Michela + Zachary Step Into The Limelight | Marie Selby Botanical Gardens | Sarasota, FL

Michela & Zach | A Romantic Sarasota Wedding at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

From the moment I met Michela and Zach, I knew their Sarasota wedding would be something incredibly special. Their love story feels like something straight out of a movie — a decade in the making, full of perfect timing, fate, and just the right amount of liquid courage. From chance encounters at MacDinton’s in Tampa to a surprise proposal on the water (with their pups, of course!), their journey led them to a breathtaking wedding day at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota, Florida.

Their wedding day was everything a Sarasota Florida bride dreams of — romantic, elegant, joyful, and deeply personal. Surrounded by lush gardens and stunning bay views, Michela and Zach’s celebration reflected exactly who they are as a couple: warm, fun-loving, and deeply connected. From heartfelt vows and emotional moments to laughter-filled candids, it was a dream to document their day through candid photography that captured every genuine emotion.

One of my favorite parts of their story is how intentional they were with the details. From cocktail napkins featuring their dogs (yes, obsessed — and I loved it!) to their pups walking down the aisle, every piece of their wedding reflected their love for family, travel, and each other. And let’s not forget the Italian touch — with Michela’s cousin reading a poem during the ceremony, bringing her heritage beautifully into the day.

As a Sarasota wedding photographer, days like this are why I love what I do. The joy, the happy tears, the laughter, and the way these two light up around each other made their wedding unforgettable. Michela and Zach’s celebration was elegant yet effortless — a true reflection of their love story and the life they’re building together.

✨ Congratulations, Michela & Zach! Thank you for letting me step into your story and capture such a meaningful chapter of your lives. ✨

If you’re planning a wedding in Sarasota, FL, and dreaming of timeless, emotional, and candid imagery, Step Into The Limelight and let us tell your love story.

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | Aysia Pagan

Cake | Publix
Caterer | Michael's on East Events and Catering
Ceremony Site | Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
DJ | Grant Hemond and Associates
Event Planner | Amy Winkleman
Florist | Jennie's Flowers | Carlstedt's Wholesale Florist
Hair Stylist | Beauty Loft by Tania 
Hotel/Getting Ready | Westin Sarasota
Invitations | Canva
Make-up Artist | Beauty Loft by Tania
Photo Booth | Grant Hemond and Associates
Reception Venue | Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Ring | Mayors 
Videographer | Limelight Photography

Jodie + Jim Step Into The Limelight | Sunken Gardens | St. Pete, FL

From the moment I stepped into the enchanting beauty of Sunken Gardens, I could feel the love and joy that surrounded Jodie and Jim — it was clear their wedding day would be something truly special. The lush tropical gardens, colorful blooms, and serene pathways perfectly reflected their love story — warm, genuine, and full of life.

Jodie and Jim first met back in 2009 through mutual friends when Jodie needed help with College Algebra. Even though Jim hadn’t seen an algebra equation since the year Jodie was born, he volunteered to be her tutor — and the rest is history! Fast forward to May 19, 2024, when Jim proposed aboard the Carnival Vista Cruise Line, with the help of Jodie’s best friend, Angel, who orchestrated the perfect surprise.

Their garden-style tropical theme wedding at Sunken Gardens was a dream. Inspired by their shared love for rainforests, the setting was filled with vibrant greenery and the sound of laughter echoing through the trees. One of the most touching moments of the day was when they exchanged heartfelt vows surrounded by family and friends — truly the heart of their celebration. Later, the energy shifted to pure joy as everyone hit the dance floor for an unforgettable evening of celebration.

Jodie and Jim’s connection radiated through every image — the way he looks at her, the way she smiles at him — pure magic. It was such a joy to document their story through photojournalistic photography and capture authentic wedding candids that reflect their personalities so beautifully.

Congratulations, Jodie and Jim! Your day was relaxed, full of love, and an absolute honor to capture.

For couples dreaming of a lush, romantic celebration like this one, reach out to Limelight Photography — your premier St. Petersburg Photographer specializing in timeless wedding photography in St. Petersburg. Let us capture your love story in the most authentic and beautiful way.

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | Aysia Pagan
Assistant Photographer | Jalyssa Ellis

 Bridesmaid Dresses | Shein
Cake | Publix
Caterer | Olympia Catering
Ceremony Site | Sunken Gardens
DJ | DJ Cory Barron & Co., LLC.
Event Planner | Bridgett Duffey
Florist | Hayes Florist
Hair Stylist | Michele Renee The Studio
Invitations | The Knot
Make-up Artist | Michele Renee The Studio
Reception Venue | Sunken Gardens
Videographer | Limelight Photography 
Wedding Gown | Marry & Tux Shoppe Inc.