On the fence about having an intimate gathering or a big wedding with all the bells and whistles? Alex and Ryan’s wedding at Sewickley Quarter is here to show that you can have both! This pair shared the vision of a relaxed, understated vibe. But they both had their own expectations too. Alex wanted a quainter feel with Ryan wanting a larger celebration. Luckily, their venue allowed for the fusion of these ideas. They united in an outdoor ceremony in the company of a few close family and friends, who each read a special blessing, before enjoying a larger tented reception with over 100 guests in the venue’s courtyard. A subtle color palette of dusty blue and sage green was seen throughout the day, adding the fresh appeal the pair had hoped for. Alex’s shoe laces, Ryan’s paisley tie, and linens courtesy of Windswept Entertainment & Event Rentals displayed the tranquil shade, while Fragile Paradise infused each space with ivory blooms among a plethora of greenery. The minimalistic approach combined with the ability to make each guest feel loved is what makes this day truly special. If you love laid-back vibes with romantic touches, you’re definitely going to adore these images captured by Alexa Frankovitch Photography!

About the Couple

Alex and Ryan first met at a mutual friend’s Memorial Day party in May 2016. After realizing they were both in grad school together at Pitt and lived 10 minutes apart, Alex and Ryan began hanging out more throughout that summer, taking long walks through both Mellon and Schenley Parks before they started dating in October.

Ryan proposed to Alex at home on their 5-year anniversary. Mid-proposal, their 7 month old puppy, Bailey, hilariously interrupted Ryan so she could be let out for a bathroom break. The moment was a perfect reflection of their life together.

About the Wedding

Alex and Ryan wanted their wedding day to be relaxed, understated, romantic, and intimate. Most importantly, they wanted it to be special and memorable. Initially, they had different visions for their day: Ryan wanted a big party and Alex wanted a smaller affair. Upon touring Sewickley Quarter, they immediately knew that it could provide the best of both worlds. The ability to have a private ceremony with immediate family and a few close friends gave Alex her wish for a smaller affair while having a 110-person reception in the tented courtyard gave Ryan his wish for a party-like atmosphere. The uniqueness of the venue presented Alex and Ryan the opportunity to host their cocktail hour at The Slippery Mermaid, just down the street. Guests were transported to what felt like a whole different world with palm trees as decor and island-themed music playing.

The overall design concept was inspired by the colors dusty blue, sage green, classic ivory, and gold. Sewickley Quarter is already a gorgeous venue with natural ivy, a courtyard fountain, and gas lanterns, so they wanted to keep the added decor fairly minimal. The tables were lined with candles, bud vases, and Italian ruscus. Floral arrangements that flanked Alex and Ryan during the alleyway ceremony were repurposed for the reception at the entrance to the bar area. Last but not least, the fountain was draped in greenery and flowers to create a beautiful focal point.

Favorite Moment

One of Alex and Ryan’s favorite moments of the day was their intimate, 14-guest ceremony. Though they didn’t have a formal wedding party, Alex and Ryan wanted to incorporate their friends in a special way. Instead of walking down the aisle, their siblings and close friends each crafted a special blessing to read during the ceremony. Alex and Ryan will always cherish the love and support they received from their friends and family on their wedding day.