Kristine and Anthony tied the knot during their Mahaffey Theater wedding in St Pete, Florida. Big brunchers, the two envisioned a daytime wedding reception that fit their style along with an outdoor ceremony overlooking the water. Situated next to the Dali Museum, the two location share a gorgeous greenery space that was perfect for their ceremony along with a beautiful indoor ballroom with floor to ceiling windows.
Almost four years ago, our sweethearts first laid eyes on one another when they were both invited to meet up with friends for happy hour at Five Bucks Dinkery. Still in her pjs and almost ready to Netflix and chill for the night, Kristine dolled herself up and decided to head out to take part in the festivities. The last friend to arrive, Kristine’s mutual friend Lori introduced Kristine to Anthony who had been invited too. Drinks, appetizers, and amazing conversation filled the night before everyone parted ways. Not long after leaving though, their mutual friend texted Kristine asking if it would be okay to give Anthony her number, as he wanted to reach out to her. Of course, Kristine said yes and the two texted throughout the night. Within the week, they made plans to meet up for a first date at Bella Brava to get to know one another a little more one on one. It was a like a match made in heaven, or well a match made in St Pete!, and they enjoyed every moment of each other’s company. Many dates soon followed along with a beautiful relationship.
Anthony fell in love with how good-hearted Kristine is in how she goes above and beyond for her friends and family, while Kristine fell in love with Anthony’s sense of adventure. The two have made a bucket-list together and over the past four years have checked off many of their items from traveling to trying out new brunch spots.
From their sense of adventure, to truly just getting one another, they realized they had a special love and Anthony new he couldn’t let Kristine get away. Planning out his proposal, he invited Kristine to meet up for lunch on New Year’s Eve of 2016 with their friend Vickie at Bella Brava – yes that is right, the same restaurant they had their very first date! While not their ordinary spot to brunch at, Kristine didn’t think anything of it. Anthony hinted that after their brunch they should go over to the nearby jewelry store to look at rings, which of course Kristine was excited about. Arriving a bit early that day, the two walked along the water and to the Christmas tree that was set up in North Straub Park. Holding Kristine’s hand, Anthony began talking to Kristine about how they had been together for a while and how much he loved her. Getting down on one knee as he spoke, Anthony asked for her hand in marriage, which completely shocked and surprised Kristine since he had thrown her for a loop suggesting they look at rings later that day. Kristine of course said, “yes” and the two had the best brunch they have ever shared yet – of course their wedding day brunch was to come!
Classy, elegant, and tons of natural light was the perfect wording for Kristine to describe her venue and how she envisioned her wedding day. Arriving early to the modern Avalon Hotel, we captured Kristine and her dual responsibility MOH and sister Lauren getting ready before moving on to Anthony and his best man Bill suiting up in a floor below. Capturing wedding party portraits beforehand, we took each set outside to grab some shots during the beautiful morning light against the hip backdrop of the hotel. Heading out, a limo brought our groom and his best man first to the theater, while our bride and maid of honor followed next.
The beautiful, radiating sun along with a light breeze felt so romantic for their ceremony, which took place outside on the garden lawn between the Mahaffey and Dali Museum. Sharing their vows, exchanging rings, and enjoying a first kiss was followed by formal portraits again the blue glass background of the Dali building. Back inside we captured wedding party and couple portraits in the vintage theater that was picturesque from red seating to spot lights all about. Before heading to their reception, we also jumped back outside for a quick few shots against the backdrop of the nearby fountain that overlooked the water.
Mixing and mingling, the two enjoyed the best brunch of their lives shared with the love of their family and friends. Truly a perfect day!
Wishing our darlings an amazing life together filled with many more amazing travels as they continue to check off their bucket list – of course the biggest check has already been fulfilled – tying the knot!
Wedding Venue: Mahaffey Theater
Getting Ready Venue: Avalon Hotel
Ring Box: The Mrs. Box
Coordinator & Floral: Stephanie Voth Events
Caterer Catering by the Family
Makeup & Hair: Michele Renee The Studio
Cake: Publix
DJ: Grant Hemond and Associates
Party Favors: Nuts.com
Stationary: Vistaprint
Bridal Shop: Truly Forever Bridal
Bridal Designer: Lili Isaac
Shoes: Nina Shoes
Men’s Attire: Macy’s
Rings: Diamonds Direct