METRO WEDDINGS + EVENTS

WEDDINGS+EVENTS TA M PA B AY + O R L A N D O ’ S G U I D E T O E L E G A N T E V E N T S

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WEDDINGS+EVENTS

Features

Departments

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Bridal Style

Glamorous and Stylish Wedding

Romantic Real-Life Weddings 30 Armature Works

Sarah Davis and Kyle Massie

Accessories

Cherie Summerlin and Christopher McBride

12 Flowers

36 Streamsong Resort 38 The Don CeSar

Distinctive Designs From Bouquets

Joanne Reeves and Kyle Chapone

40 Inspiration

to Centerpieces

13 Cakes

The JW Marriott Tampa Water Street

Seasonal Cake Design Trends

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Inspirational Event

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Gown Guide

Mommy & Me Tea Party

Making An Impression Down The Aisle

Bridal Gown Trends

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Wedding + Events Experts

Wedding Professional Profiles

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Venue Profiles

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Cover Credits Bride: Jill Music Photography: Andi Diamond Photography Bridal Gown: Ian Stuart, Zoya’s Atelier in Falls Church, VA Floral Designer: Jana Stall, Events in Bloom Planning: RSBP - Brooke Palmer Kuhl Hair & Makeup: Michele Renee The Studio Location: The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club

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JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

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Ever After

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Publisher’s Notes LOVE IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON. As the world returns to a new normal, engaged couples are finally able to move forward and officially tie the knot with their family and friends. The most popular times of the year to get married are late summer and early fall. Really, in Tampa Bay, our main concerns are heat and rain, if you are hosting an outdoor wedding. We hope that as you begin to plan your special day, we can provide inspiration and quality vendors, and venues, for your wedding, or any special event.

For 13 years, our goal is to provide our brides with the best wedding advice, and access to the latest design trends in cakes, florals and bridal styles. The 2021 Gown Guide showcases some gorgeous gowns, where regardless of your personal style, we feature the latest gown trends including the return of the ballgown, dramatic and elaborate sleeves, long and detachable trains and asymmetrical cuts.

We feature several Real Weddings and thank the couples for allowing us to showcase their big day that features the special details, that brings happiness and Photo by Andi Diamond Photography joy to each of the couples. Wishing happiness and love to Cherie and Christopher, who married at Streamsong Resort and Joanne and Kyle, who tied the knot in St. Petersburg Beach at the historic Don CeSar, Sarah and Kyle who married at Armature Works. Whether your taste and design style is romantic, glam, rustic or any style in between, there are venues and hotels that will make your dreams come true.

We also include an Inspiration shoot from the brand new JW Marriott with images by Latelier Lumiere Photography. In this issue, we feature a sold-out Mommy and Me Tea held at Armature Works that was postponed from last year, due to the pandemic. All the little girls, and their Moms, enjoyed a dreamy and whimsical afternoon.

The wedding and event industry is resilient and are still learning and adjusting to keep everyone as comfortable and safe as possible. With vaccinations nearly at fifty percent in the U.S., family and friends are moving forward with their wedding plans. From increased social distancing requirements to additional safety protocols including wearing masks, and even providing rapid COVID testing to guests in advance, event and wedding professionals including planners, photographers, caterers, hair and makeup artists, floral and décor companies, venues and more, have made the necessary adjustments and will continue to adapt to make sure that events and weddings are memorable, and a special place where family and friends can come together to celebrate.

Cheers,

WEDDINGS+EVENTS

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief Stephen Parag II Publisher / Managing Editor Ronda M. Parag Executive Art Director Chad Vorbrich Contributing Photographers Nick Brown, Limelight Photography Audrey Clifford, Limelight Photography Andi Diamond Photography Ashleigh Goettsche Miya Jones Photography Latelier Lumiere Photography Ravyn Lynn Photography Dafne Spencer, Limelight Photography

Publishers of: Tampa Bay METRO™ Orlando METRO™ METRO Weddings + Events™ METRO Health + Wellness™ METRO Home + Design™

Ronda M. Parag Publisher/ Managing Editor @TampaBayWed Tampa Bay Weddings Magazine is published bi-annually by Metro Life Media, Inc. at 3404 S. Omar Ave., Tampa, FL 33629 (813) 835-7700 Fax (813) 835-7700 • Copyright 2021 Metro Life Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of, or use without written permission of the publisher, of editorial, pictorial or design content in any manner is prohibited in the United States. Tampa Bay Weddings Magazine,™ are trademarks of Metro Life Media, Inc. Advertisers represent that they are authorized to use submitted materials.

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Bridal Style

It’s all about the accessories for the bride this season. From wearing a signature scent to the lacy undergarments, every bride will feel special with a some signature bling or that clutch that announces her status to the world.

Sugar & Spice Under the wedding dress or on the honeymoon, these two pieces of florals, lace and frills make for the ultra feminine lingerie. Trellis Rose Bustier - $109, Trellis Rose Panty - $39, Available at Victoria’s Secret, www.victoriassecret.com.

Ring of Bling The platinum round brilliant diamond eternity band features diamonds on all 3 sides to make a statement! The band features 8.07 CTW of round brilliant diamonds. $35,999. Available only at Gold & Diamond Source, Clearwater, FL, www.goldanddiamond.com.

Flower Power A great addition to any bridal style is a luxury, hand-made feather flower barrette in the hair to add instant style and glam. $275. Available at www.genevieveroseatelier.com.

Photography by Ashleigh Goettsche

Scent of a Bride Wear the scent that he will remember forever on the wedding day. Bombshell Seduction has a sheer veil of white peony, sage and skin-like musk. $78.

Available at Victoria’s Secret, www.victoriassecret.com.

It’s In The Bag A great way to announce your new status to the world is with a handmade Happily Clutch by Ariel Taub. $390.

Available at www.arieltaub.com.

Shimmer & Sparkle A stunning bracelet in 14kt white gold features round diamonds in a unique circular design. $28,400. Available only at Gold & Diamond Source, Clearwater, FL, www.goldanddiamond.com.

Photography by Ashleigh Goettsche

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When the destination is just as important as the journey

Sugary white sand beaches, pristine waters, strolling down a palm tree lined aisle... Our unique, retro-inspired settings accommodate sunset ceremonies, to celebratory receptions with your friends and family. Contact us now for more information at events@postcardinn.com

6300 GULF BLVD | ST. PETE BEACH, FL | 727.369.4925 www.TampaBayWed.com

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Photography

A Boudoir Shoot Can Help Brides Feel Truly Beautiful

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t Andi Diamond Photography we hear a lot of brides say they don’t want to have a boudoir photoshoot either during the wedding planning process, or after they’ve been married-- they’re not confident enough, they want to lose weight, they’re too shy, the list goes on! We’re firm believers in putting those things aside and jumping in headfirst. There are many reasons brides should consider a boudoir shoot now, rather than later.

Confidence is sexy. It’s not easy to get past feelings of insecurity, but you’re worth it! Each and every one of us has insecurities. We spend so much of our energy focusing on the things we dislike about ourselves, instead of the things we love ... boudoir offers self-confidence, freedom, and a retraining of your brain

that you are beautiful, just the way you are.

It makes a great gift! We can’t think of a better wedding day gift to your fiancé than a gorgeous album of stunning portraits of you. Trust us, they’ll love it.

So many of our brides who shoot boudoir keep it a surprise and gift their soon-to-be husbands a beautiful and sexy album on their wedding day.

It’s a great excuse to get pampered.

At Andi Diamond Photography, our boudoir collections include professional hair and makeup, and who doesn’t love a good glam session?! Indulge yourself for the day and watch your self-esteem soar afterwards.

Girl power. You may not believe us now, but trust us, you’ll feel like you can conquer the world after your shoot. Our

brides always say it’s truly an empowering experience and opens a level of confidence in their relationship, which is immeasurable.

Preparing for a boudoir shoot also means an excuse to shop! Our brides have so much fun finding the right lingerie for their photoshoot, and even get the opportunity to feel a little “bridal.”

Many of our brides will bring their veils, wedding night lingerie and wedding day heels to show off in their portraits.

Do it for the memories. We all love to look back at old photos, and boudoir is no exception. Many of our brides look and feel like they are in the best shape of their life preparing for the big day. Why not have the beautiful and sexy portraits to look back on this memorable time in your life.

For more information on booking your boudoir portrait experience, contact us at andi@andidiamond.com or 813-503-5056. Visit www.beauty.andidiamond.com.

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Flowers Flowers help to tie your wedding and reception together from the bouquets to the centerpieces. The décor of the wedding will be conveyed through the use of florals and other design choices. Whether your theme is modern and contemporary, or rustic and natural, feel free to use florals and colors that bring the vision of your special day to life.

Bursting With Blooms Floral & Décor Design: FH Events Photographer: Andi Diamond Photography

Grande Display Floral & Décor Design: FH Events Photographer: Andi Diamond Photography

Elegant Centerpiece Floral Designer: Iza’s Flowers, Inc. Photographer: Limelight Photography

Welcoming Display Floral Designer: Ever After Vintage Weddings Photographer: Limelight Photography

Garden Elegance Floral & Décor Design: FH Events Photographer: Andi Diamond Photography

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Cakes Every party deserves cake, and a wedding reception perhaps is the best place for the happy couples to serve up the delicious treat to their guests. Couples can customize their cake to match the wedding décor or to personalize to their style. From simple to over-the-top, we showcase a few of the latest trends.

Tiers Of Delight Cake Designer: A Piece of Cake & Desserts

Ivory & Lace Cake Designer: The Cake Girl Venue/Planner - International Event Venues

Bright Pops Of Color Cake Designer: Hands on Sweets Photographer: Andi Diamond Photography Planner: Lindsay Jimison, Events by Lindsay J. and Party Artistry by Tracy Fox

Pretty In Pink Cake Designer: The Cake Girl Venue: Rusty Pelican

Simply Elegant Cake Designer: Streamsong Resort Photographer: Limelight Photography Venue/Planner: Streamsong Resort

www.TampaBayWed.com

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Gown Guide

Make An Impression Down The Aisle Bridal Trends | By Ronda M. Parag

E

ach bride’s big day should be one to remember and regardless of a bride’s personal style, there are bridal gowns that are a timeless piece to cherish forever.

Brides come in all shapes and sizes and so does the variety and selection of wedding dresses available.

Throughout the decades, wedding dresses have evolved from simple to elaborate. From traditional white lace to now having an almost unlimited variation of styles and colors, there is a dress for the big day no matter what your style.

Whether your style is classic or modern, there are silhouettes and fabrics to satisfy any fashionista bride.

Among the trends of the season are the return of the ballgown, dramatic and elaborate sleeves, long and detachable trains and asymmetrical cuts.

Boho brides looking for their fairytale dress will swoon for MUSE by BERTA Vista Mare, a soft, romantic collection filled with magical creations made with beautiful tulles.

Classic brides more aligned with time-honored beauty will be inspired by BERTA Privée No. 5, a collection of unique pieces with refreshing twists on traditional silhouettes.

Some gowns including designs Morilee by Madeline Gardner are incorporating light detachable skirts as well as detachable flirty sleeves. Always wanting to evolve and be at the forefront of what her brides are asking for, Madeline delivered diverse options within one singular dress; from ceremony to dance floor. As brides are facing uncertainty, often changing the date and location of their upcoming nuptials, this was the catalyst in creating ways to adapt to these unexpected changes.

On your special day, make dreams come to life with the gown of your own personal style, with glamorous touches and details that speak to the language of love and romance.

W+E

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MUSE by BERTA

ALYNE Rita Vinieris

Winne Couture

MUSE by BERTA Vista Mare

Jana Ann Couture

Winne Couture

RIVINI

ALYNE

MUSE by BERTA Vista Mare

Blu

Madeline Gardner Signature

Other White Dress

BERTA Privée No. 5

BERTA

ALYNE

May 22, 2021 | Armature Works

Sarah Davis and Kyle Massie Every detail was orchestrated to perfection for Sarah and Kyle’s wedding day held at Armature Works. From the ceremony to the reception, everyone came together to celebrate their love and the evening finished with a surprise fireworks show.

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L O V I N G D E T A I L S Photographer: Andi Diamond Photography Wedding Planning: Lindsay Jimison, Events by Lindsay J. and Party Artistry by Tracy Fox Venue: Armature Works Catering: Good Foods Oyster Girls: Oysters XO Videographer: Lucid Productions Décor/Floral: FH Events Designer: Party Artistry by Tracy Fox Bridal Dress: CC’s Bridal Boutique Hair/Makeup: Alexa, Sally & Nyoka Rental: Fiesta Solutions Chairs: Bubble Miami Lighting: Armature Works Desserts: Chef Marie, Hands on Sweets Entertainment/Cigar/Photobooth: Eklectic Entertainment featuring Blonde Ambition Band & Scotty B DJ Transportation: Ambassador Limo, Jolley Tolley Hotel: Marriott Waterside and JW Marriot Invitations: URBANcoast Fireworks: Creative Pyro, EJ Weppel Rehearsal Dinner: American Social After Wedding Brunch: JW Marriott - SIX www.TampaBayWed.com

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April 17, 2021 | Streamsong Resort

Cherie Summerlin and Christopher McBride Christopher and Cherie said their “I Do’s” at the beautiful Streamsong Resort surrounded by love, happiness and family. From Cherie Dj-ing the dance floor to Christopher having his mother/son dance to the tune of TuPac, their wedding was definitely one to remember!

L O V I N G D E T A I L S Lead Photographer: Audrey Clifford, Limelight Photography Associate Photographer: Nick Brown, Limelight Photography Wedding Gown: Wtoo, The White Magnolia Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey Cake: Streamsong Resort Caterer: Streamsong Resort Ceremony Site: Streamsong Resort DJ: Graingertainment Event Planner: Streamsong Resort Florist: Ever After Vintage Weddings Hair Stylist: Femme Akoi Invitations: Minted

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July 11, 2020 | St. Petersburg Beach

Joanne Reeves and Kyle Chapone A true classic, vintage and glamorous event ... from Kyle’s Louis Vuitton shoes to Joanne’s jaw dropping Rivini wedding gown … The classy blush toned florals and modern twists throughout the reception made this event truly one-of-kind and uniquely “Joanne & Kyle.”

L O V I N G D E T A I L S Lead Photographer: Dafne Spencer, Limelight Photography Associate Photographer: Chloe Dennis Event Planner: Blue Skies Weddings and Events | Chris Tyler Bridesmaid Dresses: Bari Jay Cake: Cakes by Carolynn Caterer: The Don CeSar Ceremony Site: St. Paul Catholic Church DJ: Grant Hemond & Associates Inc. Florist: Iza’s Flowers, Inc. Hair Stylist: Destiny & Light Hair and Makeup Group Invitations: Karen’s Paperie Inc. Make-up Artist: Destiny & Light Hair and Makeup Group Reception Chairs: So Staged Event Design + Rentals + Florals Reception Venue: The Don CeSar Videographer: Ricci Ocampos Films Wedding Gown: Rivini, Isabel O’Neil Bridal Collection www.TampaBayWed.com

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INSPIRATION

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Dreamy Romance Photographer: Latelier Lumiere Photography Venue: JW Marriott Tampa Water Street Planning: Jennifer Matteo Event Planning Flowers: Victoria Blooms, LLC Linens: BBJ Linens & Nuage Linens Cake: Cakes by Ron Décor: Palacios Events Dress: Brides by Kelly Anne Menswear: Jackie Z Style Co. Hair & Makeup: Michele Renee The Studio Event Rentals: Treasury Rentals Invitations: Emily Baird Design

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INSPIRATIONAL EVENT

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Mommy & Me Benefiting Redefining Refuge Presented by Legacy Wealth Partners When: May 2, 2021 Where: Armature Works It was a great day as guests dressed in their finest tea chic attire, hats, fascinators, gloves and pretty dresses to enjoy hot and cold teas served in vintage crockery, tea sandwiches and delectable desserts.

A special fashion show by Dillard’s showcased women and children’s clothing.

Attendees also enjoyed princess experiences, photo opportunities, live entertainment, fun crafts and a silent auction benefitting Redefining Refuge, a local non-profit that works daily in our Tampa Bay community fighting the injustice of child trafficking.

VENDORS: Location: Armature Works Fashion Show: Dillard’s Event Planner: Eventing Tampa Bay Event Rentals & Styling: Kid Collective Party Rentals Characters: Parties With Character Floral & Décor: FH Events Balloons: Flourish Tampa Linens: Over the Top Linens Photography: Ravyn Lynn Photography; Miya Jones Photography Flower Walls: Southern Event Rentals Catering: Puff ‘n Stuff Catering Desserts: Sugar Whipped Beverage: Embrew Tea Fashion Coordinator: Runway Translator Music: DJ Dani Kid’s Hair & Makeup: Party n Style Beauty Lounge: Bubbles and Blowouts

www.TampaBayWed.com

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WEDDING & EVENT

EXPERTS

LIMELIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY Michael + Rebecca Zoumberos Limelight Photography is a luxury boutique studio that creates high-fashion, couture wedding images infused with sophistication and timeless elegance.

For 15 years and counting, this dedicated team consistently earns the highest reviews for their passion, exquisite artistry, expressive images and superior customer service that exceeds all expectations.

Accolades earned include The Knot Hall of Fame, the most five-star WeddingWire reviews in Florida and Two Bright Lights’ most published wedding photographers in the world.

You will be presented with a first-class experience the moment you STEP INTO THE LIMELIGHT. Phone: 813.926.4290 Text: 813.503.9560 www.stepintothelimelight.com

WEDDING & EVENT

EXPERTS

MICHELE RENEE THE STUDIO The world of Michele Renee is continuously growing and expanding with the addition of Ginger Snips, an established salon located in Seminole Heights. The salon fits in perfectly with her already well-established on-location wedding business – Michele Renee The Studio. They are a group of professional cosmetologist, estheticians, massage therapists whose goal is to make you, and your wedding party, look and feel your very best on your wedding day. It’s their promise to be organized and efficient yet flexible, patient and friendly, perhaps even funny and entertaining, while providing great customer service from the booking to the last bobby pin.

5407 North Central Avenue Tampa, Fl 33604 813.531.7770 www.MicheleReneeTheStudio.com

Photo: L’atelier Lumiere

VENUE PROFILE

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando and JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes The luxury resorts of The Ritz-Carlton Grand Lakes and JW Marriott, Orlando Grande Lakes located on a lush 500-acre property in Central Florida are the ideal venues to host a variety of business and social occasions.

DETAILS TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE 170,000 # OF EVENT SPACES 64 MAXIMUM CAPACITY 3,100 VENUE STYLE Mediterranean inspired 500-acre resort setting CATERING OPTIONS Yes RENTAL INCLUDES Chairs, Tables, Meeting Office Amenities (pencils, pads, mints/ candies), House linens, White Folding Chairs (for outdoor ceremonies), Water Station with Attendant, Non-alcoholic Beverage for Guests, Private Champagne Toast for the Wedding Couple PARKING OPTIONS Valet Parking Only at The Ritz-Carlton, Self-Parking available at JW

ABOUT THE VENUE With luxurious guest rooms, outdoor pool complex with a lazy river and AquaCourse 360, 18-hole golf course designed by PGA great Greg Norman and so much more, it’s ideal for a destination wedding too.

From refined indoor and outdoor venues to elegant ballroom and terraces, create the wedding of your dreams. Enjoy the Whisper Creek location for a complete farm-to-table experience.

The luxury hotel’s culinary team will create a custom menu for a delicious and spectacular reception.

Where dreams of a luxury Orlando wedding become reality.

CONTACT grandelakesleads@marriott.com

4012 Central Florida Parkway | Orlando, FL 32837 407.206.2400 | www.ritzcarlton.com or www.marriott.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

VENUE PROFILE

JW Marriott Tampa Water Street Celebrate your dream wedding at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, Tampa’s first, genuine luxury hotel.

With elegant ballrooms and luxurious amenities, the perfect backdrop awaits to say “I do.”

DETAILS TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE 100,000 square feet # OF EVENT SPACES 3 ballrooms plus 21 breakouts MAXIMUM CAPACITY 3,200 VENUE STYLE Grand Ballroom, Indoor Stunning views of Tampa Bay CATERING OPTIONS Yes RENTAL INCLUDES Yes PARKING OPTIONS Valet Only CONTACT Brittany Erigo P: 813.204.6311 C: 813.215.4284 Brittany.Erigo@marriott.com

ABOUT THE VENUE Bring your wedding vision to life as you celebrate your love in the heart of downtown Tampa. JW Marriot Tampa offers over 500 luxurious rooms and suites as well as three sophisticated ballrooms, each with spacious pre-function areas looking out onto the Water Street neighborhood.

Marriott Certified planners are available to craft every detail of your event from venues to menus created by our expert catering team.

Exceptional amenities await for you and loved ones including a full service spa, two rooftop pools with stunning water views and five restaurants with indoor and outdoor dining.

510 Water Street, Tampa, FL 33602 813.221.4950 | www.jwmarriotttampa.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

www.TampaBayWed.com

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Ever After Sarah and Kyle | 5.22.2021

Waterfront Fireworks Celebration | Armature Works | Captured by Andi Diamond Photography, www.andidiamond.com

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METRO WEDDINGS + EVENTS

WEDDINGS+EVENTS TA M PA B AY + O R L A N D O ’ S G U I D E T O E L E G A N T E V E N T S

TAMPA BAY + ORLANDO’S GUIDE TO ELEGANT EVENTS

Private party, charity gala or a dream wedding. METRO Weddings + Events provides an invaluable guide to planning stylish, sophisticated and memorable events. We inspire and introduce brides and event hosts to the very best vendors and venues through engaging editorial from a local perspective.

Call Now For Rate & Space Deadlines: Ronda Parag - 813-835-7700 Ext. 12 Stephen Parag - 813-835-7700 Ext. 14

www.tampabaywed.com