Archives for February 2015

Rustic Styled Lakeland Wedding at Rocking H Ranch

February 26, 2015

We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day for Charles and Megan’s beautiful Lakeland wedding at Rocking H Ranch. Charles is the grandson of the property owners (he and Megan also built their own house on the land!) so we also captured their Lakeland engagement session at the ranch as well! We made great friends with some steers that day- who even joined us again on the big day to be present in their wedding images! They are some very photogenic steers, I will tell you that.

We started the day off in the Higgenbotham’s gorgeous plantation home, where Megan was getting all dolled up. We strolled around the property, capturing Megan’s beauty, until it was time for the highly anticipated “fist look” which was exciting and emotional, especially for our lovely bride. This was a great way to shake off some of the big day jitters and help them both relax and enjoy their time before the ceremony together. Charles and Megan’s ceremony was held under the gorgeous canopy of the historic oak trees at Rocking H Ranch. After their small ceremony under the big grandfather oak tree, guests headed to the barn which was decorated with all kinds of rustic and chic details. Everyone dined on delicious BBQ (we can vouch for this!), danced the night away, and nibbled on cake (the groom’s cake was an armadillo, paying homage to Steel Magnolias!). We lucked out by having some amazing February weather, but a fire-pit was lit during the evening in case guests got a bit chilly! Their favors were also s’mores, so it was perfect! We ended the night by taking Megan and Charles outside for some night time portraits, which was the perfect ending to such a great day! Congratulations Megan and Charles, we are so honored to be part of your big day!

A special thanks to all of the fabulous wedding vendors we had the pleasure of working with the day!

Lakeland Wedding Photographer: Andi Diamond Photography; Lakeland Wedding Coordinator/Florals/Decor: My Heartstring Wedding and Event Planning; Lakeland Ceremony and Reception Venue: Rocking H Ranch; Lakeland DJ: Enchanting Entertainment; Lakeland Wedding Decor Rentals: Southern Hospitality by Belinda, Inc, Lakeland Wedding Cake: The Desserterie; Lakeland Catering: Good Buddies BBQ

To pre-register to view Charles and Megan’s wedding images when their gallery is released, click HERE. Share your love with Megan and Charles by leaving a comment below.

St. Petersburg Engagement Session for Ashley and Michael

February 26, 2015

What a great evening with Ashley and Michael at the St. Petersburg engagement session! These two lovebirds met is college- Ashley was a soccer player and Michael played lacrosse. After a couple of moves, and making a home base in FL, Michael proposed on Christmas last year. We are SO excited for their wedding in May at the Mahaffey Theatre.

Tampa Family Photography for the “M” Family

February 25, 2015

We always love getting to spend time with the adorable “M” family- they have been amazing, longtime clients of mine. I had a great time photographing their St. Petersburg Family Portrait session at Vinoy park and Courtney’s parents even came along to join in on the fun! This session also celebrated baby Beckett turning one, I can’t believe how quickly time flies!

Sarasota Engagement Session

February 23, 2015

I had such a great time with our cute couple at their Sarasota engagement session! We had the most beautiful light that day and so much love was in the air! Very excited for their summer wedding at beautiful Powel Crosley Estate! Special thanks to Denise Burkle for fabulous hair and make-up!

Friendor Friday with Olga’s Bridal Boutique

February 20, 2015

We are excited to have Olga and Michele from Olga’s Bridal Boutique, one of South Tampa’s premiere bridal stores, take over the blog for this week’s Friendor Friday! We have been lucky enough to capture some Tampa wedding photography of our stunning brides in gowns from Olga’s!

How did you become Olga’s Bridal?

I retired as a buyer from a major department store. I decided that retirement wasn’t for me. I wanted to start a business for myself and my daughter that was both rewarding and enjoyable. After much consideration we decided on bridal.

What is it like working together?

It’s like a marriage. A lot of compromise, but it is wonderful to be able to see your mother/daughter every day.

What designers do you carry and how do you select which ones you will carry in store?

We carry the top three lines in the bridal industry which are Allure, Casablanca and Maggie Sottero along with many others. We have a very large selection of bridesmaids and flower girls.

We attend bridal markets every year to learn the new trends. We then apply that knowledge to our type of clientele.

What do you tell a bride who has first time shopping jitters?

We deal with every bride on a case by case basis. Each bride has her individual wants and needs and fears. We try to cater to each bride on what specifically will help them. We also offer champagne…….. 🙂

What do you tell a bride who has no idea of what she wants in a wedding gown?

She needs to be opened minded and try different silhouettes. It is a learning process and we help you figure out what looks best and what makes you feel beautiful. Depending on what you envision for one of the most important days of your life.

What are a couple of your favorite gowns?

Maggie Sottero Serencia. Allure 9202 and 9162. Casablanca 1975

To veil or not to veil?

It all depends on the look the Bride is going for. Veils are very romantic and traditional. Some of the trends are leaning towards different styles of hair jewelry and accessories.

What are some current bridesmaids trends?

Lace accents, a touch of beading at times.

Most popular color of bridesmaids dresses? And a color you think we should see more of? Navy is a very popular color for bridesmaids! A beautiful color that we wish we saw more would have to be petal pink.

How do you handle a “bridezilla”? Or a wild wedding party?

There really are no “Bridezillas.” Planning a wedding is one of the most stressful times in a woman’s life. We are here to help guide her with some of her decisions. It should also be a fun for her and her bridesmaids. We want this to be an enjoyable experience. When in doubt, remember there’s always champagne!!! Didn’t we mention that?

Do you ever get emotional when a bride has “her moment”?

Of course, you’re in the moment with her. You become part of the experience.

Favorite part about owning a bridal store?

The personal satisfaction you feel when you help your Bride with one of the most important occasions in her life.