When you cross the modern vibe of Hotel Monaco with a blush pink and black wedding, you know pure magic is about to happen. When it happens to be the wedding of one of the city’s best and most talented wedding planners? Let’s just say you should be prepared to have your socks knocked off. As owner of Poppy Events, Christine normally spends her weekends sending brides down the aisle, but last March, it was her turn to take that walk. All of the stops were pulled out for this affair that brought together classic, art deco, and contemporary styles. Blush pink, black, and white were met with the venue’s eclectic decor, whose bold bursts of emerald green and funky floral and hounds tooth patterns added some unexpected twists. Textured linens, crystal charger plates, geometric menu cards, and floating candles played major roles in the tablescapes, but the florals by Mocha Rose played center stage. Anemones, ranunculus, hydrangeas, snap dragons, and roses were beautifully arranged into a variety of centerpieces and one very handsome sweetheart table runner that cascaded all the way to the floor. A blush pink sheath wedding dress from Glitter & Grit and four – count ’em FOUR – cakes from Frosted Envy, all in the color scheme of the day, rounded out the palette. I knew this wedding planner’s big day was going to be good but DAMN. It was all captured by Amber Marie Photography and it’s all below for your viewing pleasure. Let the drooling commence.
From the bride…
When and how did you two meet?
We were set up on a blind date! Frank attended a wedding I was planning for one of his close friends and neighbors. After the wedding and all of the planning was over, the mother of the bride called me to tell me that she wanted to connect the two of us because she felt we would be perfect together. Our first date was at Market Square in October 2013 and we have not left each other’s sides since.
Juicy details on the proposal, please! Where, when, how?
Frank planned an amazing staged proposal in the courtyard of the old St. Patrick’s Church in the Strip District. I was told we were meeting his mom for brunch that Saturday afternoon but instead was lead into a beautiful sanctuary staged perfectly for his proposal. Their was a photographer hiding in the garden to capture it all and my best friends was waiting down the street to celebrate with us. It was perfect!
Describe the look, theme, style, colors of the wedding.
Classic black and white with unexpected pops of color. Blush, gold, and bold greens were used to bring warmth to the space. Small hints of hounds tooth were mixed in for modern fun.
What inspired the vision?
Clean geometric shapes along with Hotel Monaco’s sleek and modern space. Anemones were a must and a huge source of inspiration for the florals and centerpieces.
What made the wedding unique?
Our children were involved and family was the focus. My 13 year old son walked me down the aisle and read a scripture reading during the ceremony. Our bridal party was a mix of our children and nieces and nephews ranging from ages 4 – 13.
What was your favorite moment of the day?
The ceremony! It was so personal, intimate, and full of love. It was more than just becoming husband and wife; we were celebrating becoming a family…all 5 of us!!!
What advice would you give to other Burgh Brides planning their big day?
Small bumps WILL happen on your wedding day, no matter how flawless your planning is. The important thing is to not over-react. Do not allow any small mistake or flaw to take away your joy or keep you from celebrating with the love of your life.
Take the time to really get to know your vendors and choose the right professionals. Wedding vendors are in the business for one reason….they love weddings!!! Allow them the creative freedom to do what they love to do and you will not be disappointed. Hiring true professionals will also allow you to relax the day of your wedding while they take care of all of the details behind the scenes.
Any must haves, must dos, or can’t live withouts? Anything you would do differently?
Amazing shoes!! Ha!!
Our first look was everything for me. I was so nervous about the ceremony. Seeing Frank for just 10 minutes prior calmed me and brought peace and clarity to the situation. It was so emotional and private; I completely forgot that the photographers were there. I love looking back at the pictures.
Vendors
Bride’s Dress: Rebecca Schoneveld Bridal from Glitter & Grit | Bride’s Accessories: Camilla Christine | Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Cakes: Frosted Envy | Caterer: Hotel Monaco | Ceremony Location: First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh | DJ: Jeremy Ganss Productions | Flowers: Mocha Rose | Hair: Elisha Evans Style | Lighting: PSAV | Linens: Mosaic | Makeup: Mock Makeup | Menswear: Hugo Boss | Photographer: Amber Marie Photography | Reception Venue: Hotel Monaco | Rentals: All Occasions Party Rental | Stationery: Blush Paper Co. | Transportation: Elite Transportation | Wedding Planner: Poppy Events
DJ: Jeremy Ganss Productions | Rentals: All Occasions Party Rental | Stationery: Blush Paper Co. | Wedding Planner: Poppy Events
