Emma and Jimmy’s timeless wedding at The Priory beautifully balanced a black-and-white color palette with the vibrant hues of spring flowers. The day began at The Priory Hotel, where Christina Montemurro Photography & Video documented each moment through photo and video. Their ceremony took place at the Duquesne University Chapel, Emma’s alma mater, under the glow of stunning stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings. Emma carried a bouquet of hot pink and orange spring blooms, designed by Hearts and Flowers Floral Design, for a delightful splash of color. She wore a classic strapless gown, purchased at Bridal Beginning, which featured delicate pearl accents and ruching along the bodice, with the timeless touch of buttons down the back. Back at The Priory, the Grand Hall’s historic architecture and soft lighting created a naturally elegant setting, allowing for minimalist decor that perfectly suited the couple’s classic vision. The reception highlighted a show-stopping cookie table with over 1,000 homemade treats baked by family and friends, alongside a stunning three-tiered cake from Prantl’s Bakery. Emma and Jimmy made their exit through white ribbon and lace streamers, waved joyfully by their guests.
About the Couple
Emma and Jimmy have been together for seven years, starting with their first official date at the North Hills High School senior prom. They navigated a long-distance relationship during college, with Emma attending Duquesne University and Jimmy studying at Penn State. In 2023, Jimmy proposed to Emma during her visit to California, with a romantic moment in front of the Oakland Bay Bridge in San Francisco.
About the Wedding
From the bride…
Jimmy and I grew up in the Pittsburgh area and chose to host a traditional celebration at The Priory to showcase the gorgeous historical elements and city we love. The Priory Hotel was the perfect place to get ready in the morning, with its classic antique design and decor, offering a charming space for our out-of-town guests. The Duquesne University Chapel was a beautiful venue for our ceremony, especially since I am a Duquesne graduate. It’s a peaceful escape from the bustling city, yet still offers stunning views of the skyline, along with beautiful fountains and gardens.
I chose a black-and-white color scheme for the wedding party to create a classic look, but I also wanted to add a touch of color with vibrant spring flowers to brighten everything up. The flowers stood out beautifully against the black and white. One of the reception highlights was, of course, our Pittsburgh cookie table, where we received over 1,000 cookies baked by our family and friends.
Favorite Moment
From the bride…
My favorite moment of the day was leaving our reception to take photos in the courtyard at night. It was special for Jimmy and me to be together after such a busy day. We finally had a chance to talk without interruptions, and the rain had stopped just in time for us to capture a few photos. It was a beautiful evening – the perfect ending to an incredible day.
