Kelly + Dan Step Into the Limelight | Armature Works | Tampa, FL

Kelly will never forget the day: January 5th, 2016. She was at Bahama Breeze, and in walks Dan in his dark grey suit. She says, “He had me from that point forward :)” Kelly was really hoping Dan would propose in 2018. She even sent him an email in June with screenshots of rings she liked, with the subject line, "just in case!!". Kelly had four family weddings in 2018 (her brother and 3 cousins), the last one being in December. So when Christmas came and went, she didn't think it was going to happen in 2018. (Turns out he asked her dad for permission over Christmas!) They decided to go out on New Year's Eve to Armanis at the Grand Hyatt; it's Kelly’s absolute favorite place to see the sunset in Tampa. They have gone there a few times, for Kelly’s birthday, or nights they want to dress up and have fancy cocktails, so she had no idea it was going to happen. Dan encouraged Kelly to order a fancy glass of wine (she usually orders one of the cheaper glasses of wine because Armani's is kind of pricey haha!), but she thought it was a New Year's Eve treat! They end up hanging out for a few hours, having great conversation and just an all around wonderful evening. They were in the middle of talking about his job, and next thing Kelly knows, he is down on one knee with a ring in his hand, saying “Kelly North, will you….” She doesn't remember the rest. She started crying and saying yes!!! They left the restaurant and called her parents who were waiting for the call with a bottle of champagne to toast on their engagement! It was so amazing, it was such a happy moment.

Dan (about Kelly): I didn't know what it meant to have a partner in life until I met Kelly. She's beautiful (obviously), but her generosity and support is more than I ever thought possible in another person. I wake up every morning grateful for my life now and love coming home to spend time with someone who respects and supports me unconditionally. I never want to be without her.

Kelly (about Dan): Dan was so handsome the first time I met him, and every day since, but I knew I truly loved him when I realized I respected him as much as my father. It was something I had never experienced before, and it changed me. It's the thing I love most about him: his respect for me and our relationship. He is also so smart; watching Jeopardy with him blows my mind. Who knows the answers to this stuff?! I love the passion and drive he has for his work. I love that he is so attractive! I often think to myself, I can't believe he wants me, I am SO LUCKY! Plus, he has phenomenal hair and the custest, most perfectly shaped butt, it's awesome.

They just love being in each other's company, no matter what they are doing. Typical things they love to do are relax at home watching Netflix or listening to True Crime podcasts with a glass of wine and whiskey and taking their dog for walks. They love their traditions and routines together.

They are so excited for their future together and they loved sharing the awesome occasion of their wedding day and an amazing celebratory party with their loved ones! They wanted an all-in-one ceremony and reception location. When they saw the ceremony space at Armature Works, Kelly cried a little bit because she could imagine her dad walking her down the aisle. Then they saw the reception space, and they both loved the style/vibe. It was a perfect for them! The atmosphere was romantic and relaxed. There were so many favorite details, starting with getting married to each other's best friend! Bringing their families together to celebrate with them; it wouldn't have been the same without them. And Kelly’s dress….it's so dang beautiful, Kelly cried when she put it on. Standing up at the altar together, holding hands and getting the privilege to say we will be there for each other always was one of their favorite moments of the day; along with the dancing and the cheers-ing, the first time Kelly saw her dad, and the first look between Kelly and Dan. All of their guests felt welcomed as if they were right at home and happy to be a part of the celebration!

Photographers | Rebecca & Michael Zoumberos