Ansley Reed and Rogan Darnell gathered with their loved ones at the Junior League Building in Lakeland, Florida, for a day that was as heartfelt as it was beautiful. Every detail reflected their personalities, brought to life by an incredible team of vendors who worked seamlessly together to create an atmosphere of timeless romance and joy.
The day began quietly for Ansley, sharing breakfast with her bridesmaids and a few family members. As Rebekah Lynn Hodge worked her magic on hair and Ciara Liebl perfected each face, a lively playlist set the tone for the celebrations ahead. “I loved peeking out of the blinds with my girls to see what all the guests were wearing,” Ansley recalled. “It really calmed my nerves. But what completely calmed me was seeing Rogan at the end of the aisle-he is my peace in the chaos.” Her gown from Simply Forever Bridal paired perfectly with family heirloom accessories, while her East West Gem Co. engagement ring and local pawn and jeweler wedding band sparkled under the soft ceremony light. Bridesmaids in Birdy Grey attire completed the timeless look.
Meanwhile, Rogan’s morning began with the groomsmen checking into a Tampa hotel, a lighthearted car ride, and a stop at The Joinery before heading to the venue. He and his groomsmen donned attire from Men’s Wearhouse, looking sharp and ready for the day ahead. “The best part was seeing my beautiful bride walk down the aisle,” Rogan shared. From the pictures all the way to the reception, it was just absolutely perfect.
The ceremony, officiated by family friend Shawn Alderman, was framed by stunning floral designs from FH Events, who also provided décor and rentals that transformed the JLGL Building into a romantic haven. The mother of the bride remembers walking in and seeing the vision realized- “It was everything I had hoped for, and everything Ansley had dreamed of.”
Following the heartfelt vows, guests enjoyed a reception where every detail had been carefully considered. Allen Reed with Made created all the paper goods and signage, from save-the-dates and invitations to menu cards, ceremony fans, and the signature bar sign, each piece tying the design together. TLC Catering delivered a menu that guests raved about, with tender braised beef and flavorful chicken that tasted like it had been made with love. Frankly Bartending, run by a family friend, kept glasses full and spirits high all evening.
The bride’s cake, crafted by SweetCakes, stood as a centerpiece- beautiful and delicious. “It turned out absolutely gorgeous,” the mother of the bride said with pride. Music by Chris at Graingertainment kept the dance floor alive, providing the soundtrack for Ansley’s favorite moment: dancing with her new husband. “I’ve never felt that happy,” she said. “One thing I’ll never forget is slowly realizing all the ladies were trading dresses with one another- that was hilarious!”
Photography and videography were entrusted to Julia Beemer Photography, who captured every candid smile, tear, and joyful embrace, preserving the day for years to come. The rehearsal dinner the night before, held at Smith’s Tavern with their own catering, set the tone for the warmth and camaraderie that carried through the entire weekend.
One of the most touching moments came during the reception when Ansley surprised her parents with a first dance- something they had never had at their own wedding 33 years earlier. The emotional toasts that followed, including her father’s heartfelt words about welcoming Rogan into the family, brought tears to the eyes of everyone present.
As guest Roxy put it, “Attending my best friend’s wedding felt like stepping into a real-life fairy tale, as if we had been transported straight into a scene from Bridgerton. From the elegant florals to the timeless romance, every detail was perfectly curated.”
It was a day that combined laughter, heartfelt speeches, and dance-floor fun, made possible by a vendor team who worked with passion and care. As the mother of the bride summed it up: “I can honestly say, our team of vendors went above and beyond in every way.”
