With many years of holiday anniversaries behind them, Samantha and Nick’s winter wedding at Soldiers & Sailors Museum marked the beginning of a new future together, adorned with garlands and a luxurious ambiance. Leeann Marie Photography accompanied the couple as they started their day with a ceremony at Heinz Chapel. They joined hands at the altar, illuminated by holiday trees, beneath the chapel’s stunning vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows. Samantha’s waves were styled by Smoke Show Salon and pulled back with a sparkling hairpin, while See Jane Blush created a makeup look to complement her dramatic ballgown. Donning an incredible green cloak, the bride posed outside the iconic red doors of Heinz Chapel, as well as in front of the grand pillars of the Soldiers & Sailors Museum for breathtakingly unique photo ops. This landmark’s Grand Hall served as the reception space for the evening, featuring a fifty-foot decorative ceiling that complemented the festive theme of greens and reds. Greenery and garlands were crafted by Leechburg Floral, accompanied by small wreaths and table centerpieces made from pine branches, swags of cedar, and berry accents. Table settings included take-home ornaments for guests, nodding to Samantha and Nick’s engagement story as a holiday-inspired gesture of love.
About the Couple
Samantha and Nick’s love story began with an online match and a memorable first date illuminated by the glow of a thousand Christmas lights. Since the holiday season holds sentimental memories of their first date, it was the perfect time of year for Nick to propose. He surprised Samantha on Christmas Eve with an early present. As Samantha opened her gift, she found a Christmas ornament. Each year the couple enjoys the tradition of purchasing meaningful ornaments together. This time, however, the ornament read, “Will you marry me?”
About the Wedding
With a holiday wedding came the Christmas-y theme of greens, golds, and the bride’s red rose bouquet. Extravagant photo moments of the couple were shot on the steps of the Soldiers & Sailors Museum and while strolling the manicured winter gardens, as Samantha’s unmistakable long green cloak made a unique bridal statement. Advice from Samantha and Nick to future couples would be to “plan early, often, and together.”
Favorite Moment
From the photographer…
I loved the cloak moments! Those photos are indescribably cool.
