Wedding

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.