Cross Creek Ranch, A Romantic Tampa Bay Wedding Venue
Cross Creek Ranch is a stunning property just east of Tampa in Dover, with sprawling oaks, manicured gardens, a charming glass conservatory, and a white chapel with a unique open air design. Its glassless windows let a gentle breeze flow through during the ceremony, keeping guests comfortable even on a warm Florida afternoon.
With the bridal cottage, the oak lined grounds, and a reception hall glowing with chandeliers and string lights, it is a venue that feels both rustic and elegant.
Getting Ready in the Bridal Cottage
Mindy got ready in the bright bridal cottage with her bridesmaids, all in matching green satin pajamas, while she wore white. She sat at a little table by the window writing in her vow book, a quiet moment we loved capturing before the excitement of the day kicked in.
The details told their story: a MRS keepsake box, wooden vow books engraved with the date, rings in velvet boxes, and stationery that simply said Adventure. Mindy's mom helped button her lace gown, and her bridesmaids, in deep emerald gowns, reacted to their first look at her with pure excitement. Then it was time for a sweet first look with her dad.
Thomas and the Groomsmen
Thomas, in a dark green tuxedo with a black bow tie, and his groomsmen in light tan suits looked sharp under the oaks. His mom helped with the finishing touches before the guys strolled the grounds for photos ahead of the ceremony.
Handwritten Vows in the White Chapel
Thomas and Mindy chose not to see each other before the ceremony, which made the moment Mindy appeared at the chapel doors with her dad all the more powerful. Thomas could not stop smiling as she walked down the aisle, and her dad placed her hand in his with a warm handshake.
Under a beautiful arch of blush and white florals and greenery, they exchanged deeply personal, handwritten vows surrounded by close family and friends. After the kiss, they threw their hands up and practically danced back down the aisle.
The Second Line
One of the highlights of the day was the couple's embrace of New Orleans tradition. Right after the ceremony, Thomas and Mindy grabbed their white and black feathered parasols and led their guests in a lively Second Line, dancing and waving their way across the grounds to the reception hall. It set the perfect tone for the party that followed.
Portraits Under the Oaks
Between family photos and big, happy wedding party shots in front of the chapel, we stole Thomas and Mindy away for portraits around the ranch. Her dramatic lace train looked incredible against the wood chip paths, the white chapel, and the glass conservatory, and the two of them were all laughs and soft kisses.
The Reception
Inside the reception hall, chandeliers and string lights wrapped in greenery set a warm, romantic mood. Thomas and Mindy made their grand entrance, shared a sweet first dance, and then danced with their families before heartfelt toasts.
Mindy had a fun surprise under that lace gown: sparkly white cowboy boots, which made a perfect appearance during the garter toss. The night was filled with dancing, laughter, and one happy couple.
Why Choose Cross Creek Ranch for Your Wedding
If you are looking for a Tampa Bay wedding venue with Southern charm, Cross Creek Ranch checks every box: a breezy open air chapel, gorgeous grounds for portraits, an on site bridal cottage, and a reception space that glows at night. It is especially perfect for couples who want a romantic, garden style wedding with room for personal traditions.
Tampa Wedding Photography & Videography
Henry M Production is a Tampa wedding photography and videography team serving Dover, Plant City, Brandon, Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Sarasota, and Orlando. Being trusted by multiple members of the same family is the greatest compliment we can receive, and we never take it for granted.
Why Thomas & Mindy's Wedding Will Stay With Us
Handwritten vows, a family that keeps coming back, and a second line full of feathered parasols. Thomas and Mindy's day was full of love, laughter, and timeless traditions.
This is just a peek. There is so much more coming.
Congratulations, Thomas & Mindy
Thank you, Thomas and Mindy, for allowing us to be part of such an incredible day, and thank you to Mindy's family for trusting us again and again.
Wishing you a lifetime of happiness, adventure, and love together. Congratulations, Thomas and Mindy.
