Sunlight, Strings, And Sweet Treats: Marisa & Jack’s Stunning Wedding

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Marisa and Jack Macgowan’s wedding was the kind of day that lingers in memory not because of extravagant displays, but because of the authenticity and warmth that flowed through every detail. Hosted at the stunning Bella Cosa in Lake Wales, Florida, their celebration felt like a breath of fresh air- intimate, elegant, and deeply personal. Every vendor played an intentional role in shaping the day, creating a seamless and joyful experience that allowed the couple and their guests to truly be present.

From the very beginning, Roots to Stems, led by the talented Dani Escobar, ensured that the couple’s vision came to life without stress. Hired for a 90-day coordination package, Dani’s oversight was nothing short of essential. Her careful planning and calm presence allowed Marisa, who described herself as highly organized, to finally relax and trust the process. Her mother, too, was able to be fully present, knowing everything was handled with care.

The romantic atmosphere of Bella Cosa was elevated by the classical melodies of Anthology Entertainment’s string quartet, setting the tone for a heartfelt ceremony. Adding to the emotional weight of the day, the couple chose Jack’s brother, Cole, to officiate. Their vows, read aloud in front of loved ones, marked the most meaningful moment for both Marisa and Jack- a moment of grounding amidst the excitement.

Bluegrass Chic brought softness and sophistication to the lakeside venue, their floral work a perfect match for Bella Cosa’s Spanish-inspired architecture and sun-drenched setting. With romantic blooms and textured arrangements, they created a natural elegance that blended seamlessly with both the outdoor ceremony and the indoor reception.

Capturing every moment with clarity and emotion, Stephanie Velez was the couple’s chosen photographer. Her keen eye and calming presence behind the lens ensured every intimate glance, tearful hug, and joyful laugh was preserved. Alongside her, Bahia Films worked quietly and skillfully to document the movement and magic of the day on film.

The couple kept things personal and sweet- literally- with a dessert table full of handmade Italian cookies, a treasured family tradition. Six different families contributed, transporting thousands of cookies from across the country to be shared with guests. The Gelato Carte and Café Ala Carte brought a fun twist in lieu of a traditional wedding cake, offering a deliciously unique dessert experience that suited the couple perfectly- gelato and coffee carte’s with personalized menus that fit the special day just right.

Cocktail hour and dinner were handled by Uncommon Catering, who delivered exceptional food and drink that matched the elegance of the evening. They also provided bartending services, ensuring guests were well taken care of throughout the night. For a finishing touch, cookie boxes were offered as favors, a sweet and thoughtful gesture that allowed everyone to take a piece of the celebration home.

Inside the reception space, EventWorks and RW Events supplied tasteful rentals and décor. Lighting cast a golden glow on the dance floor as Soundwave Entertainment took over for the party portion of the evening, keeping energy high and the celebration flowing into the night.

Marisa wore a stunning Ines Di Santo gown from Annika Bridal, its silhouette striking yet classic- a perfect reflection of her timeless bridal look. Her hair and makeup were masterfully styled by LeaCakes, whose soft-glam approach accentuated Marisa’s natural features and radiance. Jack, meanwhile, wore a tailored suit from The Foursome in Minnesota, matching the day’s sophistication with subtle charm.

The rings, both from Continental Diamond in Minnesota, symbolized the quiet strength of their bond- refined, enduring, and full of meaning. Invitations from Minted and signage from Etsy tied in the couple’s modern-meets-romantic aesthetic.

Transportation provided by L3 Limo ensured a smooth experience for guests, and the rehearsal dinner at Grove Roots Brewing Co., catered by Bistro Pizza, set a relaxed and festive tone for the weekend.

In the end, Marisa and Jack’s wedding wasn’t about the over-the-top or expected. It was about being surrounded by love- from each other, their families, and the talented vendors who made the day effortlessly beautiful. Their story, much like the thousands of cookies that graced their tables, was sweet, heartfelt, and lovingly homemade.

Marisa and Jack's personalized vow books with white silk ribbon beside wedding rings and white ranunculus flowers
Bride and mother exchange framed family portrait in bright white bridal suite during getting ready moment
Bride Marisa receives engraved gift box from her father reading "Dad, thank you for helping build my life"
Marisa and Jack hold hands while climbing stone steps flanked by white balustrades, with Spanish moss-draped trees and string lights in the background
Marisa and Jack seated on elegant white furniture under fringed umbrella with moss-draped oak trees and waterfront backdrop
Bride Marisa in strapless lace wedding gown with floral appliqués and veil, holding white rose and ranunculus bouquet
Bride in strapless white ball gown with textured overlay poses beside white columns and weathered stucco wall holding white bouquet
Marisa and Jack walking hand-in-hand outside white Mediterranean-style venue with arched doorways under clear blue sky
Elegant white vintage lounge furniture with fringed umbrellas overlooking waterfront under moss-draped oak tree
Outdoor ceremony setup under Spanish moss-draped oak trees with white chairs and floral arrangements on balustrade
String musicians perform outdoors under oak trees draped with Spanish moss at garden wedding ceremony
White decorative bar cart displaying champagne flutes and white floral arrangements at Marisa and Jack's wedding
Woven basket filled with wooden folding fans for wedding guests at outdoor ceremony
White floral arrangement with hydrangeas, tulips, and green bells of Ireland beside a calligraphy Cards sign
Aerial view of outdoor wedding reception setup with long farm tables and round tables arranged on manicured lawn at historic estate
Outdoor wedding ceremony under moss-draped oak trees with bride, groom, and guests at Tampa venue
Marisa and Jack celebrating as newlyweds walking down outdoor ceremony aisle under oak trees
Wedding reception table with white roses centerpiece, wicker chargers, and taper candles bathed in natural sunlight
Marisa and Jack embracing in elegant wedding attire beneath ornate chandelier with dramatic train gown
White place setting on woven charger with custom photograph place card on blue floral table runner
Outdoor wedding reception table with white floral centerpiece, crystal glassware, and handwritten table number six
Elegant wedding appetizer plate featuring grilled meat and vegetable skewers with burrata cheese and herb-drizzled sauce
White rose centerpiece in round vase next to framed bar menu under fringed parasol at outdoor cocktail station
White mobile espresso bar decorated with lush floral arrangements at Marisa and Jack's wedding
Framed coffee menu in natural woven frame displayed at Marisa and Jack's wedding beverage station
Wedding dessert display with powdered donuts, cookies, and assorted treats on white tiered stands
Bride and groom standing in rustic archway of historic weathered building with tall cypress trees flanking the entrance
Bride and groom sharing ice cream treats at dessert bar, groom with white boutonniere on ivory jacket
Bride in textured ballgown and groom in white tuxedo jacket posing on stone balustrade
White gelato cart display with assorted desserts and white floral arrangements at wedding reception
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