Price and Bob tied the knot on the last day of September in sunny Florida. Their love story began with a unique connection from the very first date. The couple envisioned a wedding that was intimate, sophisticated, and inclusive, ensuring every guest felt like a part of their special day. And there was no bridal party to emphasize the inclusivity of each attendee.
Location: Tampa, Florida, USA
Style: Modern, classic, sophisticated
Time of planning: 2 months
Number of guests: 75
Setting: Ballroom
Season: Fall
Planning & Inspiration
The wedding’s concept was inspired by two pictures from Pinterest and the couple’s desire for a modern, classic, and sophisticated event. Their wedding planner, Jennifer Matteo Event Planning, played an essential role in bringing this vision to life. “She took control of the planning and guided us through every decision, no matter how small the detail,” the bride recalled.
Decor & Setting
The venue, The Vault, provided an exquisite space for both the ceremony and reception. “There were no worries about the hot Florida heat and random rain showers. We rent out the bar next door for the cocktail hour to give time to the venue team to work hand in hand to pull off the magic and spectacular transitions of the main space,” said Price.
“Jennifer Matteo listened to our wants and made them a reality! She understood our busy schedules and was willing to work with us to pull off a wedding that looked, in my opinion, as though it had been in the works for years.”
Couple & Ceremony
Price wore two stunning wedding dresses and sported two different hairstyles throughout the day. Her makeup look was crafted to perfection, with Michelle Renee from Michele Renee The Studio going above and beyond. “Michelle Renee’s kindness was beyond 5 out of 5 stars. She worked on my contouring until I felt the prettiest I have ever felt in my life,” shared the bride. Price’s footwear ranged from elegant Jimmy Choo heels to customized Golden Goose sneakers.
Bob wore a sharp black tuxedo paired with a crisp white dress shirt and a classic black bow tie, completed with a white boutonniere. His sophisticated and timeless look perfectly matched the modern and classic theme of the wedding.
“A button popped on my dress, and Michele Renee stepped in and fixed it before I walked down the aisle.”
Cocktail Hour
The cocktail hour took place at the charming Gin Joint next door, providing a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere for guests to mingle. “By renting out the Gin Joint, our elderly guests were able to easily maneuver around the property,” mentioned the bride.
Reception
The wedding featured a stunning display of flowers by Tailored Twig. The bride recalled, “The flowers stunned and almost stole the show! Tailored Twig met with my wedding planner and me to figure out what I wanted,” told the bride. Price showed a couple of pictures from the internet and talked about how they want everyone to know they are there because they mean a lot to them. The bride and planner decided on an ‘in the round’ ceremony that Priced described as two families turned into one family.
“The guidance of our wedding planner and team of vendors listened to our wants, and it happened. The vendors were encouraged to use their creativity and talent and to have fun while doing their job.”
The reception area featured long tables adorned with lush white floral arrangements, with lush bouquets of roses, hydrangeas, and delicate greenery. The tables were set with gold cutlery and crisp white linens, creating a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere. The centerpiece of the space was a grand floral chandelier, adding a breathtaking focal point to the room.
Music & Entertainment
DJ ensured the perfect musical ambiance throughout the event. “My husband and I have very busy schedules, so we sent him lists. Without one error, he played every song we requested and more. We had people aged 18 months to 94 years old at our wedding. There was not one song that everyone didn’t enjoy together,” Price mentioned.
Advice from the couple:
• Do what you want to do. Don’t be afraid to say no. It’s your day.
• Remember we are all humans. Let your vendors give input on what they’ve seen works and more importantly doesn’t work. Remember, from the server at your wedding to the director of the event, all the staff has something they’re going through outside of their job. I wanted each vendor to enjoy their job because stress can power fun. Choose an amazing wedding team.
• No one is perfect so don’t expect the day to be perfect. Laugh with the hiccups.
• Above all else, have fun and enjoy each moment!
PLANNER Jennifer Matteo Event Planning | PHOTOGRAPHER Julie Ferneau | MUAH Michele Renee The Studio | FLORALS Tailored Twig | DECOR & RENTALS Palacios Events | VENUE & CATERING The Vault | CHAMPAGNE BAR Matteo Woodworking
