LAND O' LAKES, Fla. — Love and marriage can be found rooted deep in the community of Land O' Lakes.
Just off Highway 41 lies Knotted Roots on the Lake, a wedding and party venue reminiscent of Old Florida, and a lakefront location for those looking to tie the knot.
"We literally get to witness true love at all times," venue director Angellina Lucciola said.
Guests often fall in love with the enchanting landscape. Staff pay close attention to every detail from the flowery driftwood arch, elegant pavilion, cypress trees and carefully designed stumps.
The look and feel of the venue can also be catered to every couple's needs from rustic to barn and classy.
"A lot of people say it's a hidden gem they don't expect to see this here," Lucciola said.
Since work began in 2017, popularity here has exploded. Dedicated staff and its vendors are now doing almost 90 weddings every year, according to owner Lori McCarthy.
"I train everybody that... there's no redo," McCarthy said. "It has to be most special."
Owning a wedding venue was a long-time dream for McCarthy. After years of hard work, it's paying off.
The idea came through McCarthy's work in the bartending business, where she is the "chief spunky officer" of Spunky Spirits, a mobile bartending service. The thought of making others' wishes come true always fascinated her.
Now, every positive review keeps fulfilling that lifelong dream.
"It means everything. You know, I have five kids and I've raised them with Spunky Spirits and Knotted Roots," McCarthy said. "You can make a difference, whatever career that you choose."
McCarthy admits it's no easy task to keep the success going. From benches breaking last minute to toilets that need to be meticulously scrubbed, every time spent is worth it. Perhaps, the most fascinating detail seen here is what people don't see: the work of staff to turn fantasies into realities.
"It makes you feel like a part of their family and then they become your family as well," Lucciola said. "Knotted Roots is a small business. We're here because we love what we do."
Staff also gift a free wedding every year to a couple in need through an initiative called "Knot The Last Dance." In years past, they've gifted to couples who were medical workers during the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year, staff are looking to gift to a couple facing financial hardship.
Nominations, which consist of a statement on the couple and their financial situation, can be submitted through the business' Facebook page.