Crystal + Eric Step Into The Limelight | The Florida Aquarium | Tampa, FL

Playful and Heartfelt Love Story: From Facebook to Forever

Some love stories begin with a spark, others with a Facebook message. This one began in December 2020, when a mutual friend introduced two people who had no idea just how perfectly their quirks, interests, and sense of humor would fit together.

From the very beginning, their connection felt easy. Whether bonding over board games, sharing walks through local parks and beaches, or laughing through rounds of pickleball and Top Golf, they quickly built a relationship rooted in fun, respect, and genuine affection. Their shared love for both calm moments and playful adventures made it clear  this was something special.

The proposal was as thoughtful as it was sweet. On Christmas Eve, a small box was hidden in the branches of the Christmas tree, a quiet surprise waiting to be discovered. That simple, meaningful gesture perfectly reflects the kind of love they share: thoughtful, intentional, and full of heart.

One of the things that makes their relationship so strong is how much they support and engage in each other's worlds. From building Legos to watching sports or simply spending time with their beloved animals, they’ve created a life that celebrates each other’s passions and brings joy to the everyday.

Their wedding day reflected all of that and more. Set at The Florida Aquarium the site of one of their very first dates the location couldn’t have been more personal. It brought their journey full circle, from those early days of getting to know one another to saying “I do” surrounded by roseate spoonbills and shimmering backdrops. Every detail, from the unique setting to the relaxed and joyful vibe of the day, felt like them, fun, a little unconventional, and deeply meaningful.

There’s no need for elaborate themes when the love story itself is so rich. What stood out most was the warmth between them, the shared laughter, and the unspoken understanding built over years of knowing, growing, and choosing each other quirks, humor, and all.

❤️

Are you looking for a wedding photographer, videographer, or content creator? Reach out to our team today and inquire about a custom price quote!

Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Jackie Pizio 

Bridesmaid Dresses |  Azazie
Cake |  Publix
Caterer |  The Florida Aquarium
Ceremony Site | The Florida Aquarium
Event Planner |  Breezin’ Weddings
Florist | Budget Bride Wedding Bouquets
Hair Stylist | Michele Renee The Studio
Invitations | Canva
Make-up Artist | Michele Renee The Studio
Reception Venue | The Florida Aquarium
Wedding Gown | Athena’s Bridal Boutique

Sunset Wedding Photos and "When Is Golden Hour?"

As Florida wedding photographers and Florida wedding videographers, we’re constantly asked one of our favorite questions:
“When is the best time for photos?”
Our answer is almost always the same: golden hour.

There’s something really really magical that happens when the sun dips low in the sky. It’s warm, romantic, and gives every photo a softness unlike your typical afternoon sunlight. Whether you're tying the knot in a chic downtown Tampa venue, a St.Pete beachfront resort, or planning a destination wedding in the Caribbean, golden hour is the secret ingredient that takes your portraits from beautiful to breathtaking.

So… “What Is Golden Hour?”

This is a term that gets thrown around a lot, but not everyone knows what it means! Golden hour is that perfect slice of time just after sunrise or just before sunset. The sun is lower on the horizon, casting light that’s softer, warmer, and more flattering than the midday sun. For sunset portraits, golden hour typically begins 60 to 90 minutes before sunset, with the most ethereal glow in the final 30 minutes before the sun dips below the horizon.

This window of time changes slightly depending on the time of year and your location, which is why we always help our couples plan for it when building out their wedding day photography timeline.

Planning Your Golden Hour Photo Session

Here are a few tips to make the most of your golden hour photo session:

• Talk to your photographer early. We’ll help determine the exact sunset time for your date and location.

• Work it into your timeline. Even just 15–20 minutes is enough to capture memorable images — oftentimes wedding planners are already aware that their couples may want to go out for sunset portraits, but it’s good to communicate this desire with your wedding planner/coordinator directly, in addition to your photographer!

• Be flexible. Sometimes stepping away from dinner or sneaking out between reception happenings is the best way to catch that prime light.

• Trust the process. Let us guide you. No stiff posing, just the two of you being yourselves.

At Limelight Photography, we’ve had the joy of capturing golden hour moments for couples all across Florida and the Caribbean. Whether you're looking for sunset portraits that feel editorial and elegant, or something candid and carefree, we tailor each session to reflect who you are as a couple.

Let us help you plan the perfect time to chase the light—and create something truly timeless. Reach out today!

By the time golden hour arrives, most couples are relaxed, happy, and fully in the moment. Whether it's a quiet walk along the water or a joyful twirl in an open field, this time allows you to connect with each other while we document it with candid, documentary-style beauty.

📍 We are based in Florida, but available for destination weddings anywhere! ✈️
✨ Our team is composed of Florida wedding photographers, videographers, and content creators specializing in golden hour magic.

Article by Tara Zimmerman from Limelight Photography — passionate about capturing the unscripted, emotional moments that tell your love story in the most genuine and heartfelt way.

Meghan + Zachary Step Into The Limelight | Zota Beach Resort | Longboat Key, FL

Meghan and Zach’s story began with a swipe in the right direction.

As people sought connection during the quiet moments of lockdown, Meghan and Zach found each other.

A couple of years after meeting, during a trip to Savannah, Georgia, Zach asked Meghan to spend forever with him. She said yes, and the countdown to their dream wedding began.

That dream came to life at the breathtaking Zota Beach Resort in Sarasota, Florida—a perfect setting for their classy, tropical beach wedding. With elegant touches of green and lush natural décor woven throughout the celebration, the entire day reflected the fresh, vibrant feel of spring.

They exchanged vows with their feet in the sand, the ocean breeze dancing through the air, and the rhythmic sound of waves offering the most peaceful atmosphere. It was a day filled with warmth, beauty, and undeniable joy—a true celebration of a love that was meant to be.

We’re honored to be a preferred Longboat Key wedding photographer of Zota Beach Resort, and we absolutely love capturing destination weddings like Meghan + Zach’s. If you're planning your dream beach wedding, we'd be thrilled to tell your story through timeless, elegant imagery. Contact us today!

Lead Photographer | Jackie Pizio
Associate Photographer | Jeff Mitchell

Ceremony + Reception Venue | Zota Beach Resort

Blair + Steven Step Into The Limelight | DoubleTree by Hilton Tampa Rocky Point Waterfront + Whiskey Joe's | Tampa, FL

Blair + Steven | Intimate Waterfront Wedding | DoubleTree by Hilton Tampa Rocky Point Waterfront + Whiskey Joe’s

From the moment I met Blair and Steven, I could feel their deep bond—calm, easygoing, and full of genuine joy. As the lead photographer for Limelight Photography, I often witness incredible love stories, but theirs stood out as something truly special. Their wedding day was the perfect blend of intimacy, emotion, and relaxed coastal charm—everything they had dreamed of.

Their love story began in the most unexpected way: though they had gone to school together their whole lives, it wasn’t until a chance encounter while duck hunting in 2022 that they reconnected. A month later, they started chatting—and from there, “the rest is history,” as Blair sweetly puts it. Their proposal story was equally serendipitous. While on a family trip to Yellowstone, Steven found the perfect moment by a quiet waterfall, away from the crowds. With just Blair’s family nearby, he proposed in the most heartfelt and personal way, asking for forever in a place filled with natural beauty.

Their wedding day echoed that same simplicity and sincerity. Set at the gorgeous DoubleTree by Hilton Tampa Rocky Point Waterfront, with the celebration continuing at Whiskey Joe’s, the day felt more like a vacation with loved ones than a traditional wedding—exactly as they envisioned. The ceremony was intimate, with only immediate family gathered by the water. Everyone was dressed in light, breezy styles—florals for the women and khaki or linen for the men—reflecting the couple’s love for the outdoors and the ocean.

Blair’s minimal and elegant vision came to life with touches of white and greenery that complemented the waterfront setting perfectly. Their ceremony was peaceful and filled with meaning, and after the vows, we took time to capture timeless family portraits and heartfelt moments with those closest to them.

Later in the day, we headed over to Whiskey Joe’s for the golden hour photos, and let me just say—wow. The soft, glowing light reflecting off the water created the dreamiest backdrop for their couple portraits. Their joy and connection came through effortlessly, and these images became some of my favorites of the entire day. As someone who specializes in wedding photography in Tampa Florida, golden hour at Whiskey Joe’s is an absolute dream to photograph.

Blair and Steven, thank you for trusting Limelight Photography to tell your story through photojournalistic photography. Your love, kindness, and laughter made every moment a joy to capture. Wishing you a lifetime of beach days, family adventures, and laughter that never ends.

Are you planning an intimate coastal wedding or a relaxed celebration with those who matter most? Let Limelight Photography bring your vision to life with timeless wedding photography in Tampa, blending authentic storytelling with beautiful candids. Reach out to us today—your love story deserves to be beautifully told.

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | Isabella Santos

Cake | Publix 
Caterer | Whiskey Joe's | Tampa 
Ceremony Site | DoubleTree by Hilton Tampa Rocky Point Waterfront 
Florist | Faux Real Flowers
Reception Venue | Whiskey Joe's | Tampa
Wedding Gown | Love Birds Bridal Boutique | Mississippi

Kiele + Scott Step Into The Limelight | Longboat Key Club | Sarasota, FL

Kiele and Scott’s Dreamy Beach Wedding at Longboat Key Club

Kiele and Scott’s love story began long before they officially started dating. As kids, their families were intertwined—both sets of grandparents were best friends and neighbors, and their mothers, Yvette and Lisa, shared a deep friendship that extended through their childhoods. After years of friendship, their friend group finally convinced them to take the next step, and the rest was history.

The Proposal
On February 17, 2024, during a snowstorm, Scott proposed to Kiele in the most genuine way possible. With their two beloved dogs, Leo and Beau, by their side, Scott popped the question while they were out on a walk. It was a moment filled with love, simplicity, and surprise, a perfect reflection of their connection.

What They Loved About Each Other
Kiele adored how Scott was her constant—whether it was something fun, stressful, or a big decision, Scott was the person she turned to. His love and support made him her person, through and through. Plus, she couldn’t resist those eyes! For Scott, Kiele’s personality and caring heart were what he cherished most. She truly cared for everyone she met, making her even more special to him.

Their Wedding Story
Kiele had always dreamed of getting married in Florida, a place close to her heart due to her family’s beach house just outside of Tampa. Both she and Scott loved the beach, and with Scott preferring a smaller, more intimate gathering, their wedding at Longboat Key Club was the perfect blend of their desires.

The Wedding Style
Their wedding had a modern tropical laid-back vibe, perfectly suited to the beach location. Kiele wore a classy yet flowy dress that captured the beachy atmosphere, while Scott’s blue suit complemented both him and the venue’s stunning seaside setting. The day was all about celebrating their love with just their closest family and friends.

Favorite Wedding Moments
The beach ceremony stood out as one of their favorite parts of the day, as they shared their vows in the presence of their loved ones. Dancing, drinking, and celebrating with their favorite people brought them immense joy, and having someone so close to both of them officiate made the ceremony even more memorable.

Capturing Every Moment with Limelight Photography
To capture the essence of their perfect day, Kiele and Scott chose Limelight Photography, one of the best Longboat Key wedding photography teams. Known for providing affordable wedding photography packages and being experts in beach weddings, Limelight Photography documented every special moment, from the intimate ceremony to the lively reception. As Longboat Key Club Preferred Vendors, they knew exactly how to highlight the beauty and uniqueness of the location.

For couples looking for talented Sarasota wedding photographers to capture their big day, book Limelight Photography to ensure every special moment is beautifully preserved!

Lead Photographer | Rebecca Zoumberos
Associate Photographer | Jackie Pizio

Cake |  Cakes by Ron 
Caterer |  Longboat Key Club 
Ceremony Site | Longboat Key Club
DJ | Jam All Day Entertainment 
Event Planner | Swanky Soiree Events
Florist | Mary Nell Chadsey Floral Design 
Invitations | Etsy
Reception Venue | Longboat Key Club
Videographer | Limelight Photography 
Wedding Gown | Silk Bridal - Easton PA