Alyssa and Michael’s elegant wedding in downtown St. Petersburg at NOVA 535 was filled with magic, vintage-inspired grandeur and an abundance of love. The December celebration was illuminated by memorable details, from the bride’s champagne and gold bouquet to the breathtaking nighttime portraits to their grand exit in a classic Rolls Royce.
The St. Pete bride and groom selected a 1920s Great Gatsby-inspired theme, incorporating black, white, and champagne hues, reflecting their old-soul personalities. The couple, who tied the knot in their while in their 20s and in the 2020s, were drawn towards the timeless elegance of the traditional black-tie theme.
Alyssa and Michael’s personal touch was felt in every detail, from the antique accented place settings to the thoughtful thank you cards placed at each table. These elements brought charm to their wedding, setting a heartwarming tone for their 194 cherished guests.
“Our wedding subtly highlighted our personalities with unique touches such as bespoke thank you cards on the charger plates instead of menus. Moreover, I personally designed all the floral centerpieces and a large part of the signage that added an extra special touch to our day,” the bride beamed.
NOVA 535, a breathtaking century-old venue, served as the perfect backdrop for the pair’s Gatsby-inspired wedding. The exposed brick walls, Brazilian hardwood floors, majestic 16-foot ceilings, and dramatic lighting brought their vision to life, transforming the historic venue into a moody, romantic setting.
“NOVA 535 was a natural choice for us. Its historic architecture, alluring ambiance, prime location, and dedicated team ensured our wedding was more than just an event. It was a dream come true! I can’t praise enough the efforts of April and Ruby, who ensured our wedding day was seamless and ethereal. The venue and team exceeded our expectations, making our day extraordinarily memorable!” Alyssa gushed.
As the day began, Alyssa and her bridesmaids started their preparations in the getting-ready suite with an idyllic view of the towering bamboo stretching into the courtyard. The indoor ceremony was illuminated by the venue’s ethereal string lights that complemented the clay brick wall backdrop.
As the day progressed to cocktail hour, the nearly 200 wedding guests relished in the serenity of the private outdoor courtyard, which was bathed in the soft uplighting bouncing off the towering bamboo. Meanwhile, the event team from NOVA 535 masterfully transformed the main floor from an intimate ceremony setting into a lively dance hall.
The highlight of the reception unfolded as the newlyweds cut their cake from the vantage point of the second-level balcony, adding a touch of theatrical flair. The grand finale included a picture-perfect sparkler send-off, signaling the perfect climax to a night filled with celebration and joy.
“Joining our friends and family during the cocktail hour, our dazzling sparkler exit and our departure in the stunning vintage Rolls Royce are moments we will cherish forever. It truly felt as if we were in a different era, attracting attention from passersby as we drove around downtown. It’s not every day you get to experience a ride in a historical masterpiece,” the bride detailed.











