The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club is the perfect mix between a historically elegant and upscale modern hotel! Getting pampered at the luxurious spa, working on your swing on the tennis courts or golf course, and lounging by one of the pools are just a few of the perks of staying at The Vinoy. The famous pink, old-Florida style building is a staple for Downtown St Pete, especially for wedding ceremonies.

From the first beginning, Rebekah and Carlos made it clear that having their friends and family present was one of the most important things to them. With only 11 days from booking to wedding date, we were able to help plan a beautiful wedding at their dream wedding location.

THE PROPOSAL

Carlos-Alberto privately proposed to me after a beautiful day spent at Disney’s Epcot Theme Park. Both being employees of Disney World, it has always been memorable place for us. That’s actually how we first met. Epcot however, has a very special place in our hearts, as it was the first park we ever visited together when we started dating.

HOW WORD WOULD YOU USE TO DESCRIBE YOUR WEDDING?

Simple & romantic with touches of Spanish echos and white roses, a sort of timeless elegance

THE PLANNING PROCESS

Because we didn’t want to wait one more second, our planning felt, at first, absolutely hectic and fast paced. However, Elope Tampa Bay are absolute marvels to handle such a request on such short notice. It ended up being perfect, and the complete start and finish was worth it all.

YOUR DRESS AND ACCESSORIES

I really like second hand items, but I knew my wedding dress was going to be my first purchase in a long time that would only used by me. Luckily, I was able to find my Galina dress off the rack at David’s Bridal. David’s bridal really has stepped up and accommodated choices for brides wanting to get married sooner than other bridal houses. My shoes are second hand Christian Louboutin. Lastly, my ring is a true 1908 Edwardian piece, a brilliant elongated cut sapphire surrounded in old-mine cut diamonds, with platinum and 14 carat stamped gold.

‘Glow by Natalia’ rendered my makeup services and has such wonderful and professional talent. I wanted my makeup to be inspired by French smolder texture and glowing skin. Natalia has the ability to capture the idea in your mind and make it transition onto you perfectly. Also, Tommy completed my hair in a perfect textured low bun, completing my romantic dreams. This amazing updo also helped secure my double cathedral veils.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

Besides getting married, one of the most memorable moments was getting have my friends, that I’ve known since I was 12, by my side during my special day. Luckily, I was able to share this intimate moment with Carlos-Alberto, regardless of how tired we both were. It was unforgettable to profess our commitment to each other on such a perfect day at The Vinoy. 

 ADVICE FOR OTHER COUPLES

Although our engagement was quick, we knew we wanted to be married and didn’t want to wait another day. Elope Tampa Bay literally made my big dreams come true in a smaller scale. The day was intimate and perfect for Carlos and I. Put your trust in a quality company such as Elope Tampa Bay because the team made sure everything was right, and beautiful.

Photography: Maddness Photography

VENDORS:

Coordinator & Permit: Elope Tampa Bay

Officiant : Bonnie Sanchez

Photographer : Madness Photography

Videographer: Imagery Wedding Films

Venue: The Vinoy

Floral: Wonderland Floral

Pastry Chef/Cake: Sweet Divas

H & M: Glow by Natalia