A Derby-Themed Holiday Party at Hotel Flor | Downtown Tampa Event Photographer
Some events feel less like photo assignments and more like reunions and this holiday party at Hotel Flor in Downtown Tampa is exactly that.
This year marked my fourth time photographing this company’s annual holiday party, along with several of their retirement celebrations over the years. As a Downtown Tampa event photographer, working with the same client across multiple milestone events allows me to tell a more complete story – one built on trust, familiarity, and consistent results. The employees also seem to recognize me, and I know some of their names.
A Classic Derby Theme at Hotel Flor
Hosted inside the historic 1926 Hotel Flor, this year’s celebration featured an elegant and playful Derby-inspired theme that paired perfectly with the venue’s timeless architecture. From festive attire to thoughtfully styled details, the Derby concept brought energy and character to the heart of Downtown Tampa.
A highlight of the evening was the Derby-themed photo booth backdrop and Derby marquee letters on the stage, designed by Balloons by the Bunch, one of my favorite event decorators. Their work created a standout focal point for guest photos while complementing the refined look of Hotel Flor’s ballroom. I love working events where my clients chose them as the decorator as I know I will always get great visuals and photo backdrop.
Capturing Familiar Faces in Downtown Tampa
Returning year after year means I understand the flow of this event, the key moments to anticipate, and the people who matter most. That experience allows me to move efficiently and capture genuine interactions, candid reactions, and the details that define each celebration.
Having also photographed the company’s retirement parties, there’s an added layer of storytelling – documenting not just a single evening, but meaningful chapters in people’s professional lives.
Downtown Tampa Event Photography That Tells the Full Story
Corporate holiday parties are about more than décor—they’re about connection, culture, and celebration. My approach to Downtown Tampa event photography focuses on capturing the atmosphere, the relationships in the room, and the moments guests will remember long after the night ends.
From the Derby-themed photo booth by Balloons by the Bunch to spontaneous moments on the dance floor, every detail contributed to telling the story of this holiday celebration at Hotel Flor.
Looking Ahead
I’m grateful for the continued trust this client has placed in me over the years and look forward to working with them again. Photographing recurring events in Downtown Tampa is one of the most rewarding parts of being an event photographer – it’s about building relationships and delivering consistent, high-quality results.
If you’re planning a holiday party, corporate event, or milestone celebration in Downtown Tampa or the Tampa Bay area, I’d love to help capture it in a way that feels authentic, polished, and memorable.
