Josef and Sarah’s summer wedding at the Don CeSar in St. Petersburg was a memorable occasion. The venue, known for its historic charm and ocean views, provided a beautiful setting for the celebration. Their wedding colors of light pink, gold, and pearls were reflected in the floral arrangements, decor, and details. The couple exchanged vows surrounded by family and friends, marking the start of their new life together with a day filled with love and happiness.
Bridal Details
Sarah’s wedding dress was a stunning princess ballgown, a perfect blend of elegance and romance. The gown featured intricate floral lace details on sheer sleeves that added a delicate touch of texture and movement. The high neckline complemented the regal look, while the voluminous skirt cascaded gracefully to the floor, creating a timeless silhouette. She finished her look with a sparkling tiara, adding a touch of royalty to her ensemble. The combination of classic elements with soft, modern details made Sarah’s dress truly unforgettable.
Groomsmen
The groomsmen wore matching black tuxedos with white shirts and black bowties. Their classic look was clean and simple, complementing the formality of the day. Each tuxedo was tailored to fit well, creating a coordinated and sharp appearance as they stood by Josef’s side throughout the ceremony. The overall style added a refined touch to the wedding, fitting in seamlessly with the celebration.
Love
Sarah and Josef believe that God is the true author of all love stories, including theirs. They see his love guiding them in their relationship, preparing them for marriage.
How They Met
Sarah’s Bible study leader, Maureen, suggested she meet a guy named Josef. Around the same time, Josef’s friend Matthew encouraged him to meet Sarah. Eventually, Sarah spotted Josef at the Catholic Gators Hurley Student Center and introduced herself, saying, “Are you Josef Stooks? Maureen Mooney said I should be your friend!” They chatted briefly, but their schedules didn’t align, so they didn’t see each other again until summer.
On their second date, Josef took Sarah to Depot Park for a picnic brunch. Afterward, they visited the Butterfly Rainforest, where Josef asked Sarah to be his girlfriend. That day, they also went to St. Augustine to lead a retreat for the same parish where they had first bonded. It was a special day filled with both personal and spiritual significance.
In May 2023, Sarah and Josef went on a Mediterranean cruise as a graduation gift. In Rome, Josef arranged a private Mass at The Basilica of Saint Mary Major, one of the largest Catholic Marian churches in the world. After Mass, Josef proposed to Sarah under the golden ceiling of the church. She said “Yes!” They then had a special Mass with a blessing of their engagement, marking the beginning of their preparation for marriage, centered around Christ.
Ceremony/Venue
The ceremony took place at Sacred Heart in Tampa, a beautiful and historic church known for its stunning architecture. Josef and Sarah exchanged vows in front of their family and friends, with the church’s grand interior providing a meaningful backdrop. The peaceful atmosphere and elegant setting made the moment feel intimate and special as they began their life together. The ceremony was a heartfelt and memorable occasion, marking the start of their journey as a married couple.
Reception Details
The reception featured a color scheme of light pink, white, and bright pink. Guests wore pink and white heart-shaped sunglasses, adding a fun touch to the atmosphere. Candles were placed on the tables, creating a warm glow, while pink heart-shaped fans were provided as keepsakes. The cheerful decor set the stage for an evening of celebration, dancing, and laughter.
Reception
The dance floor was alive with energy, as everyone joined in to celebrate the couple. As the night came to a close, the couple made their grand exit, surrounded by friends and family holding sparklers. The sparkling light added a magical touch to the moment as they shared a final kiss before heading off to begin their next chapter.
Entire Gallery
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