Paloma and Matt’s wedding happened quite some time ago, but somehow it never found its way to my blog… until now. I am so happy that top Pittsburgh wedding photographer Alisa Innocenti of Weddings by Alisa asked me to help her photograph this supremely awesome wedding at Clear Story Studio. (Alisa is fabulous, and if you’re not following her on Instagram, you should. She’s talented AND a riot.)
My favorite weddings are not my favorite weddings because of extravagant details. Sure, I like pretty things… but what moves me most are the weddings that move you, heart and soul. The personal, heartfelt speeches from loved ones. The carefully crafted ceremonies that have been tailored to suit the couple’s personalities. That’s what makes being a wedding photographer so meaningful! Having the opportunity to document and create the visual memories that tell these stories is my dream job. Perhaps even more so when I am making wedding films!
I’ve written before that I don’t think making a ceremony shorter is as a great idea as people often think it is. Paloma and Matt didn’t think so either. Before their ceremony began, guests were encouraged to get a beverage to bring along to their seats with them, and make themselves comfortable. Paloma and Matt then walked into the ceremony together, arm in arm.
In the first part of the ceremony, the wedding rings were passed around to each guest. As they held the rings, each guest was invited to share where they were from, and what their connection to the couple was. It was amazing hearing these stories, and learning that guests had come from all over the world! Next, some of the couple’s closest friends and family spoke informally about what these two mean to them, and what extraordinary people they are. And last, Paloma and Matt faced each other and exchanged some of the deepest, most sincere and emotional vows I’ve ever heard.
After the ceremony, guests were treated to a fantastic buffet, including a pad thai station! Clear Story Studio’s open kitchen provided the perfect setup for this. (Note that Clear Story Studio is one of few Pittsburgh/Western Pennsylvania wedding venues that allow you to bring your own caterer.)
Paloma and Matt, I felt honored to be present for this extraordinary wedding. Congratulations!
It’s Pittsburgh wedding photographer Beth Kukucka!
