Mikele + Doug Step Into The Limelight | Yacht Starship Tampa | Tampa, FL

As a Tampa Wedding Photographer, I am always inspired by weddings that embrace simplicity and heartfelt connection — and Mikele and Doug’s beautiful brunch wedding aboard Yacht StarShip Tampa was exactly that. From the soft morning light glistening over the water to the warm, relaxed energy onboard, their celebration in Downtown Tampa felt intimate, genuine, and full of the sweetest candid moments. Step Into The Limelight with me as I reflect on their lovely day.

A Love Story Rooted in Simplicity & Connection

Mikele and Doug first met on March 25, 2017 at Uncle Fat’s — a casual encounter that blossomed into a love built on ease, laughter, and everyday togetherness. They adore simple joys like bike riding and genuinely appreciate everything about one another. When Doug proposed on February 13, 2024, sitting beside Mikele on the sofa, it was perfectly them — real, honest, and heartfelt.

A Brunch Wedding on the Water

There’s something incredibly peaceful about a morning wedding on the water. Their Yacht StarShip ceremony embraced the beautiful Florida sunshine, the glimmer of the bay, and the serene views of Tampa, FL. For a Florida Bride, it’s such a refreshing and elegant way to celebrate love.

Candid Moments Full of Morning Light

As someone passionate about Candid Photography, I adored documenting the gentle, joyful moments that unfolded throughout the day. The soft morning light wrapped around Mikele and Doug, creating beautiful, glowing images. Their closest family gathered around them, just as they hoped, making those interactions the most memorable part of their ceremony.

Every laugh, every hug, every sunlit glance felt natural and heartfelt — the type of moments that make brunch weddings so charming.

A Celebration That Felt “Special and Involved”

Mikele and Doug wanted their loved ones to feel special and involved, and the cozy, intimate brunch setting made that effortless. There was a warmth to the entire celebration that fit perfectly with who they are as a couple.

Congratulations, Mikele & Doug

Mikele and Doug — thank you for inviting us to capture such a tender, joyful morning. Your day was a reminder that simplicity, sincerity, and sunlight create the most timeless memories.

Planning a Tampa Wedding?

If you’re searching for a Tampa Wedding Photographer who specializes in candid, heartfelt storytelling — from sunrise brunch ceremonies to elegant sunset celebrations — we would love to connect with you. Step Into The Limelight and let our team beautifully capture your Tampa, FL love story.

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | PJ

Caterer | Yacht StarShip Tampa
Ceremony Site | Yacht StarShip Tampa
DJ | Yacht StarShip Tampa
Event Planner | Yacht StarShip Tampa
Reception Venue | Yacht StarShip Tampa

Victoria + Robert Step Into The Limelight | Grand Hyatt Tampa | Tampa, FL

A Perfect Blend of Effortless Luxury and Pure Love

There are wedding days that feel like celebrations, and there are wedding days that feel like chapters being written in real time, pages filled with laughter, soft glances, and a kind of love that seems to glow from the inside out.
Victoria and Robert’s day at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay was very much the second type: the kind of day where every moment feels like it’s part of a bigger story that’s already been unfolding for years.

Maybe it’s because they were never in a hurry, not with life, not with love, not even with marriage. They simply trusted their timing, the way only two people who truly see each other can. Or maybe it’s because they arrived at their wedding already as a family, with the brightest little star guiding their entire day: Phoenix, their dazzling daughter, who brought charm, sweetness, and sparkle to every corner she walked into.

From the moment we stepped into the getting-ready suite, it was obvious, this wasn’t just a wedding. It was a celebration of a life already beautifully built.

Victoria’s calm presence filled the room even before her dress did. Robert’s steady warmth balanced every moment that followed. And Phoenix? She stole the show every chance she got, not intentionally, but simply because she exists. She was joy in motion, charisma wrapped in curls and giggles, and the glow in her parents’ eyes every second she appeared… and honestly, in mine too.

What unfolded from there was a day overflowing with meaning, emotional first looks, soft golden light by the pool, terrace views that made everyone stop for a breath, and a reception so full of love that even the walls seemed to hum with it.

And now…
Here is how their unforgettable day unfolded.

Love you.

Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Gui Scheffer

Cake |  Publix
Caterer |  Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
Ceremony Site | Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
DJ | SJP Productions
Event Planner | Coastal Coordinating
Florist | 2 Birds
Hair Stylist | Sierra Lynn
Make-up Artist | Makeup by Judith
Reception Venue | Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
Photo Booth | Gala Photo Booth 
Rentals | Elite Event & Rentals

Casey + Thomas Step Into The Limelight | Sacred Heart Church + Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay | Tampa, FL

A Romantic Tampa Bay Wedding

When I think back to Casey and Thomas’s wedding weekend, I can’t help but smile — it was the perfect blend of timeless romance, heartfelt tradition, and joyful celebration along the sparkling waters of Tampa Bay. ✨

A Love Story Years in the Making

Casey and Thomas first met in 2016 while attending Pitt Pharmacy School. What began as friendship quickly blossomed into a deep and lasting love — one that carried them through years of studying, residency, long-distance, and countless life milestones. Thomas proposed at Phipps Conservatory surrounded by friends and Casey’s mom, making for a moment as meaningful as it was magical.

A Destination Celebration in Tampa

The couple envisioned a destination wedding that allowed guests to truly experience the beauty of Florida. Their celebration began with a welcome party by the pool overlooking the bay, setting the tone for a weekend filled with laughter, sunshine, and connection.

Their ceremony took place at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, one of Tampa’s most stunning historic churches. The moment Casey walked down the aisle to “Trumpet Voluntary” — the same song she once played in her high school brass quartet and the same one Thomas’s mother walked down to — there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. The couple’s private marriage affirmations afterward were especially moving, a quiet exchange that perfectly captured their devotion and faith.

Elegant, Classic, and Full of Heart

Casey looked radiant in her romantic, ethereal gown from Lily’s Bridal Tampa, complete with a chapel-length train and blusher veil. Thomas wore a custom tuxedo, a timeless look that perfectly complemented the elegant surroundings.

Their décor at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay was simple, classic, and elegant — with neutral and earthy tones that highlighted the venue’s natural light and sweeping bay views. Florals by Apple Blossoms added a touch of organic beauty, while candlelit tables created a warm, inviting atmosphere for dinner and dancing.

Personal Touches That Told Their Story

Every detail of the day reflected their personalities and values. Casey designed her own handmade pearl jewelry with a local St. Cloud jeweler, while their welcome sign and seating chart were crafted from antique store finds repurposed with love. Their table numbers featured childhood photos — a sweet nod to the lives that brought them to this day — and their guest book included photos from their engagement session in Polignano a Mare, Italy.

Faith, Family, and Dancing Under the Stars

Their reception at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay was unforgettable. Guests dined on a delicious menu by the Hyatt’s catering team and enjoyed a beautiful Publix wedding cake before the dance floor came alive thanks to DJ Bohav from Tampa Bay DJ Company, who kept the celebration going with the couple’s favorite disco beats.

The speeches from their fathers, best man, and man of honor were heartfelt and funny — the perfect reflection of how loved Casey and Thomas are by everyone around them.

A Perfect Beginning

From the sacred ceremony to the joy-filled dance floor, Casey and Thomas’s wedding was a true celebration of faith, family, and forever love. Every laugh, tear, and embrace told a story of two best friends who became soulmates — surrounded by everyone who matters most.

It was an honor to capture their journey and preserve the memories of such a radiant and meaningful day.

Vendors who brought the day to life:

Photography | Limelight Photography
Lead Photographer | Rebecca Zoumberos
Associate Photographer | Adrian Nguyễn

Ceremony Venue | Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Reception Venue | Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
Catering | Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
Wedding Planner | Moments Unveiled – Rylee Morris
Florist | Apple Blossoms
Hair & Makeup | Justina – Just Beauty
Wedding Dress | Lily’s Bridal Tampa
DJ | Tampa Bay DJ Company – DJ Bohav
Cake | Publix Catering at The Village Center
Videography | Limelight Videography

🌴 Ready to Step Into the Limelight? If you’re planning a Tampa Bay destination wedding, we’d love to capture your story with the same artistry and care. Let’s create timeless images that reflect your love and your legacy 👉 Book Limelight Photography

Hayley + Robbie Step Into The Limelight | Raymond James Stadium | Tampa, FL

Wow. It’s not every day you get to photograph a wedding at the Buccaneers’ stadium and trust me, it was phenomenal! When I first heard that Hayley and Robert were getting married right there on the pirate ship at Raymond James Stadium, I knew this was going to be unforgettable. But once I learned their story, it all made perfect sense because their love truly began here.

Their very first date was at this exact stadium, cheering from the stands during a Tampa Bay vs. Detroit Lions game (and yes, they still joke about that Bucs win!). So when it came time to say “I do,” it felt like the most natural and meaningful place in the world for them to start their forever.

The ceremony was intimate, with only their closest family members gathered to witness the moment. The Florida sun was shining over the field, and the view from the pirate ship was breathtaking. The best part? The officiant was Hayley’s brother a real-life pirate, in full Buccaneers spirit! He made everyone laugh, cry, and cheer all at once. It was the perfect mix of emotion and fun, just like this couple.

And there was something so touching that made the day even more meaningful, Hayley wore her mother’s wedding dress. Seeing her walk down the aisle in that gown, surrounded by the people who love her most, added an extra layer of nostalgia and beauty to an already emotional day. It felt like a piece of family history was being carried forward, right there in the heart of the stadium where their own love story began.

No over-the-top decor, no stress just love, laughter, and a setting that told their story better than any words could. From the way Hayley looked walking toward Robert, to the way they held hands during their vows, it was pure magic.

This was the first chapter of their celebration, a day that honored where their story began. But just wait until you see what came next… because a few days later, they gathered all their friends and family at The Hotel Zamora for one incredible rooftop party filled with energy, music, and nonstop dancing.

Stay tuned for Part Two of their story, the unforgettable night that turned their love into a full-blown celebration of joy.

Ahoyyyyy! 

Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa

Ceremony Site | Raymond James Stadium
DJ | totalclassentertainment
Invitations | Green Envelope
Wedding Gown | Mom’s wedding dress 

Rebecca + Jacob Step Into The Limelight | The Rusty Pelican | Tampa, FL

Rebecca and Jacob tied the knot on a beautiful fall day with a stunning waterfront wedding at The Rusty Pelican in Tampa, Florida. As a Tampa wedding photographer, capturing their love story against the iconic backdrop of this venue was a dream come true.

Their story began in the summer of 2022, when they met while working at a summer camp in upstate New York. What started as a close friendship eventually blossomed into a beautiful relationship a few months later. Now, their love is built on shared adventures, Disney World trips, trying new restaurants, cruising the seas, and quiet days just enjoying each other's company.

When it came time to choose a wedding venue, Rebecca and Jacob visited several locations, but nothing compared to the breathtaking views and sentimental value of The Rusty Pelican. Not only did the waterfront views sweep them off their feet, but the venue also held special meaning. Rebecca’s parents had celebrated their own wedding reception there years ago, making it the perfect place to start this new chapter together.

Their Tampa Bay wedding was filled with heartfelt moments, joyful tears, and laughter among family and friends. The sunset over the bay offered the perfect golden hour for portraits, highlighting the genuine connection and excitement between the newlyweds.

From the emotional first look to their unforgettable first dance under twinkling lights, every detail of Rebecca and Jacob’s wedding day reflected who they are as a couple— laid-back, joyful, and deeply in love.

Lead Photographer | Jackie Pizio
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa

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