1. Real Weddings

A Fun Classic Wedding at Loews Don Cesar Hotel in St. Pete Beach, Florida

Elizabeth, a graduate student, 27, and Mark, an IT report writer, 27, met in ninth grade, became best friends and started dating after college. They w

Elizabeth, a graduate student, 27, and Mark, an IT report writer, 27, met in ninth grade, became best friends and started dating after college. They were engaged on vacation in the Virgin Islands. The couple used their love of the beach as inspiration for their wedding.Their wedding colors included royal blue, white and a few gold accents. While they had a traditional ceremony, the reception was more focused on having fun with family and friends. Elizabeth and Mark wanted the reception atmosphere to be like a night club/cocktail party, where there was not a lot of structure and people could mingle, drink, eat, and dance as much as they want, says Elizabeth. The night included a photo booth, live band and cake shots for dessert.The couple left under an archway of sparklers held by their guests.

Prior to the ceremony, Elizabeth had her make-up done by local make-up artist Jess Waldrop.
Elizabeth chose to walk down the aisle in a strapless ivory Maggie Sottero dress. "The ruffles on the skirt, which Elizabeth never would have dreamed she'd love, ended up being the part that really sealed the deal," Elizabeth says.
The ceremony was held at Grace Lutheran Church. With colorful light streaming from the stain glass windows, Elizabeth and Mark were wed in front of 155 friends and family members.
The groomsmen were dressed in black tuxedos paired with royal blue vests and ties.
The groom and groomsmen paired their formal attire with festive pocket squares.
The bridesmaids carried white lisianthus and rose corsages to match the bride's bouquet.
After the ceremony, Elizabeth and Mark rode in a party bus with their wedding party to the reception.
The couple's friends and family were encouraged to enjoy the reception at the Loews Don Cesar Hotel without a lot of structure. Bathed in royal blue and yellow light, the tables were decorated with floating candles, Fuji flowers and white linens
To keep the crowd excited and dancing throughout the night, Elizabeth and Mark chose the band "All the Answers" as their reception entertainment.
With a love for the beach, Elizabeth and Mark chose a sunbathing bride and groom as their cake topper.
In lieu of a traditional wedding cake, guests enjoyed wedding cake shots in various flavors.
Elizabeth and Mark gave their guests a few favors including a thank you note, handmade gift and chocolate.
The couple left the celebration under sparklers held by their friends and family.