A water taxi grand entrance, a garden suspended from the ceiling, and more Jamaican joy than you could pack in a suitcase
Q: What made this wedding so deeply meaningful?
From the moment the bride walked down the aisle at a traditional Baptist church, carrying a photo charm of her late father on her bouquet, you could feel the love in every corner. It was a beautiful way to honor his memory while embracing a new chapter with her husband.
Q: And the entrance to the reception—iconic, right?
Beyond. Guests were enjoying cocktail hour on the balcony of the Tampa River Center, casually sipping drinks… when bam!—the entire wedding party arrived by water taxi, cruising down the Hillsborough River like the absolute legends they are. The cheers were LOUD. It was unforgettable and so them.
Q: What was the design vibe for the reception?
Garden party magic—but elevated. The couple wanted neutral tones with soft, romantic blooms, so we went next-level: we created an inverted floral garden over the head table. That floral canopy was everything. Muted colors, soft textures, and an ethereal glow from the custom two-tone neon sign that lit up behind them like their own personal love marquee.
Q: What kind of cultural elements made this day uniquely theirs?
Jamaican spirit was infused throughout. Guests waved mini Jamaican flags during the couple’s reception entrance—it was high-energy, full-volume joy. You felt the pride, the excitement, the community all wrapped into one big, heartfelt moment.
Q: How did they balance elegance with fun?
Flawlessly. Each place setting had etched crystal glassware and refined details, but the celebration was still a party. The bride shared an emotional dance with her mom, and then the vibe flipped into full celebration mode: a nitro ice cream station (yes, with all their favorite toppings) and a candy station overflowing with childhood favorites and sweet nostalgia.
Q: What’s one word that captured this wedding?
Exhilarating. From the sacred start at the church to the river cruise arrival and nonstop dancing under a floral sky, it was vibrant, touching, and absolutely bursting with joy. A true celebration of love, life, and heritage—done to perfection.
bayshore Baptist + tampa river center wedding