Just in time for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, this navy, burgundy, and gold wedding at SLATE is the perfect dose of patriotism we need. While Rachel and Brian didn’t choose an Americana theme for their wedding, the color scheme sure did fit in perfectly with their July celebration. The palette was brought to life by a watercolor wedding invitation suite featuring gold foil and dramatically beautiful flowers from Julie James Design. The Strip District Pittsburgh wedding venue fit the bill for the industrial chic vibe the bride was going for. A mix of geometric elements, marble details, luxe florals, and hand-lettered signs from Oh Joyful Day were a striking yet beautiful contrast against the exposed brick of the space. Of course, the evening ended with a sparkler exit. This feature from Rachel Beals Photography is an excellent way to get in the spirit for Thursday’s holiday!
About the Couple
After learning that her friend met a really awesome guy online, Rachel had to see what online dating was all about. Rachel went into it without expecting or hoping to meet anyone, yet Brian was persistent and kept sending her “smiles” (automated messages). On Valentine’s Day, Rachel sent her first love note to Brian. Little did she know the journey was just beginning! Both born and raised in Pittsburgh and with similar faith backgrounds, they were a perfect match. They dated for a little over two years before deciding to commit their lives to each other.
Brian scouted out a perfect spot at McConnells Mill State Park – a cute bench by the playground. As the day dawned, it looked to be a rainy, gloomy day. But by 5 p.m., the skies cleared just in time to pick up Rachel and take her to the park for bible study. From Rachel’s perspective, this was an ordinary day and Brian seemed perfectly at ease. Then when Rachel least expected it, while sitting on the park bench praying together, Brian stopped, got down on one knee, and asked her to marry him. Yet this wasn’t the entire surprise! Brian invited their families and close friends to share in this special moment. It couldn’t have been more fitting!
About the Wedding
Rachel was looking for an intimate industrial chic venue with Pittsburgh roots and Slate definitely fit the bill. She toured the space before construction was even finished and fell in love. After a year of planning and bringing their vision to life, they had 90 of their closest friends and family join them as they made their vows before God and each other. The wedding was modern, city chic, and elegant, with a little bit of grit – a perfect description of the couple. Set against the hewn brick contrasted by white walls, their color scheme of navy, burgundy, white, and gold set the stage along with geometric and acrylic textures throughout. They traipsed around Pittsburgh in 95 degree weather capturing iconic shots of the city. After dinner, dancing, and dessert, they ran through a sea of sparklers before driving off into the night.
Favorite Moment
Our favorite moment of the day was worshiping our Savior with our closest family and friends. It was such a sweet moment of the day as we made our covenant together before the Lord. Second favorite moment was our first look! We could not wait to see each other and have a few hours together taking photos before the ceremony began.
