1. Real Weddings

Allison & Ray: A Formal Wedding in St. Petersburg, FL

It was easy for Allison Saland and Ray Diaz to choose an inspiration for their wedding: Both of them live for the vibrant pinks and oranges of Florida

It was easy for Allison Saland and Ray Diaz to choose an inspiration for their wedding: Both of them live for the vibrant pinks and oranges of Florida sunsets. The Bride Allison Saland, 29, housewife The Groom Ray Diaz, 30, owner of a mortgage company The Date April 9 With that in mind, Allison and Ray decided The Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club’s pink Mediterranean-style architecture was an ideal venue.

Allison's four bridesmaids wore simple black two-piece dresses while the maid of honor donned a bright fuchsia color.
The real party started when the 10-piece band hit the stage. They played Latin salsa and meringue but threw in a few disco tunes for Allison.
The large fountain in the Vinoy's Tea Garden was turned off for the ceremony and layered with candles and flowers to give the appearance of an enormous flower arrangement.
The Couple
The Accessories
Allison's bouquet of orange and hot pink roses tied the sunset look together.
Everyone was led into the huge Mediterranean-style ballroom for the reception where tall, crystal candelabras filled with all-white arrangements of roses, gardenias, and hydrangeas topped the guest tables. The gold party crackers next to each place setting were an instant hit with family and friends.
The Location
The true showpiece of Allison and Ray's reception was the two-foot tall wedding cake, flanked on either side by enormous palm tree ice sculptures.
The Ceremony Decor
Allison didn't like the original adornment on her Marisa gown, so she asked the designer to leave it off and then added her own trim.