Pennsylvania Weddings

In my book, brunch weddings are just about the most genius thing ever. When planned right, they make for a wedding EVERY bit as elegant as their evening affair counterparts, and this little beauty from Rhaina Taylor is a perfect example. Dive into all the daytime wedding beauty waiting right here.

From Rhaina Taylor… A real life “Roman Holiday.” Mary Pat Stahler and Lee Feigert met on Duquesne University’s Rome Campus in 2006. To paraphrase Mary’s mother, the maid of honor, after Mary returned from Rome, she kept mentioning Lee’s name repeatedly. Their fairytale continued with their big apple engagement. Lee took Mary to NYC for the weekend to see Wicked and to go ice skating at Rockefeller Center. They had always talked about doing this. Lee arranged for everyone to clear the ice, and their song was played, Better Together by Jack Johnson, over the loud speaker. He proposed to her with just the 2 of them on the ice. Once she said yes, the crowd around them started cheering. Lee also arranged to have it video taped and photographed, which Mary never noticed was happening.

Lee and Mary Pat’s wedding day began very early with their 1st meeting at 8am. Mary rounded the corner and gently tapped Lee on the shoulder. Across the street both Lee’s mother and Mary’s mother, the maid of honor, just beamed while watching this intimate moment. From their we ventured to Chatham University’s Campus for our 1st portrait session of the day. Mary had such a complete vision of her special day complete with a few very special portraits that she wanted taken. A reenactment of a childhood photo with her brothers and my personal favorite… a couples’ photos which included both sets of their parents.

The Duquesne University alums chose to marry in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit on Duquesne’s campus. Followed by their elegant brunch reception, held at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Mary Pat’s vision was of an intimate, rustic reception with a white, cream, and blush color palette. They enlisted the talented Shari Zatman of Perfectly Planned by Shari to help bring their vision to light. The bride wanted mixes of natural elements such as wood and burlap mixed with lace and crystal.

She also wanted her guests to be seated at one long farm table rather than be divided at separate tables. Shari brought the look together with lace tablecloth overlays placed over row after row of double width banquet tables paired with wooden farm chairs. Hanging low over the tables were elegant crystal chandeliers to add elegance to the tablescape. The floral centerpieces were a neutral palate of garden style flowers in an eclectic mix of containers. They wanted handmade elements of real lace incorporated into their invitation, so their stationer, Create Studio, handmade their invitations with wrapped lace ribbon details. The guests were assigned seats at the long table so they found their table assignments by looking for their names which were hand calligraphied on round cards which rested just below the clear glass charger plates at every place setting.

Their day was concluded with a portrait session inside Phipps Conservatory’s Broderie Room. As we walked through the building we took advantage of every nook and crany. Lastly we snuck outside to capture a few shots with Phipps’ signature glass enclosure as the background.

“Stick to your vision,” Mary Pat advises. “Don’t feel like you have to incorporate something into your wedding because of tradition if you don’t like the idea.” The couple did hold on to one special tradition, their first dance was to the same tune that played in the background during Lee’s fairytale proposal.

Photography: Rhaina Taylor Photography | Videographer: All Pro USA | Wedding Coordinator: Perfectly Planned By Shari ~ Shari Zatman | Floral Design: Hens And Chicks | Wedding Dress: Bridal Reflections | Ceremony Location: Chapel Of The Holy Spirit At Duquesne University | Church: Chapel Of The Holy Spirit At Duquesne University | Reception Venue: Phipps Conservatory And Botanical Gardens | Bridesmaids Dresses: BHLDN | Catering: Big Catering | Hair And Makeup: Capristo Salon | Band: Protege | Mens Attire: Men's Wearhouse | Decorations: All Occasions | Jewler: Church Of Evangelical Faith | Linens: Mosaic Inc. | Special Treats: Bella Christie & LiL’ Z’s Sweet Boutique

In the 1940’s, the microwave was invented, the Jeep made it’s debut and Velcro found it’s way to store shelves. Casablanca came out in 1943, It’s a Wonderful Life shortly thereafter. And weddings? Well, they were driven by a sense of all out hollywood glam. So it’s no surprise that this couple took a nod from the 40’s and with photos by Craig Photography – held a vintage affair gone totally gorg. Click here for more!

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This was an incredible wedding during the Fall season in Pittsburgh. The bride decided she wanted a more period-styled wedding so the overall style was from the 1940’s era. She really did a wonderful job. The details were amazing!

The florist, April from Mocha Rose Floral Designs, worked with the bride to develop a floral theme of dutch still life that incorporated both floral and fruit designs and it was so gorgeous!! It just so happened that the boutique hotel that the wedding and reception took place at (Mansions on Fifth) had paintings of dutch still life throughout the establishment.

Stephanie & Dante also had love note quotes at each table to accompany the floral designs, which gave such a romantic feel to everything. The place was just dripping with florals and romance. The ceremony took place on the grand staircase, which was draped with a giant floral garland. Even the band was a 1940’s swing band, which made the night complete!

Photography: Craig Photography | Florist: Mocha Rose Floral Design | Wedding Cake: Prantl's Bakery | Stationery: Wedding Paper Divas | Hair & Makeup: Beauty Justified | Band: Sarah King & The Smoke Rings | Hotel: Mansions On Fifth

I know you come here for your daily dose of weddings, but I’m just as certain you’re here for your daily dose of happy too. Valerie Barnes Film has delivered, because the couple at the center of this wedding has both a love and a happiness that are contagious!

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From the cinematographer… Even though Susanna and Carl met and now reside in Boston, she chose to marry in her hometown of Pittsburgh because she wanted to be married in St. Paul’s Cathedral, the church where her parents were married in 1972. ” I can’t wait to be in that church. It’s so beautiful.”

When she brought Carl to Pittsburgh for the first time she took him to the church for a cousin’s wedding and told him, “I’m going to get married one day in this church.”

On the morning of her wedding day, she dressed at her parent’s home in Fox Chapel. Though her dress was designed by Monique L’huiller and her shoes by Badgley Mischka, she added a few personal items to complete her look — the veil she wore was the her mother’s wedding veil and the bracelet she wore was also borrowed from her mother.

The wedding reception was held in the William Penn Omni Hotel. “I loved that it was in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh and also thought it was perfect for the feel of our wedding. “

Susanna’s thought about her marriage, “I hope for our marriage that we are able to hold in our hearts and our minds the love and admiration and appreciation that we have for each other today everyday, and that we keep growing not only as individuals but as a couple.”

Photography: Goldstein Photography | Videography: Valerie Barnes Film | Event Planning: The Event Group | Floral Design: Hepatica | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Cake: Vanilla Pastry Studio | Ceremony Venue: St. Paul's Cathedral | Reception Venue: Omni William Penn | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Jewelry: Tiffany & Co. | Catering: Omni William Penn | Tuxedo: Tophat Tuxedo | Bridesmaids\' Dresses: Amsale | Linens: Mosaic Linens

I love this bride.  And not just because she happens to be the “Secret Agent L” who spent her days bestowing goodwill to all in Pittsburgh (although, that’s totally enough to adore her).  No, I also love her, because she has a smile that is contagious and a joyous energy that is so amazing, it almost bursts from your computer screen.  She’s one of those ladies you  just wish you knew… and her wedding to her handsome beau captured by Veronica Varos?  A drop-dead gorgeous day filled with sooo much love, it’s palpable.  Click here for more.

From Veronica Varos… I was just browsing my Twitter feed the first time I stumbled upon Secret Agent L. It was years ago. All of a sudden, it seemed like everyone was tweeting about a new movement that had started in Pittsburgh, but was spreading all over. An anonymous woman with the twitter handle @SecretAgentL was behind it all. Buy a small gift – a bit of candy, a gift card, a motivational book – and leave it somewhere for someone to find accompanied by a card explaining that the gift was for YOU! (You being anyone who stumbled upon it.) People were finding her gifts and paying it forward by doing the same.

Soon after, things skyrocketed for Laura, aka, Secret Agent L. From CNN to Huffington Post to Glamour Magazine – she was all over the place and the city of Pittsburgh couldn’t have been more proud.

Eventually, I met Laura and her then-boyfriend Ross for a portrait session. Their chemistry was so obvious and they were clearly bursting with love for each another. They spent much of their session holding one another and giggling. It wasn’t long before I heard about the engagement. I was over-the-moon excited for them.

On the big day, the weather was flawless. From their bridal suite at the Renaissance Hotel, Laura and her bridesmaids watched as Pittsburgh set up the bridge party to welcome the touring giant rubber duck. It was an incredibly relaxed and joyous atmosphere. Her makeup application was repeatedly (and adorably) interrupted by friends and family members she hadn’t seen in ages streaming through. There were many hugs, lots of laughs, and a few shrieks of pure and utter joy. It was clear the day would be an emotional one for all involved.

I left the ladies to spend time with Ross and his best man while they finished preparing. In true super-excited groom fashion, between the tying of the tie and the final bits of nervous dressing, plenty of silly faces were made and lots of laughs were had. In those moments, he never stopped smiling and you could feel the big moment drawing nearer as his excitement grew.

Ross headed for the altar while Laura made her way up the stairs to meet her father. She held her his arm and as she watched her mother walk down the aisle, she began to cry. “Get it together, Miller, we have a job to do,” she said while laughing.

The ceremony began and the breathtakingly beautiful music echoed in the giant cathedral. Teary eyed guests stood with their hands to their mouths as Laura’s father lifted her veil and handed her off to Ross.

Photography: Veronica Varos | Flowers: Blooms Florist | Dress: Vera Wang | Cake: Oakmont Bakery | Ceremony Location: St. Paul's Cathedral | Reception Location: Pittsburgh Athletic Association | Catering: Pittsburgh Athletic Association | Band: Jason Kendall Productions | Tux: Vera Wang | Transportation: Elite Transportation | Hotel: Renaissance Pittsburgh | St. Paul Cathedral: St. Paul's Cathedral

It’s impossible to look at this gorgeous backyard wedding from Craig Photography and not see a certain Gatsby quality. The 1920’s home, complete with a stunning clear tent, was made for a party Mr. Gatsby himself would have been more than a little jealous of. I’m even told there was a jazz band for the dancing. With the couple’s own fun spirit (complete with food trucks and donuts made on the spot) layered in, however, it’s totally their own.

From the stunning bride… Brandon proposed to me last summer in pretty much the most gorgeous spot I could have imagined — on a hilltop overlooking the Ligurian Sea coast in Cinque Terre, Italy. Despite the exotic location of our engagement, we decided that a backyard wedding in Pittsburgh, my hometown and the city where we currently live, was the best fit for us. We had the wedding at my dad’s 1920s Beaux-Arts-style house, which served as a great backdrop to the throw-back music that our fabulous swing and jazz wedding band played.

The ceremony itself was held in front of the gazebo in the backyard where I loved to play as a kid. Our ceremony was intimate and personalized, with lots of poetry and music. We wrote our own vows and hadn’t read them to each other beforehand, so that part was definitely emotional. Because we were dealing with limited space, we had to be creative with where to put things — for example, we turned the garage into a space for the dessert table and fresh donuts and the driveway became the dance floor. To thank our guests for coming, we offered them an array of homemade jams made by a lady we met at a local farmer’s market.

Some of our favorite aspects of the wedding include the clear-top tents, the magical lighting that appeared once twilight set in, the taco and burger food trucks, the array of yummy cocktails, all of the wonderful music we got to hear, and, of course, the getting-married part. And the all-out 90s dance party we had afterward! All of our friends and family were so wonderful and supportive through the planning process, and we could not have asked for a better team of vendors, designers, and photographers. Last but not least, our wedding planner, Sean Gray, was a visionary and also a great friend throughout the process. 

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Photography: Craig Photography | Wedding Planner: Sean Gray Intl | Florist: Green Sinner | Catering: BRGR Food Truck + Pittsburgh Taco Truck | Cake: Dozen Bake Shop | Cookies and Doughnuts: Bella Christie | Band: Boilermaker Jazz Band | Tents, flooring and event rentals: Party Savvy | Lighting design: Luxe Lighting & Atmospheres | Cocktail hour entertainment: Big Snow Big Thaw | Linens: Lendable Linens | Programs + Menus: Sapling Press | Gown: Jenny Packham

It’s not every day you say “I do” to your very best friend. But when that day comes around, it’s full of all the love and joy imaginable. It’s the kind of emotion that can only be captured by super talented photographers like Jordan Brittley who snapped every sweet glance, every nervous giggle, and every loving moment between this adorable Pittsburgh pair. We simply couldn’t pack all the pretty into one single post, so be sure to stop by the full gallery right here.

From Jordan Brittley…She sat on the couch surrounded by her dearest friends. They poured out encouragement on her life and truly wanted her to enjoy each and every moment of the day. The day that she would marry Kevin. Renee slipped into her gorgeous gown and there wasn’t a hair out of place, but what truly shined through was her love. The love that seems to overflow out of her life into everyone around her. Her inner beauty overpowers her outer beauty. It’s the kind of gorgeous that leaves you beside your own tears, completely breathless. Kevin and Renée committed to live the rest of their lives together and held hands and giggled. This was right before they shared their very first kiss. And the resounding cheers from their friends and family were enough to send shivers to anyone who witnessed their love.

From the Bride… The vision of the wedding definitely took into account who we are. Kevin and I are laid back, fun-loving people. Family and friends mean so much to us and that’s the kind of environment we wanted to create for everyone, so everyone would be comfortable and enjoy themselves. We both come from small communities in our home towns so we wanted that kind of atmosphere. We incorporated the muted soft pinks and blues, burlap sacks and lace, old books (which I love! And also brings an older, country-esq feeling which is what I grew up surrounded by) along with many small things that hold great meaning between Kevin and I.

There were so many meaningful items! My veil and the flower girl dresses were made by my grandmother. The blue heart on my veil was from a piece of my late-grandfather’s clothing. I really wanted to bring my grandfather down the aisle with me somehow because he has been such a major part of my life in so many ways, so my grandmother put the blue heart on my veil for me to do so. The ring bearer’s book: this is the same book Kevin used to propose to me. He illustrated a short story of the two of us in the beginning of the book and created a slit to hold the engagement ring. The bread and peanut butter on the tables were made by Kevin’s mother and grandmother which comes from their family tradition (and which are the best homemade peanut butter and bread I’ve ever tasted!) On the hot cocoa bar was a framed illustration of a scripture Kevin created for me on my birthday last year.

I’ve been told this numerous times and have read it numerous times, but please remember, IT’S YOUR DAY! If a guest or a family member gets upset about any of the numerous things that are bound to go wrong, it’s ok! Because at the end of the day you will be married to your best friend and that’s all that matters. Also, be sure to take some time for yourself in the morning, get centered and meditate on the meaning of what’s about to happen between you and your best friend, the journey the two of you went on to make it to this point, the meaning of the vows you two are going to say to one another, and the life the two of you are going to build together. There were two meaningful songs, the one that played during our private vows, Led Zeppelin’s ‘Thank You’, one I grew up with, and the one we danced to, Coldplay’s ‘Til Kingdom Come.’

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Wedding Photography: Jordan Brittley | Wedding Venue: The Union Project | Floral Design: Squirrel Hill Flower Shop, Inc.  Arranged by Bridesmaid, Desiree Hannigan | Wedding Planning: Devon Talieffero (dtaliaferro@gmail.com | Invitations: Designed by Groom + printed at Copy Stop | Band: Friends Hannah Miles and Caleb |Wedding Dress: Maggie Sottero | Shoes: H&M | Hair + Makeup: Rochelle Koch  | Bride’s Veil + Flower Girls’ Dresses: Made by Bride’s Grandmother | Ring: Annaboo’s House

You simply can’t deny it, there is something so chic about a city soiree. When you bring skylines and gorgeous gowns together in one place it makes for one stunning juxtaposition, and today that magic happens via the lens of Austin Warnock. It’s bricks and blush, ballrooms and beauties – and it can all be found dancing around in the full gallery of images.

From the Bride… When Mark and I were searching for a venue for our wedding, we had no idea what style, color palette, or type of wedding we wanted. We tossed around just about every idea, from an outdoor garden party to a grand country club event. When we wandered into the Pennsylvanian, we both knew immediately that this was the place! It’s gorgeous rotunda inspired us, not to mention the remarkable architecture, beautiful colors, and elegant details. Once the Pennsylvanian was booked, the champagne and cream color palette, floral design, lighting, table décor, attire and entertainment all came quickly and effortlessly. One special element of our wedding was the tiny personal touches we added…my mother’s old topaz incorporated into my bouquet and my dad’s favorite tie wrapped around the bottom, an old guitar pick from his dad and seashells from his mom in Mark’s tux pocket. We really tried to remember just why we were there, what we were truly celebrating and who got us there.

Wedding Photography: Austin Warnock Photography / Ceremony Venue: St. Bernard Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania / Reception Venue: The Pennsylvanian in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania / Floral Design: Allison McGeary Florist / Wedding Catering: Rania’s Catering / Wedding Cake: Created by Rania’s Catering + Decorated by Allison McGeary Florist / Band: Tres Lads / DJ: Matt Swaoger of BPM DJs / Lighting: Andy Shick of ADS Lighting and Staging / Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier via Anne Gregory for the Bride / Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Wtoo by Watters / Hair: Kelly Miller of Be Pure Organic Salon & Boutique / Makeup: Dana Stumpf / Groom’s Tux: Custom Made via Ernesto Fine Custom Clothiers

With a proposal so romantic (seriously, it’s a must-read) the wedding to follow was bound to be spectacular, and spectacular it was. Filled with sweet, rustic details that have charmed the socks right off us, the entire soiree was chic and special, and could only be captured so wonderfully by Craig Photography. You don’t have to wait, click here for the gallery, but please promise me you’ll read their sweet engagement story below!

Click here to see the full image gallery!

Missy and Matt first set eyes on each other one day at work. After nearly three and a half years of dating, Matt gave Missy the surprise of her life. While on a weekend getaway to New York City early in December, Matt proposed to Missy in Park Slope, Brooklyn. He had been working with an event planner, Sarah Pease (Brilliant Event Planning), for months in planning the proposal of Missy’s dreams. Matt incorporated memories of their past as well as Missy’s favorite things into the romantic proposal. He had crystal chandeliers and beautiful arrangements of pale pink roses and orchids that cascaded down a vintage french inspired trellis in a local, quaint bistro called Belleville that Matt had rented.

As Missy and Matt spent their day enjoying the shops throughout Park Slope, Matt told Missy that he had found the perfect spot to have a cup of tea and a late lunch. As they proceeded towards the restaurant, a vintage car caught Missy’s eye – it was a 1932 white Hupmobile. As she passed by it, she commented on the nice parking job that the driver had done – the car was sitting in the middle of the street. As Matt chuckled, he was thinking to himself, that’s the car we will be driving around later in the evening! As Missy and Matt sat down inside Belleville, a waitress (who actually worked for the event planner and wasn’t a waitress there) came over to take their order and mentioned a special “event” that was being held later that evening. She asked Missy and Matt if they would like to see the set up of the event. Missy was excited – she thought the event may have been for a celebrity! So, Missy and Matt strolled outside the restaurant in order to access the back entrance to a private room.

As they entered the room, Missy was amazed at the beauty inside. The room was sparkling with chandeliers and candles and smelled of sweet roses. She heard music being played by a guitarist and four vocalists who were grinning from ear to ear as they sang “Marry Me” by Train. As Missy continued to look around the room, she suddenly noticed black and white pictures of her and Matt throughout the years. It was at that point, that she turned to Matt and with tears in her eyes, began to piece together that Matt had planned a very special day for her. He got down on one knee, and asked Missy to marry him. She was so surprised, that she exclaimed “Definitely!” which Matt took as a “yes.”

Matt continued to take Missy throughout the room and showed her the special things that he had designed for the proposal which included: a beautiful three tier cake with french words around it, M&M’s in their favorite colors that had their pictures on them and read “will you marry me?”, a vintage wine box engraved with their names on it with a bottle of Pinot Noir inside (this was the first wine that they had tasted together on a date back in 2008). After toasting to their engagement with a bottle of champagne, Missy and Matt continued their special day with a ride in the 1932 Hupmobile across the Brooklyn bridge and throughout Times Square. They finished their day off with a delightful 9 course meal at Le Bernardin in Manhattan in a private room and received a special visit from the head chef – Eric Ripert.

After the perfect french inspired proposal, Missy and Matt wanted to find an equally special venue to tie the knot. They selected Shady Elms Farm, a quaint family farm located in Hickory, PA. It was love at first sight when Missy and Matt visited the farm – so much so, that it was the only venue that they looked at. It captured exactly what they were looking for in a venue – it had an intimate touch with vintage inspired charm. Since fall is Missy and Matt’s favorite season, they decided to plan their wedding in less than a year, so that they could forever remember September 29, the day that they would exchange their vows.

Keeping with the vintage theme, Missy chose a pale pearl pink for the bridesmaids tee length dresses with gold accents. She gave each bridesmaid a brass gold bangle with their initial on it and handmade floral clutches. With the help of her friend Justine, she designed beautiful necklaces for the girls to wear for the special day. The flower girls were dressed in sage green with flowers throughout their hair. They wore white ribbon pearls.

The favors for the wedding consisted of handmade bottle cap magnets with birds and butterflies designed on them. Enclosed with each bottle cap magnet was a special saying thanking their family and friends for sharing their wedding day with them. The saying also reminded guests to enjoy the photo booth and silly props that would later be worn on the dance floor throughout the night.

To remember those family members that could not be with Missy and Matt, they played special songs like Danny Boy and a polka in memory of their grandparents.

Photography: Craig Photography / Flowers: Donati’s Florist / Caterer: Armstrong’s / DJ: Steve Maffei, Jr. / Cake: Signature Desserts / Hair & Makeup: Justine Lynn Kolano of Beauty Justified / Venue: Shady Elms Farm / Invitations: Art by Kelli Murray / Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Dress Designer: Maggie Sottero / Bridesmaid Dress Designer: Alfred Sung / Men’s Fashion: Tuxedo Junction / Custom designed wedding rings: Goldstock / Bride’s earrings & bracelet: Rew Elliot

My heart has a special little pitter it reserves for the excitement of a fabulous black tie soiree. My pulse quickens a bit, I get butterflies in my stomach, and the corners of my mouth start to sneak north. Especially when it is just. this. amazing. Captured by Craig Photography, this classic soiree is what all my black tie wedded dreams are made of. I promise you that you will fall in love with this gorgeous couple, if you promise me you’ll spend some time in the gallery!

Click here to see the full image gallery!

It has been a sixteen year journey for us, one that took us from high school in Pittsburgh, PA to attending colleges 150 miles apart and ultimately brought us together in the greatest city in the world, New York City.

Looking back on the years it was as if we were destined to find each other once again, and we’re so happy that we did!

Photography: Craig Photography / Wedding Gown: Monique Lhuillier, from Anne Gregory For The Bride / Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Venue: Carnegie Museum of Art / Entertainment: Studio E / Flowers: Bill Chisnell / Event Planning: Natalie Berger / Invitations: Invitations by Ajalon / Programs & Menues: Lauren Innella

After moving to Seattle and getting engaged in their PJ’s (seriously, how cute is that) this couple knew their wedding had to be back home on an idyllic Pennsylvania farm. They just couldn’t say no to the perfect backdrop for wildflowers, homemade pies, and the most amazing, pretty, rustic wedding. Planning a wedding from the other side of the country was a piece of that homemade Red Raspberry Crumble thanks to JPC Event Group, who not only coordinated the wedding, but made those delish desserts. With Carden’s Photography leading the way, lets head to the gallery for even more!

Click here to see the full image gallery!

Ben and I met at Penn State, and after graduation we decided we were meant for much more than best friends. After a successful move to Seattle for work, and a few years more of bliss we got engaged over homemade breakfast in our pajamas. Since almost all of our family still remained in the Pittsburgh area, it was a no brainer to have the wedding back home and in a place that reminded me of the idyllic Pennsylvania farm. After giving my mom and sister a list of about 9 venues to scout out, and a lot of Skype sessions and phone calls, I booked Armstrong Farms over the phone and faxed our confirmation in. Our holiday vacation was filled with vendor meetings and was also the first time we saw our venue in person. It was snowcovered and freezing, and was still a magical setting!  I then set out to design a casual backyard wedding. I put a lot of trust in my vendors, especially JPC Event Group for bringing the reception to life. I sent hundreds of emails to my vendors and they were all responsive and answered all our questions – which took a lot of weight and responsibility off my shoulders. Being so far away (three time zones!) I had to pick and choose which details I was going to obsess about.  Everyone helped gather vases back home, while Ben and I cut ribbon and made bunting flags and the boutonnieres.   It was amazing and breathtaking to see the day come together like it was designed in my head. We still remark, almost a year later, how wonderful that day was. I feel truly blessed to have had such a supportive network of family, friends, and vendors willing to help in any way possible.

Photography: Carden’s Photography / Venue: Armstrong Farms Bed and Breakfast / Coordination: Richard Wimer of JPC Event Group / Catering and Bar Services: JPC Event Group / Rustic Pies: JPC Event Group / Linens: Chaircovers and Linens / Table decor, florals, ribbon chair, and photo booth: DIY by Bride / Fabric: Whimsie Dots / You-Me Sign: Constellation & Co. / Props and signs: Little Retreats / Nerdy flash cards: Tiffany Ard / Name card design: Wedding Chicks

Style Me Pretty loves weddings. I’m sure this is no surprise. We love, love, lovelovelove weddings. But when a engagement shoot lands in our laps, and just so happens to be styled to the nines by Shayla Hawkins Events, we break out the swooning fits we so often reserve for the prettiest of sweet matrimonies. Captured by Craig Photography, this beautiful couple put a smile on my face, and I had to pass it along to my lovely LBBers. So we can smile the day away in the gallery together!

Click here for the rest in the full image gallery!

From Craig Photography … This is Rachel & Dan, a couple of ours getting married in May this year. The style they chose for their wedding is vintage-chic so they wanted a more rustic spin on their E-Session. The session took place at a gorgeous location in the country close to Pittsburgh at the Succop Conservancy. Lots of country yumminess there.

There were three different set designs created by Shayla Hawkins and her team from Shayla Hawkins Events. Their style is more modern so she was looking forward to getting out of her comfort zone. She did an amazing job! to help set the look and that added to the structures and land made it all come together wonderfully.

Rachel and Dan have amazing chemistry and I knew instantly their smiles were going to make our job easy for the day. Both have sort of Anthropologie style and since I’m addicted to Anthro I was certainly in my element. It was a beautiful day, rare right now in Pittsburgh. Sun, blue skies and comfy temps. We had a blast!

Photography: Craig Photography / Session Design + Styling: Shayla Hawkins Events / Hair & Makeup: Justine Lyn of Beauty Justified / Flower designs: Lilli-Maeg Floral Specialties / Session Location: Succop Conservancy / Stationery: Anna Malie Designs

Over the years I’ve developed an extreme love and appreciation for the modern wedding so when I saw this dreamy Pittsburgh affair by the JPC Event Group I jumped for joy.  Not only is it cool and contemporary, incorporating chic, minimal details in a unique venue, but it doesn’t lose an ounce of charm, warmth or personality in the process.  I hope we get to see more from Caitlin Thomas Photography in the future because her photos are absolutely gorgeous!  See them all in the full gallery!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… As an event planner by trade, there is always an unspoken pressure to throw a “perfect party.” The inspiration for our wedding reception was to do something different and unexpected. I never envisioned a traditional hotel ballroom set with round tables and tall, fluted arrangements for my wedding. The two main things we wanted to make sure of were that it felt personal — that when you walked in you knew it was Gina and Dom’s wedding — and most importantly, that our friends and family had an amazing time. The unique venue we chose, The Mattress Factory, a contemporary art museum on the North Side of Pittsburgh, really was the perfect space. The lobby where the reception was held was basically a blank canvas — white walls, dark hardwood floors and a wall of sliding glass doors that opened to a gorgeous urban courtyard and created a seamless flow between inside and out. Our florist, Jerry at Hepatica really understood my idea of “modern and unique.” I was in awe of the centerpiece concept he came up with. He played off of the round paper lanterns that were already in the space and the table runners I made and created a fabulous arrangement.

JPC Event Group catered our wedding. We chose them because of their ability to display and present food in a way that was exciting and unexpected … and of course because their food was delish. They even grew yellow tomatoes for the caprese salad to fit in with our yellow and gray color scheme!  But also because of the range of services that they offer and their attention to detail. I was going to be a little busy getting married :) so I had to trust them with the details, and I couldn’t have been happier with the outcome.

As you can see, Caitlin Thomas Photography did an amazing job of capturing our day. We chose not to hire a cinematographer, a choice we were hoping we wouldn’t regret. Fortunately, Caitlin’s ability to capture candid moments is exceptional, and we really are able to relive our wedding through our photos. Our wedding truly was everything we had hoped it would be and more. We couldn’t be happier — our day was uniquely perfect!

Wedding Photography: Caitlin Thomas Photography / Appetizer Photography: Caitlyn Wimer for JPC Event Group / Wedding Venue: The Mattress Factory Art Museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania / Day-of Coordination: Richard Wimer of JPC Event Group / Floral Design: Jerry of Hepatica Florist (412-241-3900) / Catering + Wedding Cake: JPC Event Group / Table Linens: Chair Covers & Linens / Table Runners: DIY by the Bride / Rental Equipment: JPC Event Group / Wedding Invitations: Smashing Cards / Save-the-Dates + Programs: DIY / DJ: Flip Disc Productions / Wine + Beer: Dreadnought Wines / Mixologists: JPC Event Group / Wedding Dress: Tara Keely / Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: J.Crew / Hair + Makeup: J.E.T. Salon / Groom’s + Groomsmen’s Suits: Jos. A. Bank

I am going out on a limb here to say, even if vintage is not your style, even if you adore the most modern affairs, I pretty much guarantee you are going to love this glamourous wedding gone oh so right. Through the lens of Scobey Photography, we are almost transported into another fabulous time and it feels so, so good. Make sure to pencil in a little time for the gallery where there is even more!

And because we couldn’t contain the glamour in just these phenom images, we asked AJ Production Company to share their lovely take on the day. Grab the tissues!

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/33001897 601 338]

Joe + Carly | The Pennsylvanian from AJ Production Company on Vimeo

For years, even before my husband proposed, I watched countless wedding videos and cried through almost all of them. I scanned blog after blog, daily, looking at fantastic photos of happy couples in love and their version of the perfect celebration. The most exciting part for me today, aside from the sheer joy I get from saying the word husband, is the opportunity to watch OUR video together, with friends and family. To witness from an outside perspective, the love and support that was in the room that day.

Finding Aj Production Co. was a miracle, I am so grateful for Adam’s talent! As for the Scobey Photography, I have already filled most of the walls in our house with the amazing shots they captured. I am thrilled that I stumbled across Graham and Ashley from Scobey Photography. I saw one photo and knew that was the style and perspective I wanted.

Something that made the wedding extremely successful was the theme we chose, a 1940’s wedding.  I had picked this theme for two reasons, how attracted I am to vintage glamour, as well as my love for the label Stop Staring.  I wear these dresses often and found women of all ages and sizes felt sexy in them as well.  I wanted my bridal party to be just as excited to get ready for the event as I was, so I gave them freedom to choose from the Stop Staring site and accessorize to express their personality.  

There was such a buzz in the room that night as all the guests dressed the part, felt confident and were excited to show off their version of “1940’s.” We had the Boilermaker Jazz Band play for the cocktail hour and it felt as if we had been transported back in time.

Something that we discovered as a couple, flowers ranked least important to us on the priority list. I had noticed a shift in the trend of arrangements from over the top to simple. After numerous discussions with my fiance about the over priced quote we were working with, I decided to take the do it yourself approach only two weeks before, ordering floating candles along with roses in bulk. I had moments leading up to our day where I thought I would prefer to drink mimosas the morning of, rather than set up flowers, but it ended up being one of the best memories of the day.  I was surprised to see the people who were eager in the early morning to be there in support and help.

Another decision I enjoyed was dinner bingo. In the previous year my husband and I were introduced to this concept in NYC at the Standard Hotel and had the best time.  It was an ice breaker at the table for guests who were unfamiliar and made the dinner equally as exciting as the rest of the evening. Our DJ, Bill Bara, was so kind to not only to DJ but help us by being the bingo announcer.

Our caterer was such a huge help in the success of the evening and deserves all the credit in the world! Rania from Rania’s Catering was a dream!  My little brother passed away unexpectedly a month before our wedding and it made it very hard to focus on seating charts, meal choices, etc.  She was patient with timelines, as well as kind. She called and emailed to express her concern and gave assurance all would be taken care of. Aside from her compassion, she served 240 meals at the same time, all hot and delicious. A task I cannot grasp!

As a bride you plan, plan, plan but ultimately what makes the day perfect is sharing the night with your husband, love and best friend. Something I didn’t plan which was my favorite memory of the evening is when Joe pulled out a guitar and serenaded me with our favorite song, Timing is Everything. It made not only me, but half of his guy friends cry. You will be surprised how everything falls in to place and what a nice time you will have because everyone is there for the same reason, to celebrate your love. Just make sure you have it documented, it will be your biggest regret if you don’t!

Photography: Scobey Photography / Cinematography: AJ Production Company / Flowers: Bride’s Family / Hair: Premier Spa & Salons / Catering: Rania’s Catering / Ceremony & Reception Location: The Pennsylvanian / Dress: Amy Michelson / Shoes: Mix No.6 / Groom’s Shoes: Nike / Groom’s Suit: Custom Suit by Joseph Mattucci / Band: Boilermaker Jazz Band / DJ: DJ Bill Bara / Linens: Lendable Linens / Rentals: All Occasions / Lighting: ADS Lighting / Accommodations: Omni William Penn

JPC Event Group blew it out of the water at this waterside Pittsburgh wedding. They provided a phenomenal cake and mouth-watering nosh, which perfectly complimented this nautical bride and groom’s style. They put together a fabulous wedding that has us all looking forward toward warm summer weddings by the lake (even this winter-lovin’ blogger). Plus, Michaelwill Photography + Sarah Winkler Photography loaded up a gallery with so many images, it’ll take you all weekend to get your fill!

Jon and I met in college through mutual friends at an annual beach themed party. The night after we met Jon called me to go on a date but I got so nervous on the phone that I turned him down. When I told my roommate that I had said “no” to going on a date she immediately convinced me that it was a bad decision and that I had to change my mind. I think her words were “Why would you say no? It’s just a date…it’s not like you’re going to marry the guy!” I sent Jon a message apologizing for not being available that night and suggested we get together another night that week. He luckily took me up on my counter offer. It was because of my roommate’s convincing that I went on that first date – little did we all know that five years later Jon and I would be getting married!

My family has been spending our summers on Conneaut Lake for three generations now and it has always been a special place to me – there is just something about the laid back lifestyle we live while staying at our lakehouse that I love – the air is fresh, the days are spent with friends on the lake and there is always time for a cocktail while watching the sunset. Jon knew how much I loved it there and even decided that it would be the perfect location to propose (which it was!).

My mom is an assistant to an interior decorator and just has impeccable taste in decorating our house– so I knew that I would never find a location that was as unique and had as much meaning to me – so having the wedding at our lake house was an easy decision. The house has a classic shabby chic cottage feel to it with splashes of color all over the house. Since the scenery at the lake is naturally so beautiful and colorful– we wanted the outside tenting to be open and airy with a “shabby chic but elegant” feel to it. I chose soft blooms with mostly hydrangeas and large open garden roses for floral arrangement with crisp navy blue and white table linens. We complimented the shabby chic feeling with lace accents throughout many other wedding details including my dress and veil, our invitations, bouquets, vases on the tables and even our cake.

We wanted our guests to feel like we thought about them in the planning process as much as we thought about ourselves. Be it from the transportation we offered (a shuttle bus, valet parking and water taxis) or the food we picked (five courses so everyone could taste a little of everything!), we wanted each of our guests to enjoy the day just as much as we did.

Even though we had almost 230 people at our wedding, we personalized a menu at each person’s seat so that they could feel a little personal touch when they sat down for dinner. Also, since most of our guests came from out of town – we wanted people to have the experience of “the lake” so we offered mini boat cruises around the lake after dinner so that our guests could get a tour of Conneaut Lake and see the tents and wedding from the water. All of the décor, flowers and food were impeccable and better than I could have ever imagined thanks to my amazing vendors but I think that our guests really enjoyed the little touches of “us” too!

It was very important to us that we try to incorporate things about the two of us into our wedding. We did this through a number of ways – our tables were all named after our favorite places at Virginia Tech (where we met), the appetizers were all of Jon’s favorite foods, and Jamie loves to drink wine, so we had a wine bar with wines that we could tell stories about that involved the two of us. Each of the details had a purpose behind it from adding a silk rose from Jamie’s Mom’s wedding gown to her bouquet to offering classic Pittsburgh (where the Jamie is from) and Baltimore (where Jon is from) beers after dinner and having a cigar bar, which reminds us of Jamie’s Dad.

Photography: Michaelwill Photography + Sarah Winkler Photography of JPC Event Group / Cuisine and Bar Services: JPC Event Group / Wedding Cake: JPC Event Group / Wedding Gown: Priscilla of Boston / Wedding shoes: Jimmy Choo / Ceremony location: Our Lady Queen of the Americas / DJ Service: Elegant Performances, Kirk Dietrich / Table Linens: La Tavola Linens, JPC Event Group, + Chaircovers & Linens / Floral: Mocha Rose Floral Design / Tent & Equipment Rental: All Occasion / Hair: Brooke Rockwell / Make-up: Simply Beautiful / Day of Coordination: Simply Perfect Weddings / Stationery: More Than Words

I’m sure by now, you’ve realized that we have totally gone off the diving board into the world of complete wedding obsession. We can’t help it. Mention the words veil, tablescape, or groom, and we’re done for. But did you also know that we absolutely love to see a great engagement session as well? Take this Pittsburgh sesh from Craig Photography. The couple brought in JPC Event Group to create a totally inspiring and elaborate atmosphere to their love shoot, and we are so loving every little detail all the way down to the yummy raspberries. The best is that it continues in the full image gallery, so click here!

From Craig Photography … This couple, Gina and Brian, chose my absolute most favorite space to photograph in Pittsburgh – Mellon Park. It’s very “Garden of Eden meets Mid-Summer Night’s Dream.” There is amazing architecture and all the flowers, foliage and even an herb garden are maintained by volunteers.

For this session I was inspired to call Jody Wimer of JPC Event group, a friend of mine, to help with setting up a more elaborate session within my favorite space. Jody took charge of the entire look and designed and set up three separate scenes/sets for us to photograph in. For inspiration, I simply told her words to describe what I was looking for: romance, color, vintage, ethereal, soft and feminine.

As you can see from the photos, she did a terrific job. She set up a shabby chic set –  the table and chairs with sage cloth and vintage overlay, a vintage set – her great-grandmother’s ironing board with colorful flower arrangements and select homemade treats including delicious frangipane mini-pies, and a modern look with a handmade baby’s breath garland and accents and hanging fabric.

Photography: Craig Photography / Event Planning & Design:  JPC Event Group

On one of my regular late-night forrays into our awesome Little Black Book member’s blogs, Dana & BJ’s wedding just about jumped off the page at me! The way the floral design and silk ribbons are intertwined throughout the elements of the day is EXACTLY the way to do it! We asked Simone at 5Senses Events to allow us to show it to you … see what YOU think …

Oh! And the feathers!! The feathers just added that extra special panache …

Dana was the essence of beauty …

the guys … just had to have their say in the day …

Perfect … isn’t it!?

These gorgeous photos are courtesy of Rebecca’s Place;  the stunning floral design by Neubauer’s Flowers.

Dana & BJ’s wedding planner was, of course the sensational Simone, owner of Pittsburgh’s 5Senses Events! Thanks SO much for sharing. To see more of her stylish weddings, take a look at her website and blog.

We’re delighted that so many of our Little Black Book vendors have blogs of their own. Our cups runneth over with inspiration! For a complete list of all of our LBB Bloggers … click here! You’ll think you’ve gone to heaven.