Vegas and "A Midsummer Night’s Dream" Inspired This Wedding at The Don CeSar in St. Pete Beach, Florida
April Jalazo had just moved to Florida when she decided to take a chance on a dating app. Little did she know how extraordinary clicking that “download” button would turn out. “He was my very first Bumble date down here and my very last ‘first meeting,’” April fondly recalls. The connection between her and Jamie was instant, and over the next two years, their bond only grew stronger. Jamie’s proposal was sweet and family-forward. While gathered around a fire pit with his beloved, her friends and her daughter, Jamie announced, “I’ve known all of you girls for almost two years now, and I’m so happy to have met you all. But most of all, I am so happy I met you, April!” He dropped to his knee and pulled out a ring, which caused raucous applause and a heartfelt “yes” from his girlfriend.
The couple planned a day filled with elegance, enchantment and just a hint of the dramatic flair they both adored. Their inspiration was rooted in two things: their love for each other and the deep affection they felt for their family and friends. They wanted their wedding to be more than just an event; it had to be an immersive experience, a journey into a world where every detail was imbued with meaning. Design-wise, they were drawn to the Belle Epoque style, an era known for its association with “Peace, prosperity, growth and optimism.” This historical influence provided the perfect mantra for the start of their new life together.
Their venue, the iconic Don CeSar in St. Pete, Florida, offered the ideal canvas for their vision. With its panoramic views of the water, the pink palace became the backdrop for a day that would combine the opulence of a Vegas night out with the ethereal magic of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
When it came to their wedding attire, April and Jamie knew they wanted to make a statement. The bride chose a glamorous gown adorned with floral lace, intricate beading and a plunging mesh neckline that perfectly complemented the venue’s grandeur. Her accessories were no less dazzling, with sparkling tennis bracelets and a luxe jeweled necklace that added just the right amount of sparkle. But it was the tulle cape that truly completed her look, flowing behind her like a whisper of a dream and making for some truly stunning first-look photos on St. Pete Beach.
Jamie opted for a custom Italian tuxedo crafted from a black patterned floral jacquard fabric. The tuxedo was a nod to his sophisticated style, but with a twist that reflected the couple’s penchant for the extraordinary. As the day transitioned from ceremony to reception, Jamie even sported a jacket change, a subtle yet stylish move that kept the fashion game strong throughout the evening.
As guests arrived at the Don CeSar, they were greeted by the sight of ghost chairs arranged among the palm trees, all facing the iconic pink hotel. The steps leading up to the venue were lined with abundant white florals, creating a striking contrast against the blush-colored backdrop. The ceremony florals, delicate and elegant, were further enhanced by the release of live butterflies, a moment that added an unexpected touch of natural beauty. The native butterflies, set free among the guests, fluttered around for the afternoon, creating a serene and magical atmosphere.
With the ceremony complete, guests moved on to the cocktail hour, where the couple’s vision of opulence truly came to life. The bar space was draped in glamorous fabric, with lounges set up for guests to relax and enjoy the festivities. Private nooks, complete with chess sets, offered a cozy retreat for those seeking a quieter moment amid the celebration. Meanwhile, cigarette girls (a nod to the Belle Epoque era) circulated among the guests, handing out matches, rolling papers and mints while helping everyone find their seat assignments.
The reception space was nothing short of breathtaking. The sunken ballroom at the Don CeSar had been transformed into a rose-colored wonderland, where every detail was meticulously planned to evoke the ghosts of the time period. Velvet fabrics covered the sofas and chairs, adding a luxurious touch to the already decadent atmosphere. Tables were adorned with glittering gold and pink linens, smoky blue and pink glassware and golden lamps that cast a warm, festive glow over the entire space.
Art played a significant role in the decor, with pieces fused to table tops, the dance floor, and even the intricate stage set in photo moments. The couple’s head table stood out against a backdrop of glittering green fabrics and bursting with romantic arrangements of blush and berry-colored florals. Ostrich feathers added a flourish to every corner, from the floating bouquets to the fan decor, even gracing the edges of their wedding cake.
As the evening progressed, servers and performers kept the energy high, ensuring that the celebration was as lively as it was beautiful. The entire attitude of the reception was one of opulent, decadent fun—a fitting end to a day that had been as magical as it was memorable. At the end of the night, the newlyweds had one piece of advice for other couples planning their big day: “Do it together and remember how much you love each other.”