Elegant Black & White Wedding at Jackson's Bistro in Downtown Tampa:
Epstein and Cooke: Too Gorgeous for Words
Downtown Tampa was a beautiful backdrop for Jen Epstein and Jeremy Cooke's elegant and romantic wedding in the harbor. Many know bride Jen Epstein as the gorgeous Fox 13 news anchor for Good Day Tampa Bay. Tampa residents wake up every morning to her bubbly personality and articulate professionalism. Those that have the privilege to know Jen as friend will speak of her dynamic personality, loyalty and fortitude. She loves unconditionally, lives with passion, and on Saturday, November 11, 2014, vowed in front of friends, family and her two adorable dogs, Kote Boz and Otis, to spend the rest of her life with her handsome groom Jeremy.
Jen, a stylish northerner, and Jeremy, a charming southern gentleman from North Carolina, met and fell in love in Tampa, Florida. They were engaged at Curtis Hixon park just days before Christmas 2013. Jeremy pulled off an amazing surprise proposal and made Jen the happiest woman in Tampa by asking her to be his wife. Together they are an amazing couple. Jeremy's adoration for Jen is truly heart warming. His love for her is expressed in the way he cares for her, the tender way he places his hand on the small of her back and the look of awe he gets when she enters the room.
In three words Jen described her wedding day as elegant, sweet and fun. This black and white wedding proved to be exactly that and so much more. Stunning white hydrangeas and roses, unique black bridesmaids dresses, and truly dapper Vera Wang tuxedos were stylish and timeless decor and attire choices. Jen's generous and caring nature led her to choose a beautiful lace and beaded fit and flare gown from Brides against Breast Cancer with proceeds going to cancer research and supporting survivors and their families. Jen completed her timeless bridal look with gorgeous black satin Betsy Johnson kitten heels, with a six pence for luck.
The perfect wedding doesn't exist. Things may not go exactly as planned but it is the job of a good wedding coordinator to make it a perfect day for the bride and groom. Bel Valentine talks about the moments right before the processional, "No matter what could go wrong such as the threat of possible rain or decor issues the most magical moment as a wedding planner is preparing the groom to walk down the aisle. It is the heartfelt exchange of asking him if he is ready to marry the girl of his dreams. Then being able to ask the bride if she is ready to marry her prince charming. The sparkle in Jeremy and Jen's eyes is unforgettable. The glimmer of pure joy in their eyes, the love amongst them, and their smiles is the reason I love what I do."
The harbor proved to be the quintessential metropolitan setting to highlight the elegant bride and groom as they delivered their heartfelt vows. Their two little dogs were dressed in satin puppy tuxedos and made the trip down the aisle to be greeted with a kiss from Jeremy. Mouths dropped and eyes glistened with tears as the bride made her grand entrance to meet her groom. The ceremony was so special and meaningful. Jen and Jeremy each wrote their vows stopping occasionally when the overwhelming emotion of their love brought a powerful pause to their spiritual exchange. The special moments such as the personal letter Jeremy sent to Jen's room while she was getting ready, the soft and poetic live music prior to the ceremony, and Jeremy's dad as his best man were so super sweet.
The reception took place in Jackson's waterfront ballroom with three walls of windows overlooking the lights of downtown. The candlelight illuminated this elegant room adored in crystal and hydrangeas. The party went well into the evening and was filled with dancing and laughter described by all guests as FUN! Joshua Smeaton of Music on the Move wrote about this amazing a couple and their undeniable connection, "They are an example of disparate personalities complimenting the other perfectly. Each sharing their strengths with the other, they are so much greater together than they could ever be on their own. It was a joy to see the affection they shared for each other. One trait they both share equally is graciousness. I lost track of the number of times I heard either one of them thanking someone.When it was their day to be fawned over, they effortlessly made everyone else feel special."
We wish this amazing couple a lifetime of happiness and joy. May you grow with love, find pleasure in the simple shared moments and continue your journey with grace. We could not think of two people whose love is more powerful.
(Want to give a huge shout out to Jaime and Marisca who assisted on our amazing photography team!)
Photography:: Rising Lotus Photography
Wedding Planner:: The Day of Events
Hotel:: The Westin Harbor Island
Venue:: Jackson's Bistro
Deejay:: Music on the Move
Flowers:: Northside Florist
Ceremony Music:: Amanda and Matt
Officiant:: Roni Sloman
Linens:: Fancy That Specialty Linens
Cake:: Hands on Sweets
Bridal Gown:: Brides Against Breast Cancer
Tuxedo:: Vera Wang, Men's Warehouse
Rings:: Gold and Diamond Source
Bridesmaids Dresses:: Alfred Angelo
Brides Shoes:: Betsy Johnson
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Jen Epstein Bridal Portrait
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Bouquet tossJen Epstein Cooke tosses her wedding bouquet.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Epstein and Cooke Elegant Waterfront Wedding in Downtown Tampa at Jackson's BistroElegant, sweet and fun wedding of Fox 13's Jen Esptein at Jackson's Bistro in Tampa, Florida. Beautiful black and white elegant wedding details with designers Vera Wang and Betsy Johnson.
Jen and Jeremy's Wedding Preview Gallery
Jen and Jeremy's wedding has been published in the following:
The Knot
Heather Renee Celebrations
Marry Me Tampa Bay
Black Sheep Bride
Special thanks to Jaime and Marisca. You ladies are the BEST.