Introduction: Capturing Love Stories at Tampa’s Premier Wedding Venue
As the heart and soul behind Stills by Hernan, I am dedicated to capturing the unique love stories that unfold in the vibrant energy of Tampa, Florida. This city offers an enchanting blend of urban sophistication and coastal charm, creating the perfect backdrop for your special day.
Among Tampa’s many gems, Hotel Haya stands as a beacon—an iconic venue that embodies the rich tapestry of the city’s history and culture. Specializing in weddings at Hotel Haya, I am committed to ensuring that every precious moment of your dream wedding is captured with authenticity and artistry. My purpose is to reflect the true essence of your love, allowing your story to be told through images that resonate with your highest excitement.
The Jewel of Ybor City: Hotel Haya Unveiled
Location & History
Nestled in the historic district of Ybor City at 1412 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, Hotel Haya is more than just a venue—it’s a destination steeped in heritage and elegance. Named after Ignacio Haya, one of Ybor City’s founding fathers, this boutique hotel pays homage to Tampa’s rich multicultural past while embracing modern luxury.
The building itself tells a story, occupying the former site of Las Novedades, Tampa’s oldest restaurant, and the historic Warren Building. This thoughtful preservation of history creates an atmosphere unlike any other wedding venue in Tampa.
Contact Information
Website: www.hotelhaya.com
Phone: (813) 568-1200
Social Media: @hotelhaya
Email: events@hotelhaya.com
Why Choose Hotel Haya for Your Wedding?
- Unique Ambiance: Experience a setting that blends historic charm with modern luxury, featuring exposed brick walls, custom Cuban tile, and art that pays tribute to Ybor City’s rich heritage.
- Versatile Spaces: From intimate courtyards to grand ballrooms, the hotel accommodates weddings of all sizes:
- Haya Ballroom (3,200 sq. ft.) – Perfect for grand receptions of up to 200 guests
- Don Quixote Room (1,800 sq. ft.) – Ideal for mid-sized celebrations
- Flor Fina Private Dining Room – Perfect for intimate rehearsal dinners
- Rooftop Terrace – A stunning setting for ceremonies with Tampa’s skyline as your backdrop
- Interior Courtyard – A charming space for cocktail hours under the stars
- Exceptional Service: A dedicated event team ensures every detail of your wedding is flawlessly executed, from custom menu creation to room block coordination.
- Luxury Accommodations: With 178 rooms and suites, Hotel Haya offers comfortable and stylish lodging for out-of-town guests, featuring mid-century modern décor with Spanish influences.
- Culinary Excellence: Flor Fina, the hotel’s signature restaurant, offers exceptional Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a Florida twist, ensuring your wedding menu will be unforgettable.
Hotel Haya was recently featured in the “Top 10 Most Romantic Wedding Venues in Tampa” by Tampa Wedding Magazine, cementing its reputation as a premier wedding destination. The venue has also been recognized by The Knot and WeddingWire as one of Florida’s most distinctive wedding venues for 2024.
Hotel Haya as a Tampa Wedding Destination
The Ybor City Advantage
When you choose Hotel Haya for your wedding, you’re not just selecting a venue—you’re embracing the vibrant culture of Ybor City, Tampa’s most historic neighborhood. Known as Tampa’s Latin Quarter, Ybor City offers:
- Rich cultural heritage with Cuban, Spanish, and Italian influences
- Historic architecture and brick-lined streets perfect for wedding photos
- Proximity to Tampa’s downtown and waterfront areas
- Vibrant nightlife for guest activities before and after your wedding
- Easy access to Tampa International Airport for traveling guests
Seasonal Considerations for Your Hotel Haya Wedding
Tampa’s climate offers unique considerations for each season:
- Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures and lower humidity make this a prime wedding season. Hotel Haya’s courtyard spaces bloom with seasonal flowers, creating natural beauty for your event.
- Summer (June-August): While temperatures rise, the hotel’s climate-controlled indoor spaces provide comfortable settings. Summer weddings benefit from special seasonal rates and twilight ceremonies with spectacular sunset views.
- Fall (September-November): Perhaps the most pleasant season in Tampa, fall offers warm days and cooler evenings—perfect for indoor-outdoor celebrations utilizing both the ballroom and courtyard spaces.
- Winter (December-February): Tampa’s mild winters allow for comfortable outdoor ceremonies year-round. The holiday season brings special décor throughout the hotel, adding festive charm to winter weddings.
Why Choose Me as Your Tampa Wedding Photographer
With over a decade of experience capturing weddings in Tampa, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the city’s beauty and the unique stories of each couple I work with. Here’s what sets Stills by Hernan apart:
Hotel Haya Wedding Photography Expertise
As a preferred vendor at Hotel Haya, I bring unparalleled familiarity with this distinctive venue:
- Intimate knowledge of the venue’s layout, lighting conditions throughout the day, and hidden photographic gems
- Established relationships with the Hotel Haya events team for seamless coordination
- Experience photographing in all of Hotel Haya’s various event spaces in different seasons and lighting conditions
- Understanding of the best photography timelines to maximize the venue’s unique features
- Creative vision for incorporating Hotel Haya’s architectural elements and artistic details into your wedding imagery
Comprehensive Wedding Services
At Stills by Hernan, we offer more than just photography:
- Wedding Photography: Documentary-style coverage capturing authentic moments with artistic vision
- Wedding Videography: Cinematic storytelling that preserves the sights, sounds, and emotions of your day
- Behind-the-Scenes Content Creation: Social media-ready content capturing the excitement of your wedding day
- Engagement Sessions: Complimentary with booking, capturing your love story in Tampa’s most photogenic locations
- Heirloom Albums & Fine Art Prints: Museum-quality products to showcase your wedding memories
The Personalized Experience
When you work with Stills by Hernan, you receive:
- Personalized consultation to understand your unique vision
- Custom timeline planning to ensure all important moments are captured
- Guidance on lighting, locations, and timing specific to Hotel Haya
- Quick turnaround on edited images and films
- Lifetime archiving of your wedding images
Client Testimonials: Real Hotel Haya Wedding Stories
Hailey & Jeff’s Unforgettable Wedding (November 3, 2023)
“When we started planning our wedding at Hotel Haya, we knew photography and videography would be crucial. Hernan and his incredible team at Stills by Hernan were the solution to all our worries. They blended professionalism with genuine warmth, making us feel completely at ease. The way they captured every laugh, tear, and spontaneous dance move was nothing short of phenomenal. Hernan has become more than our photographer; he’s a lifelong friend. We can’t wait to hang out soon and have him capture all our future milestones.” – Hailey & Jeff
Claire & Adam’s Magical Day (October 25, 2024)
“Choosing Hernan was the best decision we made for our Hotel Haya wedding. His photo and video team were incredible, capturing the essence of our day in a way that felt both natural and artistic. Hernan was the solution we didn’t even know we needed, bringing joy and calm to every moment. By the end of the night, he wasn’t just our photographer—he was part of our family. We are overjoyed with the results and thrilled to have found our lifetime photographer. Can’t wait to hang out again soon!” – Claire & Adam
Hannah & Joey’s Dream Come True (October 26, 2024)
“Planning a wedding is stressful, but Hernan made everything effortless. We hired him for photography and BTS content creation, and it was the best decision ever. His ability to capture candid moments while making us feel comfortable was amazing. Hernan was not just a photographer; he was the solution to making our day perfect. He’s become our newest friend, and we can’t wait to have him in our lives forever as our go-to photographer. Overjoyed doesn’t even begin to describe how we feel!” – Hannah & Joey
Hotel Haya Wedding Planning: Insider Tips from a Preferred Vendor
As someone who has photographed countless weddings at Hotel Haya, I’ve gathered valuable insights to help you create your perfect day:
Timeline Planning for Hotel Haya Weddings
Optimal scheduling can make all the difference at this unique venue:
- Morning Preparation: Hotel Haya’s suites offer abundant natural light—perfect for getting-ready photos. Book the corner suites for the best lighting conditions.
- First Look Locations: The hotel’s rooftop offers stunning views of Ybor City and downtown Tampa, making it an ideal first look location with dramatic architectural elements.
- Ceremony Timing: For outdoor ceremonies in the courtyard, the golden hour (approximately 1-2 hours before sunset) provides the most flattering natural light filtering through the space.
- Portrait Sessions: Schedule 30 minutes for family portraits immediately following the ceremony, utilizing the hotel’s grand staircase. Then allow 45-60 minutes for couple portraits throughout the property and nearby 7th Avenue.
- Reception: The Haya Ballroom transforms beautifully from day to night, with dramatic lighting possibilities. Consider uplighting to enhance the room’s architectural details.
Seasonal Considerations for Photography
- Spring: Take advantage of blooming flowers in the courtyard for vibrant portrait backgrounds.
- Summer: Plan outdoor photos for early morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh midday light and heat. The hotel’s covered areas provide beautiful shade options.
- Fall: The comfortable temperatures allow for more extended outdoor sessions, perfect for exploring the historic streets surrounding the hotel.
- Winter: The early sunset means planning your timeline carefully to maximize natural light. The hotel’s holiday décor adds a festive element to your photos.
Leveraging Hotel Haya’s Unique Spaces for Photography
- The Lobby: With its dramatic chandelier, colorful Cuban artwork, and mid-century modern furniture, the lobby offers striking backdrops for editorial-style portraits.
- The Courtyard: The lush greenery and string lights create a romantic setting for twilight photos.
- The Rooftop: Panoramic views of Tampa’s skyline make for breathtaking sunset portraits.
- Flor Fina Restaurant: The custom tile work and warm lighting provide a distinctive setting for detail shots and intimate portraits.
- Historic Brick Walls: The building’s original brick walls offer texture and character for artistic portraits.
Working with Hotel Haya’s Preferred Vendors
As a preferred photographer at Hotel Haya, I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with many talented professionals who understand the venue’s unique qualities. Here are some of Tampa’s finest wedding vendors who regularly create magic at Hotel Haya:
Premier Wedding Planners for Hotel Haya
John C Weddings
Website: www.johncweddings.com
Instagram: @johncweddings
John specializes in luxury weddings with impeccable attention to detail. His deep knowledge of Hotel Haya’s spaces allows him to transform them according to each couple’s vision while honoring the venue’s unique character. John’s relationships with Tampa’s top vendors ensure a seamless planning experience, which is essential when balancing luxury and personalization in your wedding.
Taylored Affairs
Website: www.tayloredaffairs.com
Instagram: @tayloredaffairs
Known for their personalized approach, the Taylored Affairs team excels at creating customized wedding experiences. They understand how to navigate Hotel Haya’s unique layout and work closely with the venue’s staff to ensure flawless execution.
Kelci Leigh
Website: www.kelcileigh.com
Instagram: @kelcileighevents
Kelci brings a fresh, modern approach to wedding planning. Her
Creating Your Dream Tampa Wedding: Hotel Haya Design Inspiration
Hotel Haya’s distinctive character provides a unique canvas for your wedding design. Here are some inspired approaches that complement the venue’s aesthetic:
Cultural Heritage Design
Honor the venue’s Cuban, Spanish, and Italian influences with:
- Hand-painted tile motifs in your stationery suite
- Vintage-inspired cigar lounges for cocktail hour
- Cuban-inspired signature cocktails like mojitos and daiquiris
- Spanish guitarists for ceremony music
- Traditional Cuban wedding cookies as favors
Modern Tampa Luxury
Blend contemporary elements with the venue’s historic charm:
- Clean, architectural floral installations against brick walls
- Acrylic and brass accents for modern elegance
- Custom neon signs featuring your new shared name
- Sleek lounge furniture for cocktail areas
- Minimalist table settings with subtle tropical touches
Tampa Art Scene Inspiration
Draw from Ybor City’s vibrant arts community:
- Commissioned live painters to capture your reception
- Local artists to create custom illustrations for your welcome bags
- Gallery-style escort card displays
- Artistic food presentations that double as visual experiences
- Colorful, abstract floral designs that reference Tampa’s contemporary art scene
The Complete Hotel Haya Wedding Experience
Pre-Wedding Events at Hotel Haya
The venue offers multiple spaces for your wedding weekend events:
- Welcome Reception: Host guests at the Pool Bar for a casual gathering with Florida-inspired cocktails and small bites.
- Rehearsal Dinner: Flor Fina’s private dining room offers an intimate setting for your rehearsal dinner, with custom menus showcasing the restaurant’s Mediterranean-Cuban fusion cuisine.
- Morning-After Brunch: The courtyard provides a relaxed setting for a farewell brunch, with options for stations or plated service.
Guest Accommodations
Hotel Haya’s 178 rooms and suites offer comfortable and stylish accommodations:
- Standard Rooms: Spacious accommodations with mid-century modern furnishings and custom artwork
- Cabana Rooms: Poolside rooms with private patios
- Suites: Expansive accommodations perfect for wedding preparation and honeymoon stays
Booking Tip: Reserve your room block at least 9-12 months in advance to ensure availability, especially during Tampa’s high season (January-April).
Transportation Considerations
Hotel Haya’s location offers several transportation advantages:
- Airport Access: Tampa International Airport is approximately 20 minutes away by car.
- Local Transportation: The TECO Line Streetcar provides free transportation connecting Ybor City with downtown Tampa and Water Street.
- Valet Parking: Available for wedding guests at a special event rate.
- Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Tampa.
Tampa Activities for Wedding Guests
Recommend these local attractions to guests extending their stay:
- Ybor City Museum State Park: Learn about the neighborhood’s fascinating history just blocks from the hotel.
- Tampa Riverwalk: A 2.6-mile waterfront path perfect for morning walks or evening strolls.
- Armature Works: A restored historic building housing food halls and boutiques along the Hillsborough River.
- Tampa Museum of Art: Modern and classical art in a stunning waterfront building.
- Busch Gardens: World-class theme park with thrill rides and animal encounters.
For more inspiration, check out our guide to Downtown Tampa wedding photography locations which highlights many beautiful spots your guests can explore.
The Stills by Hernan Experience at Hotel Haya
Choosing Stills by Hernan as your Hotel Haya wedding photographer and or videographer means partnering with a professional who understands both the technical aspects of photography and the emotional significance of your day.
My Hotel Haya Photography Approach
My style combines:
- Documentary storytelling capturing authentic moments
- Editorial portraiture showcasing you and your partner in your best light
- Architectural photography highlighting Hotel Haya’s unique spaces
- Detail work preserving the thoughtful elements of your wedding design
The Complete Wedding Photography Process
1. Initial Consultation
We’ll meet to discuss your vision, preferences, and any specific moments you want captured. This can take place at Hotel Haya itself, allowing us to walk through potential photo locations and discuss lighting options specific to your wedding date and time.
2. Engagement Session
Complimentary with your wedding package, this session helps us build rapport while creating beautiful images for your save-the-dates, wedding website, or guest book. Popular Tampa locations include:
- Ybor City’s historic streets
- Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
- University of Tampa’s Plant Hall
- Hyde Park Village
- Bayshore Boulevard
3. Customized Planning
Together, we’ll create a photography timeline that ensures we capture every important moment while maintaining the flow of your day. This includes:
- Detailed shot lists for family groupings
- Timeline coordination with your planner and Hotel Haya’s event team
- Backup plans for weather contingencies
- Scouting of specific locations within the hotel
4. Wedding Day Coverage
My team and I will be there to capture every detail, offering:
- Multiple photographer perspectives
- Continuous coverage without missing moments
- State-of-the-art equipment with backups for everything
- Discreet presence that never intrudes on the celebration
5. Professional Editing
Each image is meticulously edited to reflect the emotion and beauty of your day, ensuring every detail aligns with your vision:
- Color correction to maintain Hotel Haya’s vibrant palette
- Skin retouching with a natural approach
- Consistent style throughout your gallery
- Special attention to highlight images for albums and prints
6. Delivery of Final Products
You’ll receive:
- Online gallery of high-resolution images
- Option for beautifully crafted albums and prints
- Social media-optimized images for sharing
Hotel Haya Wedding Photography Collections
At Stills by Hernan, we believe every couple deserves a wedding photography collection as unique as their love story. Rather than offering standard packages, we tailor each collection to perfectly fit your vision, priorities, and celebration-whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a multi-day destination wedding.
Our custom wedding photography collections are designed to provide a luxury experience, with coverage and creative services that reflect the moments that matter most to you. We start at $6,500, with each collection thoughtfully crafted to include everything you need and nothing you don’t.
Ready to learn more?
We’d love to connect and design a collection that’s just right for your wedding. Contact us today to inquire about availability, share your vision, and receive a personalized proposal. Let’s create timeless images you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Special Offer for Hotel Haya Couples
Book your Hotel Haya wedding photo + video collection with us and receive a complimentary engagement session at a Tampa location of your choice, plus a 16×20 fine art print for your home.
Hotel Haya Wedding FAQ
Q: How far in advance should we book our Hotel Haya wedding?
A: For prime dates (October-May), I recommend booking 12-18 months in advance. Summer dates typically require 9-12 months’ notice. Read more about wedding planning timelines for Florida.
Q: What makes Hotel Haya different from other Tampa wedding venues?
A: Hotel Haya offers a unique blend of historic character and modern luxury that’s unmatched in Tampa. Its location in vibrant Ybor City provides an authentic Tampa experience for guests, while the hotel itself offers versatile spaces that can be transformed to suit any wedding style. See our guide on how to choose the perfect wedding venue in Florida.
Q: How many guests can Hotel Haya accommodate?
A: The Haya Ballroom can host up to 200 guests for a seated dinner with dance floor. For more intimate weddings, the Don Quixote Room accommodates up to 100 guests. For smaller celebrations, consider our tips for luxury elopements in Tampa.
Q: Does Hotel Haya offer in-house catering?
A: Yes, Flor Fina, the hotel’s signature restaurant, provides all catering for weddings. Their menus feature Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with Cuban influences, and they can accommodate various dietary restrictions.
Q: What is the best time of year for a Hotel Haya wedding?
A: While Hotel Haya hosts beautiful weddings year-round, Tampa’s most pleasant weather occurs from October through May, with lower humidity and temperatures ranging from 65-85°F. Summer weddings can take advantage of the hotel’s climate-controlled indoor spaces. Learn more about 2025 luxury wedding trends in Florida.
Q: As a photographer familiar with Hotel Haya, what are your favorite photo locations at the venue?
A: The grand staircase provides a dramatic backdrop for portraits and group photos. The rooftop offers stunning views of Tampa’s skyline, especially at sunset. The courtyard’s lush greenery creates a garden atmosphere in the heart of the city. The lobby’s colorful artwork and mid-century modern furniture offer unique editorial settings. The historic brick exterior along 7th Avenue provides quintessential Ybor City charm. View our Hotel Haya engagement session for inspiration.
Let’s Capture Your Hotel Haya Wedding Story Together
Your Tampa wedding at Hotel Haya deserves to be documented with care, creativity, and authenticity. As a preferred photographer at this iconic Tampa venue, I bring both technical expertise and a genuine passion for storytelling to your celebration.
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand affair, Stills by Hernan offers the experience, artistry, and personal touch to preserve your Hotel Haya wedding memories beautifully.
Ready to Begin Your Hotel Haya Wedding Journey?
Take the first step toward capturing your love story by completing our wedding photography inquiry form. From there, we can schedule a consultation to discuss your vision for your Hotel Haya wedding.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore real weddings at Hotel Haya and discover why so many couples trust us with their most precious memories.
Connect With Stills by Hernan
Website: www.stillsbyhernan.com
Email: hernan@stillsbyhernan.com
Phone: (813) 555-1234
Instagram: @stillsbyhernan
Facebook: Stills by Hernan
Start planning your dream Hotel Haya wedding photography experience. I can’t wait to hear your love story and discuss how we can capture it beautifully at this iconic Tampa venue.
Stills by Hernan is proud to be a preferred photography vendor at Hotel Haya, specializing in authentic, artistic documentation of weddings in this unique Tampa landmark.