Davis Islands Garden Club

Rehearsal Dinner  (Invitation Only)

Welcome Party (Invitation Only)

Wedding Day

South Tampa Fellowship

Ceremony

Tampa Garden Club

Reception

Spring

Our Wedding

Normally, we have to imagine that this section of the website is usually the simplest and easiest to piece together...but, as many of you reading this are aware, simple and easy would not accurately describe the journey that the two of us have walked. If we're being exact, we actually met briefly at the end of our freshman year of college when mutual friends introduced us at the Gator spring football game in April of 2016. After meeting Michaela that night, Matt joked around with his buddy Ryan and somehow "called his shot" by telling him that he would one day date this Michaela girl. Well, fast-forward to fall of 2016, and we run into each other at a couple more fraternity events. Michaela decided to invite Matt on a sorority date function to win a bet against her friend Carly. The thing about this date function, though, was that it was a month and a half away. What does that have to do with anything? Well a month and a half is a long time away to ask someone on a first date... but, as we all know, Michaela, of course, doesn't care about "the way things should be done". So she asked anyway and Matt couldn't refuse. And so it began... We met at a time where neither of us were ready for a serious relationship. We both knew, though, that the connection was too special not to pursue. So we gave it a shot and over the course of the next 5 years, we fell in love. As simple as that might sound, for us, it was pretty complicated. Our relationship was previously defined by a lot of emotional highs and lows. Many of you reading this have been there for this entire journey. For that, we thank you for the support, love and guidance you have given us. As we are sitting here together writing our story, we can confidently, and proudly, say that everything we have gone through has been purposeful. Through our relationship we have learned a lot about compassion, grace, and how to unconditionally love one another. We are extremely blessed to have a story that has brought us individually, and collectively, closer to our Heavenly Father. We truly believe that our relationship can serve as an example of how redemption is possible when you allow Jesus to transform your heart. As we said earlier, we are forvever grateful to every single one of you for being a part of our love story. We look forward to celebrating this new season of life with you on March 11, 2023! With so much love &amp; admiration, Matt &amp; Michaela

Our Story

Photos

Matthew Farah

Michaela Pattison

There is no better place for Jay than right beside Matt on our wedding day.  He is an incredibly loyal friend and has always been there for Matt since they began playing baseball together in 2003. His quick-witted humor compliments Matt’s bad jokes.

Jay Nasrallah

The mashed potatoes to Michaela’s gravy. There is nobody else in this world that understands Michaela the way Marina does. They are the perfect sister match for one another and I’m beyond thankful for her in our lives. 

Marina Pattison

The most sincere and dependable man I have had the pleasure of knowing. He has loved Matt and pushed him in his relationship with Christ since college when they were discipled together in Pi Kapp.  He has always made us feel fully known and fully loved.  We are beyond grateful for his intentional friendship with each of us.

Brandon Furry

Carly is one of the only people on this planet that can match Michaela on every level. She’s also one of the only people (including me sometimes) that can get through to Michaela. As time has passed, they’ve only grown closer. Carly is consistent, steady, and supportive and I’m thankful for her in both of our lives. 

Carly Knox

Is he Matt’s cousin or is he Matt’s best friend? I still don’t know for certain. Either way we are glad he will be around for the long haul. He is lovable, kind and has always made me feel included.  We are so excited to make many memories with him and his soon-to-be wife, Alexa!

Anthony Farmand

Mallie has lived with Michaela the longest of anyone (outside of immediate family). She’s an incredible roommate but an even better friend to both Michaela and I. She’s confident and calm and I’m excited to pick her brain on how to handle living with Michaela.

Mallie Standford

Ryan has been there from the moment Matt and I met. But more than that, he has been with Matt through every stage of life. He reminds us to enjoy life and not to take things too seriously.  His enthusiasm and zest for life is contagious.  No doubt he will be the one leading the charge on the dance floor on 3/11/23.

Ryan Emery

Truly one of a kind. I first met Meghan my sophomore year of college  and since then she has been one of the wisest  and most caring persons in both of our lives. We trust her with the deepest matters and the wisdom she offers is a direct result of her love for and faith in Jesus.

Meghan Pattison

Matt and Alex’s relationship is special because not only are they family, but they make the choice to be friends too.  So many of the stories Matt has told me from childhood include Alex and their sisters. We are excited to create more memories with Alex and the rest of the family!

Alex Rukab

I truly don’t know if there is someone more excited for this marriage than Danielle. She is the biggest ball of joy, energy, and love and she serves as a huge piece in both of our lives. We trust her with everything and love her more than anything.

Danielle Farah

Jub is one of the most life-giving relationships in Matt’s life. They’ve been there for eachother through every phase of life. Jub is a cousin and friend but Matt has always described him as a brother. We’re so excited to start this next chapter with him by our side!

Jabra Ghanayem

Shane is my go-to person when I need perspective/guidance entering into this loud, energetic, loving Arabic family.  We are thankful for the example he and Jess set in their marriage.  They have shown us what it looks like to truly become one.  Excited for a lifetime of memories with him and his beautiful, growing family!

Shane Biery

Jessica has been been a rock in my life for as long as I can remember. Her and I have always understood each other, even when others couldn’t. She’s a defender, a confidant, and quite literally the best big sister we could have been blessed with. 

Jessica Biery

Andrew is Matt's, now, not-so little, cousin. Andrew is the definition of kind, gentle, and dependable. He prioritizes those he loves and has been such a blessing to Matt throughout their lives. They have shared countless childhood memories together and will only continue to make more

Andrew Akel

Based on the picture, you'd think that Jacob is Matt's older cousin. Similarly to Andrew, though, Matt had the opportunity to watch Jacob grow into the young man he is today. While Matt and Andrew might be a bit more serious at times, Jacob lightens the mood. He's energetic, thoughtful, and not as funny as he thinks he is.

Jacob Akel

This was supposed to be Arden’s debut as a flower girl. Although she will not be physically present, we know she will be there walking down that aisle right beside her little sister, Brynn. We miss her beautiful smile more & more everyday ♡

Arden Thornbury

Brynn will be the only one keeping us all in line on the wedding day. She is the most steadfast, loyal and intentional young lady we have ever met. She is wise beyond her years and we can’t wait to continue to watch her grow! So proud to call her our god-daughter ♡

Brynn Thornbury

Although Kasen has only been alive a couple of months, Matt and I couldn’t imagine our wedding without our first nephew being in it! (if you can’t tell by the picture… we are BIG fans)

Kasen Biery

We could not be more thrilled for Chris to be the one marrying us. He and his beautiful wife, Rachel, have been extremely intentional the past year walking with us through the engagement season and helping to prepare us for marriage. Thank you both for showing us how to love unconditionally.

Chris Dotson

Wedding Party

Q + A

Below you can find a list of hotels we recommend. Please feel free to reserve rooms at any of these or any others you feel will work best for you! We have two hotel blocks reserved in downtown Tampa (indicated by red star on the map). See below for group rate code information. If you choose to book elsewhere, the map below will give you an idea of the geographical area we recommend staying in &amp; all important locations of the weekend (blue stars indicate ceremony &amp; reception venues). There are several great options on Airbnb &amp; Vrbo if you want to look there too!

There are several rooms reserved here for our out of town guests! Use the link below to book through our wedding block and receive the discounted rate.

Le Méridien Tampa, The Courthouse

Hotel Haya

Courtyard  by Marriott Tampa Downtown

Floridan Palace Hotel

Epicurean Hotel, Autograph Collection

The Westin Tampa Waterside

JW Marriott Tampa Water Street

Aloft Tampa Downtown

Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel

Hilton Tampa Downtown

Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown

The Tampa EDITION

Travel

Sparkman Wharf

Armature Works

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa

Straz Center for the Performing Arts - Wicked Tickets

The Florida Aquarium

TECO Line Streetcar System

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

St. Pete Pier

Pass-a-Grille Beach

Davis Islands Boat Ramp

Our Favorite Coffee Shops

<a href="https://www.buddybrew.com/pages/locations-2019" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Buddy Brew </a><a href="http://www.dicoffeebar.com/location" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">DI Coffee Bar</a><a href="https://caffeineroasters.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Caffeine Roasters</a><a href="https://www.spaddyscoffee.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spaddy’s Coffee Co.</a><a href="https://javahzcafe.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ja-vahz Cafe</a><a href="https://www.thelabcoffee.com/location" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Lab Coffee</a><a href="https://www.willasprovisions.com/hours-and-location/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Willa’s Provisions</a><a href="https://zmenu.com/gios-cuban-cafe-tampa-online-menu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gio’s Cafe</a><a href="https://www.ladyandthemug.com/talk-to-us" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lady and the Mug</a>

Our Favorites Restaurants

<a href="http://www.sakanasushitampa.com/menu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sakana Sushi</a><a href="http://hulabayclub.com/menu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hula Bay Club</a><a href="https://yeomanscaskandlion.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Yeoman's</a><a href="https://hattrickstavern.com/our-menu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hattricks Tavern</a><a href="https://www.jacksonsbistro.com/menu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jackson’s Bistro</a><a href="https://www.waterandfloursoho.com/menus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Water &amp; Flour</a><a href="https://www.eatforbici.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Forbici</a><a href="https://bartaco.com/location/tampa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bar Taco</a><a href="https://goodygoodyburgers.com/menu/lunch-dinner/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Goody Goody</a><a href="https://bullmarkettampa.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bull Market</a><a href="https://salt-shack.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Salt Shack</a><a href="https://www.himesbreakfasthouse.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Himes Breakfast House</a><a href="https://www.brunchery.com/menu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Brunchery</a><a href="https://www.bistro-bt.com/menu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bistro BT</a><a href="https://www.graze1910.com/menu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Graze 1910</a><a href="https://thechouse.com/menus/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">C House</a><a href="https://www.gourmetpizza-company.com/menu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gourmet Pizza Company</a> <a href="https://www.oliviatampa.com/menu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Olivia</a><a href="https://www.ilovedailyeats.com/copy-of-catering" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Daily Eats</a><a href="https://www.luvchildsoho.com/menu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Luv Child</a>

Our Favorite Drink Spots

<a href="https://www.mbirdtampa.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">M. Bird</a><a href="https://bullagastrobar.com/menus/luna-lounge-tampa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Luna Lounge</a><a href="https://untappd.com/v/lighthaus-beer-garden/10901557" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sparkman Wharf</a><a href="https://www.hotelbartampa.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hotel Bar</a><a href="https://www.thegetawaytampabay.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Getaway</a><a href="https://www.wovenwaterbrew.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Woven Water Brewing</a><a href="https://7venthsun.com/location/tampa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">7venth Sun Brewery</a><a href="https://www.cigarcitybrewing.com/tasting-room/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=Yext" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cigar City Brewing</a><a href="https://www.crucellars.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cru Cellars</a><a href="https://cheesepleasetampa.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cheese Please</a><a href="https://pierteaki.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pier Teaki</a>

Our Favorite Dessert Spots

<a href="https://dairyjoytampa.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dairy Joy</a><a href="https://www.chillbros.com/menu?gclid=Cj0KCQjwnNyUBhCZARIsAI9AYlE-eK-GeNJpSdHG1kWuAOzEWdeyRRhgJUoUv80T5CL9qzFiPbZQyy4aAp5GEALw_wcB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chill Bros</a><a href="https://insomniacookies.com/locations/store/2013" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Insomnia Cookies</a><a href="https://crumblcookies.com/flsouthtampa" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Crumbl Cookies</a><a href="https://www.thehyppo.com/find-us" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Hyppo</a><a href="https://menus.today/menu/227986.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bern’s Dessert Room</a><a href="https://www.ilovesweetsoul.com/_files/ugd/c3bfad_f219165ba7c946ee828692ede8aac209.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sweet Soul</a><a href="https://www.halelifebakery.com/_files/ugd/acc364_873e5cb0e9cc477cb8e2df81d5b481b2.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Halelife Bakery</a><a href="https://www.dlitestampa.com/flavors-of-the-week/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">D’Lites Emporium</a>

Matt & Michaela