Vows That Wow – Kelsey & Steve

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Each month, we highlight a wedding that captures the heart of celebration through intentional design, meaningful moments, and unforgettable ambiance. This month’s Vows That Wow takes us to the iconic Don CeSar, where Kelsey and Steve brought a romantic coastal vision to life through soft hues, thoughtful personalization, and timeless elegance.

Inspired by the hotel’s legendary pink exterior and its waterfront surroundings, this wedding embraced a coastal timeless aesthetic rooted in soft blues and blush pinks. The result was a day that felt romantic yet elevated, perfectly complementing the historic charm of The Don CeSar while allowing the couple’s story to shine.

The Wedding Vision

From the start, the couple envisioned a day that felt romantic, refined, and true to who they are. A palette of blush roses, airy blue florals, and soft white blooms set a coastal tone, echoed throughout the ceremony and reception. The Don CeSar’s architectural details, from its arched windows and striped awnings to its palm-lined terraces, served as a natural backdrop, allowing the design to feel cohesive rather than competing with the venue itself.

Lush floral installations framed the ceremony entrance in soft, romantic layers. The arrangements felt abundant yet controlled, offering an organic, modern-romantic feel that flowed seamlessly into the rest of the day’s design.

The Wows

Inside the ballroom, the celebration unfolded in a space defined by floral-forward design and elevated simplicity. Textured pale-blue linens created a subtle monochromatic foundation, while gold flatware, layered place settings, and clusters of candlelight added warmth and dimension. Menus featured the same soft blue floral pattern seen throughout the design, creating continuity from tabletop details to larger statement moments.

As guests entered the reception, they were immediately drawn to the custom dance floor, designed as the focal point of the room. Inspired by the couple’s invitation artwork, soft blue watercolor peonies floated across a crisp white background, setting the tone for a night filled with movement and celebration.

Just beyond the dance floor, a chic candy display offered a playful yet polished moment. Styled in gold and white tones and anchored by a striking blue floral arrangement, it quickly became a favorite stop guests couldn’t resist.

Thoughtful personal touches were woven throughout, including heartfelt nods to the couple’s beloved dog, Sammi. Sammi joined them for portraits around The Don CeSar, adding warmth and genuine joy to the day’s most intimate moments. That love was echoed again during the reception, where a charming cake topper tucked among blush and blue florals paid tribute to their four-legged family member. Custom koozies featuring an illustrated portrait of Sammi were also offered to guests, a detail that felt playful, personal, and perfectly reflective of the couple’s story.

A Celebration That Felt Effortlessly Theirs

With soft blues and blush pinks layered throughout, lush florals at every turn, and meaningful details woven seamlessly into the design, this wedding struck a beautiful balance between elegance and emotion. From the pastel tablescapes and custom dance floor to the joyful inclusion of their dog, every element felt intentional and deeply personal.

It was a celebration that proved luxury doesn’t need to be loud, sometimes it lives in the softness of color, the glow of candlelight, and the moments that reflect what matters most.

Congratulations to Kelsey & Steve! Your wedding was a heartwarming celebration of love, creativity, and joy that will leave a lasting impression in our upcoming 2026 Tampa + St. Pete Book of Weddings Publication.

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Other Local Vendors:

Bridal Beauty by Tara, Kiefer Jewelers, URBANcoast, Fiesta Solutions Event Rentals, Fairytail Petcare, Treasury Rentals, Mens Wearhouse, Azazie Bridal, Total Entertainment by Matt Winter, Cornelia Zaiss Photography, Parties A La Carte, The Gala Photo Booth, DJ Dayve, Imagery Wedding Films, W Event Design, Got You Covered, Infinity Event Solutions, Sweet Harmony, Bruce Wayne Florals, Shine Wedding Invitations

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