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

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