Taverna Toscana

Rehearsal & Rehearsal Dinner

Welcome Drinks

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

Wedding Ceremony + Reception

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Reception

After Party

Our Wedding

We like to think fate was quietly working in the background to bring us together. For a while in 2020, we kept seeing each other around, sharing quick smiles in passing, but never had the chance to truly connect or learn anything about one another. Even so, there was something there—we both developed a bit of a crush on each other, often finding ourselves thinking about one another and even mentioning “seeing the cute guy/girl again” to friends. After about six months of not seeing each other and thinking we probably wouldn’t cross paths again, we matched on Bumble and immediately recognized each other—it felt instantly meant to be. Our first date in downtown St. Petersburg quickly turned into countless adventures, new traditions, and a life built together. Over the years, we’ve traveled, bought a home, and become part of each other’s families. Along the way, we discovered that life is simply better side by side. In June 2025 during an anniversary trip to Key West, Ryan made the weekend even more special by proposing, and later surprised Courtney with a celebration with both of their families, who had secretly flown in for the weekend. Now, after nearly six wonderful years together, we’re so excited to say “I do” surrounded by the people we love most. Thank you for being part of our story—we can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Our Milestones + Memories

Our Story

We’re so excited to celebrate with you in sunny Bradenton! Our wedding will take place in the heart of downtown Bradenton, making it easy to stay nearby and enjoy the area. AIRPORTS:There are several airports nearby to downtown Bradenton. Sarasota–Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is the closest, only about 20 minutes from downtown Bradenton. You can also fly into Tampa International Airport (TPA), about 45 minutes away, or St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE), about 40 minutes away. HOTELS:We’ve secured room block rates at several nearby hotels (see below), each with a limited number of rooms, so we recommend booking early to reserve your preferred spot. These are all great options close to the venue, but there are also plenty of other wonderful hotels and Airbnbs in the area if you’d like to explore—or even make a weekend getaway out of it in nearby Anna Maria Island, Siesta Key, or St. Petersburg, all about 30 minutes away. WEDDING TRANSPORTATION:Two of the hotel room blocks are just a 1–2 minute walk from the venue, making them especially convenient for getting to the wedding. Because the remaining room blocks are spread across different areas, transportation to and from the wedding won’t be provided. However, Uber and Lyft are easy to use throughout the area. There’s also a free parking garage directly across the street from the venue for your convenience. CHILDCARE:We absolutely love your children, but due to venue and guest count limitations, our wedding will be adults-only, with the exception of immediate family and nursing infants. For those who do plan to travel with children, we are happy to share information about childcare services available through Coastal Sitters (see below). Thank you for your understanding—we can’t wait to celebrate with you!

2-minute walk to the wedding venue in the heart of downtown Bradenton, right on the water and close to restaurants and the Riverwalk. Modern, suite-style rooms with a rooftop pool and restaurant/bar. Book by March 2nd, 2027 to secure the room block rate.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Bradenton Downtown/Riverfront

1-minute walk to the wedding venue in the heart of downtown Bradenton, close to restaurants and the Riverwalk. Charming historic-style hotel with complimentary breakfast and comfortable rooms. Book by March 2, 2027 to secure the room block rate.

Hampton Inn & Suites Bradenton Downtown Historic District

The block rate at this hotel is available from Thursday to Monday for those looking for a bit of a longer stay in the area (2 night minimum). Located less than 1 mile from the venue, this hotel features a scenic riverfront setting with a laid-back feel. Guests can enjoy outdoor spaces, a pool, and close proximity to the Riverwalk and marina.&nbsp;Book by March 5th, 2027 to secure the room block rate.

Courtyard by Marriott Bradenton Sarasota/Riverfront

Conveniently located between downtown Bradenton and the beaches, this all-suite hotel offers spacious rooms, kitchenettes, and complimentary breakfast. The immediate area is more residential with fewer walkable dining or entertainment options, but it’s a great value choice that is about a 15 minute drive to both downtown Bradenton and to the Anna Maria Island beaches. Book by March 2, 2027 to secure the room block rate.

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Sarasota Bradenton West

While there are no room blocks available at this location, this hotel is another option that is about a 5-minute drive from the wedding venue and downtown Bradenton. This upscale resort offers a more luxurious stay with spa amenities, riverfront views, and a relaxing, resort-style atmosphere—great for making a weekend out of the celebration.

Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa

While there are no room blocks available, this hotel is located between our venue and the beautiful Anna Maria Island. This laid-back, coastal-inspired hotel offers a relaxing getaway vibe. Guests love the waterfront setting, complimentary breakfast, resort-style pool, and a short drive to nearby beaches and Anna Maria Island—perfect for turning the weekend into a mini vacation. &nbsp;While it is only about a 15-minute drive from our venue, this area does get a lot of beach traffic, so leave plenty of extra time if coming to the wedding from here!

Compass Hotel Anna Maria Sound by Margaritaville

Coastal Sitters is a professional, insured childcare service specializing in weddings, events, and vacation babysitting in the Bradenton area. They provide experienced, background-checked sitters who can care for children in a safe and supervised group setting during your event. Families are welcome to book directly with Coastal Sitters based on their individual needs and preferences.

Coastal Sitters: Professional Childcare Services

Travel and Accommodations

Our Favorite Activities

Just 20 minutes from downtown Bradenton, Anna Maria Island is perfect for a laid-back beach day, with a collection of beautiful beaches spread along the island’s shoreline, each offering white sand, clear water, and a relaxed coastal vibe. For an easy beach day, Manatee Public Beach (our favorite!) offers convenient access, free parking, amenities, and chair and umbrella rentals. While you’re there, stop by the Anna Maria Island Beach Café for a casual bite or drink right on the sand—perfect for brunch, lunch, and sunset views. If you head a few minutes south toward Bradenton Beach and Cortez Beach, you’ll find plenty of fun beach shops, waterfront restaurants, and laid-back local bars. Toward the north end, the island becomes quieter and more residential, leading to Bean Point Beach — a hidden local gem known for its natural, untouched feel, incredible sunsets, and nearby local favorites (though the beach itself does not have amenities or restrooms). See below for some of our favorite restaurants, cafés, coffee shops, and ice cream spots around the island! If you’re planning a beach day, we recommend heading out early—ideally by 9:00 AM or even earlier—as traffic can build quickly and parking becomes very limited later in the morning.

Anna Maria Island

Besides Anna Maria Island, other nearby beaches include Pass-a-Grille, Treasure Island, and St. Pete Beach for classic beach towns and sunsets. Check out Lido Beach for a more upscale vibe, and Siesta Key Beach for its famous white sand and wide shoreline.

Other Beaches

Saturday mornings Farmer's Market in Downtown Bradenton on Saturday mornings (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.) with vendors including food trucks, baked goods, coffee, and handmade goods.

Bradenton Farmer's Market

The Bradenton Riverwalk is a scenic 2-mile waterfront park and walking path stretching along downtown Bradenton and the Manatee River. Our wedding venue is located directly on the Riverwalk, making it the perfect spot for a sunset stroll, relaxing river views, and easy access to nearby restaurants, coffee shops, and the Saturday morning farmer’s market. Keep an eye on the water — you may catch a glimpse of dolphins and manatees!

Bradenton Riverwalk

A bucket-list activity about 15 minutes from downtown Bradenton, beach horseback riding with Florida Beach Horses or C Ponies offers guided rides along the shoreline, through the water, and at sunset with stunning Gulf views. Book at least a month in advance, and leave early in case there's traffic getting there.

Florida Beach Horses

Lazy Turtle Rentals is one of our favorite ways to explore Anna Maria Island—rent bikes in the morning, grab breakfast next door at North Shore Café, and spend the day riding around enjoying the beautiful views, with a stop at Two Scoops for ice cream along the way.

Lazy Turtle Beach Rentals

The Gulf Islands Ferry is a scenic water taxi that departs from the Bradenton Riverwalk near our venue and runs to Anna Maria Island (Bridge Street Pier) in about 35–50 minutes each way. Tickets are around $8 per person, making it an easy, affordable way to skip traffic and enjoy the ride on the water. We recommend buying your tickets in advance if you plan to use the ferry!

Gulf Islands Ferry

A popular local boat tour company offering public (shared) and private dolphin-watching tours, sunset cruises, snorkeling trips, and sandbar stops around Anna Maria Island.

Anna Maria Island Boat Tours

A peaceful coastal nature spot with boardwalk trails, observation towers, kayaking, and wildlife.

Robinson Preserve

Kayak and paddleboard rentals with easy access to spots like Robinson Preserve—perfect for a peaceful paddle through mangroves and local wildlife around Bradenton and Anna Maria Island.

Kayak Jacks  Rentals

The Bradenton area offers plenty of great golf options for all levels, from scenic public courses to well-kept private clubs. Local favorites include IMG Academy Golf Club, The Links at Greenfield Plantation, and University Park Country Club, all known for beautiful layouts and Florida scenery. There are also many additional courses nearby, making it easy to fit in a relaxing round during your stay.

Golf

A lively beach town near Siesta Key Beach with restaurants, bars, live music, and shops—perfect for a beach day or sunset outing.

Siesta Key Village

Catch a baseball game at LECOM Park in downtown Bradenton, home of Pittsburgh Pirates spring training and the minor league Bradenton Marauders. Or, head north to Tropicana Field to catch a Tampa Bay Rays game.

Baseball Game at LECOM Park or Tropicana Field

The Mote Aquarium is a fun, family-friendly waterfront aquarium with sharks, manatees, sea turtles, and interactive marine exhibits, located near the Shops at UTC.

Mote Science Education Aquarium (SEA)

A beautiful cultural landmark with bayfront gardens, a historic mansion, an art collection, and the Tibbals Learning Center &amp; Circus Museum showcasing circus history.

The Ringling Art and Circus Museum

About 25 minutes from downtown Bradenton, downtown Sarasota is a walkable area known for great restaurants, rooftop bars, boutique shopping, art galleries, and live music—perfect for a day or night out exploring. Some of our favorite spots include Classico, Marina Jack, O’Leary’s, Boca, Bar Hana, the Westin rooftop, and Art Ovation rooftop.

Downtown Sarasota

An upscale, walkable shopping and dining area with boutiques, restaurants, and ice cream shops surrounding a central circle. Our favorite restaurant there is Columbia Restaurant!

St. Armands Circle

The St. Pete Pier is a beautiful waterfront destination with nearby parks, restaurants, and views of Tampa Bay. Along the waterfront and Gulf Drive you’ll find lots of great dining options, plus fun daytime markets and shops. At night, Central Avenue comes alive with nightlife, bars, and entertainment—perfect for a full day of exploring and sunset views.

St. Petersburg

A modern open-air shopping and dining destination with popular retailers, restaurants, and seasonal events.

University Town Center

St. Regis Longboat Key spa offers a luxurious, oceanfront escape with relaxing treatments and all-day resort amenities when you book a spa treatment—perfect for a spa day or pampering.

The St. Regis Spa- Longboat Key Resort

Our Favorite Restaurants

Bradenton

    

Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant

PIER 22

O'bricks Irish Pub & Martini Bar

The Sage Biscuit Café- Downtown

Oak & Stone

Motorworks Brewing- Bradenton

Orange Blossom Coffee

Anna Maria Island (South End)

Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe

Beach House Waterfront Restaurant

Gulf Drive Cafe

Daiquiri Deck Bradenton Beach

Island Time Bar and Grill

Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier

Anna Maria Island (North End)

North Shore Cafe

Sandbar Seafood + Spirits

Two Scoops

The Waterfront Restaurant

Ginny's & Jane E's Cafe and Gift Store

Things to Do

We’re so excited to celebrate with you in Florida sunshine! The dress code is springtime formal—think light, colorful, and elevated spring wedding attire. Lightweight suits, dresses, and seasonal fabrics are perfect for the warm weather and outdoor setting. Feel free to lean into spring colors, florals, and fun patterns while keeping it polished and wedding-ready.

Courtney & Ryan

Courtney & Ryan

Gallery