A Romantic Celebration at Harborside Chapel | Jimmy & Marissa's Wedding Day

Written by Angie Scott Photography

Orlando Wedding Photographer | Harborside Chapel Wedding

Jimmy and Marissa’s wedding day was nothing short of magical. Set against the peaceful backdrop of Harborside Chapel in Safety Harbor, Florida, their day was full of joyful tears, meaningful traditions, and plenty of personal touches. As their wedding photographer, I was honored to witness a day that reflected their deep love for one another and their desire to keep things fun, intentional, and true to who they are.

A Ceremony at Harborside Chapel

Harborside Chapel is one of the most stunning chapel venues in the Tampa Bay area. With its white walls, tall windows, and classic architecture, it creates a soft, romantic setting perfect for a Christ-centered wedding ceremony. Jimmy and Marissa loved the airy brightness of the chapel and it provided the perfect contrast to their moodier reception vibe later in the day.

When the chapel doors opened, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. Jimmy and Marissa chose not to do a first look, and they didn’t text or see each other all morning, so that moment of seeing one another for the first time was powerful. Jimmy’s tears said it all.

A Wedding That Stayed True to Them

“We really wanted to stay true to ourselves,” Marissa shared. “We didn’t go too crazy, we just wanted to make sure we had fun!”

Their color palette of sage and lavender reflected both of their favorite colors and was incorporated subtly through the florals, bridal party, and small details. They chose to keep some traditions like the bouquet toss and first dances, while also breaking the mold in ways that made the day their own like skipping the cake in favor of tiramisu, their shared favorite dessert.

Personal Touches Everywhere

Marissa DIYed nearly all of the reception décor using her Cricut and Canva - including custom signs, a memory table display, a seating chart, and fun guest menus with games printed on the back. She even ordered personalized pens for guests to take home.

Their specialty drinks were a highlight of the night:

• “That’s That Me Mariss-o” for Marissa (a nod to espresso martinis and Sabrina Carpenter)

• “Jimmy’s Liquid Courage” for the groom

• “Moscow Drool” for their doggie

They even included a strolling violinist during cocktail hour playing pop instrumental music - one of the many thoughtful ideas borrowed from Marissa’s parents’ wedding.

Fashion Fit for a Princess

Marissa’s dress story is one for the books! After trying on 27 gowns, she fell in love with a Martina Liana ball gown featuring sparkles, pearls, and buttons down the cathedral-length train. They customized the dress with removable off-the-shoulder straps, and she paired it with a pearl-trimmed veil and tiara - all from Etsy. To make it even more special, she was the first bride to ever try on and purchase that exact dress, so it’s now named after her!

Jimmy and his groomsmen wore classic navy suits from Men’s Wearhouse. His vest set him apart, and his sage green tie perfectly matched the bridesmaids' dresses.

The most stunning bride!

Sweet Memories and Sentimental Songs

Marissa and her Great-Grandfather

One of the most touching moments of the day was when the DJ played “The Twist” in honor of Marissa’s great-grandfather’s favorite song. And as a dancer, Marissa made sure her childhood best friend was included for a fun performance to Toxic by Britney Spears. Their final dance as husband and wife was just the two of them on the dance floor with “Love Her” by the Jonas Brothers—a nod to the concert they went to the weekend they got engaged.

Advice from the Bride

Marissa shared such heartfelt advice for couples in the thick of planning:

“Celebrate all the little things. Wedding planning can feel isolating, so we bought mini champagne bottles and wrote all the milestones on them—like getting my dress, booking the honeymoon, etc. We’d check it off the list and then celebrate together. This is your moment—romanticize the process!”

As for marriage advice, she says:

“Remember why you got married. It’s you and your spouse against the world. There’s no issue worth coming between that. Life’s too short to stay mad—keep communicating and hold onto joy.”

Vendor Team That Made It All Happen

Ceremony Venue: Harborside Chapel

Reception Coordination: Nova 535

Catering: Delectables Fine Catering

Florals: Green Bench Flowers

Makeup: Femme Akoi Beauty Studio

Live Music: Breezin’ Entertainment & Productions

DJ: DJ Jaey

Photography: Angie Scott Photography

About the Photographer

Hi, I’m Angie! I’m a wedding photographer based in Orlando, Florida, passionate about capturing love stories in a warm, joyful, and faith-rooted way. I believe your wedding day should reflect the heart of who you are and I’m here to document it with beauty and intention.

Planning a Harborside Chapel Wedding?

I would love to photograph more beautiful wedding days at Harborside Chapel and venues throughout the Tampa and Orlando areas. If you’re looking for a photographer who will cheer you on, keep things calm, and capture every sweet detail—reach out here to say hello!

Let’s tell your love story together.