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Magical Christmas Wedding at the George Washington Hotel

December 17, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

If you’ve ever considered getting married over the holidays, today’s stunning Christmas wedding from Weddings by Alisa may be all the inspiration you need to make those dreams come true! Carly and Dan’s elegant holiday-themed day at The George Washington Hotel was magical and warm, with lush greenery, elaborate candles, and the perfect color palette of burgundy and gold. And since their relationship began at a car dealership, Carly and Dan elegantly tied cars into the most meaningful details, making their day completely unique and personal. So go ahead, start planning that December day, friends, because this one is sure to prove that winter weddings are here to stay!

About the Couple

We met in early spring 2013 at a mutual friend's house. Fast forward a few months later and he applied at my job! I pushed my boss to hire him because I thought he was cute. I had a boyfriend at the time, so for two long years we built our friendship. We literally became best friends. Finally, I was single and in February 2015 I told him my true feelings and the rest was history!

On a cold Monday evening in December, I came home from work and he wasn't home yet so I decided to dye my hair and take a bath. Dan came home from work and was fiddling around in the living room. He finally told me to call Piper, our puggle, into the bathroom. So I did, while still in the bathtub with hair dye on my head. She comes trotting in with my beautiful engagement ring tied around her neck. He got down on one knee and asked me to be his forever, right there in the bathroom!

About the Wedding

We had a Christmas themed wedding with burgundy, gold, greens, and pink. I wanted a classy Christmas wedding. Also, cars are a huge part of our lives. We both work at a car dealership and this was where our love blossomed. I had little details that represented that – my clutch was a license plate; the groom, groomsmen, and dads had ties with cars on them; the groom and groomsmen also had cars all over their socks; and the cuff links were shift knobs. Our dogs are also a huge part of our lives and we hid their pictures in our cake!

Favorite Moment

The moment when all of the candles were lit at the end of our ceremony with my new husband's hand in mine. It was so amazing to look out and see all of our family and friends and the beautiful lighting of the candles.

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Photography: Weddings by Alisa

The BEST Pittsburgh Engagement Photo Ideas from 2018!

December 14, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

If you're looking for some out-of-the-box Pittsburgh engagement photo ideas, you're in luck today. I've rounded up my top picks from those featured on Burgh Brides in 2018 and there is allllll kinds of goodness going down. From downtown and high glam to laid back and woodsy to even a few themed sessions, these shoots are sure to inspire your own!

Black Tie Engagement Session

Inspired by Sex and the City, Latitia and Jonathan's glamorous downtown photo shoot will have any fashionista feeling some serious closet envy. The bride-to-be wore a ballgown embellished with gold sequins in a floral pattern, while her beau wore a classic black suit. It was city couture at its finest, and we have Kristi Telnov Photography to thank for what is quite possibly my favorite session of the year!

Gritty Engagement Session on the North Shore

I'm switching gears with this urban session from Oakwood Photo + Video. The casual cuteness of Linda and Anthony, coupled with the hip vibes of gritty backdrops and iconic Pittsburgh cityscapes, make this shoot a total keeper. There's nothing better than people-focused photos. Some pretty gorgeous golden hour light isn't too bad either.

Bookstore Engagement Session

Happy endings do exist, and this incredibly unique session from Dawn Derbyshire Photography is proof. Maggie and Chris love exploring their local Half Price Books, and what better location to document the start of their happily ever after. It's quirky and adorable, just like I like 'em!

Sweet Outdoor Engagement Session

Mother Nature played a pretty big role in Maggie and Nate's pre-wedding pics. The day of the shoot, she delivered incredible sunshine, blue skies, and trees in bloom. From a glistening pond to a clearing surrounded by the woods, the scenery was breathtaking. Check out these images from Kathryn Hyslop Photography and see if you don't agree!

Summery North Shore Engagement Session

Pittsburgh looks good from just about any angle but I think the view from the North Shore definitely shows off the city's good side. And speaking of sides, Juliana and Dan don't appear to have a bad one either. These two cuties were all smiles in their shoot with Leeann Marie Photography. Can we just talk about the amazing colors of these pictures for a minute?!

Romantic Summer Engagement Session

Get ready for some swoon-worthiness with these images from Anna Laero Photography. Lauren and Jesse were quite the adorable pair during their Mellon Park e-shoot. The photos are a lovely mix of casual romance with flirty fun. It's easy to see why they're among my favorite!

At Home Engagement Session

You should feel comfortable during your engagement session, and there's no place I feel quite like myself than in my own living room. Lindsey and Joe stayed in their own South Side loft for their shoot with Rachel Rowland Photography. The result was pure coziness with a level of intimacy that is hard to achieve at other locations. Homebodies FTW!

Airport Engagement Session

Alyssa and Nate chose a totally out-of-this-world location for their shoot with Dawn Derbyshire Photography. They hit up the Butler Regional Airport and paid homage to Nate's budding pilot status. Buckle your seatbelt…these pictures are about to take off!

Sexy City Engagement Session

Wowza! Somebody get the hose because I need to cool off after Jacquelyn and Cody's sexy photos! The bride-to-be chose an unconventional number for her shoot with Palermo Photography. The black lace dress is hot hot hot and the session is steamy as can be. Plus, these two look like they could be a Hollywood couple. An easy favorite!

Breathtaking Ohiopyle Engagement Session

Why doesn't southwestern PA have more waterfalls? The world may never know. At least there is this one in Ohiopyle. It, along with some gorgeous scenery, was prominently featured in Jessie and David's pre-wedding pics from Whitling Photography. Who knew we had such beauty in our own little corner of the world?!

Urban Rooftop Engagement Session

The Pittsburgh skyline, a jewel-toned dress, and the world's most adorable doggo…it's like Jeannine Bonadio Photography speaks my love language. Julie and Chad's rooftop session was a total keeper, but Cannoli the pup really kicked things up a notch. Just wait until you see the floral collar that matched Julie's dress. Julie and Chad aren't too shabby either 😉

Which shoot was your favorite? Have any of these inspired your own engagement photos?

Don't miss the rest of the Best of 2018 series!

Here Come the (Best Dressed) Brides!

December 13, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

That walk down the aisle is likely the most anticipated one of your life! But for these local brides, it was also their most stylish! From ever-classic lace to sophisticated satin to trendy color, so many incredibly beautiful styles were featured on Burgh Brides this past year. If you're still gown shopping, let your own look be inspired by these (amazingly gorgeous) Pittsburgh wedding dresses!

Brianne

My top pick is none other than Bri, the owner of No. 14 Boutique. Obvi her dress was going to be totally killer. The fashionista chose a jaw-dropping blush pink Anne Barge dress with a mind-blowing bow in the back to wear to her luxurious Pittsburgh Opera wedding. The sweetheart necked beauty came from Anne Gregory for the Bride and I still dream about it.

Photo by Hot Metal Studio

Ali

When your mom is the owner of Bridal Beginning, it's pretty much a given that you're doing to look like a dream on your wedding day. At her Fox Chapel Golf Club wedding, Ali wowed in a Berta gown that featured illusion lace embellished with embroidery and beads. She topped it off with a detachable skirt, looking like a million bucks from head to toe.

Photos by Dawn Derbyshire Photography

Lauren

You can never go wrong with Hayley Paige. Lauren apparently agrees because she chose this beauty from Bridal Beginning. The classic ballgown skirt and intricate lace sleeves was well-suited for her traditional Omni William Penn hotel wedding. A cathedral veil completed her look!

Photos by Leeann Marie Photography

Mallory

Mallory's wedding at The Pennsylvanian was full of clean lines and chic details. Her sleek Anne Barge trumpet gown that she found at Anne Gregory for the Bride and that was adorned with only a simple bow was the perfect fit. She looked ever the timeless bride in a dress that didn't take much to be a show-stopper!

Photos by Ryan Zarichnak Photography

Carly

When the inspiration for your Duquesne Power Center wedding is an enchanted forest, only a lace ballgown fit for a princess will do. Carly's Allure bridal wedding dress from Mary's Bride and Formal featured spaghetti straps, a bedazzled belt, and stripes of lace on the skirt. It was ethereal and modern all at the same time.

Photos by Tara Bennett Photography

Melissa

Before Meghan Markle wore her simple but stunning Givenchy wedding dress, Melissa rocked a similar look. For her Oglebay Resort wedding, this bride chose a clean V-neck Pronovias dress from B. Loved Bridal Boutique that was adorned only with a little shoulder beading. Completing the look with a cathedral veil, Melissa proved that simple is never boring.

Photos by Leeann Marie Photography

Lindsey

Lindsey's Allure Bridals dress from Bridal Beginning may have been off the shoulder but her style was totally on point! With delicate lace from head to toe, the sweetheart neck gown was stunning from all angles. The back featured tiered layers of lace that lead to a jaw-dropping train, a nice contrast to her outdoor Seven Springs wedding. I'm pretty sure lace will never go out of style and I'm certainly not mad about it.

Photos by Oakwood Photo + Video

Kirsten

To jive with her industrial inspired Heinz History Center wedding, Kirsten accented her Watters ballgown wedding dress with a hard core statement necklace. The Anne Gregory for the Bride gown featured a pleated bodice and a soft skirt with an asymmetrical hem, and the bold beaded jewelry was the perfect finishing touch. I honestly don't think I could be any more in love with her look!

Photos by Rachel Rowland Photography

Steph

Steph and Andy's Fairmont Pittsburgh Hotel wedding was chic and timeless, as was her wedding dress. The Tara Keely number showcased an intricate lace bodice and long sleeves atop a simple skirt. A sweeping train followed Steph down the aisle as she made one heck of an entrance. YAS QUEEN!

Photos by Steven Dray Images

Shelby

When you want your wedding to be a modern fairytale, the answer is Hayley Paige. Shelby was the epitome of a blushing bride when she donned a soft champagne colored dress from Bridal Beginning. The dress – which included oversized sleeves and a strappy back – definitely won over Shelby's guests at her Twentieth Century wedding. I'm feeling those princess vibes, aren't you?

Photos by Whitling Photography

Christina

A lavish Hotel Monaco wedding totally calls for something beaded, don't you think? Christina looked ravishing in her Essense of Australia gown purchased at Bridal Beginning. The trumpet gown included beading at the waist, beaded straps, a keyhole back, and satin covered buttons. If this isn't bridal goals, I don't know what is.

Photos by Leeann Marie Photography

Ashley

Hayley Paige strikes again. Ashley donned this Bridal Beginning number that included a 3D lace bodice and criss-cross back at her Phipps Conservatory wedding. The skirt featured layers and layers of fluffy tulle with a wide hem for visual interested. The flowy and airy dress was the perfect compliment to the party's beach inspired theme.

Photos by Leeann Marie Photography

I don't know about you but I'm feeling some major wedding dress envy! Which one was your favorite?

Don't miss the rest of the Best of 2018 series!

Steal-Worthy Bridal Shoes from Pittsburgh Brides

December 12, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

It's the most important walk you'll ever take. Make sure your feet are prepared! To inspired your own look, I've rounded up some of my favorite kicks from 2018 Burgh Brides features. From couture, sparkly heels to adorable flats that are perfect for dancing, these bridal shoes ideas are totally worth stealing for your own. Who ever said Pittsburghers had no fashion sense?! I beg to differ!

The BEST Bridal Shoes Ideas from Pittsburgh brides. See more wedding fashion inspiration at burghbrides.com!

A sparkly Longvue Club wedding called for these mulit-colored glitter Miu Miu pumps! Photo by Jeannine Bonadio Photography.

Pink lace pointy toe heels were perfect for the blushing bride at her Allegheny County Courthouse wedding. Photo by Jenna Hidinger Photography.

Lady in red! To pop her Pittsburgh themed Heinz History Center wedding, the bride chose red, bedazzled Badgley Mischkas. Photo by Sky's the Limit Photography.

Tiana wore her heart on her sleeve…er, toes…at her Rustic Acres Farm wedding with these “love” embroidered flats. Photo by Dawn Derbyshire Photography.

Beaded Bella Belle t-straps were the perfect match for this stunning Fox Chapel Golf Club wedding. Photo by Dawn Derbyshire Photography.

The white winged shoes at Mallory's Noah's Event Center wedding were a mix of traditional bridal and modern fashion! Photo by Studio Bash.

I'd recognize those red bottomed Louboutins anywhere, especially at this DoubleTree Pittsburgh Airport wedding. Photo by Kathryn Hyslop Photography.

There were blush Badgley Mischka pumps for the blushing bride at this J. Verno Studio wedding. Photo by Lauren Renee Photography.

Classic with a touch of glam, just how I like 'em. Steph wore these beauties to her Fairmont Pittsburgh Hotel wedding. Photo by Steven Dray Images.

Carly chose these gilded Harriett Wilde shoes with satin ties for her Duquesne Power Center wedding. Photo by Tara Bennett Photography.

Kate Spade strikes again with these glittery bow peep toes worn at a Pittsburgh Botanic Garden wedding. Photo by Madeline Jane Photography.

These velvet stunners were the perfect “something blue” at Susannah's Pittsburgh Golf Club wedding. Photo by Palermo Photo.

These strappy Jimmy Choos were the best compliment to the bride's champagne wedding dress at this Twentieth Century Club wedding. Photo by Whitling Photography.

What kind of shoes will you be wearing on your big day?

Don't miss the rest of the Best of 2018 series!

Wedding Flowers

Warm December Wedding at the Embassy Suites

December 10, 2018 By: Burgh Brides1 Comment

When a bride-to-be loves everything about December and the Christmas season, a Christmas wedding she shall have! Caitlin and Chad embraced the warm glowing feelings of the most wonderful time of the year and designed a day that was seasonal without being themed. Burgundy instead of red played a main role while gold gave a metallic accent to things like the tablescapes, cute Christmas bulb escort cards, and even the floral bouquets at this Embassy Suites wedding. There's nothing quite like snuggling up to a lit Christmas tree with a cup of hot cocoa. Get ready to cozy on up to these sweet photos from Pittsburgh wedding photographer Dorosh Documentaries!

About the Couple

We met through mutual friends at a Rascal Flatts concert back in 2007! A few Facebook messages later, we went on our first date, and the rest is history!

We are country music fanatics and we LOVE to travel, so we had planned a weekend getaway to Nashville with a few of our close friends. We flew in a day early, and decided to drive to a winery in the countryside of Nashville. We sat at an outdoor picnic table right along the vineyard and enjoyed our wine flights. We were one of the only two people at the winery at that time, which made it even more romantic. It was there, on the most beautiful day, in our favorite city, that Chad asked me to be his wife. I was so excited to finally get to say yes to my best friend!

About the Wedding

Christmas is my favorite time of the year, so I definitely wanted to do a wedding in December. I wanted to focus on elegance more than anything! Also, I wanted to set a Christmas-y vibe, without using any red and green. I went with cranberry as my main color, and gold as an accent. We had Christmas trees and garland everywhere that lit up the room beautifully! What I love about Christmas weddings is that you can do so much with Christmas decorations to make both the ceremony and reception spaces absolutely beautiful. Whether its flowers, trees, lights, or centerpieces, you can truly wow your guests with the beauty of the Christmas season!

Favorite Moment

Even though there were so many great moments, my all time favorite would have to be dancing with my husband for our first dance. We danced to “Then” by Brad Paisley, which has always been our song. With all of the stress that comes with planning a wedding, it felt amazing to get to dance with the man that I finally was able to call my husband. I remember thinking, “This moment is what I've been waiting for; this is what its all about.”

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Photography: Dorosh Documentaries

Wow-Worthy Wedding Flower Ideas from Local Brides

December 7, 2018 By: Burgh Brides2 Comments

Roses are red, violets are blue, I'm totally in love with these Pittsburgh wedding flowers, and bet you will be too. I'm back with my Best of 2018 series and am kicking it off with the sweetest detail…FLORALS! This past year was full of the prettiest blooms and it was SO HARD to narrow it down to a few favorites. But with a mix of luxury and glam, whimsy and color, and garden-inspired and natural, there's something to suit every style. Take a minute to stop and smell the roses with my Best of 2018 picks for bouquets and arrangements!

Stunning & Enchanting Wedding at Fox Chapel Golf Club

The year started off with a bang when I showcased this feature in early January. A greenery-filled wonderland created by greenSinner was made even more chic with a white anemones, ranunculus, roses, and dahlias. The bride carried an oversized bouquet while the venue was decorated with floral table runners, tall pieces, and low arrangements in gold bowls. It was – in a word – incredible.

Photos by Dawn Derbyshire Photography

Blue Beach Inspired Wedding at Phipps Conservatory

I'm feeling the island vibes that Blossoms by Jilliann whipped up with Ashley and Rory's wedding. While the bride carried bright pink blooms, the cocktail hour featured pineapples that had been hollowed out to hold fresh flowers. The tropical feels continued in the reception space where chic white orchids and huge palm leaves filled the room. If I close my eyes and concentrate, I can hear waves and seagulls, can't you?

Photos by Leeann Marie Photography

Lush Blue & Burgundy Wedding at the Heinz History Center

This wedding might have just appeared on Burgh Brides, but I'm already dreaming of another look. The Blue Daisy Floral Designs whipped up magically rich arrangements with the couple's chosen color palette in mind. Taking the dark colors of fall and mixing them with feminine props of light pink, Stephanie combined blue thistle, cranberry hydrangeas, and astilbe with tons of fresh greenery for a look that was dramatic yet classic.

Photos by Christina Montemurro Photography & Video

Fun Whimsical Wedding at the Children's Museum

If there is one thing that can top this wedding having an exotic animal petting zoo, it was the colorful, youthful florals from greenSinner. A bridal bouquet featuring a MASSIVE pink dahlia, a ceremony arch that will honestly blow your mind, and a variety of table arrangements featuring terrariums, glass bell jars, succulents, and Spanish moss…I can't handle the creativity.

Photos by Sky's the Limit Photography

Modern Chic Wedding at The Pennsylvanian

Mallory and Zach wanted a timeless and refined affair. My, oh, my did Mocha Rose Floral and Event Design deliver or what?! A clean green and white palette kept things classic and neutral while voluminous elevated arrangements gave the room a heavenly vibe. These floral designers really outdid themselves with a darling pair of greenery wings for a sweet flower girl and a sweetheart table backdrop that is out of this world!

Photos by Ryan Zarichnak Photography

Dazzling Pink & Gold Wedding at the Heinz History Center

When “pink champagne bubbles” are the inspiration for the wedding, you know it's bound to be good. Fox Petal Floral Design made it even better with these killer florals. A bouquet of white orchids, hydrangeas, and soft pink spray roses matched the bride's blush wedding dress. Meanwhile, the monochromatic reception arrangements created modern silhouettes that were just stunning.

Photos by Aaron Varga Photography

Vintage Rustic Wedding at Shady Elms Farm

Farm fresh florals grown and arranged by those at Shady Elms Farm were a highlight of this sweet soiree. Pops of peach and blue matched the day's color scheme while sprigs of fresh eucalyptus gave it an organic vibe. From the terrariums to the table runners to the fresh lavender on the semi naked wedding cake, pretty flowers appeared at just about every turn.

Photo by Steven Dray Images

Lavish City Wedding at Hotel Monaco

greenSinner knocked it out of the freaking park (again) with the stunning arrangements at Christina and Adam's downtown fete. The reception featured crystal chandeliers that were decked out with cascading blooms, as well as a mix of high and low arrangements. Meanwhile pops of pink peeked through the bride's bouquet for a feminine touch. The look was cosmopolitan but still classic…a feat not easy to achieve!

Photos by Leeann Marie Photography

Warm & Earthy Wedding at Olgebay Resort

Some say greenery is boring. But when it looks like THIS, it's anything but! Masterpieces of Old Town created a head table canopy of dripping vines and amaranthus that will make your jaw hit the floor. The rest of the space was filled with fresh table runners and centerpieces featuring a dramatic pop of deep burgundy red. It was warm and romantic with a Mother Nature vibe.

Photos by Leeann Marie Photography

Vivid Fall Wedding at Shady Elms Farm

The essence of autumn came to life with the insanely beautiful florals at this barn wedding. Shades of orange, burgundy, plum, and yellow were married in the arrangements by Shady Elms Farm, and they popped brilliantly against bright teal linens. The unexpected yet dreamy combination was one I won't soon forget.

Photos by Jenna Hidinger Photography

Modern Garden Inspired Wedding at the Pittsburgh Golf Club

A bridal bouquet with the wingspan of a bald eagle, a fresh floral belt, and greenery dripping from the chandelier…it's easy to see why these creations from greenSinner were among my favorites. Multiple themes were seamlessly fused together into a cohesive, whimsical style that make these flowers worth a second look!

Photos by Palermo Photo

Thoughtful Vintage Wedding at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden

The giant red dahlia in Macae's bridal bouquet is rocking my world. This beauty wasn't the only pretty bloom from Sapphire & Lace Design. The centerpieces varied between dainty and bountiful, while a fresh garden rose at each place setting were a nice, welcoming touch for all the couple's friends and family.

Photos by Caitlin's Living Photography

Bold Sangria Wedding at the University Club

Hello gorgeous color! Karrie Hlista Designs took the shades of this sangria inspired wedding and made some wedding floral magic. Magenta, raspberry, and purple bouquets bursted against bridesmaids dresses of the same hues. Coordinating arrangements featuring orchids and cockscombs rounded out the reception flowers. Go bold or go home, am I right?!

Photos by Jenna Hidinger Photography

If only our computer screens were scratch ‘n sniff! Which wedding flowers were your favorite?

Don't miss the rest of the Best of 2018 series coming soon!

Snowy Christmas Tree Farm Engagement Session

December 6, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

This Christmas tree farm engagement session is sure to put you in the holiday spirit! Unwrap the cutest photos from Alison Mish Photography and get ready to ring in the most wonderful time of the year. Mary and Brad prayed for a snowy day so they could make the best of the season. They got the prettiest, most picturesque winter weather with large, fluffy snowflakes, making these images all the more special. With mugs of hot chocolate (marshmallows included!), a cozy plaid blanket, and even an ornament with their wedding date written on it, this pair embraced the cold but had their love to keep them warm. They frolicked among the Christmas trees and even kissed under some mistletoe! If you thought that all December engagement shoots needed to take place indoors, think again!

About the Couple

Brad and I actually met on Facebook through mutual friends. Over the next 5 – 6 years, we became good friends and bonded over hockey – he loved the Blackhawks and I love the Pens.

Throughout our friendship, we would always passively invite each other to our respective cities for years, but I never took any of the invites seriously. However, in the fall of 2015 when the Wisconsin Badgers signed on the old Pitt football couch he told me, “If you want to see a REAL football game, you could come to one of the Badger games.”

We kept saying “it was just as friends” but going there really felt like a 600+ mile blind date. It was obvious we had an immediate connection. Six months later, Brad picked everything up and relocated from Wisconsin to Pittsburgh.

Brad proposed on his birthday that following March. I had a feeling it was coming because he arranged his own birthday dinner and invited my mom, his parents from out of town, and all our best friends. Before dinner, we stopped to take pictures on the roof top of the parking garage that had an awesome view of all downtown. While I had my back turned, Brad got down on one knee!

We decided on a December wedding because Christmas is both of our favorite holiday and we love winter. December 22 is also his grandparents' wedding anniversary so that makes it all the more special.

About the Session

Because we are having a Christmas/winter themed wedding, we really wanted to plan our engagement session around that theme. We were stalking the weather channel constantly for weeks, praying for snow because I just knew it would make the photos everything I dreamed of. We really lucked out with the most perfect snowfall!

Our photographer, Alison, was really amazing and such an all-star for agreeing to brave the bitter cold with us. With the help of multiple thermoses filled with hot chocolate and a couple of breaks to blast the heat in our car, we were able to power through and I couldn't be happier!

9 Ways to Step Up Your Pittsburgh Cookie Table Game

December 4, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

The Pittsburgh cookie table is the BEST Southwestern PA wedding tradition, IMHO. Disagree if you must but I can’t think of anything better than an all-you-can-eat buffet of delicious treats. Plus, nothing cures a post-wedding hangover quite like a breakfast of leftover cookies, am I right? There are mixed opinions about how the Pittsburgh cookie table got its start, but I for one am sure glad it did. While I’ve never met a cookie table I haven’t liked, nothing makes my mouth water quite like the ones that combine style AND sweets! Infuse a little personality and step up your wedding dessert game with these Pittsburgh cookie table ideas!

Don’t be afraid to ask relatives to pitch in.

If your female family members are anything like mine, they’ll spend months baking hundreds of dozens of cookies. Or at least, they’ll want to. Pittsburgh wedding planner Jessica Garda Events advises you to not be shy about asking relatives or friends for help. Most are just waiting to be asked, and they’d love nothing more than to be involved with your big day. Don’t feel obligated to do all of that baking on your own! Plus, no one makes a chocolate chip cookie quite like grandma anyways.

Give a little history.

Everyone will know the Pittsburgh cookie table when they see it. But some people – like your out of town guests – may not know what it’s all about. Display a sign that gives a brief history or description of the local wedding tradition and everyone will feel more in the know.

9 Ways to Step Up Your Pittsburgh Cookie Table Game. See more Pittsburgh wedding ideas at BurghBrides.com!

Levana Melamed Photography

Create visual interest.

Every other aspect of your wedding is styled to perfection. Don’t stop with the cookie table. Make it visually appealing by incorporating props, fresh flowers, or even a fun backdrop. Think of it as yet another way to bring style and life to your reception!

Kaitlin Powell Photography

Beth Insalaco Photography

Say thank you.

If family and friends are giving you an assist with the baking (see #1), be sure to acknowledge them. Display a sign that recognizes all of your baking fairy godmothers or include a little card next to each type of cookie, letting your guests know who made it. Either way, find some way to publicly say thank you to all of those kitchen gurus!

Make sure everything is labeled.

People like to know what they’re eating. That’s why it’s a good idea to label each type of cookie on the table. At the very least, be sure to point out which treats contain nuts. Your peanut-allergic friends will thank you! If you’ll be accommodating any other dietary restrictions – like gluten free or sugar free – make sure to label those too!

Kaitlin Powell Photography

Create height with your display.

If they’ve grown up in Southwestern PA, they’ve spent their entire lives attending local weddings and seeing Pittsburgh cookies tables. Give them something they haven’t seen before! Keep your table interesting by building your table up, instead of out! Use tiered trays or prop containers up with pretty boxes or stands to create height and dimension.

Kaitlin Powell Photography

Lucia Cintra Photography

Think outside the box with containers.

Skip the flat plastic trays. Opt for something unique and use your imagination when it comes to display containers. Glass apothecary jars, an antique drawer, framed mirrors, wooden crates, or even an old suitcase lined with a pretty linen can hold cookies. Let your creative juices start flowing and your guests will say “Wow!”

Levana Melamed Photography

Don’t feel the need to stick to just cookies.

If there’s anything better than a cookie table, it’s a table that has allllll kinds of desserts! If cookies aren’t really your thing but you still want to partake in this tradition, incorporate other types of sweet treats into your table. There are loads of great, iconic local bakeries that offer everything from donuts to cupcakes to miniature parfaits. It’s a fun way to show off more of what Pittsburgh has to offer while also giving your guests another dessert option.

Christina Montemurro Photography & Video

Beth Insalaco Photography

Have to-go bags or boxes.

This tip is probably a given. BUT what you probably haven’t thought of is keeping those to-go containers hidden until later in the evening. Open up your cookie table during dinner so that guests can eat some for dessert. However, consider waiting until during the dancing portion of the evening to let them fill up on cookies to take home. Otherwise, guests will fill up their bags WAY TOO EARLY, meaning your cookie table will look pretty sparse sooner than you want. Make ‘em wait a little bit to fill up 😉

Kaitlin Powell Photography

Even if you don’t have a Pittsburgh cookie table at your wedding, I’ll still love you. Maybe a little less though…totally jk!

Warm & Romantic Winter Duquesne Power Center Wedding

December 3, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

There’s something about this time of year that makes us dream of everything cozy and warm. When you add a gorgeous winter wedding into the mix? Pure perfection, am I right? Casey and Alex dreamed up a classic and romantic day at the Duquesne University Power Center that will definitely have you dreaming of moving your June wedding up to December! A black and white color palette accented with burgundy and gold made the perfect backdrop to their big soiree. But of course, it was Casey and Alex who completely stole the show with a timeless but modern lace gown for the bride and a classic black and white tuxedo for him. Mismatched floor length little black dresses for the bridesmaids, lush greenery, bold winter florals, and a dusting of snow on the ground completed the list of perfect ingredients for this beautiful off-season soiree. And let’s not forget the world's best favor: sprinkled donuts! Get ready to devour every detail, perfectly captured by Pittsburgh wedding photographer Loren DeMarco Photography!

About the Couple

We met about seven years ago in Shadyside when I was in college. We both lived a block away from each other and kept seeing each other at our favorite bar, Shady Grove. We got engaged December 2016 on Christmas day. We woke up Christmas morning and Alex said “I know we weren't doing gifts this year…” and then he proposed! He planned an entire brunch celebration at his aunt's house, where both of our parents and siblings came to celebrate! Christmas is my obsession and favorite holiday, which is why he picked to do it then!

About the Wedding

Wintery, romantic, lots of lace, everything black and ivory with hints of burgundy and gold. It was unique because we did it in the winter. I let my bridesmaids pick their own long black dresses because I was going for the mix and match look. It turned out to look amazing.

Favorite Moment

Dancing with all of our family and friends at the reception

Vendors

Parisian Plum & Silver Wedding Inspiration

November 29, 2018 By: Burgh Bridescomment

Allow your special day to be inspired by the city of love…Paris! This Parisian plum and silver wedding color palette combines both chic and delicate features with antique accents. It is so perfect for the fall and winter months. Invitations made of organic paper with soft edges and a wax seal can mimic a love letter and is a sure fire way to get your guests excited to come watch more of your love story unfold. While floral details of this palette are elegant, nothing about these arrangements are structured – but rather effortless and natural looking. Lanterns or vintage vases are perfect for displaying your beautiful centerpieces while bringing a touch of French glamor. Dress your bridesmaids in the beautiful deep purple hue or change it up and have them wear a gorgeous silver tone. Fit and flare, flowy, or whatever your style, lace detailing on your bridal gown will add the perfect touch to go with this theme. And don’t forget to add in some of those charming French details such as a bread table with baguettes, macaroons and beignets at the dessert table, and a wonderful champagne fountain. Ahh yes, it sure is true…Paris is always a good idea! Head to Pinterest for even more Parisian plum and silver wedding ideas!

Parisian Plum & Silver Wedding Inspiration

Loving this plum and silver wedding inspiration?

What do you like about this palette? Are you using any of these colors in your wedding day? How so? Comment below!

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Brianne

Ali

Lauren

Mallory

Carly

Melissa

Lindsey

Kirsten

Steph

Shelby

Christina

Ashley

Don't miss the rest of the Best of 2018 series!

Don't miss the rest of the Best of 2018 series!

About the Couple

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Don't miss the rest of the Best of 2018 series coming soon!

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Don’t be afraid to ask relatives to pitch in.

Give a little history.

Create visual interest.

Say thank you.

Make sure everything is labeled.

Create height with your display.

Think outside the box with containers.

Don’t feel the need to stick to just cookies.

Have to-go bags or boxes.

About the Couple

About the Wedding

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Loving this plum and silver wedding inspiration?

Revisit some of my other favorite color schemes!

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