groom’s family also had a special role. His cousin Evan and his wife Deena were the couple’s Koumbari, also known as “sponsors” in the Greek Orthodox Ceremony.  The Greek traditions continued throughout the night and Mary and Mike had the absolute BEST time dancing to their amazing band. It was absolutely a night to remember! Cheers to the new Mr. and Mrs. Haleas 💗

Lead Photographer | Alexa Rodriguez
Associate Photographer | Nick Brown

Ceremony Site | Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
Reception Venue | Safety Harbor Resort and Spa