Katie + Tom Step Into The Limelight | Zota Beach Resort | Longboat Key, FL

On February 27th, Katie and Tom celebrated their love with a breathtaking beachfront wedding at Zota Beach Resort in beautiful Longboat Key. Set along Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast, their special day was the perfect blend of coastal elegance, romance, and laid-back charm—everything you could hope for in a Florida beach wedding.

With soft white sand beneath their feet and the sound of waves gently rolling in, Katie and Tom exchanged vows during an intimate beach ceremony. Although the forecast had been calling for rain all week, the couple embraced the possibility with grace and positivity. After all, there’s a long-standing belief that rain on your wedding day brings good luck—symbolizing renewal, unity, and a marriage that will last.

True to that sentiment, the weather held off at just the right moments. The clouds created a soft, dreamy sky that made for stunning wedding photography, giving their images a romantic coastal glow that only a Florida beach wedding can offer.

As a premier Longboat Key wedding venue, Zota Beach Resort provided the perfect backdrop for timeless wedding portraits. The rain paused long enough for family photos to take place on the sand, capturing joyful moments with loved ones framed by the Gulf waters.

Following the ceremony, Katie and Tom slipped away for their couples session along the shoreline. The moody skies added depth and drama to their beach portraits, while the soft ocean breeze created effortlessly beautiful movement in Katie’s gown. The result was a collection of elegant, light-filled images that perfectly reflect the romance of a destination wedding in Florida.

Lead Photographer | Jackie Pizio 
Associate Photographer | PJ Ricketts

Cake | Cake By Ron
Caterer | Zota Beach Resort
Ceremony Site | Zota Beach Resort
DJ | Grant Hemond | James
Event Planner | Swanky Soiree Events
Florist | LilyBella Floral Design
Hair Stylist | Posh Bridal
Invitations | Zazzle
Make-up Artist | Posh Bridal
Reception Venue | Zota Beach Resort
Wedding Gown | The Perfect Dress

Marissa + Brennan Step Into The Limelight | The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Longboat Key, FL

Every wedding I photograph tells its own story, but Marissa and Brennan’s Sarasota Wedding stood out in the most meaningful way from the very first moment. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of The Resort at Longboat Key Club, their day was exactly what they envisioned: beautiful, fun, heartfelt, and filled with family, music, and so much love.

Marissa and Brennan’s story began in true Philly fashion—meeting at Xfinity Live! while Marissa was celebrating her 23rd birthday. After Brennan confidently asked for her number (despite his friend striking out nearby 😄), their first date at Chickie’s & Pete’s sealed the deal, and the rest is history.

Brennan later proposed at one of their favorite beach spots in Hilton Head Island. What started as a “quick photoshoot” turned into the sweetest surprise when Marissa turned around to find their families waiting to celebrate—followed by a full-on party back at the house. That sense of togetherness carried beautifully into their wedding day.

Their love for the beach made Sarasota, Tampa, FL the perfect choice. After living in Bradenton for three years and touring nine venues, they fell head over heels for the Resort at LBK. Marissa chose her dress alongside her mom and Brennan’s mom—a moment she described as incredibly meaningful—and every detail of the day felt authentic, intentional, and so them.

From bright, summer-inspired colors to nonstop live music all weekend long, their wedding was vibrant and joyful. But what stood out most was their connection—Brennan being Marissa’s safe space, and Marissa’s endlessly kind heart that Brennan says he could talk about for hours. Capturing their candid photography moments—quiet glances, laughter, and the energy of the celebration—was such a gift.

Marissa & Brennan, thank you for trusting me and our team as your Sarasota Wedding Photographer. Your day was a perfect reflection of your love, and I’m so grateful to have documented it.

✨ If you’re a Florida Bride dreaming of a wedding filled with heart, fun, and authentic moments, we’d love for you to Step Into The Limelight with us. Reach out to Limelight Photography to begin telling your own love story.

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa

Band | The Life Atlantic
Cake | Cakes by Ron
Caterer | The Resort at Longboat Key Club
Ceremony Site | The Resort at Longboat Key Club | South Beach
Content Creator | Little Moments Lens
Event Planner | Swanky Soiree Events | Bailey
Florist | Sun Flowers by Elizabeth
Hair Stylist | Michele Renee The Studio
Invitations | Minted
Make-up Artist | Michele Renee The Studio
Reception Venue | The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Harbourside Ballroom
Wedding Gown | The Perfect Dress | Sarasota