Glamorous City Wedding at the Heinz History Center: Ashley & Matthew

August 16, 2018 By: Burgh Brides1 Comment

Combining classic details and hints of glamour, this city wedding at the Heinz History Center is all things lovely! Ashley and Matthew love Pittsburgh and they wanted to show off their city to their family and friends. What better place to do just that than in the Strip District? The bride and groom agreed and chose St. Stanislaus Kostka Church for their ceremony and the Heinz History Center for the reception. Beyond that, the wedding was timeless and elegant. With a feminine color palette of pink, champagne, white, and gold, a romantic vibe was created with an abundance of candlelight, metallic touches, and sparkly details. Just a few of my favorites included Ashley's beaded clutch, lots of variety in the reception tables, and five massive crystal chandeliers. A city wedding isn't complete without plenty of images with the Pittsburgh skyline in the background. Lavender Leigh Photography made sure Ashley and Matthew got plenty of them, as well as beautiful documentation of their entire day. I hope you enjoy this one as much as I do.

From the bride…

When and how did you two meet?

As a new resident to Pittsburgh, some of my college friends invited me out to watch a fight, in hopes it would help me to meet new people in the area. Even with my deep dislike for cage fighting, I reluctantly decided to attend. Little did I know, I would meet the man of my dreams.

Juicy details on the proposal, please! Where, when, how?

What started as a spontaneous trip to a unique Gettysburg winery quickly became an annual trip that Matthew and I looked forward to every year. As our fourth annual trip unfolded, I had no idea what Matthew had planned. On the way to dinner, he started to reminisce about our five year relationship and all of the things we have done together. Upon pulling up to the winery, Matthew insisted on stopping at the entrance of the battlefield to take a picture as a memento from our trip.

As I stood smiling alone in front of the sign, Matthew started to walk towards me and hit his knee. Although the majority of his proposal speech was a complete blur, I remember people driving by congratulating us and guests from the winery on top of the hill sending their well wishes from above – what a wonderful surprise!

Describe the wedding. The look, theme, style, colors, etc.

The overall vision for our wedding was elegant and classic, while also including the beautiful views of Pittsburgh. We used three different types of tables: round, square, and double rectangles. With these different table options, I used different linens and flowers on each table. Our guests LOVED this style, noting it was nice to see something different from other weddings they have attended. Although each table had a slightly different look, all of the tables were tied together with white hydrangeas, pale pink roses, and greenery. Needless to say, we wanted to have a timeless wedding, therefore, we used white, pale pink, pale champagne, and gold as the primary colors.

Helping to set the classic look, we hung five chandeliers from the center of the room. With the large chandelier hanging lower and four flanking the sides, it made a breathtaking view when entering the room.

Adding to the elegance to the room, the primary decorations on many of the tables were candles; each table was flooded with a variety of candles and glass votives ranging in sizes and shapes. Also, one of the walls of the ballroom showcase floor-to-ceiling windows. To tie in the candles from the tables, we lined candles across the ledge.

For the bridal party, I wanted each of my bridesmaids to be 100% comfortable in their gowns. I also wanted to be a little nontraditional. To tie together the color scheme of the wedding, each girl wore a slightly different dress and I used both pale pink and pale champagne chiffon, long dresses.

What advice would you give to other Burgh Brides planning their big day?

My advice to future brides is simple: let it be and enjoy all of your hard work! It is so easy to get caught up in all of the small details and to micromanage everyone, but you can't do that or you will miss out on your special day! Honestly, once there are three weeks to go, you have to take a step back and say, “Wow, I have worked so incredibly hard and I am going to enjoy my friends, family, and husband.” Having this mentality will carry through to your wedding day and hopefully allow you to relax. Trust me, tons of things will go wrong! But it is all how you react to it! Plus, if the bride is having an amazing time, all of the guests will feed off that positive energy and they will have a great time as well.

Vendors

Bride's Accessories: Clarissa Boutique | DJ: Jeremy Ganss Productions | Hair: La Pomponnee Beauty Artisans | Makeup: Valarie Panei & La Pomponnee Beauty Artisans | Rentals: All Occasions Party Rental

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Introducing Bachelor Boys Band!

August 14, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

There is nothing I love more than live music. When there's a band at a wedding, I'm literally in heaven. One of my FAVORITE sources of wedding entertainment is Bachelor Boys Band and I'm thrilled to say they're now a part of the Burgh Brides Vendor Guide! Customizable in size and full of some of the country's most talented musicians, Bachelor Boys Band will have your guests on their feet all night. Today's hits or yesterday's favorites, they play it all and they play it really well. If you don't believe me, go check them out and see for yourself!

Berry & Dusty Blue Wedding at the Duquesne Power Center: Carly & Adam

August 13, 2018 By: Burgh Brides2 Comments

Thanks to whimsical fashions and lush florals, an enchanted forest theme came to life at this dusty blue wedding. A pale, Parisian-inspired shade of blue was beautifully accented by navy, gold, and a bright burst of berry pink. While this tone flattered all of the bridesmaids, Carly looked like a fairy tale princess in her spaghetti strap lace Allure Bridals ballgown. The look was made complete by metallic rose-patterned Harriet Wilde peep toes that tied with a satin bow. After saying “I Do,” Carly and Adam had an epic portrait session with Tara Bennett Photography. With European-inspired architecture and a beautifully sunny day, the results look like they are right out of a story book. At the Duquesne Power Center reception, guests were treated to a choreographed first dance, a liquid nitrogen dessert station, and a gorgeous metallic monogrammed cake, both by Bella Christie. The perfect blend of ethereal and elegant, Carly and Adam's big day is sure to be a fast favorite! Let the wedding envy begin!

From the bride…

Tell me about yourselves! When and how did you meet? How long have you been together? How did you get engaged? All the juicy details!

Adam and I met during our first year of college at Duquesne University in 2010. I admired him from a distance for a few months before he finally approached me and asked for my phone number. We dated all throughout college and while we were both in our last year of business school, we had a lecture in the Power Center Ballroom at Duquesne. Before the speaker began, Adam leaned over to me and said, “We should have our wedding here someday.” I, of course, laughed it off. But, fast forward two years and that is exactly what we did!

Describe the wedding and what inspired it. What was unique about it?

The wedding theme was “enchanted forest”. We chose to use dusty blue and navy as the main colors, with berry shades and gold as the accent colors. I would say that it was both whimsical and elegant.

What was your favorite moment of the day?

My favorite moment of the day was our first dance. I have always wanted to do a dance routine to surprise our guests on our big day. I only had to ask Adam once and he surprisingly agreed. We rehearsed for a few months and knew it step-by-step. Naturally, a few days before the wedding, the nerves set in. I was more nervous for our dance than the ceremony! But, when the music started, I felt an overwhelming calmness. It was as if Adam and I were the only two people in the room. It was exactly how I imagined it would be – perfect.

Is there any advice you would give to other couples planning their big day?

The best advice that I could give is to enjoy the planning. Don't stress over the little things. Stay organized to minimize the stress and really soak in the days before you say “I Do”.

My goal was to be optimistic while planning and it was the best decision I have ever made. Trust me, things went wrong during the planning and on the day of. But, every problem that you encounter can be dealt with later. You only get one day to celebrate you and your other half as a couple. Don't let anything spoil that.

Vendors

Flowers: Mocha Rose | Lighting: EF Lighting | Stationery: Loree Mayer Design

Introducing Alyssa Thomas Events!

August 9, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

Whimsical, colorful, and completely swoon worthy are words that adequately describe the work of Alyssa Thomas Events. This fashion marketing professional turned wedding planner combines her eye for design with a “get it done” attitude to execute events that are perfectly styled and meticulously organized. It's a winning combination, and it's just one reason I'm so excited Alyssa is now a member of the Burgh Brides Vendor Guide! Go read more about her and I guarantee you'll love Alyssa as much as I do!

Alyssa Thomas Events - Pittsburgh Wedding Planner & Burgh Brides Vendor Guide Member

Eva Lin Photography

Greenery Inspired Wedding at the Butler Country Club: Morgan & Eric

August 9, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

With foliage abounding, this greenery inspired wedding is like a breath of fresh air. A color palette of sage, soft taupe-y pink, gray, and navy helped to set the stage for an organically chic celebration at the Butler Country Club. Natural-inspired elements made an appearance in everything from the invitations featuring watercolor leaves to the signature drinks garnished with fresh lemon slices to the hand-painted wooden bride and groom chair signs. The evening ended with a bang in the form of a sparkler exit! Soft and serene, this wedding captured by Kristen Wynn Photography will have you breathing easy.

From the bride…

Tell me about yourselves! When and how did you meet? How long have you been together? How did you get engaged? All the juicy details!

Eric and I didn't formally meet until the summer of 2014, years after we had attended college together. We immediately hit it off and spent the entire night laughing and getting to know one another. Now it’s hard to imagine a time when we would just pass one another on campus, but all great things happen in perfect timing!!

We got engaged two years after our first date, in the summer of 2016. It started out like one of our usual Friday happy hours, but we decided to take a walk around the North Shore since the weather finally lightened up after raining all day. Right as we approached the spot of our first date, I turned around and Eric was down on one knee! I’ve never been more surprised in my life and it couldn’t have been more perfect. After a surprise engagement photo shoot around the city, Eric surprised me yet again with both our families waiting for us to celebrate.

Describe the wedding and what inspired it. What was unique about it?

Our wedding look was a mix of traditional and elegant, with a touch of romance. The colors involved a lot of white with shades of grey, pink, and navy. What made it unique were the hints of greenery and eucalyptus, which really softened the atmosphere and created a more natural, organic vibe.

What was your favorite moment of the day?

Our favorite moment was when we were both at the altar for the first time, holding hands and finally getting married!!

Is there any advice you would give to other couples planning their big day?

Surround yourself with support – whether it be friends, family, or even great vendors! Having a solid support system will not only make your planning process easier, but you’ll be able to relax and truly enjoy your wedding day. Also, even in the craziness of the day itself, just take the time to enjoy one another as a newly married couple and celebrate!

Vendors

Bride's Dress: Bridal Beginning | Bridesmaids Dresses: Bridal Beginning

A Wedding Storage Unit: 6 Reasons Why It Might Be a Good Idea

August 8, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

Hey brides to be, have you ever thought about renting a wedding storage unit? Ok, I know what you’re probably thinking but hear me out on this one! A self-storage facility just might be the answer to many of your wedding planning woes. From providing more space for all of that wedding STUFF to keeping your gifts in a safe spot until you move into your dream home, there are plenty of ways a self storage unit can help with wedding planning. Here are just a few!

An Automatic Extra “Room”

Wedding supplies can easily consume your entire life AND your entire living space. If you’re already cooped up in your tiny apartment or just don’t have another bedroom to spare, consider renting a storage unit for a little extra breathing room. With units ranging from 25 to 300 square feet (OR the equivalent of a standard closet all the way up to a two-car garage), Guardian Storage makes it easy to store just about anything and everything for your wedding. And, they conveniently offer 17 locations throughout Pittsburgh.

It’s More Affordable Than You Think

I’m a big advocate of sticking to your wedding budget! A big party is NOT worth going into debt. But renting a wedding storage unit might actually be more affordable than you think. Most Guardian Storage units begin at less than $100 per month and there are a few tricks to drive the cost down even further. Refer a new customer and you can even earn a $50 gift card, or pre-pay for the duration of your rental and receive a discount. That’s more money that can go towards what really matters – the open bar at your reception.

A Place to DIY Your Heart Out

Grab your hot glue gun, scissors, glitter, and whatever other supplies you need for DIYing the heck out of your wedding decorations. But rather than taking your dining room table, kitchen island, desk, or living room floor offline, hit the road and arrive at your very own do-it-yourself wedding oasis. Many of Guardian’s units are large enough to fit a table and a few chairs, and they even have free Wifi so you can watch that YouTube tutorial over and over and over again until you get that DIY project just right.

Weddings Require A Lot of Stuff

When we got married, one of our spare bedrooms became the “wedding room” and it was where I stored all of the décor and supplies I purchased for the big day. Well, that quickly spilled over into our second spare bedroom and before I knew it, our entire third floor was overtaken by wedding STUFF! If you’re like me and tend to over-shop but don’t necessarily have extra space in your house, a storage unit can save you from drowning in wedding things. From linens, chargers, and votive holders to bottles of booze, cookie table boxes, and favors, your pile of wedding reception supplies can grow FAST, and more clutter leads to more stress…the very last thing you need while planning your wedding. Keep it out of site and out of mind (and in Guardian Storage’s hands) until the big day!

A Wedding Storage Unit: 6 Reasons Why It Might Be a Good Idea from Burgh Brides

With their free hand trucks and dollies, you can easily get all of that STUFF inside!

You’ll Be Getting Gifts Galore

Between the engagement party, bridal shower, and the actual wedding, you’ll feel like it’s Christmas morning all the time. It’s so much fun when all of those gifts come pouring in, but what to do with all of them? Use a storage unit to house your new flatware, towels, toaster, coffee maker, bedding, furniture, and other wedding gifts. This will keep things organized and in picture perfect shape until you’re ready to use them or until you move in together. (Speaking of which, here are some tips for newlyweds moving in together!) Don’t worry…your precious belongings will be in good hands with Guardian’s gated and passcode entry, 24-hour video surveillance, motion detectors, and climate-controlled storage units.

This place is like a fortress!

There's even an old bank vault door at their Bloomfield location!

Need more convincing? Learn more about all of Guardian Storage’s security features.

She Sheds are the Latest Trend

There are lots of ways self storage helps with weddings, but they can also be a huge asset to the bride to be. What “man caves” are to guys, “she sheds” are for ladies. You can consider this storage unit a temporary home away from home. Go there to destress from wedding planning, sip rosé with your bridesmaids, or just look at all those wedding planning magazines without interruption. Whatever you do there, a storage unit can be your little girls only clubhouse…at least until the wedding day is over.

Imagine this space filled with a fluffy chair, yoga mat, and a little table for your bottomless glass of wine! 😉

Have you ever thought about how to use a storage unit for wedding supplies? Would you ever consider one? How would you use it? If you had one, how was it helpful during wedding planning? For home and storage solutions after the big day, be sure to check out Guardian Storage!

A HUGE thanks to Guardian Storage for teaming up with Burgh Brides to bring you this post! While I was compensated for my work, all writing, thoughts, opinions, and love for the brand are my own. You can read my full sponsored content disclosure policy here.

Introducing Roost!

August 7, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

If you're looking for urban luxury in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, look no further than Roost. Not only does this chic but hip restaurant offer delectable cuisine, but they are also home to a modern yet flexible event space. Perfect for big and small crowds, Roost is uniquely decorated but still very much a blank space suited for all styles. To learn more about this Market Square venue, head to the Burgh Brides Vendor Guide!

Roost - Pittsburgh Wedding Venue & Burgh Brides Vendor Guide Member

All Pro DJs

Introducing All in Good Taste Productions!

August 7, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

If you're looking to make your guests' mouths water, All in Good Taste Productions in the way to go. The reputation of this Pittsburgh caterer precedes them, and with a resume that reads “personal chef for the Heinz family,” you know you're in good hands. Whether you're going for casual comfort food or high end delicacies, they have something to please every palette. Go meet them in the Burgh Brides Vendor Guide!

Sparkly Gold Wedding at Longue Vue Club: Julie & Chad

August 6, 2018 By: Burgh Brides2 Comments

This GORGEOUS gold wedding contains so much sparkle that you just might need your sunglasses! You might recognize Julie and Chad from their urban rooftop engagement session. They went with something a little bit different for their September celebration – all out glitz and glam! Classic gold, ivory, and black was brightened with bright magenta, making for a rich and regal color palette. From her statement drop earrings to her beaded Eddy K wedding dress to her absolutely drool-worthy embellished Miu Miu shoes, Julie's look totally played into the day's style. So did that of the bridesmaids – each girl wore a gold sequin dress that had been custom designed and hand-made by a family friend!! Lots of candlelight, sequin linens, and even a metallic cake help to ensure the Longue Vue Club looked glamourous. Meanwhile, a spread of 300 homemade cannolis served as a “cookie table” and tribute to the couple's adorable dog, aptly name – you guessed it – Cannoli! Prepare yourself for a big pop of color and an even bigger dose of sparkle with these images from Jeannine Bonadio Photography!

From the bride…

Tell me about yourselves! When and how did you meet? How long have you been together? How did you get engaged? All the juicy details!

It started in 2008 when I saw Chad in the halls at Penn Trafford High School. After weeks of texting and hanging out among mutual friends, I got brave and asked Chad out on our first date. He told me previously he was a Bon Jovi fan; I thought the concert would be a great idea! It wasn't until we got to the concert when I realized he totally lied; he knew one song! After almost 10 years together, he knows all the songs haha.

He proposed to me on Christmas morning 2015. He set up a scavenger hunt all over our house. Half way through, I thought, “This is it. He's going to propose.” My last clue was “It's out in the cold where someone could steal it. Good thing there's no green in it.” I thought, “Oh my god…I did ask for a wallet this year but HOW is the ring not my final clue?!?” I opened the front door and there was a perfectly wallet shaped box. All that build up for a wallet?! I turned around to Chad looking pretty nervous. He told me I should open the wallet. When I opened the wallet there was the FINAL note inside, telling me how much he loved me and wanted to spend the rest of his life with me. He pulled the ring out of his pocket and got down on one knee.

Describe the wedding and what inspired it. What was unique about it?

Our wedding was very traditional with a lot of sparkle! Our colors were gold, ivory, and black with a pop of beet! I wanted something that would play well with the fall foliage and also reflect my love of color. For my bridesmaid dresses, I had a family friend make all eight dresses from reams and reams of gold sequin fabric. Each bridesmaid designed her own to fit her own style. We're absolutely obsessed with our dog, Cannoli. She is way too wild to have attended our wedding, so we had a cannoli bar to represent her! My grandma and aunt made 300 cannolis the day before the wedding. They didn't sleep! Italian women will do anything for the love of food!

What was your favorite moment of the day?

GAH, it is so hard to pick one! I loved that Chad swept me up in his arms and carried me into the ballroom as we were welcomed as Mr. and Mrs. by our closest family and friends.

Is there any advice you would give to other couples planning their big day?

Timelines are important, but don't get too caught up in sticking to the minute! If you need more pictures because the light is perfect, take them – you won't get that moment back!

Vendors

Photography: Jeannine Bonadio Photography

Blowouts, Bubbly, & Brunch Bridal Shower Inspiration

August 2, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

Blowouts, bubbly, and brunch, oh my! This styled shoot puts a fresh new spin on the traditional bridal shower and bridesmaids outing. Instead of the old standard, think outside the box when it comes to celebrating your engaged status with your gal pals. Jessica Garda Events loves the idea of getting pampered and then cheers-ing over mimosas, so she teamed up with Palermo Photo and Glow Blotique for this session. After hair and makeup at Glow's Sewickly salon, the party moved to The Union Hall of Bar Marco. There, the girls feasted on sprinkled donuts, macarons, and other girly goodies at a table adorned with pieces from All Occasions Party Rentals. Flirty but classic paper pieces from Hello Rachel Creative were the perfect finishing touch. So raise your glass to this fun approach to a pre-wedding girls day!

From the stylist…

The idea for this shoot came about after a talk with GLOW Blotique. The whole concept behind GLOW is about turning the salon experience into a social outing, much like the salons of the 50s and 60s. I instantly fell in love with the idea of a girls’ day out styled shoot where a few gal pals get together for pampering and celebration for no other reason other than enjoying each other’s friendship.

GLOW was the setting for the first part of the shoot. The atmosphere there is so carefully curated with its clean lines and mixed metals that we left the décor as is and let it speak for itself. And how incredible is that gold feature wall ,which acted as the backdrop for our mini rosé station?!

Our second venue was The Union Hall at Bar Marco. It is essentially a blank canvas which let the colors of our brunch tablescape really pop. Karrie Hlista Designs provided the vibrant pink and orange centerpieces which featured parrot tulips, garden roses, ranunculus, and playful greenery in feminine milk glass vases. Their bright color palette was the perfect complement to the cobalt blue glasses and patterned plates provide by All Occasion Party Rental. The “Funfetti” table runner from Linen Hero added an unexpected touch of texture.

The balloon garland for our food station was created by yours truly, as was the donut-hole tower and the raspberry panna cotta. Bartram House Bakery provided the darling macarons. The entire shoot was beautifully tied together by Hello Rachel Creative’s invitation design and the fun and flirty wardrobe provided by Lex & Lynne.

Vendors

From the bride…

When and how did you two meet?

Juicy details on the proposal, please! Where, when, how?

Describe the wedding. The look, theme, style, colors, etc.

What advice would you give to other Burgh Brides planning their big day?

Vendors

From the bride…

Tell me about yourselves! When and how did you meet? How long have you been together? How did you get engaged? All the juicy details!

Describe the wedding and what inspired it. What was unique about it?

What was your favorite moment of the day?

Is there any advice you would give to other couples planning their big day?

Vendors

From the bride…

Tell me about yourselves! When and how did you meet? How long have you been together? How did you get engaged? All the juicy details!

Describe the wedding and what inspired it. What was unique about it?

What was your favorite moment of the day?

Is there any advice you would give to other couples planning their big day?

Vendors

An Automatic Extra “Room”

It’s More Affordable Than You Think

A Place to DIY Your Heart Out

Weddings Require A Lot of Stuff

You’ll Be Getting Gifts Galore

She Sheds are the Latest Trend

From the bride…

Tell me about yourselves! When and how did you meet? How long have you been together? How did you get engaged? All the juicy details!

Describe the wedding and what inspired it. What was unique about it?

What was your favorite moment of the day?

Is there any advice you would give to other couples planning their big day?

Vendors

From the stylist…

Vendors

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