Stephanie & Jackson
Zoo Tampa
The Wedding Brief
An unforgettable celebration filled with love, laughter, and a touch of wild magic.
On a beautiful spring evening in Tampa, Stephanie and Jackson gathered 76 of their nearest and dearest for a wedding that was equal parts heartwarming and joyful — and entirely them. Set in the lush surroundings of ZooTampa, their day was filled with intentional details, golden-hour moments, and one seriously stylish party.
The Morning: Calm, Caffeine & Champagne
The day began at Hotel Haya, where Stephanie and her bridal party enjoyed a relaxed breakfast (with muffins, fruit, and plenty of coffee, of course) before slipping into hair and makeup with stylist Samantha Landis. With her bouquet delivered early and her girls by her side, Stephanie took the morning slow — savoring time to laugh, hydrate, and soak it all in.
Meanwhile, Jackson and the groomsmen prepped at ZooTampa, keeping things easy and light. There was no first look, just the anticipation of seeing each other for the first time at the altar.
The Ceremony: Sweet, Sentimental & Surrounded by Nature
Guests arrived at the Africa Courtyard at 5:30 PM and were welcomed with prelude music and programs. As the sun dipped low, the ceremony began — an unplugged celebration of love, with touching vows and an entrance that brought tears to more than a few eyes.
Stephanie walked down the aisle to “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” accompanied by her mother, Carmelle. Their officiant, Jalee Gentry, led a heartfelt ceremony as the couple exchanged vows surrounded by family, friends, and a soft spring breeze.
Immediately after, Stephanie and Jackson shared a truly one-of-a-kind moment: portraits with giraffes! It was a dreamlike and totally Florida-chic experience that had guests grinning from ear to ear.
Cocktail Hour: Signature Sips, Safari Vibes & Animal Encounters
As the newlyweds posed with their long-necked guests of honor, loved ones sipped signature Espresso Martinis and Margaritas in the Africa Courtyard. Passed hors d’oeuvres included fig and goat cheese crostini, coconut shrimp, and a colorful garden crudité display.
But the real surprise? Special animal encounters, where guests mingled with ZooTampa’s charming residents. It added an unforgettable layer of fun and whimsy to the cocktail hour — because who wouldn’t want to clink glasses with a sloth nearby?
The Reception: Dancing, Dessert & “Miracles Happen”
The celebration continued in the Banquet Hall, where guests were greeted with a warm, elegant dinner experience. With customized plated meals and a perfectly styled tablescape, the reception felt both elevated and welcoming.
Toasts from family and friends brought laughter and a few happy tears, followed by a dessert table full of options (vegan cupcakes included!) and the most adorable cake cutting set to “Got to Be Mine.”
Then it was time to dance — and did they ever. The dance floor opened and didn’t slow down until the last song, “Miracles Happen,” played. It was the perfect high note to end an evening that already felt like magic.
The Venue:
Hair & Makeup:
the gallery:
Because these Moments Are too Good To Miss
Dive into the romance of planning with us, where every detail is a brushstroke in the masterpiece of your wedding day. From the whispers of ‘I do’ to the echoes of dance floor laughter, we ensure every moment is impeccably orchestrated and as unique as your love story. With our expertise, your wedding will be a seamless symphony of love, elegance, and unforgettable memories. Reach out and let’s craft the celebration of your dreams, because moments like these are simply too precious to miss.
your love story
