Nikolina + Joe Step Into The Limelight | Longboat Key, FL

December 16, 2024

A Magical Sarasota Surprise Proposal 💍✨

When it comes to unforgettable moments, this Sarasota beach surprise proposal between Nikolina Gjorgievski and Joe Hoerner is one for the books!

What started as a typical sunny Florida day quickly turned into a story we’ll never forget. Originally, Rebecca was set to photograph this beautiful moment, but when the weather forecast called for rain, plans shifted. Carolyn, one of our talented team members, packed up her equipment and headed down a day early to make sure every detail was captured perfectly. Talk about dedication!

The soft, filtered light from the overcast sky provided the perfect romantic ambiance as Carolyn positioned herself in the sand dunes of Longboat key. From there, she watched as the couple strolled hand in hand down the beach, completely unaware of the magic about to unfold.

As they walked back toward the dunes, Joe suddenly dropped to one knee, and the world seemed to stand still. Nikolina said yes, of course, and the celebration began! To celebrate, the newly engaged couple toasted with champagne. The groom to be’s mother and father watched joyfully from their beach condo overlooking the proposal spot. It was such a privilege to witness their love and capture the raw emotion of the day.

This special moment reminded us why we’re so passionate about what we do—preserving memories that couples (and their families!) will cherish forever. Whether it’s a surprise proposal, a courthouse ceremony, or a stunning wedding celebration, we’re here to tell your story.

If you’re planning a Sarasota surprise proposal, wedding, or engagement session, we’d love to be part of your journey! Limelight Photography offers affordable wedding photography packages and personalized experiences to make your day truly unforgettable.

Lead Photographer | Carolyn Place

Iten + Sean Step Into The Limelight | Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay | Tampa, FL

December 12, 2024

A Love Story by the Sea: Iten and Sean’s Tropical Wedding

Some love stories are written in the stars, but Iten and Sean’s began with a simple moment of serendipity in their apartment complex. It was a chance encounter, a casual hello that blossomed into something extraordinary. From that first meeting, they built a bond rooted in connection, support, and shared dreams—a foundation that would lead them to a breathtaking celebration of their love.

A Proposal to Remember

When Sean decided to propose, he knew it had to be as unforgettable as their journey together. On a magical trip to Jamaica, surrounded by the warm Caribbean breeze and the vibrant backdrop of a friend’s wedding, Sean surprised Iten with the question that would change their lives forever. In a moment as beautiful as the setting, she said yes, sealing a promise of forever.

The Vision Behind Their Wedding

Iten and Sean’s wedding was a reflection of their love for each other and their shared passions. They envisioned a celebration that embodied the calming beauty of the ocean, paired with elegant, luxurious touches. They chose the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay as their venue—a perfect tropical paradise that overlooked the water on one side and the sparkling cityscape on the other.

Iten’s favorite color, blue, became the cornerstone of their wedding theme, symbolizing tranquility, loyalty, and endless love. Every detail was thoughtfully planned, from the tropical-inspired décor to the serene sunset ceremony.

A Day to Remember

The big day began with Iten and Sean getting ready separately, building anticipation for the moment they would see each other at the altar. The ceremony was an intimate affair, framed by the stunning waters of Tampa Bay as the sun dipped below the horizon.

As Iten walked down the aisle, Sean’s eyes lit up, seeing her for the first time in her radiant gown. The moment was filled with emotion, love, and the promise of a future together.

Following the heartfelt vows, guests enjoyed a cocktail hour, savoring the sunset and taking photos to capture the magic of the evening. The reception was a lively celebration, featuring their first dance as a married couple, a beautifully adorned cake cutting, and an evening of dancing in the clouds.

A Love as Boundless as the Ocean

Iten and Sean’s wedding wasn’t just a celebration of their love but also a testament to the life they’ve built together. From their mutual love of travel and adventure to quiet moments with their beloved dog Miley, every aspect of their relationship was reflected in the day’s festivities.

Their story is a reminder that love is built on shared experiences, deep connections, and the willingness to support each other through every chapter of life.

As they embark on this new adventure together, Iten and Sean’s love continues to be as boundless as the ocean they hold so dear—a beautiful, endless horizon of possibility.

Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa
Associate Photographer | Alayna Vance

Melissa + Michael Step Into The Limelight | Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa | Clearwater Beach, FL

December 12, 2024

Melissa and Michael’s wedding at the Hyatt in Clearwater Beach was a truly magical celebration, blending elegance with the natural beauty of the Florida coast. Surrounded by family and friends, the couple exchanged vows against the backdrop of the shimmering Gulf of Mexico, with the gentle sea breeze adding a serene touch to the day.

The Hyatt’s breathtaking waterfront venue provided the perfect setting for their ceremony, with an exquisite outdoor pavilion adorned with lush florals. Melissa, radiant in her stunning wedding gown, walked down the aisle with a bright smile, full of love. Michael stood at the altar, his eyes filled with emotion, eagerly awaiting the moment he would call Melissa his wife.

After the heartfelt vows and their first kiss as husband and wife, guests were invited to celebrate with a reception that was nothing short of spectacular. The ballroom, decorated with soft white linens, and flickering candles, created an intimate and romantic atmosphere.

Dinner was served with an array of gourmet dishes, and the couple shared their first dance as newlyweds to a song that held special meaning for them both. The night continued with laughter, dancing, and joy as family and friends celebrated the start of Melissa and Michael’s lifelong journey together.

Lead Photographer | Steven McCarthy
Associate Photographer | Emma Hintz

Alexandra + Christian Step Into The Limelight | Lido Beach Resort | Sarasota, FL

December 12, 2024

From the moment I arrived at Lido Beach Resort for Alexandra and Christian's wedding, I knew the day would be nothing short of magical. As the sun began its descent over the pristine shores of Sarasota, Florida, a romantic glow set the perfect tone for a celebration of love, laughter, and family. This wedding was an absolute dream to photograph, filled with heartfelt moments, thoughtful details, and the sweetest couple I’ve had the pleasure of meeting.

Alexandra and Christian’s journey began in 2018 when they matched on Tinder, sparking a connection that grew into an unbreakable bond. Christian's proposal was simple yet intimate—a special moment in their apartment where Alex knew the ring existed but had no idea when he’d pop the question. It was so fitting for a couple who values the little moments and the comfort of being together.

Lido Beach Resort holds a special place in Alexandra's heart, as she vacationed there as a child. The couple envisioned a classy beach wedding with soft candlelight, romantic touches, and meaningful family moments. The ceremony took place on the beach during sunset, creating an ethereal glow as they exchanged vows. Guests enjoyed a seamless transition to the sand garden for cocktail hour, celebrating Florida’s coastal beauty.

Every detail was timeless and intentional. Alexandra’s gown inspired the bridal party’s look, with the flower girls wearing miniature versions of her dress and the groomsmen dressed in Vera Wang suits. DIY touches like mirrored place settings with guests' names and a bilingual welcome mirror in Spanish and English added heartfelt personality to the day.

One of the most touching moments was Alexandra’s brother, Blake, serving as officiant, making the ceremony truly family-oriented. Seeing their loved ones—many meeting for the first time—laughing, toasting, and celebrating together was a joy to capture. The countless candles, emotional toasts, and candid moments reflected the warmth and love of the day.

Alexandra and Christian, your wedding was a perfect blend of romance, family, and meaningful traditions. Thank you for allowing me to document such a beautiful chapter in your story.

If you’re looking for wedding photography in Sarasota, Florida that captures real moments, genuine emotions, and stunning beachside celebrations like Alexandra and Christian’s day, we’d love to hear from you! At Limelight Photography, we specialize in photojournalistic photography and wedding candids that tell the unique story of your day.

Reach out today to capture your dream wedding with us!

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | PJ
Associate Photographer | Jackie Pizio

Nicole + Matt Step Into The Limelight | Sirata Beach Resort | St. Pete Beach, FL

December 12, 2024

Nicole and Matt’s wedding at Sirata Beach Resort in St. Pete, Florida, was pure magic. These two are the kindest people—genuine, joyful, and so deeply in love. Their day perfectly reflected their story and love for the beach, making it an honor to capture every moment with beautiful wedding photography in St. Pete.

Nicole and Matt’s love story began in Orlando in 2017, when Nicole’s best friend introduced them. They clicked instantly, and the rest is history. Matt’s thoughtful proposal came during a trip to Acadia National Park, where he got down on one knee amidst serene birch trees—a perfect reflection of their love for nature and adventure.

As Florida beach lovers, they couldn’t resist a coastal-inspired celebration with light purples, dusty blues, and sage greens. The stunning Sirata Beach Resort turned out to be the perfect backdrop for their dream wedding. With its breathtaking sunset views and calming coastal charm, it was everything Nicole and Matt envisioned. A special shoutout to Amalfi, the incredible wedding coordinator at Bellwether Resort, who made the venue transition seamless, and to Kelli at Sirata Beach Resort, who worked hand in hand to bring this day together flawlessly. Their teamwork ensured that not even a last-minute switch, caused by Hurricane Milton, could dim the joy and beauty of the celebration.

The couple wrote their own vows, creating one of the most emotional and memorable moments of the day. Their sunset ceremony felt like something out of a fairytale, and their first kiss as husband and wife under the golden sky was pure perfection. During the reception, Nicole and Matt celebrated surrounded by laughter, love, and dancing—with so many unforgettable moments, from their heartfelt introductions to their first dance as husband and wife. Thoughtful details, like DIY welcome signs and signature cocktails honoring their two pups, Dawson and Moe, made their day so uniquely theirs.

It was such a joy to document their love with photojournalistic photography, capturing every candid, heartfelt moment. From tears of joy to bursts of laughter, this wedding was a true celebration of love, family, and friendship. Nicole and Matt, thank you for trusting me to tell your story—I wish you a lifetime of adventures, laughter, and sunsets together!

If you’re planning your dream wedding and want every moment captured beautifully, reach out to us at Limelight Photography. Whether it’s a sunset beach wedding or a grand celebration, we would be honored to tell your story through timeless, heartfelt images. Let’s create something magical together!

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | PJ
Associate Photographer | Jackie Pizio

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