Jessica's eye for classic beauty and timeless detail, and Mike's goal of excellent music and food were perfectly merged on their wedding day. Before exchanging sacred vows in a traditional Catholic ceremony in historic Ybor City, the bride shared an intimate first look with her Father after stepping into her stunning lace sleeved gown. The chic black and white color scheme and formal styling first appeared in custom invitation suites, and was accented with tiny touches of pale pink and pewter, appearing in flora that popped against the formal onyx gowns and tuxedos.
An impressive seating chart mirror guided guests to their seats on the rooftop terrace, where feasting tables were set beneath shady pavilions in preparation for the five course meal.
A live jazz band serenaded guests during a poolside cocktail hour at the foodie-focused Epicurean hotel.
Mirrored table runners boasted silver candlesticks and wood hedge boxes of bountiful flora, with towering loose arrangements accenting the head table and a plush tufted loveseat for the bride and groom.
Following an indulgent gourmet meal including courses like short rib ravioli, beet salad, and filet with crab cakes, everyone crowded the dance floor for what has been referred to as the BEST wedding reception to date!
When guests grew tired of dancing they lounged in chic furniture groupings along the terrace and sipped on 'Oxford' signature drinks, a cocktail comprised of elderflower, lemon, and black currant tea syrup - a nod to the couple's first date and later proposal at the Oxford Exchange restaurant in Tampa.
After slices of cake and late night snacks of sliders, fries, and mini Chicago-style hot dogs (in honor of the groom's Chicago roots) guests departed with gift boxes filled with all the accoutrements to create their own Oxford cocktails at home.
Wedding Pros who created this incredible day:
- Ceremony Venue: Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church
- Reception Venue & Catering: The Epicurean Hotel
- Photography: Andi Diamond Photography
- Florist: Braun's Fine Flowers
- Rentals: Coast to Coast Event Rentals
- Wood Farm Tables: A Chair Affair
- Lounge Furniture & Charger Plates: MMD Events
- Linens: Connie Duglin Linen
- DJ: Ben Daniele, Grant Hemond & Associates
- Jazz Band: Gloria West & The Gents
- Videography: Life's Highlights
- Makeup: Lindsay Does Makeup
- Transportation: Network Limo
- Seating Chart: Love Storey Weddings
- Cake: Publix Greenwise