When history, culture, and timeless style come together, you get a editorial wedding shoot like Lauren and Jaxson’s at Centro Asturiano de Tampa. Nestled in the heart of Ybor City, Tampa, Florida, this wedding beautifully reflected the couple’s personality, love story, and the historic Cuban influence of the venue.
About the Couple
Lauren, who works for GoodFood Events and Catering in Tampa as an event production and business development specialist, brought her expertise and vision to the wedding editorial. Her eye for detail showed in the details, while Jaxson brought a warmth and joy that kept the day full of energy and fun. Together, their celebration perfectly balanced elegance with their own personalities.
Why They Chose Centro Asturiano de Tampa
Built in 1902, Centro Asturiano de Tampa is a historic landmark with deep cultural roots in Tampa’s Cuban and Spanish communities (read the venue’s history here). With its grand architecture, ornate ballrooms, and timeless character, it was the perfect setting for a wedding that felt both old money and historical, while still fresh and personal to Lauren and Jaxson.
The Atmosphere
The day felt like stepping back in time, filled with the richness of tradition and the vibrancy of Ybor City. The couple leaned into the venue’s Cuban heritage with custom cigar details and a late-night cigar lounge, giving their guests a unique, cultural experience. The weather was warm, the atmosphere was lively, and the celebration felt both historic and modern all at once.
Unique Details & Design
This wedding was packed with personalized details:
- Custom leather accents in the bar design, flatlays, and cigars.
- Custom invitations designed with leather touches.
- Watercolor paintings created just for the event, adding a bespoke artistic flair.
- Cigars at every place setting, honoring the Cuban influence of Ybor City.
Lauren and Jaxson chose a monochromatic green color palette, which tied in seamlessly with the historic architecture and gave a timeless, elevated feel. The bridesmaids wore rich shades of green, complementing the sophisticated vibe of the day, while the groomsmen’s attire balanced formality with style.
Standout Moments
Two moments stood out most on this wedding day:
- The cigar lounge experience — Lauren’s reception dress change paired with cigar photos created an unforgettable late-night vibe.
- The mix of old and new — blending the historic grandeur of Centro Asturiano with modern details like leather and custom artwork made this celebration one-of-a-kind.
Final Thoughts
Lauren and Jaxson’s wedding at Centro Asturiano de Tampa was more than just a celebration—it was a love story set against one of Tampa’s most historic backdrops. With thoughtful details, a nod to Cuban heritage, and timeless style, their wedding captured everything special about Ybor City.
As a Tampa wedding photographer, I love when couples choose venues that reflect history and culture. The photos become not just a record of their love, but of the story of the place itself.
Engaged? Looking for help jumpstarting your wedding planning process? I would love to help! You can view more of my work here and inquire below to learn more about how we can fit into your wedding day!
Vendors
Planner: @wanderlusteventcompany
Furniture, bookshelf, tables, and chairs: @stellaroseevents
Linens: @overthetoprentallinens
Photography: @j.arnold.photography
HMUA: @beautycouturetampa
Videography: @northwoodfilms
Suit: @satinandlace.suits
Wedding dress: @thewhiteclosetbridal
Florals and candles: @graceandlaceevents
Content creation: @cielorose_content
Tabletop rentals, Champagne tower: @achairaffair
Mini portraits: @brushandbloom.studios
Cigars and cigar boxes: @lmcigars
Signage and invitation suite: @kulgra
Venue: @centroasturianodetampa
Alabama Smilax: @alabamasmilax
Second Photographer: @tinaortiztinaortiz
Couple: @laurenandjaxson
