With its iconic Mediterranean Revival architecture and rich waterfront history, The Vinoy Renaissance in downtown St. Petersburg provided the ultimate royal backdrop for Christa and Tony’s black-tie celebration. Radiating opulence through rich emerald green velvet, gleaming metallic gold accents, and full-room perimeter draping, the wedding delivered timeless glamour from the sacred cathedral vows to the confetti-filled ballroom finale.
Sacred Cathedral Vows & Courtyard Portraits at The Vinoy
Christa and Tony began their wedding day with a solemn, breathtaking traditional ceremony at St. Jude’s Cathedral in St. Petersburg. Surrounded by soaring stained-glass windows and historic limestone arches, the couple exchanged vows before their closest loved ones in an atmosphere steeped in reverence and timeless tradition.
Following the ceremony, the wedding party returned to The Vinoy’s palm-tree lined courtyard for bridal party portraits. The bride’s intricately embroidered illusion-lace gown and lush white anemone bouquet contrasted against her bridesmaids’ elegant gowns, harmonizing with the iconic salmon-pink historic facade and lush Florida palms.
The Grand Ballroom: Emerald Velvet, Gold Accents, and Perimeter Draping
Guests were escorted into The Vinoy’s storied grand ballroom, where the atmosphere was nothing short of majestic. Deep emerald green velvet linens draped long feasting tables and circular rounds, paired with gleaming gold charger plates, brushed gold flatware, and crystal glassware. Towering gold candelabras and lush floral installations of white roses, hydrangeas, and greenery created a regal botanical canopy above the dining tables.
Full-height ivory voile perimeter draping encircled the historic ballroom walls, accentuating the venue’s grand ceiling heights while softening the acoustic dynamics for an intimate dining atmosphere. Clear acrylic chiavari chairs added modern crystalline luminosity, ensuring the rich jewel tones remained the primary visual highlight of the evening.
A High-Energy Reception & Spectacular Confetti Send-Off
The custom sweetheart table stood as a showpiece of romance, adorned with intricate ivory lace, flickering pillar candles in gold lanterns, and an expansive living green hedge backdrop dotted with white blooms. After cutting their four-tier classic white-and-gold wedding cake, the newlyweds took to the center dance floor for an unforgettable first dance surrounded by family and friends.
The evening peaked with an exuberant, confetti-filled dance party that kept the floor packed until midnight. From the sacred sanctuary of the cathedral to the glamorous Vinoy ballroom reception, Christa and Tony’s wedding stands as a masterclass in grand Florida hospitality, timeless jewel-toned styling, and seamless vendor collaboration.
Planning an Event in Tampa Bay?
From waterfront lawn ceremonies to historic ballroom transformations, Gabro Event Services provides custom draping, bespoke seating, architectural lighting, and modular dance floors that elevate every celebration.
Wedding Credits
- Reception Venue: The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club
- Ceremony Venue: St. Jude’s Cathedral
- Photographer: Carrie Wildes Photography
- Planner: Parties A’ La Carte
- Florist: Bruce Wayne Florals
- Ballroom Draping: Gabro Event Services
- Chairs, Chargers & Table Rentals: A Chair Affair
- Linens: Over The Top Rental Linens
- Cake: The Artistic Whisk
- DJ & Lighting: Grant Hemond & Associates
- Hair & Makeup: Lasting Luxe
