Location: St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA
Setting: Ballroom
Season: Winter
How long did the couple plan the event: 14 months
The number of guests: 208
Wedding theme/style: Elegant, timeless, New Year Eve-inspired.
Love stories often begin when you don’t expect them to. For Ariel and Clayton, it started in the hallways of Calvary Christian High School, where they met in 2014. The school was rather small but they met through mutual friends and have been together ever since.
Clayton proposed in October, and soon after this heartfelt moment, the couple’s journey took a new and exciting turn as they eagerly began preparing for their fairytale wedding, which was set for the following winter. They aimed to create a celebration adorned with warmth, dignity, and the magic of their style.
With a vision of elegance and timelessness, the lovebirds planned their wedding on New Year’s Eve, marking the start of a new chapter in their lives. They knew a celebration in a ballroom would radiate classic charm and sophistication. After much consideration, they settled on the exquisite ballrooms at The Don CeSar as the perfect backdrop. Its grandeur and class set the stage for their ceremony, where their love was sealed.
Ariel and Clayton chose every element of the wedding with intention and meaning. As a stylish touch, they decided to match Christian Louboutin‘s shoes. Well-known red bottoms elevated the couple’s look to new heights of sophistication. The save-the-date cards kept the same font type as the brand, and the entire stationery suite reflected the couple’s unique style.
As the day began, Ariel and her loved ones shared the excitement of getting ready together. They enjoyed cocktails in beautiful satin pajamas while finishing their hair and makeup. The bride kindly prepared heartfelt gifts for the loved ones, expressing gratitude for their support and presence on this momentous day. Among the flurry of activity, these moments added warmth and tenderness to the delighted occasion.
For the formal part of the ceremony, Ariel chose a simple and graceful gown from Calvet Couture. The dress perfectly emphasized her slim waist and delicate shoulders, creating the silhouette of a princess. Her blonde hair was half-gathered in a French twist style, and the waves framing her face added finesse. Evening makeup beautifully complemented the whole image and emphasized her delightful eyes. A white rose bouquet complemented her ensemble with a perfect finishing touch to Ariel’s bridal look.
Clayton and his groomsmen were getting ready in their stylish attire for the momentous occasion ahead. They gathered together, sharing laughs and stories. Amidst the laughter and excitement, his friends raised their glasses to toast the groom-to-be, saying heartfelt words of love and support for the journey ahead. Expecting to see Ariel, Clayton opened a special present from his bride, a token of her love and affection.
The groom chose a classic black tuxedo and a black shirt for his wedding day. To ensure a polished look, he opted for suit trousers with side adjusters, enhancing the formality of his ensemble while maintaining clean lines. He elevated his look with a champagne-colored satin tie, perfectly complementing the richness of his attire, and a gold bracelet adorned his wrist, adding a stylish accent to his ensemble. With sleek hair as a final touch, Clayton exuded confidence and grace as he prepared to marry the love of his life.
When the moment approached for Ariel and Clayton’s first look, the air was filled with nervous excitement. As Clayton turned to behold his bride, a wave of emotion washed over them. With tears of joy, they embraced, knowing that this was the start of a new chapter in their lives filled with love and dignity.
The couple’s vision for their wedding ceremony came to life in a breathtaking show of elegance. Detailed floral arrangements adorned the venue, adding a touch of natural beauty to the historic surroundings. The soft melodies of a harpist and the beautiful voice of a life singer filled the air, creating a serene and enchanting ambiance. The ballroom, adorned with elegance, awaited each guest with memorable gifts.
As the officiant took his place, all eyes turned to the entrance, where Clayton stood, his gaze fixed on the spot where Ariel would soon appear. The bridesmaids made their way down the aisle. And then, the moment arrived. Ariel, radiant in her gown, appeared at the entrance, escorted by her loved ones. And in that magical moment, their ceremony truly began.
As the celebration unfolded, talanted photographers Shauna & Jordan added a touch of spice to their photos, expertly highlighting the passion and connection between the couple. Against the backdrop of the hotel halls, they artfully captured the sparkling allure of the bride’s second slit dress, the intimate moments shared over cocktails, and the genuine bond between the newlyweds as they savored each other’s company.
Clayton and Ariel made a unique decision that set their wedding apart. Rather than waiting until the cocktail hour, they opted to take family pictures before the ceremony. This choice allowed them to enjoy precious moments of just two of them.
Following the ceremony, the festivities continued in the magnificent Grand Ballroom, where the lovebirds and their guests gathered to celebrate their union. Adorned with elegance and twinkling lights, it was the perfect setting for an unforgettable reception filled with cherished memories. Floating candles sparkled against the backdrop of black tableware, creating a striking contrast that added depth and a soft, romantic ambiance to the atmosphere.
The newlyweds were the first to enter the hall, their hearts brimming with happiness as they took in the stunning decorations. They were thrilled with how everything looked and eagerly anticipated the moment their guests would enter and marvel at the beauty surrounding them. With smiles and excitement, they were ready to begin the most fun part of the celebration.
Ariel and Clayton shared their first dance as husband and wife in this enchanting beauty. They were surrounded by the soft glow of pastel lights and the gentle melodies filling the air. At that moment, it was as if time stood still, and the tender connection between them touched the hearts of all who witnessed their beautiful dance.
As the melody continued to fill the air, Ariel and Clayton gracefully invited their parents to join them on the dance floor. With love and gratitude, newlyweds and their parents shared this special dance, creating memories for a lifetime.
It was time for the sweetest part of the celebration. Ariel and Clayton stepped out to cut their magnificent tiered cake adorned with delicate gypsophila flowers that perfectly complemented the hall’s decor. The room filled with applause and admiration as they cut into the cake. They shared this special moment, symbolizing the beginning of their journey together as a family, with joyous smiles.
The remainder of the evening was filled with laughter, joy, and pure fun. Guests of all ages took to the dance floor, moving and grooving to the music as they celebrated not only the beginning of a new year but also the start of a new family.
Advice from the couple:
• Enjoy every second of the process and be completely selfish about every moment and decision leading up to the big day. Yes, accommodate your guest to an extent, but other than that, it is all about the bride and groom.
PHOTOGRAPHY Shauna & Jordon | VENUE & CAKE The Don CeSar | PLANNER Confetti Events | FLORAL DESIGN & RENTALS FH Events | MUAH D2+Co, Angeles D’angelo | LIVE SINGER The Talented Weddingsinger | DRESSES Calvet Couture, Marquise Bridal | SHOES Christian Louboutin | ENTERTAINMENT Complete Weddings + Events
