My Florida Venue Picks

#1: The Ringling Museum: Ca d'Zan Mansion located in Sarasota, Florida. This Terra cotta "last of the Gilded Ages" in America gives a royal, vintage feel. Your guest can tour the museum as your bridal party takes pictures. One of my brides got married there last Spring in a silk taffeta Marisa gown adorn with a lace bolero. Lace and pearls is a great way to tie in this "piece of art" venue.

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#2: Carillon Weddings in Carillon Beach, Florida. When I think of Florida weddings this is the first one that comes to mind. Its the ultimate beach wedding hot spot located in the panhandle. Within one location they have the beach, chapel, garden, and can arrange for a tent as well. A clean line, airy dress from Watters, Marisa, or Alvina would fit perfectly into this oceanfront view.

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#3: Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Miami, FL. Similar to the Ringling Museum your guest can explore the museum and gardens of Vizcaya as they mingle by the ocean bay. There is a certain formality that can not be denied with this site. Vizcaya has hosted many royal guest including

Queen Elizabeth II, Pope John Paul II, President Ronald Reagan, and King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia of Spain. We suggest going with a traditional ballgown such as Bel Canto by Kenneth Pool.

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#4: More closer to home, Portifino Bay Hotel in Orlando is a popular destination spot for local weddings. This venue provides a little taste of Italy with piazzas and bay view. There is also an elegant ballroom for a more formal setting. Depending on what direction your going for we would recommend going for a more architectural pleasing dress with touches of lace or beaded embroidery.

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#5: For our Gator Brides we couldn't leave out the only venue located on University of Florida property. One of our very own consultants, Kari, exchanged vows at the Baughman Center. Over looking Lake Alice, this quaint chapel is ideal for a 100 person wedding. You could pull off several looks for this venue, but we would recommend staying away from the ballgown due to the narrow aisle.

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~ Those are top Florida Venue Picks! Make sure to post a comment if there are any venue hot spots you've found! ~

A day at the Courtyard

This past Thursday afternoon at the Courtyard at Lake Lucerne an amazing photo shoot took place. Abby Liga an extremely talented photographer based out of Orlando shot the photos. Her unique & fresh taste brought the location to life. Abby has a true talent for capturing the right moments & emotions in her photos. Designer dresses from Solutions Bridal were provided for the shoot and looked stunning in the hints of outside lighting provided from the Courtyard. The beautiful veils, necklaces, earrings & broaches were provided by Paris. Also joining the fun was Simone from Makeover station, she used her unique skills to give our model the big gorgeous hair & beautiful bright eyes that sealed the deal for the perfect picture. -Brittany E.

Munch Much: Rehearsal Dinner Hot Spot

Last week, the Winter Park staff had great pleasure of attending lunch with two special vendors at Park Plaza Gardens on Park Avenue. The event coordinator, J Michael, of Park Plaza Gardens feasted our eyes with a scrumptious custom menu for 4 of our consultants, Michele with Michele Butler Events, and Stephine with NuVision Photography. From an arrangement of fresh breads all the way to the final bite of my hot summer pleasing sorbet, we were in awe of everything J Michael and his crew prepared for us. As we mingled in great company with Michelle and Stephine I couldn't stop thinking about what a great venue this is for rehearsal dinner or an intimate wedding reception. It has such a natural elegance with subtle brick walls and indoor plants adorning the walkways. Make sure to check out this venue and meet with the creative J Michael himself.

Real Wedding: Kate Gissy

On May 16, 2009 Kate Gissy and Jared Saft married at Portifino Bay Hotel at Universal! It was a pleasure helping Kate through out the months during her planning stages. Check out Damon Tucci Photography for more images.

Its all in the Details:

Gown: Rivini Designs
Bridesmaids: Amsale in Ocean Blue
Photography: Damon Tucci
Wedding Planner: E-Events

Wedding Hot Spot

Last Sunday the crew paid a visit to Bay Laurel in Micanopy, FL. The wedding venue is a privately owned rustic house with a lake and acreage to share for tents.

As we entered the estate we were greeted by horse and carriage. One of our favorite wedding planners, Angela with Avie Weddings & Events, is the official on site coordinator. She has helped several clients say their "I DOs" in this quaint, romantic setting. Also, Party Time Rentals works hand and hand in planning the fine details to complete the wedding ambiance.

One great location, two great wedding vendors! Make sure to check this place out before you decide on your venue.