You are cordially invited to celebrate Ocala’s newest brides and grooms, get a glimpse into their most special of days and hear firsthand about the memories that will always hold a place in their hearts.
Courtney & Michael Bridges
January 30th, 2021
Photography by Maudie Lucas
Venue: Pine Haven Ranch
Florist: Brick City Flowers
Her favorite memory: Being surrounded by so many people who love and support us—people who want to see our success, our family grow. And seeing the look on my husband’s face as I walked down the aisle. It truly was the most magical day.
Lauren Debick & Andrew Hinkle
March 6th, 2021
Photography by Winship Photography
Venue: Harmony Gardens
His favorite memory: Everyone says that your wedding day will rush by like a blur. Thinking back, the day and ceremony moved much quicker than I expected with so many smiles, laughs and a few tears. The one moment I return to most often happened seconds after we were pronounced husband and wife and I kissed that beautiful bride. Lauren and I were walking back down the aisle hand in hand with our friends and family celebrating. As we neared the end of the procession a butterfly landed on my pant leg, causing us to both stop to guide it off my knee and into the wonderful garden venue. In that moment I felt at peace and full of confidence about the journey ahead; knowing this was the universe telling me, this is where you belong.
Rachel & Phil Piubeni
March 20th, 2021
Photography by Isabelle Victoria Photography
Venue: Bride’s family home in Ocala
His favorite memory: My favorite moment was the first dance with my beautiful wife under the chuppah to Millionaire by Chris Stapleton with our families gathered around us.
Her favorite memory: There were many unforgettable moments during our intimate ceremony under the oaks, but my favorite were the toasts throughout the evening. My father, whose tough exterior was quickly outshined by his soft heart as he wished us well meant the world and then amidst the clinking of the glasses my two youngest stepchildren (Violet,10 and Evan,7) surprised us with the sweetest toast. Our hearts were full.
Keri & Cain Smith
November 17th, 2020
Photography by Madi Wagner
Venue: Licciardello Farms
Wedding Planner: Making it Matthews
Florist: Mary Weaver with Floral Architecture
Her favorite memory: One of the best memories of our wedding day was being able to have both of our grandmothers, who are 88 and 90 years old, there to celebrate with us. 2020 was such a crazy rollercoaster of a year, and since I had been working as a COVID ICU nurse in Fort Worth, Texas, I had been unable to see my family (especially my Mimi) all year. Our No. 1 priority was to have our two grandmothers in the front pew to witness our union, so we ultimately decided to celebrate with only immediate family so they could attend safely. The blessing of their presence at our wedding is something both Cain and I will cherish forever.
