Let me tell you about this venue! If you've ever been to Tampa, Florida, you've probably been to Armature Works. Everything about it was straight up our alley! Not only is it a wedding venue, but it also has some of the best nightlife there. With multiple food spots, live music, water activities and one of the best views of the city, it was the PERFECT location for Mark and Amanda's wedding reception!
Number One Tip for Future Phocus Brides to Consider: SPEND THE EXTRA MONEY ON PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER YOU ABSOLUTELY LOVE!!!
What moment were you most looking forward to seeing in the photos?
The photos in the rain-Mark
The look on his face when I walked down the aisle-Amanda
Not all weddings go exactly to plan. Some things just happen. Someone forgets some details. A few people may run late. We've honestly had people forget the wedding gown and had to run back to get it. BUT... thats okay! Things happen. The biggest thing is not letting it ruin your day. Amanda and Mark were so good about taking in each moment of the day, even when it started pouring during their couple photos. They could have easily let it "rain on their parade" (literally) but they didn't. They embraced it and honestly just enjoyed every moment.
Mark and Amanda's ceremony was so intimate and beautiful. These two have gone through so much in the weeks prior. I know how important this exact moment was for them. Life is so short and beautiful and getting to this point was not easy. When they say "Love prevails", there's so many different meanings of it. I see it as, with love, you come out stronger through all the hardships you've faced together and that's exactly how I feel Amanda and Mark are.
How did you two meet? We met on a blind date thru a mutual friend. I pushed meeting off a couple times and was even late for our first date, which messed up his plans for taking me to the aquarium. I made up for it on our one year anniversary!
Tell us about THE dress! I fell in love with it the moment I put it on but didn't say YES until I tried on a few more. ( I had to be sure!)-Amanda
Amanda's gown was absolutely stunning! It fit her like a glove! If you know the Phocus team, you also know we will NEVER say "no" to a veil! We love the dramatic feel it gives in the photos. Their ceremony took place in a gorgeous church and the veil was definitely a statement as she walked down the aisle.
Tell Us About Your First Dance!
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST DANCE SONG?: Me and You by Kenny Chesney
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THAT SONG?: I am a HUGE Fan and the words fit us perfectly!
Describe the BRIDE on your wedding day!
Absolutely Gorgeous! I loved ever minute that she was smiling and laughing. From my first look at her in the church until our final kiss good night, she made my day and the whole reason I was there.-Mark
Describe the GROOM on your wedding day!
He looked Stunningly Handsome! I couldn't take my eyes off of him, he gave me butterflies all over again. I smiled all day long with tremendous excitement that I finally got my Happily Ever After!-Amanda
What was the most EMOTIONAL part of the day and WHY?
When one of my groomsman had given me something from his mom that was made by my mom.-Mark
Tough One? Getting ready = minor disasters ; Ceremony = So Beautiful! ; Speech from my daughter & sister = waterworks! Tissue please.-Amanda
Amanda's whole family was so sweet and kind hearted. Their speech was full of so much love. You never know what a family goes through. In moments like these you see the strength within them. The day was very emotional, and that's okay. It was beautiful and I know every moment was special to Mark and Amanda.
What is ONE moment of your wedding you will always remember?
Our first kiss as husband and wife!
Favorite Part of the Phocus Experience?
Every Moment! They were absolutely amazing; very knowledgeable, captured the little details, and flawless directing throughout the entire day.
We're so grateful to have met Mark and Amanda. Spending their wedding day with them was so refreshing. Their love for each other was unique and beautiful. Getting to know their family was so special. We get the chance to meet so many people and most of them make us feel like family to them. For that, we're grateful. Grateful for our amazing couple, the chance to be a part of something so beautiful and for being able to capture memories that i KNOW will last for generations.
Wedding Vendors
Reception Venue: Armature Works
Event Planner & Coordinator: Southern Sweetheart Events
Photography: Phocus & Company
Videographer: Allure Cinema
J / Photobooth / Personalized Monogram Lighting: Grant Hemond & Associates - Eric Harding
Caterer: Puff 'n Stuff