Victoria + Greg Step Into The Limelight | The Rusty Pelican | Tampa, FL

Victoria and Greg chose the most romantic day of the year to say “I do.” Their Valentine’s Day wedding in Tampa, Florida was a heartfelt celebration filled with waterfront views, soft morning light, and the sweetest four-legged guest of honor, Their very lovable white Lab named Finn. 

The couple exchanged vows beneath the charming gazebo overlooking the water at the Rusty Pelican. This stunning Tampa waterfront wedding ceremony location offered panoramic bay views and a peaceful ambiance that complemented the romance of February 14th perfectly.

After the ceremony, guests transitioned into a delightful brunch wedding reception inside the Rusty Pelican. Morning weddings bring a relaxed, joyful energy, and this celebration was no exception.

Brunch-style weddings are becoming increasingly popular in Tampa, and it’s easy to see why. The natural daylight enhances every photograph, guests feel refreshed, and the atmosphere encourages genuine connection and celebration.

The combination of waterfront views, elegant dining, and heartfelt toasts created a reception that felt both sophisticated and inviting.

Lead Photographer | Jackie Pizio 
Associate Photographer | Josiah Bonilla 

Ceremony Venue | The Rusty Pelican
Reception Venue | The Rusty Pelican

Joann + Steven Step Into The Limelight | Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach | Clearwater Beach, FL

A Joyful Sunflower & Dusty Blue Chinese Christian Wedding

A brisk, chilly, sunny beach day… and one of the most meaningful celebrations to witness. ☀️

As a Clearwater Beach wedding photographer, I had the joy of documenting Joann and Stephen’s beautiful rooftop ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach. Their day was full of meaningful details, heartfelt moments, and a story rooted deeply in faith, family, and God’s timing.

Joann and Stephen’s wedding was a beautiful Christian ceremony that was full of reverence, joy, and the kind of peace you can truly feel in the room. Watching them exchange vows with God at the center was such a reminder that marriage is holy, intentional, and worth celebrating with your whole heart.

Their day was also rich with Chinese cultural elements woven throughout, creating a wedding that felt deeply personal, honoring family, heritage, and tradition in such a thoughtful way.

How Joann and Stephen Met

I first learned that Joann and Stephen met in 2023 when they were cast together in their church’s Christmas play. During one rehearsal, while sitting side by side in the pews, Joann offered Stephen a piece of special Japanese chocolate. It was simple, sweet, and unforgettable, especially because Stephen ended up getting sick later and missed the actual performance. Even so, that small interaction planted a seed that grew into something extraordinary.

The Sunset Riverwalk Proposal

Stephen proposed exactly where their love story truly took shape—on the Tampa Riverwalk at sunset, near Ulele, the place where they had their very first date. With the help of his friends Sam and Adam secretly recording the moment, Stephen asked Joann to become his wife. The golden light, the waterfront breeze, and the sentimental setting made their proposal absolutely timeless.

What They Love About Each Other

Throughout their planning process, it was clear how deeply they cherished one another.
Joann shared how much she loved that Stephen was smart, patient, caring, and funny.
Stephen told me he loved that Joann was caring, capable, and confident.

Their relationship embodied mutual respect, friendship, and genuine joy—qualities that shone brightly on their wedding day.

The Story Behind Their Wedding Day

Their wedding celebrated more than a marriage. It represented two people joining together before their friends, their families, their church community, and the Lord.

The simplicity and ease with which they planned their day reflected the clarity and confidence they felt about each other—everything about their wedding came together quickly, naturally, and beautifully. Even with the ocean breeze and crisp winter sunshine, the day felt peaceful and steady from start to finish.

Wedding Inspiration: Sunset, Sunflowers & Dusty Blue

Joann drew inspiration from her love of beach sunsets and her favorite flower: sunflowers!! Stephen looked incredible in his blue suit, which tied perfectly into their dusty-blue color palette. Together, their wedding style was warm, joyful, and breezy, perfectly suited for a Clearwater Beach rooftop celebration.

The sunflower and dusty blue details popped beautifully against the soft Gulf light, creating a romantic, joyful color story that felt both timeless and fun.

A Rooftop Ceremony at Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach

Their ceremony took place on the rooftop of the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach—one of my favorite Clearwater wedding venues for its panoramic views, soft Gulf Coast light, and unbeatable sunsets. Even though it was a brisk, chilly day, the sunshine made everything glow, and the rooftop views made the ceremony feel elevated, intimate, and unforgettable. One of the most memorable parts of the ceremony was their unity sand ceremony, which was a beautiful symbol of blending their lives into one. They also cherished exchanging personal vows, placing their rings, and standing together under the open sky as the sun began its descent.

Meaningful Chinese Cultural Elements

One of the most beautiful parts of Joann and Stephen’s wedding day was how thoughtfully they included elements of Chinese culture throughout their celebration. It added depth and meaning, honoring family, heritage, and tradition while still keeping the day rooted in their Christian faith. They created a wedding day that felt truly personal. ❤️

Favorite Moments of the Day

When I look back on Joann and Stephen’s wedding, several highlights stand out:

  • Heartfelt toasts and speeches

  • Their first dance as husband and wife

  • The simplicity and authenticity of every moment

  • The feeling of joy, peace, and blessing that surrounded them

What Made Their Wedding Unique

Their day was special because it came together so easily. Their choices felt intentional but effortless—reflecting a relationship built on clarity, trust, and faith. They wanted their guests to feel joyful, cared for, and blessed, and that is exactly how the entire day unfolded.

A Special Thank You to the Planning Team

A huge shoutout to Tammy and her team at Special Moments Planners for keeping every detail flowing smoothly and making the day feel calm, beautiful, and intentional from start to finish. Their presence helped create such a peaceful experience for Joann and Stephen and allowed the couple to truly enjoy every moment.

Final Thoughts

Joann and Stephen’s Clearwater Beach wedding was everything they wanted it to be—joyful, flawless, and blessed. Photographing their rooftop ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach reminded me why I love being a Tampa and Clearwater Beach wedding photographer. Their love story was simple yet powerful, filled with faith, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

If you’re searching for a Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach wedding photographer, planning a Clearwater Beach rooftop wedding, or dreaming of a sunset ceremony on the Gulf Coast, Joann and Stephen’s day is the perfect inspiration. From their Christian wedding ceremony to the meaningful Chinese cultural traditions, this celebration was a beautiful example of faith, family, and intentional design. Limelight Photography proudly photographs weddings throughout Clearwater Beach, Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota, including elegant beachfront venues like the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach.

A heartfelt thank you to the wonderful vendor team who helped bring this Clearwater Beach wedding to life:

Lead Photographer | Rebecca Zoumberos
Associate Photographer | Josiah Bonilla 
Associate-Photographer-In-Training | Tatyana Bradley

Ceremony Venue | Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa
Cake | Publix
Catering | Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa
DJ | Grant Hemond & Associates
Draping | Gabro Event Services
Florist | Monarch Events & Floral Design
Hair Stylist | Michele Renee The Studio
Makeup Artist | Michele Renee The Studio
Invitations | Greenvelope
Men’s Attire | Kirby’s Menswear
Photo Booth | Grant Hemond & Associates
Planner | Special Moments Event Planning
Rings & Jewelry | Mavilo
Reception Venue | Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa
Videography | Media Tree Studios
Wedding Gown | Truly Forever Bridal
Bridesmaids Dresses | Azazie

Hannah + Mark Step Into The Limelight | The Resort at Longboat Key | Longboat Key, FL

Hannah and Mark’s Intimate Wedding at The Resort at Longboat Key

Hannah and Mark’s wedding on New Year’s day was a beautiful reminder that the most meaningful celebrations are often the most intimate. Set against the serene coastal backdrop of The Resort at Longboat Key in Sarasota, Florida, their day was thoughtfully curated, deeply personal, and filled with heartfelt moments shared only with immediate family.

The couple chose a classy and intimate wedding experience, embracing a refined yet relaxed atmosphere that perfectly complemented the Gulf Coast surroundings. Longboat Key Club, known for its timeless elegance and sweeping waterfront views, provided an ideal setting for a luxury Sarasota wedding that focused on connection rather than scale.

From the start, the day felt intentional. With no large crowd or distractions, Hannah and Mark were able to be fully present with one another and their closest loved ones. Every detail—from the understated décor to the quiet emotional exchangesreflected their desire for a wedding day rooted in authenticity and love.

One of the most unforgettable moments came during the celebration when the couple surprised their family with a pregnancy announcement and gender reveal. The reveal added an extra layer of joy to an already emotional day, turning the wedding into not only a celebration of marriage, but also the beginning of a new chapter for their growing family. The reactions were priceless—pure shock, happy tears, and overwhelming excitement filled the room, making it a moment that will be cherished forever.

Photographing an intimate wedding like Hannah and Mark’s allows space for genuine storytelling. With fewer guests, every interaction becomes meaningful, and every image carries emotional weight. The day unfolded naturally, allowing for candid moments, soft coastal light, and timeless portraits that reflect the couple’s connection rather than staged perfection.

Hannah and Mark’s wedding was a perfect example of how an intimate destination wedding in Florida can feel elevated, personal, and unforgettable. Their day was not only a celebration of love, but a meaningful gathering that marked the start of an exciting new journey together.

Are you having a Florida destination wedding and looking for your dream Sarasota wedding photography and/or videography team? Reach out to us today!

Lead Photographer | Jackie Pizio
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa
Content Creator | Aysia Pagan

Caterer | The Resort at Longboat Key
Ceremony Site | The Resort at Longboat Key
Event Planner | Swanky Soiree | Christina
ReceptionVenue | The Resort at Longboat Key

Haley + Todd Step Into The Limelight | Longboat Key Club | Longboat Key, FL

A Longboat Key Club Wedding Filled With Calm, Laughter, and Love.

When two Scorpios meet, the universe definitely stirs things up in the best possible way. That’s exactly how it was for Haley Geoffroy and Todd Keebaugh, whose story began back in 2017 when they worked for the same company. Life eventually led them in different directions, but years later, LinkedIn did what dating apps couldn’t… it brought them back together. A simple message, a drink to “catch up,” and suddenly, the spark was undeniable.

Their proposal was just as perfectly them, equal parts sentimental and spontaneous. During a birthday weekend getaway in Longboat Key (they’re both Scorpios, celebrating just ten days apart!), Todd suggested they stop by the new St. Regis before dinner with his parents. A walk on the beach turned into a life-changing moment when Haley turned around to find Todd on one knee, ocean breeze swirling around them, the kind of calm and beauty that only the sea and true love can bring.

That same peaceful energy carried through to their wedding day at The Resort at Longboat Key Club. The couple envisioned something intimate, heartfelt, and joyful, a celebration surrounded by their closest family and friends in a place they consider their second home. The golf course views reflected one of their favorite shared passions, but it was their connection that truly set the tone.

Even when strong rain rolled in right before the ceremony, neither of them lost their calm. Todd’s serene presence balanced Haley’s joyful excitement perfectly, like the still ocean meeting a warm breeze. It felt as though the rain had arrived with a purpose: to wash away any heaviness from the air so their life together could begin clear, bright, and overflowing with blessings.

And when the skies cleared, the light seemed to glow just for them. The way Todd looked at Haley was like watching the sunset over the sea, soft, steady, and full of peace.

Haley looked stunning in a gown that felt as if it had been waiting for her all along, and later changed into a second dress that fit like it was designed just for the dance floor. Todd’s midnight blue tuxedo, a nod to Penn State and his ocean-colored eyes, added the perfect touch of classic charm.

The day was filled with thoughtful details and playful moments, like a round of glow-in-the-dark mini golf during cocktail hour that kept everyone laughing. Their cake, a delicious mix of salted caramel and Boston Crème, mirrored the texture and beauty of Haley’s dress, a detail Todd didn’t discover until that sweet moment of cutting it together.

Behind all the beauty, there was also a lot of heart and creativity. Haley crafted nearly everything by hand, from the welcome sign and bar menus to embroidered napkins, koozies, and personalized putting green flags. With her Cricut, sewing machine, and embroidery tools, she poured her creativity into every corner of the day, making it truly their own.

From start to finish, Haley and Todd’s wedding felt like them, joyful, grounded, and full of love. It wasn’t about perfection; it was about presence. The laughter, the quiet moments, the way she reached for his hand, and the way his calm steadied everyone around them.

Their day at The Resort at Longboat Key Club was more than a wedding; it was a reflection of two souls who make each other better, who balance, complete, and calm the world around them.

To Haley and Todd: Thank you for letting me be part of such an incredible moment in your lives. Watching the rain give way to sunshine felt like witnessing the start of something truly blessed. May your journey together always be filled with peace, laughter, and a love as radiant as the light after the storm.
- With love, Natalia

Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa

Cake | Cakes by Ron 
Caterer | Resort at Longboat Key Club 
Ceremony Site | Resort at Longboat Key Club
DJ | TLS Entertainment - DJ Matt
Event Planner | Swanky Soirée (Day of Coordinator)
Florist | Le Gardenia Bleu
Hair Stylist | Brides by Kelly Anne
Invitations | Haley Geoffroy (Bride)
Make-up Artist | Brides by Kelly Anne
Reception Venue | Resort at Longboat Key Club
Wedding Gown | Vows Bridal (dress designed is Martina Liana)
Chairs & Dance Floor - All Event Rental

Erin + Tom Step Into The Limelight | Opal Sands Resort & Spa | Clearwater Beach, FL

Erin and Tom’s Florida destination wedding on Clearwater Beach at the beautiful Opal Sands Resort & Spa was beautiful. With timeless, yet vibrant, wedding decor, a lively group, and sunset views over the water straight out of their wedding venue’s windows, it was a lovely day.

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