You know you’re in for a fabulous wedding day when the reception centerpieces are all themed around bourbon, and features a cake topper that really says it all (see below). But even more so when you meet the brides and instantly can feel the connection and intense love that they share. When I first met Lauren & Jess in person, they agreed to meet for drinks at one of my favorite restaurants, OTB Bicycle Cafe at North Park. As we chatted over a couple beers, it was clear that they wanted a relaxed, laid back wedding day, with time built in for photos, but also plenty of time for them to spend with family and friends. That’s my kind of wedding day.
We began the day with photos in the Strip District, and then we headed over to my favorite venue, the Heinz History Center. We still had some time for a few more photos there in some of the exhibits before their ceremony began. I can’t ever get tired of shooting at the History Center! I had just gone a week before to scout out some new spots, and was excited to have a chance to use them. The staff is so accommodating and helpful and does everything possibly to make plans run smoothly. And they really do it with such warmth, so that couples get that special treatment they deserve on their wedding day.
Lauren & Jess’s self-uniting ceremony was officiated by Lauren’s sister, Barbara, and was the perfect length – not too short, not too long. I’ve heard a lot of vows over the years, and I continue to be amazed and moved at the unique, personal ways that couples find to declare their love and commitment. Lauren & Jess’s vows were perfect, so personal and intimate, with just the right blend of humor and sincerity. And definitely some laughs at the end.
The reception was held downstairs in the Great Hall, with entertainment by Hitplay. Common Plea Catering created three fantastic food stations (taco bar, yummmm), and there was a cookie/doughnut station with these amazing biscotti that I can’t begin to describe. (Plus, the cake topper mentioned above.)
Thanks to Randi Voss for shooting with me – some of the images below are hers. Here are some of my favorites.
Wedding Ceremony in the Heinz History Center Library & Archives Room
Wedding Reception in the Heinz History Center Great Hall
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The Credits
Venue: Heinz History Center
Band: Hitplay
Florist: Gold Dust Florist
Hair & Makeup: Rachel Blake
Heinz History Center Wedding Photographer: Christina Montemurro
One more, because this cracked me up:
