Joann + Steven Step Into The Limelight | Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach | Clearwater Beach, FL

A Joyful Sunflower & Dusty Blue Chinese Christian Wedding

A brisk, chilly, sunny beach day… and one of the most meaningful celebrations to witness. ☀️

As a Clearwater Beach wedding photographer, I had the joy of documenting Joann and Stephen’s beautiful rooftop ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach. Their day was full of meaningful details, heartfelt moments, and a story rooted deeply in faith, family, and God’s timing.

Joann and Stephen’s wedding was a beautiful Christian ceremony that was full of reverence, joy, and the kind of peace you can truly feel in the room. Watching them exchange vows with God at the center was such a reminder that marriage is holy, intentional, and worth celebrating with your whole heart.

Their day was also rich with Chinese cultural elements woven throughout, creating a wedding that felt deeply personal, honoring family, heritage, and tradition in such a thoughtful way.

How Joann and Stephen Met

I first learned that Joann and Stephen met in 2023 when they were cast together in their church’s Christmas play. During one rehearsal, while sitting side by side in the pews, Joann offered Stephen a piece of special Japanese chocolate. It was simple, sweet, and unforgettable, especially because Stephen ended up getting sick later and missed the actual performance. Even so, that small interaction planted a seed that grew into something extraordinary.

The Sunset Riverwalk Proposal

Stephen proposed exactly where their love story truly took shape—on the Tampa Riverwalk at sunset, near Ulele, the place where they had their very first date. With the help of his friends Sam and Adam secretly recording the moment, Stephen asked Joann to become his wife. The golden light, the waterfront breeze, and the sentimental setting made their proposal absolutely timeless.

What They Love About Each Other

Throughout their planning process, it was clear how deeply they cherished one another.
Joann shared how much she loved that Stephen was smart, patient, caring, and funny.
Stephen told me he loved that Joann was caring, capable, and confident.

Their relationship embodied mutual respect, friendship, and genuine joy—qualities that shone brightly on their wedding day.

The Story Behind Their Wedding Day

Their wedding celebrated more than a marriage. It represented two people joining together before their friends, their families, their church community, and the Lord.

The simplicity and ease with which they planned their day reflected the clarity and confidence they felt about each other—everything about their wedding came together quickly, naturally, and beautifully. Even with the ocean breeze and crisp winter sunshine, the day felt peaceful and steady from start to finish.

Wedding Inspiration: Sunset, Sunflowers & Dusty Blue

Joann drew inspiration from her love of beach sunsets and her favorite flower: sunflowers!! Stephen looked incredible in his blue suit, which tied perfectly into their dusty-blue color palette. Together, their wedding style was warm, joyful, and breezy, perfectly suited for a Clearwater Beach rooftop celebration.

The sunflower and dusty blue details popped beautifully against the soft Gulf light, creating a romantic, joyful color story that felt both timeless and fun.

A Rooftop Ceremony at Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach

Their ceremony took place on the rooftop of the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach—one of my favorite Clearwater wedding venues for its panoramic views, soft Gulf Coast light, and unbeatable sunsets. Even though it was a brisk, chilly day, the sunshine made everything glow, and the rooftop views made the ceremony feel elevated, intimate, and unforgettable. One of the most memorable parts of the ceremony was their unity sand ceremony, which was a beautiful symbol of blending their lives into one. They also cherished exchanging personal vows, placing their rings, and standing together under the open sky as the sun began its descent.

Meaningful Chinese Cultural Elements

One of the most beautiful parts of Joann and Stephen’s wedding day was how thoughtfully they included elements of Chinese culture throughout their celebration. It added depth and meaning, honoring family, heritage, and tradition while still keeping the day rooted in their Christian faith. They created a wedding day that felt truly personal. ❤️

Favorite Moments of the Day

When I look back on Joann and Stephen’s wedding, several highlights stand out:

• Heartfelt toasts and speeches

• Their first dance as husband and wife

• The simplicity and authenticity of every moment

• The feeling of joy, peace, and blessing that surrounded them

What Made Their Wedding Unique

Their day was special because it came together so easily. Their choices felt intentional but effortless—reflecting a relationship built on clarity, trust, and faith. They wanted their guests to feel joyful, cared for, and blessed, and that is exactly how the entire day unfolded.

A Special Thank You to the Planning Team

A huge shoutout to Tammy and her team at Special Moments Planners for keeping every detail flowing smoothly and making the day feel calm, beautiful, and intentional from start to finish. Their presence helped create such a peaceful experience for Joann and Stephen and allowed the couple to truly enjoy every moment.

Final Thoughts

Joann and Stephen’s Clearwater Beach wedding was everything they wanted it to be—joyful, flawless, and blessed. Photographing their rooftop ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach reminded me why I love being a Tampa and Clearwater Beach wedding photographer. Their love story was simple yet powerful, filled with faith, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

If you’re searching for a Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach wedding photographer, planning a Clearwater Beach rooftop wedding, or dreaming of a sunset ceremony on the Gulf Coast, Joann and Stephen’s day is the perfect inspiration. From their Christian wedding ceremony to the meaningful Chinese cultural traditions, this celebration was a beautiful example of faith, family, and intentional design. Limelight Photography proudly photographs weddings throughout Clearwater Beach, Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota, including elegant beachfront venues like the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach.

A heartfelt thank you to the wonderful vendor team who helped bring this Clearwater Beach wedding to life:

Lead Photographer | Rebecca Zoumberos
Associate Photographer | Josiah Bonilla 
Associate-Photographer-In-Training | Tatyana Bradley

Ceremony Venue | Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa
Cake | Publix
Catering | Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa
DJ | Grant Hemond & Associates
Draping | Gabro Event Services
Florist | Monarch Events & Floral Design
Hair Stylist | Michele Renee The Studio
Makeup Artist | Michele Renee The Studio
Invitations | Greenvelope
Men’s Attire | Kirby’s Menswear
Photo Booth | Grant Hemond & Associates
Planner | Special Moments Event Planning
Rings & Jewelry | Mavilo
Reception Venue | Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa
Videography | Media Tree Studios
Wedding Gown | Truly Forever Bridal
Bridesmaids Dresses | Azazie

Carson + Chris Step Into The Limelight | St. Brendan’s Catholic Church + Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Clearwater, FL

Some love stories begin with fireworks. Chris and Carson’s began in silence, the kind the world fell into in March of 2020. They matched on Bumble the very week everything shut down. No restaurants, no dates, no plans. Just conversations that stretched for weeks, then months. Nearly three months of talking, laughing, getting to know each other deeply, before their first official date finally happened in June. By then, it already felt like something solid. And it was.

Chris would later propose at the Wescott Fountain on Florida State University’s campus while visiting Carson’s family for her dad’s birthday, a moment filled with meaning, family, and emotion. That balance of thoughtfulness and warmth defines who they are together. Chris has a way of loving that’s both playful and deeply intentional. He notices the little things, finds ways to make Carson smile, and shows love through action just as much as words. Together, they feel easy. Grounded. Joyful.

From the very first time I photographed them, that energy was undeniable, even when things didn’t go exactly as planned. During their engagement session, the Florida heat decided to remind us who’s really in charge. Out of nowhere, my nose started bleeding. For me, it was pure photographer panic. Absolute internal chaos. For Chris and Carson? Total calm. No stress, no awkwardness, just kindness and reassurance. Both of them have training for situations like that, so what felt dramatic to me was handled with complete grace on their end. By the time we wrapped up, what could have been a nightmare had already turned into laughter, and somehow became part of our shared story.

That memory followed me into the wedding day in the best way possible. Every time I stepped close to Carson’s beautiful white dress, I caught myself doing a quick mental and physical check: nose clear? all good? It was impossible to look at them without remembering that moment. What once felt desperate became funny, familiar, and oddly comforting, a reminder of how easy they are to be around and how supported I felt working with them. By the end of the day, it was just another story we were all laughing about.

Their wedding day was exactly what they envisioned: a celebration of families coming together, full of meaning and full of life. The ceremony at St. Brendan’s Catholic Church was especially emotional. Carson had loved that church since she was a little girl and always dreamed of getting married there. Walking down the aisle with her dad, exchanging vows, involving family throughout the ceremony, and hearing the priest’s homily made the moment deeply personal. The bubble exit afterward was pure joy, light, playful, and full of smiles.

The celebration continued at Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a place close to Carson’s heart and a perfect reflection of who they are as Florida natives. Their love for Florida and its wildlife was woven beautifully into the day, including a dolphin show during cocktail hour, yes, an actual dolphin show, setting the tone for a night that was anything but ordinary.

And then came the reception, the heart of the party. First dances, emotional parent dances, cake cutting, heartfelt speeches, and a dance floor that stayed full. The kids absolutely stole the show, breaking it down and keeping the energy high all night long. Laughter echoed everywhere, and the joy was contagious.

As their photographer, I felt truly honored to be part of this day. Chris and Carson’s energy is the kind that makes you feel welcome, valued, and grateful to be there. It wasn’t just about capturing moments, it was about sharing them. Their wedding wasn’t just beautiful, it was warm, joyful, and full of life.

A perfect celebration. A perfect party. And a love story that somehow survived a global shutdown, Florida heat, and one very nervous photographer and only got better because of it. ✨ Love you guys!

Are you looking for an experienced and fun Clearwater wedding photography team? Reach out to us today!

Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa

Event Planner | Events by Marykate
Florist | Floral Design
Ceremony Site | St. Brendan’s Catholic Church
Cake |  Tampa Bay Cake Company
Caterer |  Puffnstuff Catering
Reception Site | Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Lisa + Harry Step Into The Limelight | Sacred Heart Catholic Church + The Vault | Tampa, FL

A Downtown Tampa Wedding Steeped in History for Lisa + Harry

From the moment I arrived, Lisa and Harry’s wedding day felt deeply personal and beautifully rooted in Tampa, FL. Their love story began at work in 2018 and truly blossomed with a first date along the Riverwalk… so it felt only fitting that their wedding celebrated everything they love about historic Tampa!

From a heartfelt ceremony at Sacred Heart Tampa, to portraits around Le Méridien Tampa, and an incredible celebration inside The Vault, their day was the ideal blend of simplistic elegance and classy tradition. As a Tampa Wedding Photographer, capturing a Tampa Florida bride like Lisa, who wore her mom’s pearls and her grandmother’s crown, was incredibly special.

Harry’s Valentine’s Day proposal set the tone for the entire day: intentional, thoughtful, and full of heart. Their shared passions—running half marathons across the country, hiking with their dogs, ice skating, and cheering on the Bolts—shone through in the easy joy they shared. The ceremony was filled with emotion and candid photography moments I live for: Harry waiting at the altar, nieces and nephews walking down the aisle, Lisa walking hand-in-hand with her dad, and the joy that followed as they were announced husband and wife. The overall feeling? Relaxed, happy, and truly present—exactly as they hoped.

Lisa and Harry’s Downtown Tampa Wedding was a love letter to old Tampa, full of historic easter eggs and meaningful spaces that mattered to them most. Celebrating with family, honoring their faith, and stepping into marriage surrounded by beauty and history made this day unforgettable.

Ready to tell your story through dreamy, timeless imagery? ✨ Step Into The Limelight and connect with us today. We’d be honored to capture your love story next.

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | PJ Ricketts

Cake | Alessi Bakery
Caterer | CW’s Gin Joint
Ceremony Site | Sacred Heart
DJ | EventOne
Florist | 2Birds Events
Hair Stylist | Valerie Kipping
Photo Booth | EventOne
Reception Venue | The Vault
Wedding Gown | Flourish of Thomasville

Grace + Caleb Step Into The Limelight | The West Events | St. Pete, FL

As the Lead Photographer for Limelight Photography, I had the absolute joy of documenting Grace and Caleb’s elegant wedding day at The West Events in Madeira Beach, FL. From start to finish, their day felt like the perfect reflection of who they are—joyful, intentional, and full of excitement for what’s ahead, with God at the very center of it all.

Grace and Caleb’s story began while working together at Busch Gardens, where Grace is a professional figure skater and Caleb works behind the scenes in sound, lighting, and automation. That shared world of performance and passion carried beautifully into their wedding day. Their journey led them back to the coast they love, making this Madeira Beach Wedding even more meaningful—especially since Caleb proposed at nearby Treasure Island with a show-stopping “Will You Marry Me” sign and a surprise visit from family traveling in from Michigan.

Their ceremony was heartfelt and faith-filled, centered on their commitment to God and to one another as they stepped into marriage. Throughout the day, I focused on candid photography, capturing the genuine smiles, happy tears, and celebratory energy they wanted their guests to feel.

The day itself was elegant and classy with just the right touch of glam. As a Madeira Beach Wedding Photographer, it is always an honor to witness couples beginning a new chapter grounded in faith. Grace and Caleb’s wedding truly felt like the start of a beautiful adventure together, especially as they prepare to head out on tour as newlyweds. Grace was the definition of a radiant Florida bride, glowing with joy and purpose!

Grace and Caleb, thank you for allowing us to Step Into The Limelight with you on such a meaningful day. Your love story is a testament to faith, love, and new beginnings.

💍 Planning your own Madeira Beach Wedding?
We would be honored to document your day with intentional, faith-filled, and timeless imagery and/or in video. Reach out to Limelight Photography and let’s create something unforgettable together.

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | Jalyssa Ellis

Bridesmaid Dresses | JJ's House
Caterer | Amici's Catering
Ceremony Site | The West Events
DJ | The West Events
Event Planner | The West Events
Florist | The West Events
Reception Venue | The West Events
Videographer | Limelight Photography 
Wedding Gown | Truly Forever Bridal

Emma + Christopher Step Into The Limelight | University of Tampa | Tampa, FL

Emma & Christopher’s University of Tampa Engagement Session with Their Fluffy Best Friend

Emma and Christopher’s engagement session at the University of Tampa was the perfect
blend of romance, architecture, and personality. made even more memorable by the
presence of their fur baby trotting happily alongside them.

Set against the iconic backdrop of the University of Tampa, this engagement session
captured not only the love between Emma and Christopher, but also the life they’re
building together. From the moment they arrived on campus, it was clear that this session
would be relaxed and full of joy.

These two are tying the knot in 2027 at the stunning Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach and we couldn’t be more excited to capture it!!

Are you looking for a Tampa engagement photographer to capture your love and celebration? Inquire with us today!

Lead Photographer | Jackie Pizio
Location | University of Tampa