Abbey + Donald Step Into The Limelight | Sunken Gardens | St. Pete, FL

There is something truly magical about a garden wedding, and Abbey and Donald’s wedding at Sunken Gardens in St. Pete, Florida, was no exception. As the sun filtered through the lush canopy of tropical greenery, these two soulmates exchanged vows surrounded by vibrant flowers, cascading waterfalls, and the love of their closest family and friends. As their wedding photographer, I had the absolute joy of capturing their day through a blend of timeless portraits and heartfelt wedding candids that perfectly reflected their love story.

Abbey and Donald are not just partners in life—they are each other’s best friends. They bring out the best in one another and share a love for running, reading, watching TV, solving puzzles, and cooking together. Their journey began at a trivia game, where their shared passion for knowledge and fun instantly connected them. It was clear from the start that they were meant to be.

From the moment I arrived, I could feel the excitement in the air. Abbey was radiant in her wedding gown, her smile glowing even brighter than the Florida sun. Donald’s anticipation was evident as he stood beneath the towering palms, waiting for that first look at his bride. When the moment finally came, it was nothing short of breathtaking—pure, unfiltered emotion as he turned around and saw Abbey for the first time. This is what I love most about wedding photography in St. Pete, Florida—these raw, authentic moments that will be treasured forever.

The ceremony took place beneath a canopy of towering trees, their branches gently swaying in the breeze as Abbey and Donald exchanged heartfelt vows. There wasn’t a dry eye in sight as they sealed their promises with a kiss, surrounded by the beauty of one of Florida’s most enchanting garden wedding venues. As a St. Pete photographer, capturing the way the sunlight danced around them in this dreamy setting was an absolute delight.

One of the most touching details of the reception was a special piece of artwork created by Donald himself. As an artist, he crafted a beautiful picture of the two of them, which was proudly displayed for their guests to admire. It was a true reflection of their love and the creativity that binds them together.

As the celebration continued, I focused on capturing the joy, laughter, and sweet in-between moments that make a wedding day unforgettable. The newlyweds twirled under the string lights during their first dance, the golden hour casting the most romantic glow around them. Their guests filled the night with laughter, heartfelt toasts, and a dance floor that stayed lively until the very last song. Every moment was a perfect testament to their love, and I was honored to document it all through my lens.

Abbey and Donald’s wedding at Sunken Gardens was a beautiful reminder of why I love photojournalistic photography—it's about preserving genuine emotions and fleeting moments in a way that tells a complete story. Their love, laughter, and undeniable connection made this day unforgettable, and I am so grateful to have been a part of it.

If you are looking for wedding photography in Clearwater, Florida, or searching for a St. Pete photographer to capture your dream wedding, I would love to tell your love story through beautiful, timeless images. Contact Limelight Photography today to learn more about our wedding photography services!

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | Alayna Vance

Bridesmaid Dresses | Birdy Grey
Cake | Publix
Caterer | Amici's Catered Cuisine
Ceremony Site | Sunken Gardens
DJ | Breezin Entertainment
Event Planner | Enchanted Weddings & Events
Hair Stylist | Megan Terbush
Invitations | The Knot
Reception Venue | Sunken Gardens
Wedding Gown | David’s Bridal

Shannon + Ashton Step Into The Limelight | Avila Golf & County Club | Tampa, FL

Shannon and Ashton’s wedding was a picture-perfect celebration of love, filled with heartfelt moments and joyful memories that will last a lifetime. The couple exchanged vows in the stunning Harborside Chapel, a beautiful and intimate venue that set the stage for a truly special day. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, they celebrated their love with a ceremony that radiated warmth, emotion, and joy.

The ceremony was followed by a fun and memorable bubble exit, where Shannon and Ashton walked out of the chapel together as husband and wife, greeted by a sea of bubbles and the cheers of their loved ones. It was a lighthearted and magical moment, marking the beginning of their new life together in the most whimsical way.

After the ceremony, the celebration continued at the elegant Avila Golf & Country Club, where the couple and their guests enjoyed an unforgettable reception. With the beautiful views of the golf course as a backdrop, the reception was filled with laughter, dancing, and celebration. Shannon and Ashton chose to have LIVE wedding band too! Bay Kings Band set the perfect tone, playing the couple’s favorite songs and keeping everyone on their feet throughout the night.

The day was a true reflection of Shannon and Ashton’s love story, with every detail thoughtfully planned to make it unique and personal. From their DIY welcome sign to the elegant decor at the reception, it was clear that every moment had been carefully chosen to represent their shared values and vision for their future together.

With a bubble-filled exit, a stunning venue, and the love of their family and friends surrounding them, Shannon and Ashton’s wedding was nothing short of magical – a day they will cherish forever.

Lead Photographer | Steven McCarthy 
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa 

Band | Bay Kings Band
Cake | Alessi Bakery
Caterer | Avila Golf & Country Club
Ceremony Site | Harborside Chapel 
Florist | Northside Florist 
Hair Stylist | Femme Akoi
Make-up Artist | Femme Akoi
Reception Venue | Avila Golf & Country Club

Jackie + Jared Step Into The Limelight | Marie Selby Botanical Gardens | Sarasota, FL

A Sunset Celebration of Love: Jackie & Jared’s Jewish Wedding

Some love stories feel destined, and Jackie and Jared’s is one of them. Introduced by family friends in 2022, their connection was instant rooted in laughter, shared dreams, and a deep love for nature.

On a boat near Lido Beach, with the golden sun melting into the horizon, Jared asked Jackie to be his forever. The waves whispered, the sky blushed, and with a joyful “yes,” their forever began.

Jackie loves Jared’s unwavering authenticity, while Jared adores Jackie’s kindness and the way her eyes light up with love. Together, they are home.

Under a canopy of lush greenery and endless sky, they embraced their Jewish traditions in a breathtaking garden. Surrounded by their loved ones, they vowed to walk life’s path hand in hand, as the sunset blessed their new beginning. From the sacred vows to the joyous whirlwind of traditional dances, every moment was pure romance and bliss. Laughter, love, and music filled the air, weaving memories they will cherish forever.

Jackie and Jared’s wedding was more than a day it was the beginning of a lifetime. A love as deep as the ocean, as endless as the sky, and as warm as the setting sun. To Jackie and Jared may your love always shine as brightly as the day you said “I do.”.

Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Jackie Pizio

Caterer |  Michaels on East
Ceremony Site | Marie Selby Gardens 
DJ | Goodley
Event Planner |  Lexi Vennetti
Florist |  Flowers by Fudgie
Hair Stylist | LH Artistry 
Make-up Artist | LH Artistry
Reception Venue | Marie Selby Gardens
Videographer | Earl Speid

Kate + Dan Step Into The Limelight | Sunken Gardens | St. Pete, FL

Some love stories start with a meet-cute, others with a grand romantic gesture. Kate and Dan's? Well, it began with a Florence and the Machine concert and the wrong Catherine. (No hard feelings though she's lovely, and they're still friends!) Fate, however, had other plans, and a few years later while working at a bar, Dan finally found himself dating the right Katherine.

Dan had it all planned out: a perfect day featuring an antique book fair, cake, and the grand finale—a stunning engagement ring. What he didn’t plan for was Kate short-circuiting the moment entirely. With the instincts of a detective (or an overenthusiastic gift opener), she guessed what was in the box, grabbed it, and opened it before Dan could get a single word out!

When asked what he loves about Kate, Dan simply responded, "None of your business!" And honestly, if that's not true love, what is? Kate, on the other hand, adores his sharp wit and sense of humor. Their dynamic is the kind that keeps everyone guessing and laughing in equal measure.

While Dan enjoys fencing (the "stabby kind," as Kate puts it) and photography, Kate prefers books, animals, and, well, unearthing history sometimes quite literally. Their adventures once led them to Mississippi, where they exhumed 4,000 corpses from an insane asylum. (Whose idea was that again?)

Kate and Dan tied the knot on 3.14.25, a subtle, yet nerdy nod to Pi Day. Their wedding was a perfect blend of Art Nouveau, Hollywood Glam, and 1930s Florida (but, as Kate emphasizes, "not the Dust Bowl"). A touch of whimsy tied it all together, making for an unforgettable celebration. And let’s not forget Dan’s impeccable sense of style, which on this special day included stunning pink flamingo hats that added an extra layer of charm to the festivities.

For Kate, the highlights of the day included quality time with family from across the country, stunning historical surroundings, and, of course, pie. Lots of pie. Oh, and marrying Dan. That part was pretty great too. But what truly made the wedding special was that every single detail of the decor was crafted by Kate herself. From the delicate florals to the charming table settings, every corner of the venue had her magical touch.

As if the day wasn’t already full of surprises, in the middle of the celebration, giant Bigfoot made a dramatic entrance, giving the guests a moment of sheer terror before laughter took over. Just another ordinary moment in the extraordinary love story of Kate and Dan!

And speaking of extraordinary, let’s take a moment to appreciate Kate on her wedding day—absolutely breathtaking, radiant, and undeniably stunning. A bride who could have stopped time with her beauty alone.

As a photographer, this wedding was an absolute delight to capture. Every moment, every laugh, every flamingo hat, and yes, even the unexpected Bigfoot, made this a day to remember. It was an honor to document such a unique and love-filled day, and I wish Kate and Dan a lifetime of blessings, joy, and endless laughter!

Looking for a team to capture your wedding day? Contact us HERE!

Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa

Bridesmaid Dresses |  David's Bridal
Caterer | CBK Catering
Ceremony Site | Sunken Gardens
Florist | By Bride
Hair Stylist | Claire at J. Conn
Reception Venue | Sunken Gardens
Wedding Gown | David's Bridal

Bailey + Jonathan Step Into The Limelight | Hotel Zamora | St. Pete Beach, FL

Bailey & Jonathan’s Wedding: A Love Story Straight Out of a Fairytale

Some love stories feel like they’re straight out of a movie, and Bailey and Jonathan’s is exactly that. They met a few years ago through mutual friends, and it was impossible not to fall for each other—they are truly a perfect match, like Barbie and Ken. Their love story took an exciting turn when Jonathan proposed during an unforgettable trip to Mexico, sealing their future together.

I first met Bailey and Jonathan during their engagement session and from the start I knew they were something special. I had them climb rocks and run along the beach, and instead of hesitation, they embraced the adventure with laughter and joy. That moment made me fall in love with capturing their story, and I knew their wedding day would be nothing short of incredible.

Finally, the big day arrived. The wedding was absolutely perfect—even with the strong wind that had everyone’s hair flying in all directions, lol. But nothing could take away from the beauty of the moment. Witnessing their vows was deeply moving, and watching Bailey walk down the aisle was breathtaking.

Every second of their day was filled with love, happiness, and unforgettable memories. I feel so honored to have been a part of such a special chapter in their lives. Bailey and Jonathan, your connection is truly inspiring, and I have no doubt that your journey together will be just as magical as your wedding day.

Cheers to forever!

Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa

Cake | Publix
Caterer | Hotel Zamora
Ceremony Site | Hotel Zamora
Event Planner | Brittany Bauer 
Florist | ShyChicBoutique
Hair Stylist | Kerrilynne Styles
Invitations | The Knot
Make-up Artist | Tara Schwartz
Reception Venue | Hotel Zamora
Wedding Gown | Truly Forever Bridal