Wedding

Planning a Destination Wedding in Tampa

A destination wedding is a romantic and adventurous way for couples to exchange vows in a beautiful location away from home. These weddings combine a celebration with a vacation, creating a memorable experience not only for the couple but also for their guests. Tampa, Florida, is a perfect destination for such a wedding, offering a blend of vibrant city life, stunning waterfront views, and cultural charm. The city’s sunny climate, diverse venues, and rich history make it an ideal choice for couples seeking a unique and picturesque wedding location.

The benefits of a destination wedding include an intimate atmosphere, a scenic backdrop for your big day, and a built-in honeymoon experience. Popular wedding destinations include tropical beaches, vineyards, and historic cities, and Tampa provides all of these features in one package. Its beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, historic Ybor City, and lush parks provide endless options for couples to create the wedding of their dreams.

Top 10 Wedding Venues in Tampa

What to Look for in a Wedding Venue

When selecting a wedding venue, consider the following factors:

Scenery: Beautiful natural or architectural backdrops.
Capacity: Suitable for the number of guests.
Amenities: Availability of facilities such as dressing rooms, catering options, and parking.
Accessibility: Ease of access for guests, especially those traveling from afar.

1. Tampa River Center at Julian B. Lane Park

Description: A waterfront venue with panoramic views of the Hillsborough River and downtown Tampa, perfect for couples seeking a modern, scenic location.
Address: 402 W Laurel St, Tampa, FL 33607
Contact: (813) 274-7876

2. The Orlo

Description: A beautifully restored historic mansion in South Tampa, combining classic elegance with modern amenities. Ideal for a vintage-themed wedding.
Address: 315 S Plant Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
Contact: (813) 368-2200

3. Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club

Description: A private club offering lush golf course views, grand ballrooms, and impeccable service for a luxurious wedding experience.
Address: 1601 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33629
Contact: (813) 253-3101

4. Armature Works

Description: This restored streetcar warehouse is now a trendy event space featuring rustic industrial charm and stunning waterfront views.
Address: 1910 N Ola Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
Contact: (813) 250-3725

5. The Florida Aquarium

Description: A unique venue for underwater-themed weddings, featuring a backdrop of vibrant marine life and a grand ballroom for larger celebrations.
Address: 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
Contact: (813) 273-4000

6. Yacht StarShip Cruises & Events

Description: A luxurious yacht wedding venue, providing unforgettable views of Tampa Bay and the city skyline as you cruise during your ceremony and reception.
Address: 603 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
Contact: (813) 223-7999

7. The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club

Description: An elegant resort located in nearby St. Petersburg, known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture and opulent ballrooms.
Address: 501 5th Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Contact: (727) 894-1000

8. The Don CeSar

Description: Known as the “Pink Palace,” this historic beachfront hotel offers a glamorous setting with stunning Gulf Coast views.
Address: 3400 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
Contact: (727) 360-1881

9. Cross Creek Ranch

Description: A charming rustic venue offering beautifully landscaped gardens, a barn, and a picturesque chapel, ideal for a country-themed wedding.
Address: 12950 E Wheeler Rd, Dover, FL 33527
Contact: (813) 651-0934

10. The Tampa Club

Description: Located in downtown Tampa’s tallest skyscraper, The Tampa Club offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and bay.
Address: 101 E Kennedy Blvd #4200, Tampa, FL 33602
Contact: (813) 229-6028

Top 10 Caterers in Tampa

What to Look for in a Caterer

When selecting a caterer, consider the following:

Menu Options: Variety and customization of menu offerings.
Quality: Taste and presentation of food.
Service: Professionalism and reliability of the catering staff.
Experience: Experience in handling weddings and events.

1. SaltBlock Hospitality

Types of Food: Gourmet cuisine with an emphasis on farm-to-table ingredients.
Unique Features: Known for their creative menu options and beautifully plated dishes.
Address: 409 N Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
Contact: (813) 550-6556

2. Catering by the Family

Types of Food: Classic Southern dishes with a modern twist.
Unique Features: Family-owned and known for personalized service and Southern hospitality.
Address: 2322 W Cypress St, Tampa, FL 33609
Contact: (813) 875-2000

3. Good Food Catering

Types of Food: Specializes in fresh, seasonal ingredients with a focus on coastal flavors.
Unique Features: Offers custom menus to match any theme or dietary need.
Address: 5809 N 50th St, Tampa, FL 33610
Contact: (813) 241-9500

4. Amici’s Catered Cuisine

Types of Food: Mediterranean-inspired dishes with international influences.
Unique Features: Highly rated for their presentation and quality.
Address: 210 S Kings Ave, Brandon, FL 33511
Contact: (813) 685-3500

5. Chives Innovative Catering

Types of Food: Modern cuisine featuring fresh and organic ingredients.
Unique Features: Known for unique flavor combinations and creative presentations.
Address: 3003 W Cypress St, Tampa, FL 33609
Contact: (813) 248-3003

6. Olympia Catering & Events

Types of Food: Offers a wide variety of cuisines, including Mediterranean, Italian, and American.
Unique Features: Family-owned with over 30 years of experience.
Address: 2201 N Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33607
Contact: (813) 251-8225

7. Delectables Fine Catering

Types of Food: Elegant, multi-course meals with attention to detail.
Unique Features: Known for their exceptional customer service and extensive menu options.
Address: 4351 34th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33714
Contact: (727) 781-1200

8. Affordable Catering

Types of Food: Variety of American and international dishes.
Unique Features: Known for being budget-friendly without sacrificing quality.
Address: 2500 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713
Contact: (727) 442-3663

9. Catering by Lundy’s

Types of Food: Contemporary cuisine with Southern and Caribbean influences.
Unique Features: Family-owned and known for personalized service and attention to detail.
Address: 5306 E Broadway Ave, Tampa, FL 33619
Contact: (813) 684-4000

10. Tastes of Tampa Bay

Types of Food: Variety of cuisines with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Unique Features: Customizable menus for a range of budgets and styles.
Address: 2409 E Jackson St, Tampa, FL 33605
Contact: (813) 494-0522

Top 10 Wedding Photographers in Tampa

What to Look for in a Wedding Photographer

When choosing a wedding photographer, consider:

Style: Look for a photographer whose style matches your vision (e.g., candid, traditional, artistic).
Portfolio: Review their past work to ensure consistency and quality.
Experience: Experienced photographers can handle a variety of settings and lighting conditions.
Personality: Choose someone you feel comfortable with, as they’ll be a big part of your day.

1. Marc Edwards Photographs

Style: Timeless, elegant, and cinematic.
Unique Features: Award-winning photographer with a focus on capturing candid moments.
Address: 1721 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
Contact: (813) 571-5114

2. Carrie Wildes Photography

Style: Creative, vibrant, and contemporary.
Unique Features: Known for personalizing shoots to capture the couple’s unique personality.
Address: 3004 N Armenia Ave #2, Tampa, FL 33607
Contact: (813) 480-0324

3. K&K Photography

Style: Classic, romantic, and artistic.
Unique Features: Focuses on creating timeless images with a touch of modern flair.
Address: 1631 W Snow Cir, Tampa, FL 33606
Contact: (813) 810-1265

4. Lifelong Photography Studio

Style: Soft, romantic, and emotive.
Unique Features: Specializes in capturing genuine, emotional moments with an ethereal quality.
Address: 101 N 12th St, Tampa, FL 33602
Contact: (727) 319-0919

5. Rad Red Creative

Style: Bold, unique, and playful.
Unique Features: Known for their fun, energetic style and ability to think outside the box.
Address: 401 E Jackson St #2340, Tampa, FL 33602
Contact: (813) 458-3215

6. Ashlee Hamon Photography

Style: Bright, colorful, and full of life.
Unique Features: Known for capturing the joy and excitement of the day in vibrant, light-filled images.
Address: 1205 W Swann Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
Contact: (727) 831-7299

7. Roohi Photography

Style: Intimate, natural, and editorial.
Unique Features: Focuses on storytelling through images, capturing the essence of the couple and their day.
Address: 100 Ashley Dr S, Tampa, FL 33602
Contact: (813) 777-1117

8. Aaron Bornfleth Photography

Style: Artistic, modern, and clean.
Unique Features: Known for his minimalist approach and ability to create striking, dramatic images.
Address: 3302 W Cypress St, Tampa, FL 33607
Contact: (813) 422-2105

9. Pezz Photo

Style: Soft, natural, and emotive.
Unique Features: A focus on capturing the small details and intimate moments that make each wedding unique.
Address: 1537 W River St, Tampa, FL 33603
Contact: (813) 205-8231

10. Nate and Lori Photography

Style: Candid, vibrant, and joyful.
Unique Features: This husband and wife duo excels in creating personal connections with their couples, which reflects in their relaxed and joyful images.
Address: 1208 E Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33602
Contact: (813) 951-3206

Top 10 Florists in Tampa

What to Look for in a Florist

When selecting a florist, consider:

Design Style: Ensure their style matches your vision for the wedding.
Experience: Look for florists with experience in wedding arrangements.
Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
Creativity: A good florist should be able to bring your ideas to life while offering their own creative input.

1. Botanica International Design Studio

Quality: High-end, luxury floral designs with an artistic flair.
Unique Features: Known for creating elaborate, one-of-a-kind floral installations.
Address: 2627 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33629
Contact: (813) 831-0965

2. Beneva Flowers

Quality: Fresh, vibrant flowers with a focus on customer satisfaction.
Unique Features: Known for their creative arrangements and timely delivery.
Address: 5327 N Blvd, Tampa, FL 33603
Contact: (941) 923-7401

3. Apple Blossoms Floral Designs

Quality: Creative and colorful floral designs for all budgets.
Unique Features: Known for their exceptional customer service and wide range of styles.
Address: 3627 S Manhattan Ave, Tampa, FL 33629
Contact: (813) 879-2023

4. The Bride’s Bouquet

Quality: Classic, elegant arrangements tailored to each couple’s vision.
Unique Features: Specializes in personalized service and custom bouquets.
Address: 6900 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617
Contact: (813) 988-3200

5. Arlene Floral Designer

Quality: Unique and artistic floral arrangements that make a statement.
Unique Features: Focuses on creating memorable designs that reflect the couple’s personalities.
Address: 2130 W Hillsborough Ave, Tampa, FL 33603
Contact: (813) 931-1998

6. Events in Bloom

Quality: Fresh and creative floral designs for weddings and events.
Unique Features: Known for their attention to detail and ability to work within any budget.
Address: 323 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
Contact: (813) 253-3228

7. The Flower Shoppe

Quality: Beautiful, classic arrangements with a focus on quality and freshness.
Unique Features: Offers personalized service and custom design consultations.
Address: 5201 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33611
Contact: (813) 831-2299

8. 2Birds Events

Quality: Eclectic, modern arrangements with a bold use of color and texture.
Unique Features: Known for their artistic and unconventional approach to floral design.
Address: 6500 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33604
Contact: (727) 686-1694

9. Northside Florist

Quality: Affordable and creative designs that cater to any style or theme.
Unique Features: Family-owned with a focus on personal service and attention to detail.
Address: 13642 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33613
Contact: (813) 264-1811

10. Lemon Drops Weddings and Events

Quality: Simple, elegant floral arrangements with a focus on natural beauty.
Unique Features: Known for creating romantic, timeless designs for weddings.
Address: 3438 E Lake Rd, Tampa, FL 33609
Contact: (813) 855-6647

Top 10 Wedding Planners in Tampa

What to Look for in a Wedding Planner

When selecting a wedding planner, consider:

Experience: Look for planners with experience in coordinating weddings.
Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
Services: Ensure they offer the services you need, from full planning to day-of coordination.
Personality: Choose someone you feel comfortable with and who understands your vision.

1. Confetti Events

Quality: Full-service wedding planning with a focus on luxury and elegance.
Unique Features: Known for their attention to detail and personalized service.
Address: 701 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
Contact: (813) 933-5983

2. EventFull Weddings

Quality: Budget-friendly wedding planning with a focus on stress-free execution.
Unique Features: Offers customizable packages to suit any couple’s needs.
Address: 410 S Ware Blvd, Tampa, FL 33619
Contact: (813) 514-6980

3. Ailyn La Torre Events

Quality: Boutique wedding planning with a focus on timeless, elegant weddings.
Unique Features: Specializes in personalized service and creating unforgettable events.
Address: 200 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
Contact: (813) 251-5025

4. Special Moments Event Planning

Quality: Creative and stress-free wedding planning for couples who want a truly memorable day.
Unique Features: Offers a variety of packages, from full-service planning to day-of coordination.
Address: 7610 38th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710
Contact: (727) 343-0800

5. Glamour & Grind Events

Quality: Trendsetting wedding planning for modern couples.
Unique Features: Known for creating stylish, on-trend weddings with a personal touch.
Address: 3436 S West Shore Blvd, Tampa,

6. Blue Skies Weddings and Events

Quality: Customizable wedding planning for couples who want a personal and unique experience.
Unique Features: Offers a variety of packages to fit any budget and vision.
Address: 1628 W Snow Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
Contact: (813) 555-4444

7. One Fine Day Event Planning

Quality: Full-service wedding planning for couples seeking a stress-free and well-coordinated event.
Unique Features: Known for their organization and ability to make weddings run smoothly.
Address: 1212 E Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33602
Contact: (813) 555-7890

8. Tracie Domino Events

Quality: Luxury wedding planning for upscale events.
Unique Features: Known for their personalized service and ability to create high-end, stylish weddings.
Address: 303 W Platt St, Tampa, FL 33606
Contact: (813) 555-7123

9. Oh So Classy Events

Quality: Elegant, personalized wedding planning for couples seeking a classic and timeless look.
Unique Features: Known for their attention to detail and creative designs.
Address: 200 N Tampa St, Tampa, FL 33602
Contact: (813) 555-1111

10. Burkle Events

Quality: Creative wedding planning with a focus on fun, unique events.
Unique Features: Known for their modern style and ability to make every wedding special and unique.
Address: 1230 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
Contact: (813) 555-5656

Where to Host the Welcome Reception

What to Consider in Selecting a Wedding Reception Venue

Location: Proximity to the wedding venue and accommodations.
Capacity: Ability to accommodate the number of guests.
Ambiance: The atmosphere and style of the venue.
Amenities: Availability of catering, parking, and entertainment options.

1. Ulele

Description: A waterfront restaurant known for its indigenous-inspired cuisine and craft beers, perfect for a casual and fun welcome reception.
Address: 1810 N Highland Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
Contact: (813) 999-4952

2. The Oxford Exchange

Description: A stylish, multi-use space offering a sophisticated setting for a welcome reception, with options for private dining.
Address: 420 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
Contact: (813) 253-0222

3. Columbia Restaurant

Description: Florida’s oldest restaurant, located in Ybor City, offering authentic Spanish and Cuban cuisine in an elegant atmosphere.
Address: 2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
Contact: (813) 248-4961

Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties

Tampa offers a wide range of activities for bachelor and bachelorette parties, from adventurous outings to relaxing experiences.

Bachelor Party Ideas

Golf Outing: Spend a day on the green at Topgolf or one of Tampa’s many scenic golf courses.
Fishing Charter: Book a fishing charter from Tampa Bay and spend the day on the water.
Night Out in Ybor City: Explore Ybor City’s vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and cigar lounges.

Bachelorette Party Ideas

Spa Day: Treat yourself to a day of pampering at the luxurious Safety Harbor Resort and Spa.
Brunch and Wine Tasting: Enjoy a delicious brunch at Oxford Exchange followed by a wine-tasting tour at nearby vineyards.
Beach Day: Head to Clearwater Beach for a relaxing day by the water, complete with beachfront cocktails.

Where to Obtain a Marriage License – Rules

To legally marry in Tampa, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license from the Hillsborough County Clerk of Court.

Where to Apply: Hillsborough County Clerk of Court, 800 E Twiggs St, Room 101, Tampa, FL 33602.
Contact: (813) 276-8100
Documents Required: Both parties must be present with valid government-issued photo IDs. If either party has been previously married, proof of divorce or annulment is required.
Fees: The marriage license fee is $86, but this is reduced to $61 if the couple completes a premarital preparation course.
Waiting Period: There is a three-day waiting period for Florida residents. Non-residents are exempt from the waiting period.

Transportation for Guests

Tampa International Airport is just a short drive from downtown and offers easy access for out-of-town guests. Arrange for airport transfers through local shuttle services or rideshare apps. Additionally, consider booking a transportation service, such as a trolley or party bus, to shuttle guests between venues.

Accommodations

Tampa offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels like The Tampa EDITION and the JW Marriott to more affordable options like boutique hotels or vacation rentals through Airbnb and VRBO.

Group Activities for Guests

Keep your guests entertained with group activities like a Tampa Bay boat tour, a visit to Busch Gardens, or exploring the historic streets of Ybor City. For more adventurous guests, consider organizing a paddleboarding or kayaking excursion along the Hillsborough River.

Managing Logistics

Effective communication with your vendors is key to a smooth destination wedding. Use digital tools like Google Drive or wedding planning apps to keep track of contracts, timelines, and contact information. Regular check-ins with vendors are essential to ensure everything is on track for the big day.

Conclusion

Planning a destination wedding in Tampa is a fantastic choice for couples seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and modern amenities. From stunning venues and delicious catering options to talented photographers and florists, Tampa offers everything you need to create the wedding of your dreams. By carefully considering each aspect of your wedding, from venue selection to transportation logistics, you can ensure a memorable and seamless celebration. Personalize your wedding to reflect your unique style, and let Tampa’s vibrant setting be the perfect backdrop for your special day.

Tampa