From the owner Michael S. Novilla
To start, Megan and Matt are deeply in love, and what a cute, adorable couple they make. Getting to know them a bit along the way revealed good people; appreciative and genuine. Megan’s father Marc and I had many conversations along the way, and the more I knew Marc, the further i understood how amazing Megan must be – the apple falling near the tree and all that. Then by extension, Matt must be – and is equally fabulous, because the Zudars are quality top to bottom, and wouldn’t associate with anything less. I was honored to host their wedding here at NOVA 535, kinda the exact reason I went all in and spent 3 LONG years of my life converting a once proud dime store (built 1920) that had been abused over the years, most recently a doggie day care (2005) into what we here in St. Petersburg can proudly call our own world class wedding and event space. A space worthy of the most important day for Matt, Megan and their families. So congratulations and THANKS for trusting team NOVA on your BIG DAY!
The Proposal:
One Thursday at work, I got flowers saying to pack my bags that we were going to the islands the next day. I was slightly freaking out because I couldn’t get a hold of Matt or my boss to make sure I was cleared for the days off. I had no idea how long I would be gone.
I got home and there were rose petals leading to our room with my weekender bag on the bed. Matt had given me the bag a few months before for an anniversary present for this exact weekend.
We left the next day to Key West, where we rented bikes and rode all around town to see the sites. The last place on the list was the lighthouse. At the top, we were all alone and that is where he proposed. I started crying and hardly remember the rest of what was said but I said yes through the tears.
What elements of your wedding were the most important?
We spent a long time on the ceremony making sure it said everything we wanted and took out the parts we didn’t. After all that is what the day is about!
What were the deciding factors for choosing NOVA 535?
We both grew up in the Tampa Bay area. After a few months of searching I found venue NOVA 535 in St. Pete, and we knew it was perfect for us.
I had spent months looking for a venue that wasn’t your typical hotel wedding. I loved the exposed brick and the courtyard. I loved the feeling I got inside. I also loved Michael who was very helpful throughout the process. The team at NOVA is great!
Everyone that was at the wedding has said how much they loved the site and how amazing it was. The staff was so accomodating to all our needs. They worked very closely with us to make sure our vision was perfect.
How would you describe your theme?
My wedding vision was soft and romantic. I choose whites, pale pink, mint green, grey and metallics for the colors. I picked those colors because to me they are timeless and classic. Romantic white, pink and grey – how lovely it was.
I wanted the flowers to be soft and look like they had just been gathered from the garden and not be too structured on the tables. I knew I wanted mercury glass and chalkboards for decor. I spent months gathering up all the mercury glass I could and make all the chalkboard signs. I know that in a few years I will still love everything about my wedding night.
What advice would you give to other Tampa Bay Brides?
The process is stressful but remember that it is about you and your soon to be husband. Don’t feel like you have to so something or spend money on something just because you are supposed to. Think about what matters most about your day and focus on that. Also if you can afford an extra hour for reception do it! It went by in a blink!
Ceremony and Reception Venue: NOVA 535 Unique Event Space
Photographer: Roohi Photography
Videographer: Bright Frame Films
Planner: Premier Style Events
Florist: 2Birds Events
Rentals: Signature Event Rentals
Cake: Sweet Tweets Cakery
DJ: Grant Hemond & Associates – DJ Tony
Officiant: Friend of the Bride
Invitations: Fink Ink Designs
Transportation: Jolley Trolley
Wedding Dress, Bridesmaid Dresses and Shoes: Malindy Elene Bridal – Paloma Blanca
Hair & Makeup: Lasting Luxe – Michele Galletto
Anna Coats is a wedding blogger from Marry Me Tampa Bay which showcases local weddings in the Tampa Bay area. Her 11-11-11 St. Petersburg, FL wedding was featured on USA Today.