It’s the classic story of boy (Duane) meets girl (Andi- that’s ME!) at the University of Florida, they become great friends, party together, and then go their separate ways (pre-Facebook of course). Then the girl (Andi) works at Shriners Hospital after college, meets a great friend (Tara), who happens to be a Nole, and years later runs into the boy at the Gator national championship game in Miami, and decides to play match maker (at the protest of her husband (that’s Pete)…..and the rest…as they say…is history! Simple enough right? This St. Petersburg wedding at Nova was incredibly special to me because I got to witness two dear friends share their love with each other and make their union official! I knew when I set them up, and then again after their first date that Tara and Duane were the perfect match for each other. His dry sarcasm, her witty come-backs. Both with laid back, easy going personalities and a passion for their family and friends (and college football)- it was evident early on that these two were meant to be! I was honored to be able to capture their love story!
Tara and her mom getting prettied up!
Last minute touches as Tara gets into her stunning wedding gown!
The bridesmaids seeing Tara for the first time!
The groom and his groomsmen!
The bride and her bridesmaids!
Let the ceremony begin….and the tears will flow (mine did too!).
Oh Duane….you are so silly!
I loved being able to spend some time with the newly married couple to capture their happiness and love!
As Kristin likes to say….Duane…#TheBOSS!
I have never seen Tara look so pretty- or so happy!
The reception at Nova looked amazing….Tara covered every last detail!
Not a dry eye in the house during this first dance to U2’s “All I Want Is You”…
Those who know Tara well, know that the girl is a booty shaker!
Had to get a pic with my friends, as their match-maker of course!
And I will wrap it up with one of my favorite images of the night. Love you both so much and I could not be more excited to see your lives joined in marriage!
Special thank you to Tara and Duane’s wedding team who helped make their day so incredibly special: Wedding dress: Olga’s Bridal, Wedding DJ: DJ Jaey, Wedding Cake: A Piece of Cake, Hair Stylist: Cam at J.Con Salon, Make up Artist: Hendrickje Makeup FX, Ceremony and Reception Venue: Nova, Wedding Coordinator: Rubies and Pearls, Florist: Cindy Whitacker, Caterer: Puff ‘n Stuff, Linens: Linens By The Sea, Chiavari Chairs: First Class Rentals
To register to view their entire gallery click HERE.
Andi,
We can not even to begin to thank you. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for encouraging(well more like forcing)us to meet. Our sneak peak pictures are breath taking. Your eye for photography is amazing. We appreciate your patience working with us when you know we can make things difficult. Thank you for your kindness,match making skills and most of all friendship.
We love you!
Tara & Duane Paustian