Le Meridien Tampa Wedding

Rachel and Joe’s Le Meridien Tampa wedding day was about so much more than the celebration. It was about the covenant. They very much wanted their wedding to be a reflection of God’s love, about two people becoming one, and the uniting of two families. During our chats, they shared how deeply they wanted their photos to reflect the beauty of a Christian marriage, one grounded in faith, family, and joy.

As I photographed their day, I was guided by their vision to capture the true essence of love as God designed it, sacred and holy. It was truly beautiful to witness their love for God, each other, and their families, as well as the love that surrounded them.

Their Love Story

Rachel and Joe met in March 2024 while at a Catholic retreat. From the very beginning, their relationship was grounded in intention, trust, and a shared devotion to God. Their faith helped shape every decision leading up to their wedding day.

Once they became official, their relationship moved quickly. In fact, Rachel left their first date stating “this is the guy I will marry.” She wasn’t the only one who knew they were meant to be. Just 10 days into their relationship, Joe told Rachel he loved her, proving that you really do just know when you’ve found the one.

Getting Ready at Le Meridien Tampa Hotel

Their wedding day began at Le Meridien Tampa, a boutique hotel rich with history and architectural character. Once a federal courthouse, the building now blends timeless structure with refined modern design, making it a stunning backdrop for getting ready and wedding portraits.

The historic venue was a beautiful location for them to begin their day. After getting ready, the couple shared a meaningful first look and private vow exchange outside the building next to the large columns decorating the front of the building. As a Le Meridien Tampa Wedding Photographer these portraits were a dream to photograph, offering both intimacy and architectural beauty.

Sacred Heart Church Wedding Ceremony Filled with Meaning

The heart of their wedding day was their Sacred Heart Catholic Church wedding ceremony. This church was not simply a venue; it was a place filled with significance and family history. The bride shared that her great-grandfather was baptized at Sacred Heart, making it a deeply meaningful place for her family. Then, years earlier while living in Tallahassee, she found herself praying for guidance about whether she should move to Tampa or not, and quietly thought how incredible it would be to one day be married at Sacred Heart Church.

Standing beneath the church’s soaring ceilings, surrounded by intricate details and breathtaking stained glass windows, that prayer came full circle. The church’s light-filled interior and ornate craftsmanship was a sight to behold.

The bride looked effortlessly elegant as she walked down the aisle in an off-the-shoulder gown adorned with intricate lace details. Her look was timeless and refined, perfectly suited to the setting of the church. A crisp bouquet of classic white roses completed her bridal ensemble. 

Oak and Ola Wedding Reception

Following the ceremony, guests gathered for an intimate and elegant Oak and Ola Wedding reception. The warm, inviting atmosphere created the perfect environment for heartfelt connection and celebration. Speeches filled with kind words about them and their relationship brought both tears and laughter and was a highlight of the evening.

The focus of their day remained on togetherness, unity, and family love. They were celebrating not just a wedding day, but a lifelong commitment to each other rooted in faith and love.

A Wedding That Reflected What Matters Most

Congratulations, Rachel and Joe! I’m so happy for you both. Your gorgeous wedding served as a beautiful reminder of the true meaning of marriage and the reasons behind the celebration. As a Le Meridien Tampa Wedding Photographer, it was an honor to document a day that so clearly reflected God’s love, intentional commitment, and the beauty of marriage.

Le Meridien Tampa Wedding Vendors:

Getting ready location: Le Meridien Tampa Hotel

Ceremony venue: Sacred Heart Church 

Reception Venue: Oak and Ola

Photographer: Ruth Terrero Photography

Florals: Jennie’s Flowers

I love getting to capture these special moments so that you can remember your wedding day for the rest of your life! For me, your wedding day is so much more than just a day.

You deserve a wedding photographer who is invested in you and capturing every moment! Reach out and let’s connect to book your wedding day here in Florida (or around the world)!