Poynter Institute Wedding
Nick and Kelly are a couple who embrace the one of a kind, unexplored, and unscheduled. They planned their Poynter Institute wedding as more than just a ceremony—it was a chance to celebrate with their loved ones, throwing a night-long dance party to remember. After nine years of dating, they were beyond excited to sign the deal, but their priority was creating an unforgettable celebration that truly reflected their personalities. As Kelly put it, “Our biggest concern is that people are having fun, dancing, and walk away saying they had the best time and it felt like us.” They put their hearts into this celebration, down to doing the floral arrangements themselves, by hand. And they absolutely achieved that goal.
Details
Kelly and Nick were focused on capturing the candid details; the little bits of their day that were important to them. Whether it was the matching tennis shoes they wore, the pink and olive green accents, the veil worn by two brides before Kelly, or their first looks by the reflecting pool, they made sure to focus on what was most meaningful. After the work of planning their wedding, they plan on retreating to a beach in the Dominican Republic to relax and enjoy each other’s company.
Bridal Details
Kelly’s style was timeless and unique. She was not a bride to follow the average path, but that didn’t stop her from being the most stunning person in the room on her big day. With a simple, draping dress for the ceremony and her makeup done by Glamby Grizzy, a local Tampa artist, she donned the veil that she and all her friends have each worn for their weddings, and a pair of long silver earrings. Her bouquet was wrapped in handkerchiefs from Nicholas’s late grandmother’s collection, a heartfelt homage to her memory.
Modern Love
When planning their wedding, Kelly and Nicholas didn’t opt for simple or traditional. Instead, they went above and beyond to create the party of their dreams, enjoying every moment despite the weight of responsibility on their shoulders.
Even with the stresses of event planning, Kelly and Nicholas embraced every moment of their day. From their candid and informal first look to their emotional ceremony at St. Mary Our Lady of Grace Church, and even Kelly’s impromptu dance with her father, they were fully present—laughing and celebrating with their friends. Most of the wedding party had been part of their lives since school, and Kelly cheerfully shared that she has known four of her bridesmaids since her sorority days in college.
Kelly and Nicholas love exploring big cities together, wandering through places they’ve never been. They plan to travel often, continuing a partnership that has already lasted nearly a decade and will likely last for many more.
Cocktail Hour
Cocktail hour was a blast. A classier event has never been seen, with Catering by The Family supplying sandwiches and hors d’oeuvres, which were served from antique painted cigar boxes. Strings of market lights crossed the courtyard, shining in the sun. Each guest was given a monogrammed pack of matches from the couple, stylishly accented with a picture of their dog. Kelly and Nicholas ditched their uncomfortable footwear for matching tennis shoes, and Kelly swapped her ankle-length gown for an adorable knee-length dress. Not only was every detail thoughtfully curated to give a trendy, vibrant vibe, but the guests’ varied styles and colorful attire turned an already beautiful setup into a bustling party.
Nicholas and Kelly“It was important for us to plan a day that felt true to us, and the to people that led us here.”
The Poynter Institute
Kelly and Nicholas deserved a venue as unique as they are, so the Poynter Institute in St. Petersburg was a perfect fit. It’s well known for its unique events and proximity to downtown St. Petersburg, as well as being surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches on the Gulf Shore. Offering a beautiful view of the marina, a stunning garden, and high ceilings, the Poynter Institute went above and beyond to ensure that Kelly and Nicholas had the wedding of their dreams—festive, fun, and colorful.
Entire Gallery
Click below to view and pin all the highlights from the day!
