WHIRL Wedding Guide: Fall/Winter 2015 by WHIRL Publishing

Love Is Forever

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In Every Issue 12 Publishersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Page Fall in love with love as you relish in the romantic celebrations and stories in this issue.

92 WHIRL Wedding Directory Let our complete compendium of vendors, venues, rentals, and specialized services take the guesswork out of your planning process.

104 Happily Ever After Even in the fun chaos of a reception, we found one shot where time stood still.

Real Weddings 61 Donna Moyles & Albert DeMauro

76 Mary Lee Gannon & Arnie von Waldow

62 Debbie Numrich & Jimmy Campbell

77 Ashley Barna & Travis Brown

63 Heather & Nathan Martin 64 Ali Trombetta & Billy White

79 Jennifer Perchinsky & William Ursic

65 Sarah Hainer & Marquis Hawkins

80 Andrea Bosco & J.W. Stehle

66 Amy Show & Matthew Smiley 68 Becky Perez & Kimberly Minton

82 Aaron Leibowicz & Gregory Taylor

69 Amanda Carine & Anthony Carna

83 Cara Quattrone & Todd Amann

70 Christine May & Joseph Sirlin

84 Kelly Broad & James Affinito

78 Hannah Wirginis & Bradley Roth

71 Rebekah Kriek & Nathan Wood 72 Amanda Pittman & Brett Unangst

86 Stephanie Lenhart & Patrick Kirby

74 Melinda Colaizzi & Kristian Habenicht 75 Shayne Souleret & Brad Bouldin

Photographs from Jorge Santiago, Stephen Saldana/Studio Saldana, Bahamas Wedding Productions, Ryan Zarichnak Photography, Corbin Gurkin Photography

85 Courtney Blackhurst & Chad Daloia

87 Chelsey Capra & Christopher Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell

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WW / Volume 12 Set your sights on coordinating wedding jewelry, like these rings from Henne Jewelers.

Autumn Stankay of SkySight Photography reveals her favorite spots for engagement photo sessions.

Departments 15 Bridal Buzz

Peruse our full roundup of fashions, favors, and features to include on your big day to keep up with the latest trends of the year.

33 Venues: Location Inspiration From rustic outdoor spaces to marvelously modern hotels, our area’s venue options are endless. Narrow down your favorites from our complete, detailed list.

89 Rings: All Set You’ve found your perfect match. Now, it’s your ring’s turn! Pair your engagement ring with a coordinating wedding band for a beautifully unified bridal set, and shop similarly styled bands for your man, too.

Features 47 Chance of Showers Don’t let the idea of throwing a bridal shower cloud your life with stress. We asked local event planners and catering experts to share their best advice to make planning a shower fun and free of worries.

51 Photographers’ Favorites: Enchanting Engagements The first stop on the road to marital bliss is the engagement photo session. Let Pittsburgh’s best photographers show you the top spots in the city to serve as the perfect representation of your love for each other.

54 Tiers of Joy

Hannah Conard Beauty tells us what’s trending in bridal beauty.

Photographs by Michael Fornataro, from SkySight Photography, Mandy Fierens Photography, The Event Group

Any way you slice it, wedding cake is the best. Find the inspiration for decorating your confection with five designs to appeal to every taste — inside and out!

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Wedding Guide WW / Volume 12 Publisher Jack Tumpson Editorial Director Christine McMahon Tumpson Editor in Chief Andrea Bosco Stehle Senior Editor Rachel Jones Associate Editor Liz Petoniak Contributing Writers Abby Dudley, Colleen Ferguson creative Director Jason Solak Art Director Jordan Harriger Assistant Art Director Samantha Casale

Celebrate your wedding or rehearsal dinner with style and a special mix of the best cuisines in Pittsburgh. Choose from Casbah, Mad Mex , Eleven, Soba, Kaya and Umi menu offerings, combine selections from several big Burrito restaurants, or create your own menu. ®

Just let big Catering know what you need and we’ll take care of all the details.

Staff Photographer Michael Fornataro Wedding guide Sales Director Jaime Mullen Account Executives Maura Chester, Cameron Hassanzadeh, Darrelyn Leebov, Meghan Milligan Business Manager Aaron Crittenden Advertising Production Manager Alexandra Meier Director of Digital Media Lauren Wells Editorial Interns Isabel Aiken, Allison Bradley, Molly Doehring, Madison Krupp, Kelsey Peart, Melissa Puppo, Ruby Scalo, Mary Schrott, Gabriella Sekowski, Rebecca Torchia Art Intern Rosalie Haizlett Advertising Interns Alyza Madson, Rachel Nagpal

For more information or to receive a copy of our catering menus, please call 412.361.3272 x209 or e-mail cater@bigburrito.com See menus at bigburrito.com

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call 412.431.7888 or fax 412.431.7997 For advertising, subscriptions, and internships. Whirl WEDDING GUIDE 1501 Reedsdale St., Suite 202 Pittsburgh, PA 15233 • 412.431.7888 www.whirlmagazine.com All rights reserved. Whirl WEDDING GUIDE is published two times per year by Whirl Publishing, Inc. Copyright 2015 Whirl Publishing, Inc.

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On the cover Corinne Tumpson of Docherty Talent + Modeling Agency wears White by Vera Wang Collection’s Limited Edition Twill Gazar Lace Applique Gown with Tulle Overlay, available exclusively at David’s Bridal. Jewelry by Henne Jewelers. Hair by Samantha Casale. Photograph by Michael Fornataro. Pictured here: 18K White Gold Mark Patterson 6mm Men’s Wedding Band with Satin Finish and Polished Edges, $1,420. Mark Patterson Bead Set Diamond Women’s Wedding Band, $2,200. Platinum and Diamond Mark Patterson Engagement Ring with an Oval Diamond, Braided Shoulder, and 4-prong Semi-Mount, price available upon request, Henne Jewelers.

All You Need Is Love We love working on the WHIRL Wedding Guide — spending hours together looking at submitted photos, listening to the wedding stories, and looking for the most creative ways to express love. Luckily, we are romantics in this office and seriously find our work joyful, so anything touching on those notes resonates clearly with us. Especially when it comes to one of our own! On page 80, see how Editor in Chief Andrea Bosco Stehle and her husband, J.W., put their signature on what is honestly one of the most glorious weddings any of us have ever seen! And that only covers the union between Andrea and J.W. Every coupling deserves its own special showcase, and throughout the pages of this magazine, you will find ways to make every detail of your special ceremony uniquely yours. We found cake designs that make us swoon, rings that made us

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regret that we have but only 10 fingers, and flowers that made at least one person in the office break into “Fly Me To The Moon.” Love is a gift that can lift the soul, bring wings of hope, and enlighten an entire life. Weddings are only a fragment of the work that goes into building a solid life with another, but sharing love is what is most meaningful. With two dozen real weddings beginning on page 61, Pittsburgh and those with ties to the region find classy and trendy ways to celebrate their love. We are always looking for weddings to feature in future issues, so please submit yours at whirlweddings.com. Here’s to finding creative ways to express love! Christine and Jack Tumpson

Photograph by Michael Fornataro

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Details, Please! Make your big day the best day ever with these tips and trends Compiled by Andrea Bosco Stehle, Molly Doehring, Abby Dudley, Rachel Jones, Madison Krupp, Liz Petoniak, and Mary Schrott

Future of Film Cramming people around a single screen to watch a loved one’s wedding video is a thing of the past! Today, videography has morphed into a more social, shareable, and accessible medium. “Video is great at conveying emotion and capturing the energy of a wedding,” says Megan Sutherland, founder of Pictory Productions. “It used to get a bad rep for being of poor quality and really boring; however, that’s no longer the case.” Sutherland, who has been filming weddings for four years, creates “digitally bite-sized,” documentary-styled films. Wedding films in particular used to be old DVDs or tapes that families would watch at functions together, she says. “They collected dust.” Her philosophy coincides with technology’s evolution as she aims to make her wedding films a part of someone’s everyday routine. “Couples want to watch their video when they’re having a crappy day at work or when they’re waiting in line for coffee,” Sutherland says. “They want to share it with their friends and loved ones on and offline.” Sutherland says that she can go unnoticed on the wedding day 90 percent of the time because she uses a small DSLR camera and people mistake her for another photographer. “When people don’t notice me, I’m able to catch real, authentic emotions and reactions,” she says. “I love that!” While many modern weddings have their own hashtags and photo booths, Sutherland feels it’s essential to invest in professional filming as well. “While you may not remember every detail of the centerpieces or every song that was played, you will remember how you felt that day. Video is the best medium to be able to relive that feeling.” Pictory Productions, pictoryproductions.com. — M.S.

Bridal Beauty For that extra wow factor walking down the aisle, Posh salon recommends making an appointment for Dream Catchers hair extensions leading up to your wedding day to give your tresses extra length, fullness, and glamour. Instead of using glue or braiding, Dream Catcher’s high-quality, individual strands are attached with cylinders, which are considered less harmful to natural hair. The best part? They can be styled and colored just as you would regularly. “Our brides love them — they really do look amazing,” says Posh Salon owner Lisa Martin-Campbell. “They’re safe, easy to maintain, and so beautiful that not only brides get them. You’d be surprised by how many people wear them!” And, when the big day finally arrives, let Posh Salon help you look your best with their top-notch makeup application services. Their beauty gurus highlight each individual’s best features by contouring with Mirabella cosmetics — a mineral-based makeup line that’s gluten free, paraben free, oil free, lead free, and talc free — for that perfect wedding glow. Posh Salon, 1725 Washington Road, Upper St. Clair. 412.833.6636. posh-beauty.com. — L.P.

Photograph from MichaelWill Photography

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Personal Touches Be Yourself For makeup artist Hannah Conard, the most important thing a bride can do on her wedding day is look like herself. “There isn’t a prescribed look you have to go for on your wedding day,” she says. Stiff hair spray and falsifying makeup appear to be a trend of the past as brides are aiming for looks inspired by natural beauty. Last year, Conard launched her business, Hannah Conard Beauty, where she and her team “specialize in on-location, customized, professional hair styling and makeup artistry.” In preparation, Conard meets with brides prior for a demo to test out her clients’ desired look. “I want things to be fresh, fun, and easy for the bride,” she says. “I love taking care of people on their special day and getting to be a part of it.” She provides a team of professionals for brides, bridesmaids, and mothers for four to six hours on the big day. She’ll often stick around for touch-ups or second looks, too, as some brides like to spice it up and let their hair down for the reception. “[The look] should be you,” she says. “My business is to take care of you, and I’m going to make it happen.” Hannah Conard Beauty, 412.979.7172. hannahconard.com. — M.S.

On a day that’s all about you and your loved one, take the opportunity to incorporate details that best represent you both. “Weddings are such an individual thing that bringing your personality and yourself into it is best,” says Carmel Vandale, owner of Mt. Lebanon Floral. She recently did a wedding where the bride used gilded animal figurines as table number holders, and notes how showing “quirky, DIY elements” can help share your story and give a personal feel to the day. Brides are also breaking the mold by mixing in unique greens, such as olive leaves and herbs, into their arrangements. “Air plants are still very big,” Vandale says. “More organic items like antlers, geodes, and crystals that look well with the flowers are huge right now, which I love.” With more brides seeking local florals, Mt. Lebanon Floral has joined a Pittsburgh farm-florist alliance. The coordination ensures popular varieties are being planted in time and couples’ needs can be met throughout the year. Dahlias and garden roses have gained momentum, especially in ivory and blush shades, but Vandale encourages girls to come up with more individualized ideas. “Make it your own,” she says. “Do anything that can separate your wedding from others.” Mt. Lebanon Floral, 725 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon. 412.561.2500. mtlebanonfloral.net. — R.J. + M.S.

Request Line Music can make or break a reception. It’s up to the DJ to read the room and create the perfect playlist that will appeal to ages and musical tastes across the board, but Lea Guarino of Guarino Group Productions says she does take the couple’s suggestions into consideration first. “I always like to ask my clients for at least 20-25 song requests,” she says. “That gives me a good idea of what the bride and groom want to hear. Anything more than that takes the control away from the DJ, who ultimately knows what is best to play.” And, yes, that includes line dances. “The Cha Cha Slide” and “Cupid Shuffle” may be the only songs some people dance to all night, so Guarino asks couples not to rule them out right away. Other surefire songs to pack the dance floor are “The Twist,” “Love Shack,” “Grease Megamix,” and “any song by Michael Jackson.” She adds, “‘Shout’ is the ultimate wedding dance song that will have everyone gathered around the bride and groom on the dance floor.” For more current crowd-pleasers, Guarino says Taylor Swift and Meghan Trainor tracks are popular with younger guests. “I feel like you cannot go wrong with requests for Bruno Mars and Pitbull,” she says. “‘Uptown Funk’ and ‘Blurred Lines’ were and will continue to be big hits at weddings.” Guarino Group Productions, 412.600.6171. events@guarinogroup.com. guarinogroup.com. — R.J.

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Photographs from Veronica Varos Photography, Araujo Photography

The Sweet Life Send off your wedding guests or celebrate your bridal shower in a truly sweet fashion with desserts from Life Is Sweet Bakery Cafe! Says owner Kelly Bareford, “All of our baked goods are handmade with great attention to detail and in small batches, using all top-notch ingredients like high-end Belgian chocolate, fresh fruit, and no preservatives.” The result is delectable indulgences, ranging from small cakes and cupcakes, to cookies, bars, and other handmade confections. Each treat is completely customizable to suit the needs of any bride’s theme. If you decide to take the cupcake route for dessert, the Mt. Lebanon bakery and cafe offers more than 30 delicious flavors, including Champagne raspberry, salted caramel, strawberry mascarpone, almond tiramisu, chocolate malt, and pumpkin. “We use Italian buttercream frosting on our cakes, which is something really unique to our area,” Bareford adds. For favors or welcome bags, Life Is Sweet Bakery also boasts a large variety of unique homemade treats, such as personalized chocolate-covered Oreos, hand-rolled caramels, pralines, peppermint patties, chocolate-covered potato chips, and truffles, just to name a few. Guests can even get up close and personal with the highquality, tasty baked goods, as the adorable shop is available for bridal showers with up to 38 attendants! “We enjoy being creative,” Bareford says. “We like to work with our clients to come up with something original that they’ll love.” Life Is Sweet Bakery Cafe, 1105 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon. 412.276.2500. lifeissweetpgh.com — L.P.

#HappilyEverAfter It’s bound to happen — a guest at your wedding snaps a picture on her phone while doves are flying or sparklers are glowing, and you know it’s a picture that you’ll want to keep. But after the daze of the reception and that glass (or two) of Champagne, you can’t quite remember who captured the moment. Instead of searching through the Instagrams and Facebook pages of all of your guests, provide them with a wedding hashtag! A clever tag that combines your names or a romantic phrase is the perfect way to curate your wedding memories. All of the photos that your family and friends take on your big day, as well as the shower and rehearsal dinner, will be in one place for your perusal. Not only can you browse candid pictures of yourself, but you can also see how everyone else was enjoying the party that you so precisely planned. Display your creative tag at your welcome table, with the place settings, or even on your invitations! Remember: your wedding photographer is in charge of capturing your big day in the perfect light, in the perfect spot, with the perfect lens. Let your guests fill in the gaps with a digital photo album you won’t forget. Share your wedding hashtag with us at whirlweddings.com! — A.D.

Superb Sushi If when you hear “sushi,” you don’t think “bridal,” think again. Jimmy Wan’s is reinvigorating reception menus with on-site sushi catering. “We love delighting our guests with the theatrics of sushi service, creating unforgettable memories,” says owner Jimmy Wan. The service, which starts at $12 per guest, offers fresh and delicious Japanese cuisine for the seafood-loving couple. The stars of the show include the Spicy Tuna Roll, Snowcrab California Roll, and Wasabi Roll, a favorite made of cucumber, avocado, and tempura flakes then topped with seared Scottish salmon and wasabi sauce. For an even more memorable spread, you can pair these savory rolls with custom creations, a special service offered by the chefs at Jimmy Wan’s for a totally unique experience. “Inspired by the idea of signature cocktails,” says Wan, “we have worked with couples to customize signature sushi creations to share with their closest friends and family.” Since signature sushi rolls combine your favorite ingredients to create one amazing bite, they also serve as the perfect metaphor for a marriage! Jimmy Wan’s, 1686 Route 228, Cranberry. 724.778.8978. 1337 Old Freeport Road, Fox Chapel. 412.968.0848. jimmywans.com. — A.D.

Photographs from Elizabeth Craig Photography, Life Is Sweet Bakery Cafe

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Grand Entrance

Trendy Tresses For top bridal hair trends and tips, we turn to Philip Pelusi Salons, whose stylists take care of hundreds of wedding and bridal parties each year. “We are now offering Balayage, which is very popular with brides this year,” marketing manager Lindsey Gockenbach says of the French hair highlighting technique, known for giving a more natural, sun-kissed glow. “It looks great with natural waves and curls, either up or down.” The first and most important step, especially when coloring is involved, is reaching optimum hair health leading up to your wedding day. For hair that stands out as much as your dress, Philip Pelusi recommends its Spa Hair Therapy treatment, aimed at giving locks the look of fine fabric. “Because what bride wouldn’t want hair comparable to cashmere and silk?” says Gockenbach. And, to ensure hair stays put from the “first look” to the final send-off, a little product can go a long way. Tela Beauty Organics Encore Dri Styling Creme and Split End Repair is perfect for formal styling and gives a modern, sophisticated finish. Philip Pelusi P2 Fluid Hairspray, available in both full and travel sizes, features a super lightweight, natural hold, and provides tons of shine, texture, and body as well. Philip Pelusi’s range of services also goes far beyond just hair. The salons’ PURE cosmetics line is all natural and mineral-based, which means you won’t have to fear oily skin or breakouts on the big day. We suggest trying on one of the amazing powders for a smooth, poreless, and radiant look that’s completely camera-ready. Call for a complimentary consultation at your local salon. Philip Pelusi Salons, philippelusi.com. Tela Beauty Organics, telanyc.com. — L.P.

From the journey down the aisle to the couple’s official introduction at the reception, entrances are pinnacle points of a wedding day. Transportation is also an integral part of the planning process, and is an opportunity to showcase the couple’s style. For many Pittsburgh couples, Molly’s Trolleys is a popular choice. “We have six trolleys, and they are all reserved for weddings almost every weekend,” says Christina Robertson, director of marketing and corporate sales. Unique to its business, Molly’s Trolleys decorates the interior and exterior of the 30-seat, reserved car with flowers and “Going to the Chapel/Just Married” backend banners. Robertson also notes that bridal parties are welcome to play their own music and bring their own beverages on board. “One of the most interesting things about our trolleys is that they are perfect for photographs,” Robertson says. “A lot of people like to take pictures inside and in front of the trolleys with their wedding party.” If the classic red trolley doesn’t suit your style, consider a more modern form of transportation with Shamrock Limousine. It offers a variety of services and cars, including a limo bus. Sleek and shiny, this rolling black party bus will make any wedding day feel extraordinary and special. With drivers in tuxedos, stocked Champagne, flat screen TVs, laser lighting, and a premium sound system that can plug into any phone, Shamrock Limousine ensures you will arrive in style. Shamrock Limousine, 877.288.4305. shamrocklimousine.com. Molly’s Trolleys, 125 W. Station Square Drive, Station Square. 412.281.2085. mollystrolleyspittsburgh.com. — M.S.

Stroke of Creativity Although Paint Monkey has a reputation for throwing out-of-this-world bachelorette and bridal shower parties, they are much more than just an average paint studio. “We listen to what people want,” says owner Mary Lou Bradley. “We’re open and creative here.” The locally owned and operated paint studio has opened itself up to increasingly unique wedding projects, proving that the limits to what can be done at Paint Monkey are endless. In lieu of a guestbook, Paint Monkey recently sketched over a large canvas, meant to be a collaborative painting for guests to interact with at a wedding. “There were squares that guests could paint over and sign their names. Our artist was on-hand to encourage people, and after a few hours, they really got into it,” she says. The couple took the painting home with them after the celebration to be framed and displayed. Another recent project involved pre-sketching a “tree of life” design for a couple who came in to paint their Ketubah, a special Jewish prenuptial agreement, while enjoying a bottle of wine. A calligrapher then added the text and the couple displayed it at their ceremony. Paint Monkey also recently began hosting catered rehearsal dinners. “It’s a different experience that brings together people of all ages. Everyone from the grandparents to the kids can get involved and paint,” says Bradley of the bright idea. “We’re always looking for the next thing that’s interesting to work on.” Paint Monkey, 4020 Butler St., Lawrenceville. 1301 Freedom Road, Cranberry. 412.770.4923. beapaintmonkey.com. — L.P.

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Photographs from Philip Pelusi, Shamrock Limousine, Elliott Cramer Photography, Paint Monkey

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For Your Entertainment

The rings are on, the vows are said, and now, it’s time to party! Keep your guests on the dance floor all night by booking a band or DJ that will deliver. Eric Wenning, owner and CEO of Wenning Entertainment, says couples should devote ample consideration and 10 to 15 percent of their total wedding budget to securing entertainment services. “Basically, a wedding is a house party times 20,” Wenning says. “Do you really want to throw on an iPod for such an elaborate event?” Providing DJ, photography, cinematography, photo booth, and lighting services for couples across the city, the entertainment expert knows how to throw the best parties in Pittsburgh! How do you help couples plan their wedding entertainment? We have an online system that makes their lives a lot easier. A lot of our clients are out of town and coming back to Pittsburgh for their wedding, so we don’t get a lot of face time. They can do this on their smart phone or tablet. We walk them through the entire timeline of the night, and they fill out their bridal party members’ names, song ideas, etc. The Monday before the wedding, we revisit the online form and go over everything again. Our DJs only focus on that event for the week, so we can ensure all of our attention is on our clients. What goes into making the night’s playlist? We make suggestions for things like the garter toss or anniversary dance, and provide iTunes links for them to preview songs. But, for more sentimental songs like the first dance or father-daughter dance, we ask them what they want. They can also list songs they definitely want to hear, songs they wouldn’t mind if there’s time, and songs they don’t want played.

This is not a hotel. It’s an idea that Events should be BRILLIANT. Whatever your special Event is, it should be just that: BRILLIANT. Our dedicated staff will make your event as memorable as it is effortless. To plan your BRILLIANT Event call TamMichele Holt today at 412-918-1373!

Why is entertainment so important at a wedding? Entertainment is the main factor to the day. Your entertainer makes sure the entire evening is moving along and going smoothly. They need to make announcements so grandma knows the cake will be cut in 10 minutes. They need to coordinate the songs to match the room. There’s a lot of psychology behind it — reading people and seeing what different genres of music are getting toes tapping and people dancing. Do you have any top tips for couples planning their weddings now? • Look into the DJ’s training. You want to hire a professional, not just someone who downloaded a bunch of songs on their laptop. All of our entertainers are professionally trained at the Florida Academy of Mobile Entertainers. • Take referrals from vendors, not friends. These people see more entertainers in a month than your friends and family will see in a lifetime. Having a vendor recommend an entertainer makes them 10 times more legitimate, especially if they are on a preferred vendor list. The venue doesn’t want to misrepresent itself, so it’ll only put the best on the list. • Do not see your DJ play another wedding first. Let’s say you’re getting married, and you hate traditional line dances. But at this wedding that you go see, the bride wants all of those line dances played. You will get a misconception that that DJ will do that at every wedding they do. But this is someone else’s vision, though, not your wedding. It will embed the wrong vision of that entertainer and what he or she can do for your special day. Plus, by standing awkwardly in the corner for the 10 to 15 minutes, you cannot get a full vision of what that entertainer is going to do for your special day. • Check if the DJ has proper insurance. Pennsylvania law requires a minimum $2 million policy at almost every venue. This is one important factor that separates the pros from the hobbyists. • Make sure your entertainer has backup equipment and personnel What happens if you hire a one-man act, and he gets into car accident or has a death in the family? Even if they are a part of a DJ association, you can’t trust that. There are many different levels of experience in those associations, and nine times out of 10, it’s not what you want for your day. Wenning Entertainment, 355 Fifth Ave., #400, Downtown. 412.292.8776. wenningent.com. — R.J.

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Isn’t She One of a Kind ?

One Piece at a Time, By Hand, In Lawrenceville 3453 Butler St.~Pgh, PA 15201 412.486.2016~888.268.1138

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Shaping Up Pure Barre’s high-energy, total body workout aims to get brides tucking, lifting, toning, and burning their way into the best shape of their lives — both inside and out — for the big day. Sign up for three months of unlimited classes for just $375 and grab your crew, as this exclusive offer extends to bridesmaids, too! The studio also offers “barre-tys,” or private parties, for a memorable, fun, and active way to celebrate a bachelorette party or jumpstart the morning of a bridal shower or wedding day. Personalize your class with food, goodie bags, and even a visit from a nutritional specialist for a 360-degree, health-minded experience. Melissa Dellovade, owner of Pure Barre Mt. Lebanon and Peters Township, shares a preview of what you can expect from Pure Barre’s Bride-to-be Nutrition Tips: • Eat every few hours. This will keep your metabolism going and prevent you from getting to the point where you want to eat the kitchen counter. • Stay away from sugar. It’s addictive and will leave you wanting more and more, so try to steer clear. • Be aware of sneaky calories. Alcohol, soda, juice, and dressings are all liquids that may seem harmless but are high in calories. • Allow yourself to “mess up.” It’s not the end of the world if you ate too much of something, or ate something fried. Just don’t use it as an excuse to continue down that path. Offers vary by location. Pure Barre, 412.248.2424, Mt. Lebanon. Opening Fall 2015, Fox Chapel. 724.519.8571, Murrysville. 724.719.9191, Wexford. 412.248.3333, Shadyside, 724.941.8663, Peters Township. purebarre.com. — L.P.

Photograph from Pure Barre

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Shannon Morrissey and Amanda Badini-Hildabrand named Mina Rose Beauty, LLC, after their inspirational grandmothers.

A whimsical lace gown from Anais Anette’s 2016 collection.

Mark your calendars for these unique designer trunk shows at Glitter & Grit!

October 23-25

September 11-13

Antonio Gual for Tulle New York Antonio Gual’s designs are the epitome of romance — airy, light fabrics that look as easy to wear as they are easy on the eye. Known for a combination of glamorous styling and exquisite nuances that make this collection so exceptional, the silhouettes are bodyconscious, feminine, and ethereal while showcasing a contemporary bride.

Rebecca Schoneveld Dreamy, elegant, whimsical, yet timeless pieces are what you will find from the exquisitely designed collection from Rebecca Schoneveld. Handmade in Brooklyn, N.Y., using only the finest materials, the line features both dresses and separates, with additional overskirts and lace toppers to make the look completely your own. Try one on, and you’ll know instantly!

September 25-27

Romantique by Claire Pettibone If you’re the type of bride who prefers turquoise to diamonds, wildflowers to roses, braids to formal up-do’s, and a Volkswagen Bus to a limo, this collection is for you. Designer Claire Pettibone has built a career making brides’ dreams come true, and her Romantique collection boasts dresses with an understated, low-key vibe for your special day at a lower price point than her couture collection.

Beautiful, Inside and Out Anais Anette Influenced by the enchantment of Parisian culture, each Anais Anette gown is designed for the effortlessly chic and admirably confident woman. Get a first look at the brand new 2016 collection and past best sellers during Glitter & Grit’s trunk show.

November 6-8

November 27-29

Nicole Miller Nicole Miller creates covetable cuts through sophisticated and modern styles that are versatile and effortlessly chic. Explore new styles from the Fall 2015 Collection, along with many classic favorites. All trunk shows are by appointment only; please schedule online at glitterandgritpgh.com. Glitter & Grit, 5300 Butler St., Lawrenceville. 412.781.2375. glitterandgritpgh.com. — L.P.

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What better way to begin your wedding day than to have your makeup done by two professionally licensed estheticians who believe in making women feel like the best version of themselves? Amanda Badini-Hildabrand and Shannon Morrissey started Mina Rose Beauty, LLC with the idea that every woman is born with natural beauty and should strive to enhance it, rather than cover imperfections. The duo — best friends since sixth grade — will come to you, and beautify as many or as few clients as needed. “Basically, as long as we have enough time, we can accommodate any size bridal party,” Morrissey says. “Hey, we’ll start at 4 a.m. if needed.” Mina Rose Beauty is available all day for makeup touchups or to create an entirely new look. The business offers packages for multiple applications for other wedding-related events, such as engagement pictures, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, and rehearsal dinners, too. As far as wedding day routines go, after experiencing a trial run before the big day, they arrive, meet everyone, and get right to work — but not before having a little fun! They apply Peppermint and Wild Orange doTERRA Essential Oils on the bridal party for energy, and turn on their custom Pandora playlist, which they have been told “is pretty on point.” Once the party is started, these ladies get down to business with the latest and best makeup and skin care goodies. “As product junkies, we don’t use anything in our kit that we haven’t used on ourselves and swear by,” Badini-Hildabrand says. For brides interested in the latest trends in makeup, the Mina Rose Beauty girls say that bold lashes and bold brows are huge. Other trends include neutrals and purples for the eyes, and rosy pinks on the lips. All in all, they aim to make brides feel confident and ready to enjoy the best day of their lives. “We believe that our role is to enhance the natural beauty you’re born with so that you can look back on your wedding day and see the most shining, happy version of yourself.” Mina Rose Beauty, LLC, 724.747.1784, 412.952.9483. minarosebeauty.com. — M.D.

Photographs from Anais Anette, Theresa Glenn Photography

Eyes on the Groom Guys, when it comes to suiting up for your wedding day, there’s no better time to wear something bespoke. To ensure you look your best, enlist Samuel Baron Clothiers for a custom-made suit. With a 34-point measurement profile; the finest, high-quality materials; and a seemingly endless array of color, fabric, and detail options, your attire will be tailored exactly to your liking. Samuel Baron Clothiers, 201 South Highland Ave., Shadyside. 412.441.1144. samuelbaronclothiers.com. — L.P

^ Timeless Tux

^ Something Blue

^ Get Personal

There are few things as classic and dapper as a black tuxedo, and Samuel Baron Clothier’s expert tailoring makes going for the timeless look all the more worthwhile. Loro Piana fully handmade one-button, single breasted super 150’s tuxedo with peak lapel.

Ideal for the man who lives his life in color, this French blue suit stands out in a subtle, sophisticated way. Scabal two-button suit paired with a French cuff shirt and an Atelier F&B red silk tie and pocket square.

Three-piece suits are having a moment for their classy, throwback quality. Complete the look with personal touches, like customized lining and monogrammed cuffs, to commemorate the special day. Gladson three-piece, two button, single-breasted suit, paired with a custom monogrammed French cuff shirt and a Yves Saint Laurent silk tie.

The Proposal Suppose you propose — and it's perfect. Maybe you can already picture it: you're down on one knee, staring into the eyes of the person you love, asking a question you hope you can guess the answer to. But, zoom out from that picture and things may get a little hazy. Where are you, how did you get there, and have you created a moment you will always remember? POP! Proposal Planning is ready to answer any questions you can't. A one-of-a-kind service, rendered by The Event Group, POP! will arrange your perfect proposal. “People dream of the moment their beloved gets down on one knee, so we want to make sure it’s done flawlessly,” says Sheila Weiner, president and founder of The Event Group. “Our team has planned weddings for almost 30 years. All of our weddings have started with a proposal, so we have a unique perspective on how to create a memorable one.” How do they do it? “We start with an in-depth questionnaire to get to know the couple. We want to know everything, from how you met, to your favorite restaurant and activities.” In some cases, POP! will plan the proposal that you dreamed of, down to the last detail. In others, it gives you the moment that you didn’t even know you wanted. “If the client is open to suggestions, we design three concepts for them to choose from. We then handle everything from transportation to corresponding with out-of-town family and friends, so that the client can relax and enjoy the experience, worry-free. We also make sure everything is a complete surprise — no worrying about a vendor calling your house and spoiling the surprise!” You can bet that your proposal will be unforgettable, but POP! — with all of its resources — will make it unbelievable. The Event Group, 1008 Washington Blvd., East End. 412.441.9811. eventgroupweddings.com. — A.D.

Photographs by Michael Fornataro

wh i r LW E D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l W E D DI N G G U IDE

Fresh Look MB Bride is kicking off the new bridal buying season with tons of new arrivals from the Fall 2015 and Spring 2016 collections, exciting trunk shows at the store every weekend in September and October, and great promotions for bridesmaids and mothers-of-the-bride, too. Along with the shop’s “Bling” Bridesmaids collections from Christina Wu and BariJay, MB will also be offering ‘maids a new shoe deal this fall! Select silver MB Bride high heel shoes or adorable black and white bow flip-flops — which are perfect to wear at the reception! — for your girls, when your bridal and bridesmaids gowns are both purchased at MB Bride. Plus, an amazing number of mother-of-thebride dresses from Jade & Jade Couture and Montage by Mon Cheri have hit the racks with an additional selection available during the trunk shows September 6-8 and October 10-12, respectively. Says store manager Jenn Mason, “We are so excited to have our customers in to see all of the latest styles and trends for the upcoming wedding season ahead.”

Save the date for the amazing lineup of designer trunk shows at MB Bride: September 18-20 Maggie Sottero MB Bride will fly in an expanded selection of gowns from one of the world’s most popular and trendsetting wedding designers for this special event! September 25-27 Madison James Bridal One of MB Bride’s newest lines, Madison James Bridal is a division of Allure Bridals. Take 10 percent off your purchase on the distinctive collection this weekend. October 2-4 David Tutera Also new at MB Bride is David Tutera, known for its use of superior fabrics, handbeaded Swarovski crystals, its unparalleled craftsmanship, and impeccable fit for every body type. Enjoy 10 percent off any one of his fabulous gowns during the trunk show. October 23-25 Justin Alexander Bridal As one of the few bridal shops to carry Justin Alexander, and one of the brand’s biggest sellers, MB Bride receives the designer’s newest styles before anyone else. Justin Alexander’s European-influenced gowns will all be eligible for a 10-percent discount during the trunk show. All trunks shows are by appointment only; schedule online at mbbride.com. MB Bride & Special Occassion, 123 South Urania Ave., Greensburg. 724.836.6626. mbbride.com. — L.P. 24

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Photograph from Justin Alexander Bridal

For the day that you’ll remember the rest of your life!

1114 Grandview Ave • Pittsburgh, PA 15211 412-431-3100 • www.LeMontPittsburgh.com Photography by Angelhouse Photography

Monique Lhuillier Separates in Champagne

A GIFT OF LOVE for your

Celebration of Love

Trend Alert

MACARON TOWERS MACARON FAVORS

CROQUEMBOUCHE

GABY ET JULES

GABYETJULES.com/wedding 412.682.1966

Contact our wedding concierge for a free favor sample assortment 26

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Bella Bridesmaids is expanding its extensive collection of designer bridesmaid gowns with two surfacing trends: jumpsuits and separates! Designers Joanna August and Monique Lhuillier showed these modern looks on the runway and have made them available at the franchise. August’s playful, Bohemian pieces from her newest collection were inspired by her own wedding, as well as the wedding of Lauren Santo Domingo, contributing editor at Vogue and the co-founder of online fashion retailer Moda Operandi. Bridesmaids can also benefit from August’s designs long after the wedding, as these pieces can absolutely be worn again. As expected, Lhuillier’s separates are more traditional — made of luxe fabrics with classic cuts charming the likes of A-listers Kate Bosworth, Drew Barrymore, and Halle Berry. Adding to the mix is designer Amsale Aberra with fresh, couture tea-length styles. The gorgeous designs are available in a spectrum of colors, and Bella Bridesmaids makes the experience personal, comfortable, and exclusive. Make an appointment and see for yourself! Bella Bridesmaids, 1752 N. Highland Road, Upper St. Clair. 412.854.4422. bellabridesmaids.com/locations/pittsburgh. — M.K. + A.B.S.

Save the dates for these upcoming trunk shows: November 6+7 Bari Jay

December 4+5 Monique Lhuillier

November 13+14 Jenny Yoo

December 11+12 Donna Morgan

November 20+21 Amsale

December 18+19 Jim Hjelm

November 27+28 Adrianna Papell

Photograph from Monique Lhuillier

Big-Day Bliss After years of working at a party venue and corporate planning, Ansley Esterline knew wedding planning was her life’s calling. Bliss Events Ltd., Esterline’s wedding and event planning company, caters to events of all budgets and can even assist with orchestrating a destination event. As the coordinator of nearly 200 wedding, social, and corporate events, Esterline is an expert in the field, and is always up-to-date on the latest trends. She says the blending of metallic tones like copper and gold into décor, jewelry, and accessories is very popular, as it adds warmth and romance to any reception. Booking a unique venue is also a hot commodity among spouses-to-be. “The setting itself acts as a backdrop that sets the tone for the wedding and tells a story about the couple!” she says. “I love when I see their guests arrive and marvel at the setting. A unique venue can have an extremely dramatic impact on the entire event.” As for future trends that she is anticipating, Esterline says that bright colors will be a hit. “Although I love a traditional wedding, incorporating bold aspects can help take it to the next level.” No matter her clients’ style, she always makes sure they get what they want for their big day. “With that attention to detail on my end, they can just ‘show up’ to their wedding without worry or concern,” she says. “My clients never have to lift a finger on their wedding day. That is why they hired me!” Bliss Events Ltd., 412.889.7517. blisseventsltd.com. — M.D.

PA’s Largest Family Owned Bridal & Formalwear Store

24 Years of Award Winning Experience

123 S. Urania Ave. Greensburg, PA 15601 724.836.6626

Download a FREE wedding planner and dress brochures at mbbride.com

Photographs from Veronica Varos Photography, Ashley Victoria Photography

wh i r LW E D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l W E D DI N G G U IDE

Theme Party “Branding” your wedding extends far beyond creating a hashtag. “Many couples are now establishing the theme for their wedding starting with their save the dates and carrying it through to the reception with items like napkins, matchstick boxes, straws, popcorn bags, or to-go bags for the cookie table,” says Amy Bass, co-owner of Nota Bene. “It’s all about creating a ‘brand.’” Although this is easier said than done, consistency is key, so stick with one color scheme and motif that you feel will best portray the tone you want to set for the day. Logos and monograms are another element to consider, as they help bring the whole picture together. Not sure where to begin? Peruse a selection of themes from the fine paper boutique, here. Nota Bene, 9 Brilliant Ave., Aspinwall. 412.782.6300. notabenepaper.com. — L.P. Marvelous Metallics “Mixed metallics is a huge trend right now,” says Note Bene co-owner Evvy Diamond. We’re loving everything about it! Clockwise from left: AR-EN party printers monogrammed straw, monogrammed napkin, ROXY LOU dinner menu, AR-EN party printers monogrammed matchbox, monogrammed napkin, ROXY LOU ribbon tied-wedding ceremony program, and AR-EN party printers monogrammed coffee stirrer.

Cool Hue Monograms were central in the stationery and cute extras — like the straws, coffee stirrers, popcorn bags, and matchstick boxes — that branded this wedding. Clockwise from left: ELUM wedding ceremony program, RSVP envelopes, AREN party printers monogrammed popcorn bag, ELUM menu, AREN party printers monogrammed matchstick box, monogrammed coffee stirrer, monogrammed straw, and monogrammed napkin.

When the Clock Strikes 12 A vintage clock made for the perfect logo to represent this elegant, black, white, and red-themed New Year’s Eve wedding. Clockwise from left: AR-EN party printers logo napkin, envelope with clock logo stamp, monogrammed straw, menu, clock slip, AR-EN party printers clock coffee stirrer, ROXY LOU wedding invitation, AR-EN party printers monogrammed coffee stirrer, and monogrammed napkin.

Winning Weddings Your wedding day is all about commitment — committing to sharing the rest of your life with the person you love. But often in the midst of wedding planning, you become focused on another major commitment: the dress. Luckily, The Winner boutique creates a shopping experience for you (and your flower girls!) that will make choosing the right dress not just easy, but maybe even unexpected. “Most brides usually buy something that they would have never thought of trying on,” says Peg Emmett, who works with a dedicated staff to provide information, opportunity, and sound style advice for their brides. Some of her biggest suggestions of the season? Vintage and long sleeved styles with jewelry from the David Tutera line. And think twice before automatically choosing white: “Find the correct color for [your] skin tone,” advises Emmett. “We carry the traditional white and ivory, but we also have blush and champagne.” Book your appointment now to find your perfect match today. The Winner, 32 West State St., Sharon. 724.346.9466. info@thewinneroutlet.com. — A.D.

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Photographs by Michael Fornataro

Sugar, Sugar

Stem Wear From lush tablescapes, to dream bouquets, Karrie Hlista Designs creates fabulous “floral couture,” customized for each bride and groom. Largely influenced by trends, Karrie Hlista works on everything from the grandest weddings and corporate events, to the most intimate dinner parties. When it comes to floral planning and budgeting, Hlista makes it fast, easy, and fun for brides by providing helpful hints on her website for stress-free prep before the two even meet. As we know, the bride’s bouquet is at the pinnacle of planning the day’s florals. Currently, Hlista says brides are inspired by texture and added elements, like plum-colored artichokes, green antique hydrangea, buttercup roses, feathers, ferns, millet, and orchids, as shown above. Other popular components include full garden roses, cabbage roses, peonies, berries, succulents, and eucalyptus, she says. “A bride’s bouquet should make a statement, and reflect her personal style and personality,” Hlista says. “I am excited to say that many more brides are wanting to make a dramatic statement with their wedding day florals!” Karrie Hlista Designs, 408 Beaver St., Sewickley. 412.259.8243. karriehlistadesigns.com. — A.B.S.

Creating a customizable experience, S&S Candy & Cigar Company serves up candy buffets personalized to the couple and the time of year. As the new season approaches, Christi Stephens visits farmers markets for useful finds to help build custom candy buffets. “These are actually some of my favorite buffets to do because you have so much to work with,” she says. Indian corn, gourds, and pumpkins of all sizes surround displays of candies in brown, plum, and golden tones. Of course, fan favorites, like candy cornflavored salt water taffy, are on the table, too. For winter weddings and affairs, Stephens looks to hues of gold, silver, and blue, and snowflake décor to enhance her candy buffets. “It is the beautiful and fun decorations that really catch your guests’ eyes,” she says. New this year are chocolate-covered caramel candies, which can arrive wrapped in the color of your choice! “What’s great about buying candy at our store is you can see, touch, smell, and most importantly, taste the candy,” Stephens says. “Our staff helps hundreds of brides throughout the wedding season, and we are happy to help a bride pick out her candy and figure out how much she needs!” S&S Candy & Cigar Company, 2025 E. Carson St., South Side. 412.481.6577. sscandycigar.com. — M.K. + A.B.S.

Stamp of Approval As Pittsburgh’s premier paper boutique, Scribe Fine Papers offers distinctive products from the country’s finest letterpress, stationery, and print designers, including Julie Holcomb, Ink+Wit, and Rifle Paper Co. Proprietor Sara Hargreaves works with brides- and grooms-to-be to create the finest stationery with superlative style and etiquette. In her charming shop, you’ll find a variety of press examples, bespoke brass seals, and options for custom calligraphy, not to mention a vast selection of the most delicately beautiful paper goods. Here, she worked with Amy Baumann and Christopher Faith to design a cohesive suite for their wedding’s style — traditional with a modern twist! For additional examples of Scribe Fine Paper’s craftsmanship, visit scribepgh.com. Appointments are preferred for custom orders. Scribe Fine Papers, 731 1/2 Filbert St., Shadyside. 412.682.1644. Scribe Fine Papers enlisted Gilah Press + Design to create letterpressed menus using navy ink on 100-percent cotton rag paper.

“Pittsburgh is blessed with a strong Calligraphy Guild, which supplied the right artist to make Amy and Christopher’s dinner setting complete,” says Scribe Fine Papers Proprietor Sara Hargreaves.

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+ On October 4, Scribe will welcome Gilah Press + Design owner Kat Feuerstein, who “will help us literally press our own coasters in house!” Call 412.682.1644 to reserve your spot.

Photographs by Michael Fornataro, from Christi Stephens, Lyndsey Piccolino/Photography by Lyndsey

Reservations for two.

Nestled in Pennsylvania’s picturesque Allegheny Mountains, just 90 minutes from Pittsburgh, Omni Bedford Springs offers the area’s most memorable wedding destination. Rely on our professional wedding planners to create your own signature event. Imagine a ceremony under our outdoor gazebo and a sparkling reception in the Colonnade Ballroom. 814-623-8100 • omnihotels.com/bedford Celebrate your once-in-a-lifetime event at the timeless Omni William Penn Hotel. This historic Pittsburgh landmark will impress family and friends with its Grand Ballroom or one of its more intimate rooms. 412-281-7100 • omnihotels.com/pittsburgh

OMNI BEDFORD SPRINGS RESORT

OMNI WILLIAM PENN HOTEL

Happily Ever After Begins Here!

2350 Railroad Street In The Historic Strip District Pittsburgh, PA 15222 www.cioppinogroup.com

Fresh Local Fare... Inspiring Surroundings Accommodating Intimate To Large Parties Rehearsal Dinners, Bridal Showers & Small Wedding Receptions

S ET TH E TON E C U S T O M W E D D I N G I N V I TAT I O N S B Y G I L A H , J U L I E H O L C O M B , W I L E Y VA L E N T I N E , V E R A WA N G , A R Z B E R G E R E N G R AV E R S & M O R E

P R I VAT E B R I D A L A P P O I N T M E N T S AVA I L A B L E 412.682.1644

731 Â˝ FILB ERT STREET, PIT TSBU RG H , PA 15232

our papers speak

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SCRIB E PG H .COM

WW / Venues

Location Inspiration edited By Andrea Bosco Stehle + Abby Dudley

From blank-space settings, to fully furnished sites, here’s a first look at nearly 40 beautiful rehearsal dinner and wedding reception venues in Western Pennsylvania. Details in WHIRL Wedding Directory, page 92. WW

Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa Every bride will feel like a princess amid the grand stone architecture of the Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. “Our ‘Castle For a Day’ offers the quintessential small destination venue with complete seclusion and privacy,” says Marci Fleis, assistant manager. Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Sharon. 724.346.3046. buhlmansion.com. Capacity: 120; 10 overnight guest rooms Preferred caterers: JPC Event Group, Chrystal Catering, Driftwood Catering Indoor/outdoor space book: Up to one year in advance Pricing minimum: Depends upon room selected Included in price: Facility usage, setup/cleanup of all tables and chairs On-site coordinator: Marci Fleis, assistant manager

Photograph from Angel’s Vision Photography

Perlé Described as “love in luxury,” Perlé specializes in resplendent and unique boutique weddings. The venue offers customized menus and alcohol service; personalized planning service; state-of-the-art sound; lighting and visual effects; and an in-house pastry team that creates wedding cakes and desserts. Perlé, Market Square. 412.471.2058. perlepgh.com.

Capacity: 80 seated, 150 cocktail Exclusive Caterers: Any Big Y establishment (Sonoma, Seviche, Nola, or Perlé — the latter two are recommended) Indoor space only book: Six weeks in advance

Included in price: Linens, china, flatware, glassware, state-of-theart sound and lighting, planning, coordination On-site coordinator: Jackie Scanlon

Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel The Renaissance is a AAA Four-Diamond, luxury boutique hotel with stunning views of the Allegheny River and the Pittsburgh skyline. The hotel staff prides itself on providing couples with personalized service as well as focused attention on every detail to ensure their wedding is unforgettable. Housed in the iconic Fulton Building, this boutique luxury hotel delivers contemporary style within an exceptional atmosphere. Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel, Downtown. 412.992.2047. renaissancepittsburghpa.com. Capacity: 230 Exclusive caterer: In-house Indoor space only book: As soon as possible Pricing minimum: Call for pricing Included in Price: Overnight

stay, one-year anniversary overnight stay, complimentary Champagne toast, hospitality suite for bridal party, printed menu card, complimentary parking for bride and groom On-site coordinator: Christine Zimmick

LeMont Few spaces offer as much grand splendor as LeMont, located on scenic Mt. Washington, overlooking the city. “We have done more than 5,000 weddings. You can’t beat our view of the city — the memories are as grand as the view,” says Bill Laughlin, banquet manager. Still the favorite spot for locals as well as tourists, it’s considered one of the most romantic spots in Pittsburgh. LeMont, Mt. Washington. 412.431.3100. lemontpittsburgh.com. Capacity: 250 Exclusive Caterers: In-house, Fenoglietto’s Wedding Cakes Indoor/outdoor space book: One year in advance

Pricing minimum: Call for details Included in price: Call for pricing On-site coordinator: Bill Laughlin

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Photographs from Jim Korte, Benjamin DiCaprio, LeMont

Greensburg Country Club Couples looking to hold a formal reception can find what they’re looking for at Greensburg Country Club. Large windows allow abundant natural light to shine into the ballroom. Its amenities — including white glove service, outdoor covered patio, large front porch, unique ballroom, and over-the-top cookie displays — truly set it apart, and make each event special and memorable. Greensburg Country Club, Greensburg. 724.837.1810. greensburgcc.com. Capacity: 325 Exclusive Caterer: In-house Indoor space only book: Call for availability Pricing minimum: Call for pricing

Included in price: Five-hour reception, four-hour bar, linens (white, ivory, black), valet service On-site coordinator: Debbie Pologruto

Lidia’s Italy Pittsburgh From the four-course, traditional Italian dinner menu to the Antipasti Rustica Buffet option for cocktail receptions, Lidia’s Italy Pittsburgh can host a variety of events with flexible menus for any occasion. Enclosed in glass windows overlooking the glow of the main dining room floor, Lidia’s Loft can accommodate up to 100 guests for a seated event, or 150 guests for a cocktail reception. Whether it’s a brunch, lunch, or an elegant event, Lidia’s Loft provides the perfect ambiance. Lidia’s Italy Pittsburgh, Strip District. 412.552.0150. jfawcett@lidias-pittsburgh.com. lidias-pittsburgh.com. Capacity: 100 seated, 150 for cocktail receptions; buy-out option available for larger functions exclusive caterer: In-house Indoor/outdoor space book: Call for availability Pricing minimum: Food and beverage minimums range from

$500-$4,000, depending on the space, day/time of week, and day/ time of year. INCLUDED IN PRICE: Tables, chairs, linens, fresh flower arrangements ON-SITE COORDINATOR: Sales and Catering Manager Jessica Fawcett

Pittsburgh’s Grand Hall at The Priory The majestic environment at Pittsburgh’s Grand Hall at The Priory instills a feeling of wonder in everyone who enters the more than 150-year-old former church. “Our huge ceilings are more than 60 feet high, which create a very grand space,” says John Graf, The Priory’s director of operations. Pittsburgh’s Grand Hall at The Priory, North Side. 412.323.9394. pittsburghsgrandhall.com. Capacity: 350-500 Exclusive Caterer: In-house Indoor/Outdoor space May-October book: 12-18 months in advance Pricing minimum: $15,000 for Saturdays; $9,750 for Fridays

Included in price: Five-hour event, four hours of open bar, five-course meal, valet parking, dedicated bridal butler On-site coordinator: Sara-Lynn Hunter

The Atrium “The Atrium offers the convenience of the reception and ceremony at the same site. We have everything here; the bride only has to bring a few things. We also have three ceremony locations, including an indoor back-up on site,” says events coordinator Kristen Kane. And, because The Atrium only schedules one event at a time, the bride and groom are sure to receive the staff’s undivided attention. The Atrium, Prospect. 724.865.2830. theatriumonline.com. Capacity: 280 Exclusive Caterer: In-house Indoor/Outdoor space book: At least one year in advance Pricing minimum: $37 per guest

Included in price: Lovely landscaped areas for photos and outdoor socializing, setup/ cleanup, hors d’oeuvres, dinner, linens, china, centerpieces On-site coordinator: Kristen Kane

Photographs from Greensburg Country Club, Lidia’s Italy Pittsburgh, The Priory, Fred Vero Photography

wh i r LWEDDINGS . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown Located in the heart of the city, the Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown offers panoramic views of The Point, Heinz Field, and Mt. Washington, and is in walking distance of hundreds of restaurants and entertainment hot spots. It boasts more than 60,000 square feet of beautifully designed event spaces and seating. The King’s Garden Ballroom features floor-to-ceiling windows, dramatic and contemporary architecture, and state-of-the-art audio visual equipment, as well as a gorgeous, separate pre-function area that your guests will love. The Grand Ballroom has 19-foot ceilings, a built-in dance floor, crushed velvet drapery, and endless lighting options. The hotel houses 712 modern, inviting guest rooms, which include 73 suites with breathtaking views. Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown, Downtown. 412.594.5131. abarna@wyndham.com. wyndhamgrandpittsburgh.com.

Capacity: 1,400 Exclusive Caterer: In-house, Chef Dean Gress; outside catering permitted Indoor/outdoor space book: Up to 18 months in advance Pricing minimum: Call for pricing Included in price: Hors d’oeuvres, premium bar, Champagne toast, wedding

cake, plated dinner, wine service with dinner, table linens and napkins, chair covers with sash, votive candles, up-lighting, bridal luxury suite On-site coordinator: Director of Weddings & Special Events Ashley (Barna) Brown

National Aviary The National Aviary is a place where wedding guests will enjoy a memorable evening amidst the blossoming rose garden, dancing under the beautiful glass-domed atrium, and mingling with its fine feathered friends while strolling through the tropical exhibits. With several unique and customizable spaces, the National Aviary is perfect for a casual cocktail party or elegant sit-down dinner at any time of the year. National Aviary, North Side. 412.258.9436. aviary.org. Capacity: 150 dinner/dance; 180 seated; 500 cocktail-style Exclusive Caterer: Atria’s Catering Indoor/Outdoor space Book: 12-18 months in advance Pricing minimum: Rentals start at $1,500; call or visit website for more information

Included in price: Exclusive access to exhibits; spectacular photo opportunities; tables and chairs; private parking; event staff, including animal trainers and maintenance team On-site coordinator: Lauren Keiser

The University Club This private club, open to non-members for weddings and social events, embodies class with its traditional and elegant décor. The 40-foot ceilings, antique chandeliers, and a spiral staircase are just a few of the timeless luxuries that will sweep guests off their feet. Brides also rave about the rooftop terrace — perfect for cocktail hour — and its amazing view of historic Oakland. The University Club offers personalized guidance and customizable menus and service options to make that special day unique. The University Club, Oakland. 412.648.0037. uc.pitt.edu. CAPACITY: 225 EXCLUSIVE CATERER: In-house INDOOR/OUTDOOR SPACE PRICING MINIMUM: Contact for details and options INCLUDED IN PRICE: Four-and-ahalf-hour, name-brand open bar; Champagne toast; full-service

on-site wedding coordinator; ivory linens and napkins; ivory pintuck linen for cake table; food; Starbucks coffee/tea service; two parking passes; private refresher room for bridal party with Champagne and hors d’oeuvres ON-SITE COORDINATOR: Kaila Frantz

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Photographs from SkySight Photography, Aaron Varga Photography, The University Club

Omni William Penn Hotel The Omni William Penn Hotel, a 1916 National Historic Landmark, features hand-painted murals and ornate gold leafing. “Recent renovations have further enhanced the beauty of our Grand Ballroom and guest rooms, and created additional reception space,” says Bob Page, director of sales and marketing at the Omni William Penn Hotel. Omni William Penn Hotel, Downtown. 412.281.7100. omnihotels.com/pittsburgh. Capacity: 700 Exclusive Caterer: None Indoor space only book: 18 months in advance Pricing minimum: Call for pricing

Included in price: Four hours of open bar, hors d’oeuvres, threecourse dinner, sparkling wine toast for bridal party On-site coordinators: Experienced on-site catering managers

Cornerstone Restaurant & Bar Cornerstone Restaurant & Bar can host a variety of events with flexible menus for any occasion, including multi-course plated meals, buffets, stationed options, or even cocktail receptions. Its private back dining room can accommodate up to 60 guests, and the entire restaurant space can be rented out for groups of 120-200. The restaurant will also come to you via catering for brunch, lunch, dinner, or an event in your home. Cornerstone Restaurant & Bar, Aspinwall. 412.408.3258. cornerstonepgh@gmail.com. cornerstonepgh.com. Capacity: 60 seated; entire restaurant space rental available for groups of 120-200 preferred caterer: In-house, off-site catering available indoor/outdoor space Book: Flexible

Pricing minimum: Food and beverage minimums range, depending on the space and day/time On-site coordinator: General Manager Erin Connolly

Bella Sera Weddings by Bella Sera are as unique as the couples it honors. Crowned “Best of Weddings 2013-15” by The Knot and a WeddingWire 2015 Couple’s Choice Award winner, Bella Sera tastefully combines the exact ingredients of which dream weddings are made — incredible food, extraordinary service, and the perfect ambiance. Ask about the venue’s new Fabulous Friday, Signature Saturday, and Winter Wedding packages, which feature a four-course dinner, a custom wedding cake, an open bar, a photographer, and DJ entertainment. Bella Sera also hosts ceremonies, rehearsals, and showers. Bella Sera, Canonsburg. 724.745.5575 x101. weddings@bellaserapgh.com. bellaserapgh.com. Capacity: 40-400 Exclusive caterer: Bella Sera Catering Indoor/outdoor space book: Call or email as soon as possible

Pricing minimum: Varies based on day of week Included in price: Venue, food, alcohol On-site coordinator: Lauren Madison

Succop Nature Park The natural beauty of Succop Nature Park, one of Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania’s natural reserves, will set the tone for your perfect wedding and reception. Succop Nature Park is located on 50 picturesque acres with walking trails, ponds, a newly renovated outdoor pavilion, and a historic mansion. It’s a lovely backdrop for your big day. Succop Nature Park, Butler. 724.586.2591. aswp.org Capacity: 300 Exclusive Caterer: Medure’s Catering Indoor/outdoor space book: 12-18 months in advance Pricing minimum: Depends on the day of the week and number of guests

Included in price: Total facility use, choice of dinner service, bartending service On-site coordinator: 724.586.2591

Photographs from Goldstein Photography, Cornerstone Restaurant & Bar, Terry Clark, The Brand Studio

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Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Consistently voted as one of the best and greenest event venues in Pittsburgh, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens provides a stunning backdrop for weddings. With flexible scheduling and a variety of spaces, Phipps allows you to plan both your ceremony and reception in one location. Whether you imagine an intimate vow exchange in the historic Victorian glasshouse; a large ceremony and reception in the romantic, estate-style Outdoor Garden; or a cocktail hour atop a green roof, the staff can help bring your vision to life. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Oakland. 412.622.6915. phipps.conservatory.org.

CAPACITY: 30-250 EXCLUSIVE CATERER: In-house INDOOR/OUTDOOR SPACE BOOK: 12-18 months in advance PRICING Minimum: Call or visit website for pricing INCLUDED IN PRICE: Desired space, tables, chairs, tents,

event staff supervision, and one security attendant; extended hours and discounted Phipps tickets available at extra cost ON-SITE COORDINATORS: Events Manager Rachel Kernic

Osteria 2350 Nestled within the historic Strip District, Osteria 2350 provides a casual, cozy setting that will make the happy couple and their guests feel right at home. Offering its standard fresh Italian fare or options from the seasonal seafood and chophouse menus of its neighboring sister location, Cioppino Restaurant & Cigar Bar, Osteria 2350 also offers validated parking at the 24th Street parking garage located above. Osteria 2350, Strip District. 412.281.6595. osteria2350pittsburgh.com. CAPACITY: 50 seated; 75-100 standing EXCLUSIVE CATERER: In-house INDOOR Space OnlY BOOK: At least four months in advance PRICING Minimum: Call for pricing

INCLUDED IN PRICE: Full bar, seasonal Italian classics, the option of Cioppino Restaurant & Cigar Bar’s chophouse fare, black linens, candles, floral delivery, cake made in-house by Pastry Chef Meghann Walsh On-site coordinator: Leisa Anderson

Pittsburgh Marriott City Center When it comes to tying the knot, the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center offers planners to orchestrate your special day. These experts provide complimentary services, handling all of the event details, from every wish to every family tradition, while offering spectacular venues to make your wedding fairy tale perfect. Pittsburgh Marriott City Center, Downtown. 412.471.4000. marriott.com/pitdt. Capacity: 150-475 Exclusive Caterer: In-house Indoor and outdoor space book: 12-18 months in advance Pricing minimum: $10,000

Included in price: Open bar, hors d’oeuvres, sit-down dinner or buffet, Champagne, cake, linens, chair covers, floral centerpieces, place cards, accommodations for bride and groom, plus more On-site coordinator: TamMichele Holt

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Photographs from Joe Appel, Leisa Anderson, Pittsburgh Marriott City Center

Circuit Center & Ballroom The Circuit Center & Ballroom has everything you’ll want for your wedding. The venue features amenities, such as free, on-site parking for your guests, a full-sized acoustic stage, and a spacious, treelined outdoor courtyard. The space uses The Fluted Mushroom as its exclusive caterer, so you get the very best food and amazing details planned, prepared, and presented by Pittsburgh’s premier caterer. This delicious pairing will have your wedding guests raving until your first anniversary! Circuit Center & Ballroom, South Side. 412.432.1420. flutedmushroom.com. Capacity: 400 Exclusive Caterer: Fluted Mushroom Indoor and outdoor space book: One year in advance

Pricing minimum: Available online Included in price: Available online On-site coordinator: Amy Hosking and Valerie Leya

Cioppino Restaurant & Cigar Bar The eclectic atmosphere of Cioppino Restaurant & Cigar Bar provides an intimate dining experience that’s perfect for engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, and bridal showers. Its diverse menu options are sure to satisfy any palate, and its experienced culinary team will accommodate any dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The separate onsite Cigar Bar and extensive cigar selections will be a hit with the groomsmen. Cioppino Restaurant & Cigar Bar, Strip District. 412.281.6593. cioppinogroup.com. CAPACITY: 30 EXCLUSIVE CATERER: In-house INDOOR/OUTDOOR SPACE BOOK: At least four months in advance PRICING Minimum: Call for pricing INCLUDED IN PRICE: Complimentary valet parking;

complimentary A/V capabilities, including a 52-inch plasma television with integrated audio/ video ports; black linens; candles; floral delivery available; cake made in-house by the pastry chef ON-SITE COORDINATOR: Leisa Anderson

Angelo’s Restaurant Angelo’s Restaurant in Washington specializes in family-style meal service for weddings. Owner Michael Passalacqua says family-style is elegant, expedient, social, and gets your party started sooner than sit-down or buffet service. The restaurant’s private dining rooms can accommodate from 10 to 60 guests for rehearsal dinners, and the staff has many ideas and provides custom offerings for your party’s needs. Angelo’s Restaurant, Washington. 724.222.7120. angelosrestaurant.com. Capacity: 10-60 Exclusive Caterer: In-house Indoor space only book: Call for availability Pricing minimum: $25 per person

Included in price: Tables, chairs, linens On-site coordinator: Michael Passalacqua

Kaya Located in the Strip District, Kaya’s menu fuses tropical flavors and cultures, resulting in delicious and gratifying cuisine. Kaya offers something for everyone, especially vegetarians and seafood lovers. Featuring local and international microbrews, exotic tropical drinks, and international wines, the drink selection complements your meal as the festive décor transports you to a sunny destination. Kaya is available for both day and evening parties. Kaya, Strip District. 412.261.6565. bigburrito.com/kaya. Capacity: 60, sit-down dinner; 100, cocktail party; buy-out option available for private functions preferred caterer: In-house Indoor Space Only book: Call for availability

Pricing minimum: Food and beverage minimums range, depending on the time/day of the week Included in Price: Tables, chairs On-site coordinator: General Manager Monika Berwein

Photographs from Circuit Center & Ballroom, Cioppino Restaurant & Cigar Bar, Michael Passalacqua, Kaya

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PointBreezeway It’s an urban barn in the ‘Burgh! PointBreezeway was born in 1880 as a utility barn and has since housed families, a tavern (then speakeasy!), a tearoom, and a confectionary. PointBreezeway is a homestyle venue — simple and unpretentious, evoking the comforts of home with a side of romance, charm, and history. Its patio and garden feature a shading maple tree and a swoon-worthy stone wall. All you need to do is bring the nibbles and libations, a few personal touches, and a camera — the venue has the rest covered! It’s a perfect match for stylishly casual events, such as intimate weddings, showers, rehearsal dinners, and more. PointBreezeway, Point Breeze. 412.770.7830. pointbreezeway.com.

Capacity: 75 caterer: Choose your own! indoor/outdoor space Book: As soon as possible Pricing minimum: Varies Included in price: Seating, covered patio

area, music/speakers, mason jars for flowers, a private room to get ready, a PointBreezeway host, plus more for a sevenhour block On-site coordinators: Lauren McMillen and Dennis Inserra

Andora Restaurant Whether it’s a private dinner party, a business gathering, or a rehearsal dinner, one of Andora’s three locations is the perfect place for your special event. Indoors or out, the restaurant has private rooms and the flexibility for parties, large or small. Its executive chef and management staff can offer special options — from set menus to passed hors d’oeuvres. Andora is more than happy to accommodate any budget or request. Andora Restaurant, Sewickley, 412.749.9015. Fox Chapel, 412.967.1900. Mars, 724.591.5132. andorarestaurant.com. Capacity: 50 indoors, 100 outdoors Exclusive Caterer: In-house Indoor/Outdoor Space Book: Flexible Pricing minimum: $35-$55 per person for dinner options; $18-$35

per person for lunch options Included in Price: Information upon request On-site coordinator: Kelle Pitschke, Sewickley; Michelle Brenner, Mars; Jon Wiltrout, Fox Chapel

Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square Make your special day memorable at the Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square. The newly renovated hotel offers event space for 50 to 600 guests, with many rooms showcasing glittering views of the city’s skyline. Your big day will be remembered for a lifetime! Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square, Station Square, 412.261.2000, 412.803.3870. sheratonpittsburghstationsquare.com. Capacity: 50-600 indoor/outdoor space Book: Up to two years in advance Pricing minimum: Call for pricing Included in price: Bridal suite, hospitality room for bridal

party, four-hour premium open bar, ivory/white/black linens, wedding cake, Champagne toast On-site coordinator: Allison Perciavalle

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Photographs from Kelly Adrienne Photography, Andora Restaurant, Rhaina Taylor

Altius Modern Bistro Altius Modern Bistro is a truly exceptional location for signature special events, featuring fine dining in an exclusive atmosphere. Its private dining space, located high up on Pittsburgh’s historic Mt. Washington, is designed to enhance your experience and make your event a memorable one. The dedicated staff will cater to your every detail and provide your guests with an experience they won’t forget! Altius will work with you to craft the perfect menu and make sure that a gathering of 42 is just as special as a dinner for two. Altius Modern Bistro, Mt. Washington. 412.904.4442. altiuspgh.com. Capacity: 60 exclusive caterer: In-house Indoor space only book: Call for availability

Pricing minimum: Call for pricing On-site coordinator: Christine Charles

Mallorca Restaurant

Host your bridal shower or rehearsal dinner where romance is celebrated! Treat your guests to the cuisine and spirit of the Mediterranean, as Mallorca Restaurant provides a beautifully decorated venue for you to host your special private event. It also offers award-winning service, superb quality, and incomparable selection. “Make your next special event memorable — make it Mallorca.” Contact Joni, the venue’s events manager, to design an event as unique as you are. Mallorca Restaurant, South Side. 412.488.1818. mallorcarestaurant.com. Capacity: 25-75 Exclusive caterer: In-house indoor/outdoor space Book: Call for availability

Pricing minimum: $25-45 per guest for lunch; $45-75 per guest for dinner Included in price: Room rental, tables, chairs, linens

Eleven Contemporary Kitchen Eleven, where Downtown meets the Strip, is the 11th innovative restaurant from the big Burrito Restaurant Group. Contemporary American flavors are combined to create a fresh and truly original menu. Eleven’s private dining rooms extend the restaurant’s inventive style and menu into an exclusive setting for meetings, special occasion dinners, and private parties. Eleven Contemporary Kitchen, Strip District. 412.201.5656. elevenck.com. Capacity: 12, Mulberry Room; 8-36, Smallman Room; 50, upstairs deck; 150, sit-down dinner; buy-out option available Exclusive Caterer: In-house Indoor/Outdoor Space Pricing minimum: $250 for lunch; $800 for dinner; and range, depending on the space

and the day/time of the week Included in price: Tables, chairs; additional options include valet parking, floral arrangements, custom linens On-site coordinator: Event Coordinator Amanda Kefal, General Manager Chris Thinnes

Casbah Mediterranean Kitchen & Wine Bar Located on South Highland Avenue, Casbah promises an exciting, sophisticated gourmet dining experience in an intimate atmosphere. Its menu changes daily, offering imaginative new tastes and textures with the season’s finest ingredients. Casbah’s year-round, heated patio and Southern European-inspired dining room offer elegant seating in an open space. The completely redone lower level — with a glass-framed wine room, stonecovered walls, and innovative lighting — provides the coziest of retreats. Casbah Mediterranean Kitchen & Wine Bar, Shadyside. 412.661.5656. bigburrito.com/casbah. Capacity: 115, sit-down dinner; 50, lower level; buy-out option available for larger functions Exclusive Caterer: In-house Indoor/Outdoor Space Pricing minimum: Food and beverage minimums start at $500, and range, depending on

the space and the day/time of the week Included in price: Tables, chairs, linens, valet parking; additional options include floral arrangements On-site coordinator: General Manager Jennifer Love

Photographs from Christine Charles, Shoutside Media, Lindsay Holland

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DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Pittsburgh — Monroeville Convention Center At the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Pittsburgh — Monroeville Convention Center, the staff understands your wedding is the most important day of your life. So whether you’re dreaming of an intimate gathering or a huge celebration, the venue’s team is committed to getting every detail just right. After all, a romance as special as yours deserves a wedding just as magical. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Pittsburgh — Monroeville Convention Center, Monroeville. 412.373.7300. doubletree3.hilton.com.

Capacity: Up to 500 guests Exclusive caterer: In-house indoor/outdoor space Book: 412.843.4400 Pricing minimum: Varies Included in price: Display station and hot butler-passed hors d’oeuvres for the cocktail hour; private reception area for the wedding party; Champagne toast for all guests; five-hour premium

bar service; uplights in color of choice; chair covers with choice of sash; luxurious floor-length linens in color of choice; votive candles and mirror for guest tables; fresh floral centerpieces; deluxe accommodations for the couple complete with Champagne, strawberries, and breakfast for two On-site coordinator: Kimmie Fitzhugh-Kelly

Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airport Simply the best, dreams become reality with the help of talented wedding professionals at the exquisite, award-winning Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airport. The Hyatt marries the best of location, service, and style. Luxurious fabrics, sparkling china, and inspirational cuisine by its renowned chef combine for an ideal beginning. Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airport, Moon Township. 724.899.6064. pittsburghairport.hyatt.com. Capacity: 500 Exclusive Caterer: Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airport Indoor Space only

Pricing minimum: Varied dependent upon room selection Included in price: Several competitive packages are available On-site coordinator: Shawniece Evins

Olivia’s Banquet Facility Olivia’s Banquet Facility provides three spaces for your party needs: Victoria’s Room, with its cathedral ceiling, large stone fireplace, and warm inviting ambiance; dazzling Ann’s Room, with its coffered ceiling, stone fireplace, and beautiful lighting; and Ann’s Courtyard, an outdoor party space for up to 70 guests, perfect for baby and bridal showers. Everything on the menu is made from scratch and the facility’s full bar has 18 rotating taps, changing frequently with the seasonal craft beer. Olivia’s Banquet Facility, Coraopolis. 412.331.9282. OliviasBanquet.com. Capacity: 25-170 Exclusive Caterer: In-house Indoor/Outdoor Space Book: 12-18 months in advance pricing minimum: Call, email, or visit website for pricing Included in price: Four-hour event in an elegantly appointed

room, wide selection of fresh food and beverage, tables and chairs, select linens, basic centerpieces, event staff, complimentary coffee and tea station, abundant and free offstreet parking, free WiFi On-site coordinator: Michelle Foster

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Photographs from MBK Photography, Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airport, Olivia’s Banquet Facility

Rivers Club Pittsburgh For more than 30 years, Rivers Club Pittsburgh has been a premier Pittsburgh wedding location for couples and their Pittsburgh weddings. With a tradition of excellent service, caring staff, and outstanding amenities, Rivers Club consistently stands out as a place for wedding receptions in Pittsburgh. Rivers Club Pittsburgh, Downtown. 412.391.5227. riversclub.com. Capacity: 250 Exclusive Caterer: In-house indoor spacE book: As soon as possible Pricing minimum: Varies Included in price: Hors d’oeuvres, four-hour bar, Champagne toast, dinner, linens,

votive candles, cake designed by Jennuine Cakes, cakecutting services, private cocktail reception for bridal party, on-site coordination On-site coordinators: Amanda Rapach and Michele Fischer

Tara — A Country Inn The Gone With the Wind-inspired Tara — A Country Inn creates a fantastic vision of a sprawling Southern estate with the expansive lands and gardens. “Tara’s Lake Walk, gardens, and gazebo provide an exquisite backdrop for both the ceremony and reception,” says Bill Moore, assistant manager. Tara — A Country Inn, Clark. 800.782.2803. tara-inn.com. Capacity: 150; 27 overnight guest rooms Exclusive caterer: In-house Indoor/outdoor space Call and book: Up to one year in advance Pricing minimum: Depends upon room selected

Included in price: Facility usage, white linens, setup/cleanup of all tables and chairs On-site coordinator: Bill Moore

Destiny Hill Farm The gorgeous grounds of Destiny Hill Farm make for a perfect al fresco wedding. “Destiny Hill Farm is a lavender, berry, and flower farm, and is a private, gated residence with amazing hilltop views,” says owner James Cameron. Located in Washington County, the picturesque setting provides an awesome backdrop for photos! Destiny Hill Farm, Washington. info@destinyhill.com. destinyhill.com. Capacity: 500 Exclusive caterer: Preferred vendors Indoor/outdoor space, may through october Book: 18 months in advance Pricing minimum: Email for pricing

Included in price: The Stable, Show Barn, farm grounds, use of chairs and tables for 100 guests, event staff, six hours for reception On-site coordinator: Mimi York

Golf Club of Washington The Golf Club of Washington has been serving the Washington community for over 100 years with quality entertainment and fine dining. The clubhouse and ballroom have been completely renovated and have increased their capacities. Come enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the space for your beautiful day. Golf Club of Washington, Washington. 724.225.9245. info@golfclubofwashington.com. golfclubofwashington.com. Capacity: 200 Exclusive Caterer: GCW Catering Indoor space yearround book: 12 months in advance Pricing minimum: Call for pricing

Included in price: Call for details On-site coordinator: Scott Burkhart

Photographs from Meaghan Elliott Photography, Laura Ackley, Rodger Obley Photography, Golf Club of Washington

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Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa Nestled in Pennsylvania’s picturesque Allegheny Mountains, Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa offers the area’s most memorable wedding destination. The legend began more than 200 years ago, and today, the legacy continues at the world-class Springs Eternal Spa and on the magnificently restored Donald Ross golf course. Within driving distance of Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia, couples seeking unique and traditional celebrations rely on the resort’s professional wedding planners to create a signature experience. Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa, Bedford. 814.624.5620. omnihotels.com/bedford.

Capacity: 30-250 Exclusive Caterer: In-house Indoor/Outdoor space book: 8-15 months in advance Pricing minimum: Varies by size and season

Included in price: Fivehour event, four hours of open bar, hors d’oeuvres, three-course dinner, sparkling wine toast On-site coordinators: Bryan Michael Stiffler and Megan Tresnicky

DiSalvo’s Station Restaurant DiSalvo’s Station Restaurant specializes in hosting one-of-a-kind events, including wedding ceremonies and receptions. Your specific guidelines will be met at one of Latrobe’s most treasured and magnificent National Historic Landmarks. Its experienced staff is there to guide you, from your beginning desires, to your dream come true day, to your final goodnight. Here, your wedding is the only “train of thought.” DiSalvo’s Station Restaurant, Latrobe. 724.539.0500. vipevents@disalvosrestaurant.com. disalvosrestaurant.com. Capacity: 350 Exclusive Caterer: In-house Indoor/outdoor space book: Up to two years in advance Pricing minimum: Varies by package Included in price: Packages start at $39.99 per person (plus

tax and gratuity) and include wedding coordinator, setup/ cleanup, food, linens, flatware, silverware, glassware, bartenders, cake-cutting, coffee and beverage service, four hours of the bar, wine toast, five hours of the space On-site coordinator: Michael Fossati

Soba Soba is housed in a beautiful, three-story Victorian building. The restaurant has a spectacular two-story water wall and its Pan-Asian menu, which includes seasonal entrées, like sesame-seared Ahi tuna in a Korean barbecue sauce with ginger fried rice, changes daily. Drink specialties include seasonal martinis made with house-infused vodkas and an extensive wine list. The restaurant includes a comfortable first-floor lounge, several small dining rooms, and a heated rooftop patio. Soba, Shadyside. 412.362.5656. sobapa.com. Capacity: 24, private Red Room; 50, private dining room; 150, sit-down dinner; buy-out option available Exclusive Caterer: In-house indoor/outdoor space Pricing minimum: Food and beverage minimums start at $1,000, and range, depending

on the space and the time/day of the week Included in price: Tables, chairs, valet parking; additional options include floral arrangements and custom linens On-site coordinator: General Manager Michael Goldberg

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Photographs from WattersWorks Photography, Melanie Grady Photography, Soba

Love in Luxury

Specializing in Resplendent and Unique boutique weddings. Customized menus and alcohol service. Personalized planning service. Comfort capacity 80 seated, 120 cocktail seating. PerlĂŠ... . for your once in a lifetime day.

Located in the Heart of Pittsburgh

25 Market Square

Contact Jackie@bigygroup.com wh i r LWEDDINGS . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

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WW / Feature

Chance of Showers Follow these tips to plan the best bridal shower ever By Rachel Jones

Whether she’s your sister, your best friend, or your former roommate, the bride-to-be in your life deserves a special celebration before she ties the knot. As a member of the bridal party, it’s your job to gather her friends and family members for a few hours of showering her with love and attention. Throwing a bridal shower may seem like a daunting task at first, but the advice from these local experts will help you stay on the path to stress-free planning. Let’s get started!

Illustration by Rosalie Haizlett

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TIME TO PLAN Your top priorities for planning the shower should be setting a date, typically two to three months before the big day, and reserving the venue. Sara Arvay, president and senior event design consultant of Arvay Event Design & Rental, says she’s seen showers everywhere from restaurants and banquet halls, to hotels and personal residences. “The booking and planning timeline is heavily based on the type of shower you’re planning,” she adds. To establish the overall feel and atmosphere you want to create, start by bouncing ideas off the bride and bridal party. “While most of the planning is up to you, it is important to have the bride’s initial expectations in mind,” says Sheila Weiner, president and founder of The Event Group. “Ask if she wants a women-only or couple’s shower, and find out if she has a particular theme or concept in mind.” From there, you can start coordinating with the bridesmaids to set a budget and pull together the elements of the day.

4-6 Weeks Before: Mail your invitations and finalize plans with all of your vendors. Note: Shoot for 8 weeks in advance if you have a lot of out of town guests! 2 Weeks Before: Finalize your flower order and rentals. Pick out a gift for the bride and an outfit for the event. 1 Week Before: Confirm plans with all of your vendors, plus delivery and setup times. Delegate last-minute tasks and solidify a plan for the day of with the bridesmaids. The Day Of: Enjoy this special day with your bride-to-be!

TOP TIP: Staying organized and keeping detailed lists for everything will make the planning process — and your life — less stressful. We recommend storing guest lists, vendor details, and a calendar of appointments leading up to the shower in a binder for easy access!

GAME OVER “We have never been fond of games at bridal showers,” Weiner says. “They can feel over-the-top or make guests uncomfortable. And, if you think it might embarrass the bride, it’s a definite no.” For an alternative activity, she suggests planning a Champagne tasting, flower arrangement lesson, or DIY sugar scrub session. Giving guests something to do at the shower that they can enjoy later on, too, is ideal.

TOP TIP: If your bride really wants games, go for something more personalized. Arvay recommends giving guests quotes from the bride and groom, then having them guess who said what!

KEEP IT TASTEFUL Whether you are having the shower catered or are coordinating a pot luck spread with the bridesmaids, you need to determine if you’re serving an array of appetizers or a multi-course meal. Then, make a menu that will appeal to every guest. “Try to find out if any guests are gluten free, vegetarian, etc., and make sure you have something to cater to all dietary restrictions,” Weiner says. “And, finally, don’t forget desserts!”

The Bistro Petite Pastry stacks three tiers of desserts that are specifically chosen to coordinate with the client’s vision. Nikki Heckman, owner of Bistro to Go & Company, says Greek and Italian pastries were the preferred choice for this event.

TOP TIP: For hors d’oeuvres and desserts, bitesized is always better! “We like to do a lot of these one-bite appetizers because they are easy to eat and we are able to offer quite a few different varieties,” says Adam Gooch, corporate executive chef of Common Plea Catering. “We want to stay creative, yet offer our clients flexibility to customize their menus to reflect their tastes and preferences.”

Savor a Blackberry and Brie Canapé with blackberry jam and fresh dill at a wine-themed shower. Gooch says the blackberry is replaced with a caramelized gala apple for fall events!

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Dive in to Bistro to Go & Company’s Margarita Shrimp Cocktail, served with a spiced pineapple mango dipping sauce, at a summery or beachthemed shower.

Photographs from The Event Group, Sarah Arndt, Adam Gooch

DECORATE THE DAY Set your shower apart by sticking to a theme or overall aesthetic for a day that everyone can enjoy. Bonus points if it directly reflects the bride’s personality or hobbies!

Top themes for this year include: -Garden -Tea -Champagne -Wine -Paris

TOP TIP: Simplify! Contributions from multiple bridesmaids and the folks on Pinterest can leave you overwhelmed and with an over-decorated space. Streamline your favorite elements and make sure they all complement each other.

-Glitter/Bling -Rustic -“Storms” or Couple’s Showers

DO ME A FAVOR At the end of the event, bid your guests farewell with a favor they will actually enjoy. Keepsakes that can be reused again are functional and forever continue the memory of your bridal shower. “When in doubt, edible favors always work out well,” Arvay adds.

Hand-dipped in white chocolate, these pretzel twists, pretzel rods, and Oreos from My Favorite Sweet Shoppe feature sanding sugars, edible pearls, and edible flowers, respectively.

+ TREND ALERT: Co-ed showers are taking the wedding world by storm! With more of a cocktail party vibe than a traditional shower, Arvay says these events are ideal for younger couples and attendees. “Sometimes, this type of shower is shocking to older guests, so it’s important to make sure that this is the right type of event for you,” she says. “We really like this type of shower when the bride and groom are out of town, as it gives them both more time to mingle with family and friends.”

TOP TIP: Pick a favor that ties in with your shower specifically, such as personalized glasses for a wine theme or a custom blend of tea for a tea party. For a garden-themed shower, Nina Midgley from My Favorite Sweet Shoppe suggests these pretty, pastel treats. “Why not give guests something they can eat? It won’t go to waste!” Midgley says. “Edible favors are a way to give something different, fun, and tasty.” You can even request customized colors or designs to match the décor!

TOP TIP:If you’re taking the couple’s route, make sure there are gifts specifically for the groom on your wedding registry. His friends will be more inclined to pick a present they know he added to the list himself.

The Event Group, 1008 Washington Blvd., East End. 412.441.9811. eventgroupweddings.com. Arvay Event Design & Rental, 850 Pittsburgh St., Springdale. 724.274.4252. arvayeventdesign.com. Common Plea Catering, 2945 Smallman St., Strip District. 412.281.5140. commonplea-catering.com. Bistro to Go & Company, 415 E. Ohio St., North Side. 412.231.0218. bistroandcompany.com. My Favorite Sweet Shoppe, 1597 Washington Pike, Bridgeville. 412.564.5416. myfavoritesweetshoppe.com. Photographs from The Event Group, by Michael Fornataro

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Enchanting Engagements Local photographers help couples share their exciting news, and reveal their top spots for engagement and save-the-date photos By Liz Petoniak

Announcing the news of your engagement to friends and family is one of the most exciting parts of the whirlwind we like to call marital bliss. What better way to ask them to save the date and mark this beautiful milestone than with pictures that capture your love for each other? Whether you’re the couple that likes to hit the trail, cheer on the Pirates at PNC Park, or spend your Sundays in the Strip, there’s a perfect place to reflect your style and future together. Gather inspiration here, as two local photographers uncover their favorite engagement photos as well as creative suggestions for finding the location that suits the two of you to a “T.”

Details in WHIRL Wedding Directory, page 92.

Illustration by Rosalie Haizlett

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F ountain of L o ve

Nicole Mancini + Jeff Mountain “I love this setting for an engagement session because of the amazing light, romantic feel of the darkness, and the iconic background of one of the most recognizable locations in Downtown Pittsburgh. I added wireless lighting behind the couple to create the freeze action of the droplets of water, which captures the split second of that moment forever.” — Autumn Stankay, SkySight Photography

A utumn ’s Fav orite Engagement Shoot Spots Roberto Clemente Bridge Autumn’s typical workflow for a 90-minute to twohour engagement photo shoot session begins here and moves to the surrounding area, on the pier, and below the bridge, too.

Inner City Streets “I roam through the streets with the couple and find spots that jump out to me, which changes each time I’m in the city and gives something new to each photo shoot,” she says. “It also depends on where the light looks best at that time of day.”

Point State Park “I like to go to Point State Park and shoot around the park, ending at the fountain just as the sun hits the horizon for a beautiful navy blue sky,” Autumn says. “It’s perfect for capturing interesting light.”

S k yS ight P hotograph y, 409 C oulter Av e ., G reensburg . 724.889.3326. skysightphotography.com. 52

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Veronic A’ s Fav orite Engagement Shoot L ocations Hartwood Acres “In this one park, you’re able to find industrial spots, architecturally stunning backdrops, wooded and earthy views, open fields with flowering plants, and everything in between,” she says. “For couples interested in sunrise sessions and fellow fog enthusiasts, the Mansion at Hartwood is frequently surrounded by an early morning mist.”

The Strip District “The Strip offers a mix of urban and industrial style,” Veronica says. “You’ll find everything from graffiti-filled alleyways, vacant loading docks, and trendy restaurants within walking distance.”

Secret Spots “As Pittsburgh becomes a trendy spot for the weddings of couples from all over the world, remember the perks to hiring a photographer who is local to the area,” she says. “All photographers have their own little lists of secret spots and hidden areas usually only available to clients. This is especially helpful for couples interested in having their sessions somewhere less recognizable and more intimate.”

Falling for You

Anna Naretto + Nick Hinkle “Just moments after sunrise, Anna and Nick climbed their way to the top of a gorgeous little waterfall to share a memorable kiss. Wearing earthy tones, they fit in perfectly with the natural landscape. Engagement sessions in the woods are always such an adventure. You never know what beauty you’ll find around the next corner.” — Veronica Varos, Veronica Varos Photography

Veronica Varos P hotograph y, v eronicavaros. com . wh i r LWEDDINGS . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

WW / Feature

Tiers of Joy Find inspiration for your celebration from these covetable confections By Andrea Bosco Stehle • Photographs by Michael Fornataro • Styling by Samantha Casale

We asked five confectioners to design cakes of trending mediums, and each one brought something unique to the table. When it comes to picking one for their own wedding, Oakmont Bakery President Marc A. Serrao says couples should choose or create a cake that reflects their personalities. “Wedding cake styles vary as much as the bride and groom,” he says. “This year, we’ve noticed a huge interest in the ‘naked’ cake, as well as watercolor details, metallic layers, minimalistic decorations, and extremely textured designs.” The following creations illustrate just that!

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Illustration by Rosalie Haizlett

1 A Nod to Mod A modern, winter wedding calls for a sparkling, geometric cake like this one from Oakmont Bakery. Amuse all palates with a mix of flavors, such as red velvet filled with cream cheese, chocolate filled with chocolate buttercream, and white almond filled with fresh raspberry. Oakmont Bakery, 531 Allegheny Ave., Oakmont. 412.826.1606. oakmontbakery.com.

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2 Watercolor Whimsy Prantl’s Bakery created this fanciful cake for us, complete with hand-painted details and sugar florals made of gum paste. As a bonus, you can have the bakery’s signature Burnt Almond Torte — dubbed “The Greatest Cake America Has Ever Made” by The Huffington Post — and eat it, too. Says Prantl’s Bakery co-owner Annette Mich, “Since every cake we make is custom, our most popular trend is for couples to choose the batter and filing of Burnt Almond Torte with any design they like, and have the kitchen staff sprinkle almonds on each slice after the cake is cut.” Flavors on tap for fall include apple spice and espresso for tiered cakes, and pumpkin cream cheese for cutting cakes and dessert bars. Prantl’s Bakery, 438 Market St., Market Square. 412.471.6861. 5525 Walnut St., Shadyside. 412.621.2092. prantlsbakery.com.

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3 Chic Fête A Nod tobecome Modiconic,” says Gaby et “The macaron has Jules Marketing Coordinator Julie Raffensperger. A modern, winter wedding calls for a sparkling, Make a stylish statement by incorporating these geometric cake like this one from Oakmont delicate, yet dense, egg-white-and-almondBakery. Amuse all palates with a mix of flavors, flour confections into your de rigueur affair. The such as red velvet filled with cream cheese, Pittsburgh pâtisserie offers macaron towers as chocolate filled with chocolate buttercream, and an alternate, or addition, to a traditional cake. almond filled with fresh raspberry. Oakmont The four-tiered stand holds 47 macarons and the Bakery, 531 Allegheny Ave., Oakmont. 10-tiered stand holds 227 macarons, as shown 412.826.1606. oakmontbakery.com. here. “The recommended serving size is two to three macarons per guest,” Raffensperger says. “Some couples choose to pass them around in more of a catering style. There is a lot you can do, and it’s fun!” Plus, the delicious flavor options are to die for! Pictured here: Sea Salt Caramel, Earl Grey Tea, Nougatine-Honey, Pistachio, Chocolate, and Coffee. Gaby et Jules, 5837 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill. 412.682.1966. 435 Market St., Market Square. 412.281.3818. gabyetjules.com.

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4 Baring It All For brides and grooms planning an “ultra rustic” wedding, the “naked” cake continues to be a popular choice. Spinola’s Bake Shop owner Stacey Spinola baked her fall creation using layers of pumpkin spice batter, a seasonal favorite, and buttercream. The dense cake is more moist than your traditional white or yellow wedding cake, she says. “And, it adds that extra depth of flavor couples are looking for. The combination of pumpkin, nutmeg, and cinnamon is just lovely.” We couldn’t agree more! On the outside, even the most rustic brides are seeking a more “shabby chic” confection, adding texture or color to a simple design. Spinola adds,”Couples are requesting very detailed cakes, as well as personalized cakes with specific themes.” Spinola’s Bake Shop, 3845 Old William Penn Hwy., Murrysville. 724.519.7741. spinolasbakeshop.com.

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5 Simply Elegant Using just a few elements, Madison Avenue Specialty Cakes whipped up a minimalistic buttercream delicacy. “I’ve seen an increase in buttercream designs because it tends to be more cost-effective than fondant,” says Nancy Becker, owner of Madison Avenue Specialty Cakes. “We are doing a lot of simple buttercream with rosettes, ruffles, piping, and lace designs.” Adding a dose of dainty, Stephanie Kirby of Blue Daisy Floral Designs (see her wedding on page 86!) lightly placed white and pink-tinged florals on the textured tiers. Each layer features one of Becker’s most popular flavors: Mocha Valencia, a dark chocolate cake, soaked with Grand Marnier and filled with chocolate-orange Italian meringue buttercream; Chocolate Baileys, a decadent dark chocolate cake, soaked with Baileys Irish Cream and filled with Baileys chocolate fudge filling; Ultimate Carrot Cake, a moist cake, fragrant of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, that’s filled with a classic vanilla cream cheese buttercream; and Tuxedo, which features alternating layers of white and dark chocolate cakes, that’s filled with vanilla Italian meringue buttercream and chocolate ganache. Madison Avenue Specialty Cakes, 994 Perry Hwy., Wexford. 412.364.3287. madisonavecakes.com.

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Sushi.

On a whole new level.

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Photos: ADAM MILLIRON

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Allison McGeary Florist arranged elegant bouquets of white roses for the bride and her bridesmaids. Surrounding the stems was a piece of her mother’s lace wedding dress. “It was the little, personal things that made it very special,” Donna says.

Donna wore a stunning A-line, lace dress by Monique Lhuillier from Anne Gregory for the Bride. She completed the look with a silver beaded belt by the designer. Oakmont Bakery whipped up a classic, four-tiered white almond cake with vanilla buttercream frosting for the occasion. The confection featured fondant with lace detail and a topper of roses as an ode to their engagement!

Donna Moyles & Albert DeMauro By Molly Doehring and Andrea Bosco Stehle Photographs from Araujo Photography

After meeting Albert DeMauro at a mutual friend’s party nearly eight years ago, Donna Moyles knew he was the man she wanted to marry. “I actually saw him through the window before I walked in,” she says. “It was basically love at first sight.” The two dated for nearly seven years before Albert popped the question during a romantic weekend getaway at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. Although Albert tried to be sly, Donna knew he was up to something when he told her to be ready an hour prior to their dinner reservation to take pictures. “He hates taking pictures, so I thought it was really suspicious,” says Donna of the proposal, which took place in a lush rose garden on the property. After asking Donna to marry him, Albert whisked her away to dinner at Lautrec, where he had a table waiting with more roses and a bottle of Champagne. One year later, the couple wed at St. Paul’s Cathedral and celebrated with 200 guests at the University Club. Reminiscing on her favorite parts of the day, Donna says, “Standing on the dance floor, looking at each other, and taking it all in, while having so much fun with our friends and family.” WW wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

WW / Real Weddings

“My flowers were romantic and elegant,” Debbie says. “We used different levels of candlelight to highlight the different textures of the flowers.”

Debbie Numrich & Jimmy Campbell By Rachel Jones Photographs from Joey Kennedy Photography

“I always dreamed of getting married on the beach,” says Debbie Numrich. Her dreams came true when she married her dream man, Jimmy Campbell, under a floral chuppah on the sands of Marco Island, Fla. “My 20-year-old son walked me down the aisle, and looked at me with such love and told me how beautiful I looked,” Debbie says. “It made my heart melt!” All of Debbie’s children joined Jimmy’s daughter, brother, and grandson in the bridal party, standing by during the sweet, relaxed ceremony. The celebration continued as 75 guests made their way to a nearby tent, which took three days to set up, for the reception. With pink uplighting, golden chandeliers, and white and blue linens, wedding planner Tim Komen of Pittsburgh’s TK Event Studio helped the couple incorporate the colors of the landscape into the space. They also carried out the theme with an edible shell-covered cake and beach tote gift bags, filled with treats from Bella Christie and Lil Z’s Sweet Boutique. As the colorful sunset peeked into the white tent, Debbie and Jimmy shared their first dance as man and wife to the Goo Goo Dolls’ “Come to Me.” Not only is the ballad Debbie’s favorite song, “it is the perfect song for two adults starting over.” WW 62

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The couple dated for 14 months before Jimmy proposed after they returned from a trip out of the country. “He proposed to me on the front porch of his home,” Debbie says. “I was very surprised, and I am not easily surprised!” Debbie found her Monique Lhuillier gown at Anne Gregory for the Bride. “I thought I would have to go to New York to get a dress, but Gregory had the selection of a New York wedding boutique and is so fun to work with.” “My biggest piece of advice to anyone planning a destination wedding is to hire Tim Komen,” Debbie says. “He made our day and the time leading up to it completely stress free. He is such a gem in Pittsburgh!”

Heather and Nathan were married by their friend and colleague, Greg, along with his wife Dawn, at the historic Byrdcliffe Theater. “They wrote the whole ceremony themselves, so the first time we heard it was on our wedding day,” Heather says. “It was really personal and very meaningful to us.” Heather donned a lightweight, one-shouldered ivory gown from BHLDN and carried a bouquet of blush garden roses, pale pink astilbe, eucalyptus, and other greenery for a “fresh-cut” feeling. Elderberry Design & Flowers’ Jim Williams, the former creative director of Better Homes & Gardens arranged the bride’s blooms.

Heather & Nathan Martin BY LIZ PETONIAK PHOTOGRAPHS FROM STEPHEN SALDANA/STUDIO SALDANA

Nathan designed and handdrew the couple’s wedding invitations to artfully outline the weekend’s ample activities. Pinecones that Heather and Nathan picked while visiting Woodstock the year prior served as quirky, rustic place cards. For dessert, attendees noshed on sweets from the cookie table, the pie table, and a Pittsburgh Popcorn Company bar. “Don’t be afraid to ignore traditional wedding conventions, and just do what makes you and your fiancé happy and reflects you as a couple,” Heather says.

An adventurous duo from the start, Heather and Nathan Martin’s friendship began when they joined the same training group for the 2009 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. On their first run together, Nathan attempted to recruit Heather to work for his company, Deeplocal, a Pittsburgh-based innovation studio, and eventually succeeded once race day passed. The work partnership spurred a romance between the two, and though Heather says it wasn’t always easy, she feels “amazingly lucky to have found not only [her] perfect partner in life, but the job that [she’s] passionate about at the same time.” Nathan proposed to her as they stood atop a scenic cliff overlooking the ocean in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, after five years together. Since they travel to Woodstock, N.Y., where Nathan’s aunt also resides, every year for the town’s film festival, they knew right away it was the place they wanted to tie the knot. Friends and family ventured to the famous location for a weekend of wedding festivities that began with the rehearsal dinner — a bonfire held at a log cabin, complete with a performance by folk band Mike & Ruthy. Following the ceremony at Byrdcliffe Theater, the reception kicked off at Byrdcliffe Barn with the evening’s signature libations — French 75s and Boulevardiers — and the newlyweds’ first dance to Neil Young’s “Harvest Moon.” Heather names a salsa lesson led by the couple’s friend, a dance instructor, that got all 75 guests to hit the dance floor, as one of the most memorable outtakes of the weekend. “It was great to see every single person out on the dance floor having a great time,” she says. WW

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The J.Crew bridesmaids dresses, adorned with a striped bow at the waistline, were one of the best representation’s of the day’s elegant, relaxed theme, the bride says.

Ali Trombetta & Billy White BY LIZ PETONIAK PHOTOGRAPHS FROM ALISA MILNTHORP/WEDDINGS BY ALISA

After more than 13 years together, Billy White surprised Ali Trombetta by proposing in the same gazebo where they shared their very first kiss. The surprises continued the following day when he brought Ali to his family’s river house to celebrate with their relatives. She was shocked to see that he invited 20 of her friends from college and various cities to join the party! The wedding merrymaking kicked off with the rehearsal dinner, held at Engine House 25; bowling at Arsenal Lanes the next day; and the main event — the ceremony at St. Boniface Church, followed by a reception at Stage AE. More than 275 guests gathered to toast the couple, who have known each other since middle school. The raw, industrial concert venue was transformed into a chic, yet laid-back space, decked out in white, black, and tan décor with florals by Pete Donati & Sons. Afterward, the festivities moved to McFadden’s, where Ali and Billy’s close friend, Pittsburgh Pirate Neil Walker, surprised the duo by taking them, Walker’s wife, and another friend they grew up with onto the field at PNC Park. With the Pirates being in the 2014 playoffs just a few days prior, Billy says that he became emotional taking in the atmosphere and walking through the same tunnels the players had just gone through. “We got out on the dugout, and we opened a bottle of Champagne on home plate and passed it around. The girls hung back to let the guys have a moment, and we walked around the perimeter of the field and reflected on our friendship over the past 20 to 25 years,” he explains. Says Ali, “The entire day was surreal; an out-of-body experience.” WW 64

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“Working with Stage AE was probably the easiest part of the entire wedding planning process,” Ali says. “Renee [Lutz], the special events coordinator, was wonderful to work with. There were really no limits to what we could do with the space, and she worked so well with Vic Fortunato, our event planner and caterer.” In addition to a lovely three-tiered, black and tan cake with fondant flowers by Bella Christie’s and Lil’ Z’s Sweet Boutique, Ali and Billy’s wedding also featured sweet and savory treats, like a hot donut bar and a Pittsburgh Popcorn Company bar!

Sarah advises brides, “Remember you are only planning a party, so there is no need to get stressed. The most important thing is that you are marrying the person you want to spend the rest of your life with and that you can look back on this day with happy memories because you enjoyed the planning process.”

Featuring a sweetheart neckline, a fitted bodice, and a flowing skirt with subtle sparkle, Sarah’s blush-hued dress by Kitty Chen was “absolutely perfect.” To maximize an array of flavors, the bride and groom opted for mini cupcakes from Prantl’s Bakery in red velvet, carrot cake, burnt almond torte, maple bacon, and salted caramel. The couple created the last two mentioned themselves, and the latter was such a hit, Prantl’s added it to its offerings!

Sarah Hainer & Marquis Hawkins By Molly Doehring and Andrea Bosco Stehle Photographs from Palermo Photo

On a chilly Wednesday evening, Sarah Hainer arrived home from work to find a rose petal path through the living room and down the hallway, leading her to the closed bedroom door. She could hear the special song she and Marquis Hawkins share playing in the background, and as she opened the door, she found Marquis on one knee with the ring in his hand. The couple met as PhD students at the University of Pittsburgh and knew Pittsburgh would be the ideal destination for their wedding. The Andy Warhol Museum served as the site of the creative ceremony and lively reception. Officiated by Sarah’s brother, Geoffrey, the ceremony began with the bridal party walking down the aisle to songs the couple picked for each individual pair, which accompanied photo slideshows. Taking advantage of the theater room, two short skits were played, reenacting how the pair met. Following the vows, guests were treated to museum tours and a cocktailstyle reception. “It permitted more interaction with guests and less of the ‘bored guest phenomenon,’” Sarah says. The newlyweds continued the celebration with their honeymoon in Barcelona, Spain. WW wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

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Together, the bride and groom worked with Fenoglietto’s to create a four-tiered wedding cake with vanilla bean batter, caramel filling, and strawberry and Champagne cream.

Amy Show & Matthew Smiley By Gabriella Sekowski and Andrea Bosco Stehle Photographs from MichaelWill Photography Four years prior to tying the knot, Amy Show and Matthew Smiley of Mt. Lebanon were living 1,200 miles apart. Their love story began when they met on Facebook. Less than one year after Matthew’s peaceful proposal on Christmas Eve, the two were married at First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh — a venue they chose for its 18th-century history. As Amy and her father journeyed down the aisle to Matthew, they were illuminated by an abundance of candles. Via Molly’s Trolleys, the couple and their bridal party made their way to the reception, planned by wedding planner Corey Makrush, at the Omni William Penn Hotel to celebrate with 175 guests. Honing in on her hometown and her groom’s surname, the bride chose to give Eat’n Park Smiley Cookies in custom hues of purple as favors. Keeping the celebration flowing, DJ Mad Mike from Modern Era Weddings kept everyone on the dance floor all night. Following the festivities, the pair jetted off to Aruba for a heavenly honeymoon. WW

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Amy’s five bridesmaids wore slate blue dresses by Jim Hjelm, pairing them with purple Pashminas for a stylish and functional statement. Amy chose a Europeaninspired Enzoani gown with intertwined lace and a glamorous belt. “It was the first dress I tried on,” she says. For the reception, Fragile Paradise designed modern arrangements using purple and blue hydrangeas, green hypericum, and looped bear grass. The bride’s bouquet was wrapped with lace from her mother’s wedding gown.

2109 North Franklin Drive Washington Pa. 15301

www.angelosrestaurant.com

Don’t shun the winter . . . celebrate it! Only Pittsburgh’s Grand Hall at The Priory offers the Winter White Wedding™package, with specially designed decor which transforms this magniﬁcent space into a winter palace complete with skating rink and towering lighted birch trees. Available only in January Janua through March, the Winter White Wedding™package, features ﬂoor length linens, chair covers and special centerpieces, a wedding cake from our Priory Fine Pastries, and specially created guest favors. The Winter White Wedding™ package is attractively priced; contact us for details.

wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

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For dessert, the couple shared an Italian cream cake with cream cheese icing, wrapped in a blue ribbon, with their guests.

Becky Perez & Kimberly Minton By Rachel Jones Photographs from Kristen Wynn Photography

When states across the country started legalizing same-sex marriage, Houston, Texas, residents Becky Perez and Kimberly Minton waited until they could say “I do” in Pittsburgh. “New England and states in the northeast legalized same-sex marriage years ago, but we didn’t have a connection to those places,” Becky explains. “Once Pennsylvania came on board, we got the ball rolling to have the ceremony and everything in Pittsburgh.” Kimberly, who attended Upper St. Clair High School, relied on her brother, her sister-in-law, and their three children in Bethel Park to help plan the long-awaited nuptials at The Fairmont Pittsburgh. In perfectly coordinated ivory ensembles, the couple of 20 years finally said “I do” in the hotel’s foyer. “We wrote the ceremony, so it had very special meaning to us,” Becky says. “Our officiant was a close friend who got authorized to conduct our ceremony. It was extra meaningful to have someone close to us and near to our hearts.” The brides celebrated with 50 close friends and family members at the reception in the grand ballroom that rocked into the early morning. Thrilled with the results of the day, the newlyweds say every minute of out-of-state planning and coordinating was well worth it. Same-sex marriage became legal in all 50 states just 30 days before their wedding day, but Becky says they would’ve picked Pittsburgh as their wedding destination regardless of the timing. “We’re very happy we stayed the course with Pittsburgh,” Kimberly adds. “A lot of our guests hadn’t been to Pittsburgh before, and they thoroughly enjoyed it. It was just a great day all around.” WW 68

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Allison McGeary Florist incorporated the blues and purples of The Fairmont Pittsburgh’s grand ballroom for a coolhued and elegant reception that achieved the “wow factor” Becky and Kim wanted. “We never thought it would happen in our lifetime,” Kimberly says of their big day. “Being there with family and friends was great. We’re beyond thrilled that we’re actually married.”

Anthony added a sentimental touch by wrapping his boutonnière in his late father’s tie.

Cottage Gardens Designs arranged purple dahlias, orchids, hydrangeas, and roses for winecolored centerpieces. Anthony proposed during a summer vacation trip to the Cayman Islands. “He was walking around the beach with his briefcase because we couldn’t get into our room,” Amanda says. “It never clicked the whole day for me!”

The Cake Boutique decorated this dessert with the details of the bride’s dress and her love of roses in mind. “We went the nontraditional way and picked red velvet,” Amanda says. “That’s our favorite.”

Amanda Carine & Anthony Carna By Isabel Aiken Photographs from Carlyn K Photography

Amanda Carine and Anthony Carna met on Halloween, spending the night playing matchmaker for two of their friends. “Little did we know we were the match being made!” says Amanda. “At the end of the night, I snuck my number in his phone, and we have talked every day since.” After dating for a year and a half, the couple set the plans for their wedding day in motion. While they originally intended to jet off to a destination wedding in Napa Valley, Calif., Amanda and Anthony decided to host their nuptials closer to home instead. Wedding planner Amanda Zabroski helped the couple bring the wine country to the Avalon Golf and Country Club in Buhl Park, coloring the ballroom in burgundy and plum with fuchsia accents. Preceded by a ceremony at St. Lawrence Parish, the vino-themed reception also featured wine bottles on the tables and wine corks in the centerpieces. Their Napa Valley vision came to life on their big day and came true one year later, as they celebrated their first anniversary in California. WW wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

WW / Real Weddings Ten-foot crystal trees lined the aisle and dance floor, and six-foot centerpieces adorned the tables with crystals, lit branches, and faux snow for a glamorous forest effect. Place settings with white rosette and gold-beaded tablecloths and gold overlays “made the perfect backdrop for vintage Lenox china.” For a final touch, monogrammed napkins personalized each place setting.

Christine May & Joseph Sirlin By Melissa Puppo and Andrea Bosco Stehle Photographs from Jorge Santiago

A blind date planned by a friend turned into a match made in heaven for Christine May and Joseph Sirlin! Seven years later, Joseph proposed at the elegant Hôtel Costes in Paris, France. Christine’s custom engagement ring from JAB Jewelry Designs was served on a silver tray during a romantic dinner. “I was truly shocked,” Christine says. “I thought it was a side dish!” In just three months, Christine and Joe planned the couple’s stunning celebration. With the help and union of their businesses — C May Interiors and Sirlin Construction — they built their vision of a “winter wedding gala — a fabulous winter party for our friends and family with all the glitter, glamour, and gold you could ask for.” All things gold and white adorned the George Washington Hotel, and during the ceremony, a “Four Cannons” string quartet played for their 75 guests. Fourteen weeks of dance lessons paid off as the couple performed a rumba to Michael Bublé’s “Everything” for their first dance. WW 70

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Bethel Bakery created the couple’s four-tiered snowflake wedding cake with vanilla bean batter and buttercream icing, topped with feathers and gold branches. Treats, such as white, gold, and chocolate cookies from Oakmont Bakery, added to the warm celebration! Christine dazzled in a custom gown by friend and seamstress, Joann McCartney, and paired her dress with long gloves. Her flowing bouquet from Bella Flora was sewn onto a white fur muff.

Rebekah carried a festive bouquet of orange Asiatic lilies, alstroemeria, circus roses, dendrobium orchids, hypericum berries, and spray roses, made by Nathan’s mother, Rosi. She created all of the floral arrangements using blooms from R&R Flowers in Ohio and Pittsburgh Cut Flower Company!

The bride chose an ivory Allure ruffled ball gown with a sweetheart neckline and lace bodice from Celestial Bridal in Johnstown. Her ‘maids donned navy satin dresses with J.Crew necklaces for an added touch of sparkle. Rebekah and Nathan cut into a small cake from Sweet House Bakery in Mars. The bride’s love of dessert inspired multiple dessert bars, featuring makeyour-own sundaes, cookies, and pastries! The pair shared a choreographed first dance to Peter Gabriel’s “A Book of Love.” “It made that ‘all eyes on us’ moment less stressful and more fun!” Rebekah says.

Rebekah Kriek & Nathan Wood By Ruby Scalo and Andrea Bosco Stehle Photographs from Araujo Photography

Nathan Wood literally gave Rebekah Kriek the keys to his heart when he proposed as they moved into their Hollidaysburg home — the diamond ring dangling from his keychain! “I was completely surprised and could not have been happier,” says Rebekah. “We spent the rest of the day talking to family and unpacking in our new home.” The couple met while attending Miami University in Ohio, and after nearly three years of dating, they began to plan their fall-inspired Pittsburgh wedding. They perfected their plans by using monogrammed pumpkins and hues of navy, champagne, gold, and rich orange to decorate their Wildwood Golf Club reception for 110 guests. Rebekah recalls her grand entrance into Elfinwild Presbyterian Church as her favorite memory of the day. “When my dad and I came through the doors and walked down the aisle, surrounded by family and friends, I couldn’t help but feel the love of everyone, including Nate, who was waiting for me proudly at the front of the church,” she says. “I will always remember that moment, and the feeling of sheer love and happiness.” WW wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

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The bride captured effortless elegance with an off-white, dropwaist gown by Maggie Sottero. She chose summery dresses for her bridesmaids and mother, too. Amanda and Brett met 10 years before he popped the question with a custom-designed, diamond-and-sapphire ring. His original plan for a Christmas Day proposal was pushed up to early December because he was too excited to wait!

Amanda Pittman & Brett Unangst By Molly Doehring Photographs from Dream Weddings Package

While planning their big day, Amanda Pittman and Brett Unangst couldn’t help but lean toward a destination wedding. Two different couples highly recommended choosing the Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort and Spa in Mexico, and after doing some research, they decided to book their big day for the same location. “Anyone looking into a destination wedding should try to find someone they know who has been there, so they know what they’re getting into, and there won’t be any surprises,” Amanda says. The prepared bride was still surprised on her big day, when predicted thunderstorms forced the nuptials to take place indoors. But, just 30 minutes before the ceremony was supposed to start, Amanda was directed outside. To her astonishment, the entire ceremony had been set up according to the original, outdoor plans. Says Amanda, “As soon as I went around the bend, I could see everything — the beautiful gazebo, the ocean in the background, all of our guests, and of course, my husband. It was really a great moment. The violinist was playing, and I watched Brett waiting and saw the look on his face. It was very special!” 72

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Forty guests traveled south of the border for a week of relaxing and celebrating with the couple.

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Melinda’s favorite memory of the day was the first look. “We did it before the wedding, on the steps of The Fairmont,” she says. She walked up the steps toward Kristian, meeting in the middle for that special moment.

Melinda Colaizzi & Kristian Habenicht By Rebecca Torchia Photographs from Kelli Ann Beavers

Rockstars Melinda Colaizzi and Kristian Habenicht did not want a traditional wedding — they wanted a party! After meeting as music majors at Berklee College of Music in Boston and dating for six years, Kristian proposed on a plane by attaching the ring to the collar of the couple’s Yorkie, Chica. For the big day, Melinda found her unique, hand-beaded gown at Anne Gregory for the Bride. The jagged neckline initially caught her eye and had the touch of gold she’d been searching for. Equally unique was Kristian’s deep, eggplant-colored tux, which matched the deep purple calla lilies mixed into the bridesmaids’ bouquets of cream and ivory roses by Michael Jacob. Of course, one of the best parts of the rocking reception at The Andy Warhol Museum was the music, especially when a longtime friend, Monika Hoffman, and one of their Berklee professors, Alizon Lissance, surprised them with songs. The couple, who have a band together, performed two songs themselves, too. “We both have a passion for music,” Melinda says. “It completes the whole relationship.” WW 74

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“Allison Roth was amazing,” Melinda says of her makeup artist, explaining how she nailed the “Old Hollywood” look the bride was after. The leopardprint cake by Bella Christies and Lil’ Z’s Sweet Boutique exemplified the fun feel of the day. It featured the added romance of red roses and delicious layers of red velvet, chocolate peanut butter, and wedding white with dulce de leche filling.

Signature Desserts whipped up a white almond cake with raspberry filling and buttercream icing. The couple also served pumpkin cheesecake, the groom’s favorite. Using her vintage dish collection she started at age 16, plus some additional finds, Shayne fashioned place settings for 200 guests! “Each one was very different and had its own intricate floral pattern.”

Shayne Souleret & Brad Bouldin By Mary Schrott and Andrea Bosco Stehle Photographs from Ryan Zarichnak Photography

The couple shared their love of art by hiring Jay Flores from A Little Guilty to paint them during the ceremony. As added entertainment, guests painted in the petals of a flower, sketched by Shayne’s sister, Mallory. She says of the guest book, “It created this really abstract piece of art that we now have in our living room.”

A midnight kiss on New Year’s Eve has triple the meaning for Shayne Souleret and Brad Bouldin. The festive holiday represents their first meeting, and two years later, their engagement. “He had learned my favorite song — Jason Mraz’s ‘I Won’t Give Up’ — on the guitar, and played and sang it in front of all of our friends [at his annual New Year’s party],” she says. Two weeks later, Shayne, a professional wedding planner, began to plan the couple’s vintage, floral-inspired wedding. Surrounded by 200 guests, the pair tied the knot in an outdoor ceremony at The White Barn. Family and friends enjoyed an outdoor cocktail gathering, followed by a rustic and elegant reception inside. “It was mostly centered around ‘The Secret Garden,’ which was my favorite childhood book,” she says. “I’ve always loved flowers since I was a little girl and [the theme] really resonated with me.” To achieve the look, Hens and Chicks created florals using dahlias; blueberries; and roses; and incorporated thistle in memory of the bride’s grandmother; orchids in honor of the groom’s grandmother; and hydrangeas and tulips in memory of the bride’s best friend. Reminiscent of their introduction and engagement, guests were given noise makers at evening’s end. As the newlyweds made their exit, their cheering loved ones lined a pathway to a vintage getaway car! “After such a great night of so much energy, it was so great to see that everyone was still there,” Shayne says. “It was so amazing to see everyone filled with love, sending us off with well wishes. That was definitely my favorite part of the night.” WW wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

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Pastries by Candace in Fox Chapel layered the couple’s white almond chiffon cake with chantilly cream and fresh raspberries for a deliciously light dessert.

Mary Lee Gannon & Arnie von Waldow

For soft, elegant centerpieces, Bettis Floral arranged white hydrangeas, peonies, ranunculus, and roses with pops of pale green. Gold accents and floating candles added extra warmth to tables.

By Rachel Jones Photographs from Jack Wolf

On Mary Lee Gannon and Arnie von Waldow’s special day, the main theme was simply appreciating the love they share. “When you marry for the second time, you’ve had time to reflect on what really matters. For us, it is continual consideration of each other,” Mary Lee says. “It seems like a little thing, but we purposefully pay attention to our relationship because of how much we value it. For us, a small, intimate setting was the perfect place to celebrate that.” The couple achieved this romantic vision with a ceremony and reception at Fox Chapel Golf Club. Mary Lee’s father and son escorted her down the aisle to give her hand to Arnie, which she says was “the most beautiful moment of the evening.” The bride and groom’s six children were attendants and together read a special prayer, which made the night extra meaningful. The bridal party also joined their parents to dance to “The Way You Look Tonight.” The number was actually the newlyweds’ second dance of the evening, the first being a traditional Viennese Waltz. “My husband was born in Germany, so I wanted to honor him with German traditions,” Mary Lee says. Their friends from Germany taught them the steps, and after much practice at home — and even at their neighborhood park! — they flawlessly executed the waltz. With an executive career in nonprofit management and help from her friends, Mary Lee was able to make every element of the day significant. “I tried very hard not to get lost in the details or lose the magic of the big picture,” she says. “Picking colors and seating arrangements are important but not what bonds people together for life. What’s really important is that you’ve discovered a love that makes your heart pound harder and heightens your appreciation of everything around you.” WW 76

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Following another German tradition, Arnie’s best friend from Germany brought a plate to break on the floor at the reception. “The husband and wife pick up the pieces together to symbolize working together and to say that nothing else in their house shall be broken again,” Mary Lee explains. “We still have some of the pieces!”

Ashley donned an embellished, A-line Stella York dress with a sweetheart bodice from The Exquisite Bride. “We pulled five off of the racks to try on,” she says. She found “the one” with little difficulty and describes the moment as “so ‘Say Yes to the Dress.’” In addition to a wedding cake and a groom’s cake by Bethel Bakery, guests got their fill in an entire dessert room! With a s’mores bar, dessert martinis, homemade cookies, candy, a popcorn bar, ice cream sundaes, and late-night sliders and fries, “no one went home hungry,” Ashley says.

The couple worked with Marbella Event Furniture & Décor Rental to personalize a whiskey and gin bar, which featured their engagement photos. The company also provided modular, tufted sofas for lounging. During the ceremony, Ashley, Travis, and their son, Tavin, poured different colored sand together to symbolize their family’s unity. “All of these colors of sand came together and they cannot be separated — just like the coming together of our family,” says the bride.

Ashley Barna & Travis Brown By Mary Schrott and Andrea Bosco Stehle Photographs from Autumn Stankay/Skysight Photography

It was late December and Ashley Barna was busy prepping the house for the holidays when her boyfriend, Travis Brown, asked her to dinner to meet his boss. She accompanied him, though his boss “never showed.” As planned, the couple enjoyed an intimate evening Downtown that ended with a big surprise at PPG Ice Rink. “We were looking at the tree and the next thing I knew, he turned me around and was on one knee,” Ashley says. “It was a blur.” The pair tied the knot at the Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown, where Ashley is the director of weddings and special events. “Everyone at the hotel was excited for our wedding!” she says. When it was suggested by her supervisor, Regional Vice President Scott Marn, to host her wedding there, Ashley says she was elated with the endless possibilities. The ladies prepped for the festivities in the Sky Lounge on the 24th floor, and the bride and her father circled the block in a horse-drawn carriage before the ceremony in the ground-level ballroom. Looking back, Ashley says the best thing she could have done to prepare was not to worry. “Don’t stress about the little stuff,” she says. “At the end of the day, you’re marrying your partner — the love of your life. Enjoy it!” WW wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

WW / Real Weddings Hannah chose a flattering, feminine gown from The Exquisite Bride that “had just enough sparkle and lace to make it the perfect dress” for her. It paired beautifully with her “something blue,” a pair of custom diamond and blue sapphire earrings from her parents. The bride and groom chose “simple and understated” décor with white florals, and raspberry, black, and white accents. “I have always loved white — it’s crisp and clean,” says Hannah. Johnston the Florist created the bride’s all-white bouquet using lilies, peonies, hydrangeas, and roses.

Hannah Wirginis & Bradley Roth By Andrea Bosco Stehle Photographs from Alisa Milnthorp/Weddings by Alisa

F. Scott Fitzgerald writes in “The Great Gatsby,” “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” For Hannah Wirginis and Bradley Roth, life together began at the start of their fall semester as juniors at Duquesne University. Following that first meeting in a business communications class, the pair dated for five years leading up to a romantic proposal during “the trip of a lifetime.” While in Florida with friends for the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, Hannah and Bradley dined at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel’s Bull & Bear Prime Steakhouse. Self-proclaimed wine lovers, Bradley handed Hannah the wine list for a first look. “It was not a wine list at all, rather a hand-written ‘story’ of how Brad wanted our life together to be,” Hannah recalls. “It started with pictures of us as babies, and our parents and grandparents. And it ended with the question I’d been waiting for: ‘Will You Marry Me?’” At that moment, the Champagne popped and celebration ensued! The libations continued to flow at the couple’s intimate wedding of 75 guests at Smithfield United Church of Christ and The Duquesne Club. To celebrate their new last name, the couple special ordered wine from Roth Estate winery in California, which was served with The Duquesne Club’s signature Virginia spots and filet. The night of dancing kicked off with the newlyweds’ first dance to Adele’s “Make You Feel My Love” and lasted all night. Says Hannah of the day, “Our biggest gift in life is our family and friends. This day will forever be a reminder of how special they all are.” Bradley adds, “I think we can truly say we are both blessed to have such great families, great brothers and sisters, and phenomenal parents.” WW 78

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During the reception, Bradley and his groomsmen performed The Righteous Brothers’ “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling” à la Top Gun! “They had the room rocking with everyone singing along,” Hannah says. “I loved every minute!” The Duquesne Club whipped up a threetiered chocolate and Kahlúa cake with the couple’s monogram and pearl-like detail. The top tier featured white blooms with flecks of a raspberry hue.

The bride and groom filled boxes from an old cigar shop in Louisville, Ky., with some of William’s favorite cigars for guests’ enjoyment. Though Jennifer and William opted to not have a bridal party, Jennifer’s sisters coordinated in black dresses. “We wanted it to be more intimate on the altar,” Jennifer says. “It was just the two of us and our witnesses — my sister and Bill’s brother.”

Jennifer stunned in a Tarik Ediz dress. Tiny chiffon flowers adorned the gown, along with a crystal waistline and thin straps on the sweetheart neckline. Masterpieces in Wheeling, W.Va., whipped up a fourtiered cake with alternating layers of chocolate with peanut butter filling and classic almond cream. White roses and painted gold leaves completed the decadent confection.

Jennifer Perchinsky & William Ursic By Kelsey Peart and Andrea Bosco Stehle Photographs from Josh Eskridge Photography

Jennifer Perchinsky and William Ursic first connected through Jennifer’s older sister, Lauren. Eight months later, William proposed after the two exchanged gifts on Christmas Day. “He called me in from another room to come help with our new puppy, and bam! — he was down on one knee,” Jennifer says. “It was a whirlwind for sure.” She and two of her three sisters were engaged that same year! That being said, Jennifer and William decided to wait for the perfect time to get married. Four years later, following a ceremony at Immaculate Conception Church, the pair celebrated their nuptials with loved ones at Jennifer’s parents’ renovated farmhouse in Eighty Four, Pa. For décor, Jennifer chose “clean white with touches of gold.” “I didn’t want a color to take away from the beautiful scenery,” she says. Nearly 130 guests gathered on the picturesque property under a beautifully lit tent to witness the couple’s first dance to John Mayer’s cover of Beyoncé’s “XO.” “After we danced, my dad surprised me with his guitarist friend, who came out and played a song he had written about giving his daughter away,” says Jennifer. “He and I danced to that, and needless to say, everyone was in tears!” WW wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

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Andrea Bosco & J.W. Stehle BY LIZ PETONIAK PHOTOGRAPHS FROM ELIZABETH CRAIG PHOTOGRAPHY

When Andrea Bosco, WHIRL’s very own Editor in Chief, thanked news junkie and former sports anchor J.W. Stehle for following her local news account on Twitter, she was completely unaware that she had responded to the person who would become her life partner. “We chatted for two days, sharing similar interests, eventually realizing we lived a few streets from each other,” she says of the serendipitous connection. “He asked me to meet for a drink at The Saloon in Mt. Lebanon and the rest is history.” The couple went on to date for more than three years leading up to their Christmastime engagement, which came as a total surprise to Andrea. One night, following dinner at one of their favorite restaurants, Meat & Potatoes, J.W. got down on one knee and proposed as he and Andrea took in the scenic view atop Mt. Washington. With the planning for their special day underway, the twosome savored the experience of pre-wedding excitement, and Andrea offers advice for others wishing to do the same. “Be grateful to your parents and your future spouse for every minute of their time, and every expense, stressor, laugh, and tear throughout the process,” Andrea says. “My mom was our wedding planner and coordinator extraordinaire, and we’re beyond thankful for all she did to make our day the most magical for us!” And, magical it was! The pair was introduced as the new Mr. and Mrs. Stehle as they walked through the doors of The Pennsylvanian at their reception of 250 of their closest family members and friends. J.W. says, “As I raised Andrea’s hand in the air in celebration, I had goose bumps.” They chose to deck out the historic space with décor inspired by the building’s stunning architecture and “all things romantic” in a spring palette of guava, gold, green, white, and cream. While accordionist Vito DiSalvo entertained tableside with classic Italian songs, Rania’s Catering brought out flavorful entrées — a choice of Bordelaise filet, wild mushroom-stuffed chicken breast, jumbo lump crab cake, or sweet pea and leek ravioli — in a symphonic swoop. After an evening filled with good food, good company, and dancing to tunes spun by DJ Andy Booth, friends and family bid farewell with a nightcap of limoncello and Frangelico, and a stop at the La Prima Espresso bar and cookie table, where nearly 4,000 cookies, homemade by the newlyweds’ family and friends, were on display. Guests indulged in almond biscotti, sfogliatelle, and lady locks, among other treats, and took them home to further enjoy with their coffee the next morning. Following the wedding, the blissful bride and groom left for their honeymoon in Turks and Caicos, still basking in the outpouring of love felt that day. It could be perceived that a love like the love they share is what makes life worthwhile and amazing! WW 80

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Cocktail hour took place underneath The Pennsylvanian’s scenic Rotunda, where guests sipped the bride and groom’s signature drink — a guava spritzer — and swayed to the musical stylings of a jazz trio comprised of Rob Roehn, Ken Kovach, and Ray DeFade. Andrea’s adorable nieces donned fresh floral head wreaths and carried pomanders, which included peonies from her parents’ garden, crafted by Mt. Lebanon Floral. The bridal party table seated 21, dates included, at the center of the gorgeous Grand Concourse. Candelabras and a long floral garland adorned the table, and Andrea coordinated mixed and matched china, paired with gold flatware from All Occasions Party Rental, and beautiful fabrics from Lendable Linens.

The six bridesmaids wore long, crinkle chiffon Amsale gowns from Bella Bridesmaids in a guava hue, each with a unique neckline to reflect their individual styles. To leave guests with a sweet memory of the day, the bride and groom gave Italianimported torrone — in flavors of pistachio, Frutti del Bosco, lemon, and almond — in bags tied with a handwatercolored monogram tag by Paisley Proposal as favors.

Andrea recalls her kiss with J.W. on the altar at Saint Bernard Parish as one of her favorite memories of the day. “It was intimate and momentous. I can remember hearing all of our loved ones cheering loudly and feeling such radiant energy around the two of us. The feeling was indescribable.” Inspired by a decadent dessert enjoyed by the bride’s family in Rome, Italy, Vanilla Pastry Studio created a lemon buttercake with lemon buttercream frosting, covered in a cascade of exotic, sugared fruit. A vintage cake topper made of mercury glass and crystal sat atop the fivetiered confection. Andrea “felt like a bride” when she slipped on the RIVINI by Rita Vinieris flared Italian silk gown with sheer tulle cap sleeves, and a delicately embroidered back bodice with beads, sequins, and crystals at Anne Gregory for the Bride. J.W. looked equally smashing, sporting a timeless custom Hickey Freeman tuxedo from Larrimor’s. As husband and wife, J.W. and Andrea shared their first dance to a song with great significance: Etta James’ “At Last,” as sung by soloist Daniela Pasquini Chiriac. Andrea explains, “A few weeks into dating, J.W. put it on and we slow danced in my apartment kitchen. He said, ‘We’re going to get married, aren’t we?’”

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Aaron Leibowicz & Gregory Taylor By Rachel Jones Photographs from lauren markish

The love between Aaron Leibowicz and Gregory Taylor sparked quickly, and their engagement was just as spontaneous. Aaron had just returned from dinner with a friend, where they discussed his plans to propose to Gregory soon. “I just walked in my house and felt that right then was the perfect moment,” Aaron says. “I put on the song ‘I Choose You’ by Sara Bareilles, got down on one knee in our living room, and asked.” Gregory said yes, of course, and the couple started to plan their wedding at Willow. “Our venue was amazing,” Aaron says of the North Hills restaurant. “I would recommend it to anyone looking for a small, intimate ceremony and reception.” Incorporating the colors of hydrangeas, the grooms decorated the space in light blues and purples. Aaron’s mother and aunt arranged the inspirational blooms into centerpieces, while Greg’s mom provided flowers for the food, present, cookie, and cake tables. The cake was actually a tower of cupcakes by Bartram House Bakery in South Side, iced to mimic the texture of hydrangea petals and topped with a small cake tier. While they didn’t have dancing at their reception, a playlist kept a fun energy throughout the evening. And, when “I Choose You” came on, Aaron and Greg shared their first dance as a married couple. WW 82

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The grooms matched the day’s color scheme — and each other! — by sporting medium gray suits with purple ties and light brown shoes Aaron and Gregory celebrated their special day with 50 close friends and family members. Aaron says his favorite memory was walking down the aisle in the ceremony room, hand in hand with Gregory. “Just smiling so much it hurt,” he says. “I don’t remember ever being happier!”

Bella Christies and Lil’ Z’s Sweet Boutique filled a fabulous dessert table with everything from chocolatecovered Oreo pops to monogrammed sugar cookies.

The dark wood of the mansion was lightened with cream-colored blooms by Allison McGeary Florist and brightened by crystals that hung from the flowers, aisle chairs, and the grand staircase. “I loved the neckline and that it was more formfitting and beaded,” Cara says of her gorgeous gown from The Exquisite Bride. She shined from head to toe, accessorizing with a jeweled flower in her hair and silver Jimmy Choo heels. Vanilla Pastry Studio placed hundreds of jewels on the wedding cake for extra shimmer, and even served it on a custom-made, crystal-wrapped cake stand.

Cara Quattrone & Todd Amann By Isabel Aiken Photographs from Amber Marie Photography

After working together for two years, Todd Amann asked Cara Quattrone to watch the Pittsburgh Steelers take on the Denver Broncos at Heinz Field. “We actually lost, but we still celebrated at High Tops, now Mullen’s, since we were having so much fun together,” says Cara. Five years and many Steelers games later, the couple wed at Mansions on Fifth, renting the venue for the entire weekend for both of their families. “Yes, it’s about the bride and the groom, but it’s about your families coming together, too,” says Cara, who wanted a family-oriented wedding. The pair included their loved ones in a special “family dance,” which brought both the bride’s and groom’s parents, siblings, and grandparents onto the dance floor. “It didn’t seem right just dancing with our parents,” says Cara. “We wanted to include everyone. That moment was beautiful and special — something I will never forget.” The next day, the newlyweds shared breakfast with their families at the mansion, then traveled to The Plaza Hotel in New York City for their honeymoon. WW wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

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“I loved it,” Kelly says of her lace wedding gown. She found the Vera Wang number in New York, and fell for the bow on the back and long train. The couple’s classy color scheme of navy with gold and light pink accents really popped against the greenery at the outdoor reception space.

Kelly Broad & James Affinito By Rachel Jones Photographs from Corbin Gurkin Photography

Thanks to some sneaky coordination with her coworker, James Affinito surprised Kelly Broad with a weekend away in Charleston, S.C. Their trip began with James proposing in the historic town on Saturday morning. Then, they celebrated with a lunch at High Cotton, complete with presents from Kelly’s presents, which they had left for the couple during their visit to the town the week before. At dinner, James surprised his new fiancé yet again, this time with plane tickets to Pittsburgh so she could share the news with her family in person. Exactly 364 days later, their wedding dreams came true in Charleston. “It was so special because we got engaged in Charleston,” Kelly says. “We wanted a destination wedding, and we thought it was a great way to celebrate that moment.” The couple spent the weekend with friends and family, exploring the town and visiting their favorite local hotspots, before the First Baptist Church of Charleston ceremony and Runnymede Plantation reception. “Having a destination wedding is wonderful because you bring all of the people you love to one city for the entire weekend,” Kelly says. “That town will always be a special part of your life, so pick someplace you can fully immerse yourself in.” WW

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“James and I love coconut cake, red velvet cake, and carrot cake,” Kelly says. “We did a layer of each, plus one of vanilla with chocolate ganache, too.” The couple’s 200-plus guests received this sweet welcome box at the hotel.

Eager to find a “simple, yet elegant” gown at Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City, Courtney applied for “Say Yes to the Dress” on a whim and was chosen! She found her Pnina Tornai gown, featuring the designer’s signature lace corset, while taping the episode, which is set to air this fall!

Courtney Blackhurst & Chad Daloia by Andrea Bosco Stehle Photographs from Bahamas Wedding Productions Neutral earth tones and a pop of color were chosen as a reflection of the bride’s personal wardrobe. “We kept the florals white and incorporated teal, which coordinated with the beach theme,” says Courtney. At evening’s end, Chad surprised Courtney with a 30-minute fireworks show. “Our DJ [Silva] began to play Katy Perry’s ‘Firework,’ and I knew immediately the show was for us,” says Courtney.

Washington, Pa., natives Courtney Blackhurst and Chad Daloia dated for four years before he proposed on a very special occasion: her grandmother’s birthday. “After having cake with my family, we went back to his house,” she recalls. “I opened the door to 200 tea lights lining the walkway through the kitchen into the great room.” Chad’s elaborate plan included “Marry Me” in rose petals, his dog, and her family — who knew all along, and shortly after, came in for coffee to celebrate! As a bonus, Chad recorded the entire engagement on his iPad, so they could relive the magical moment forever. There was more magic to be had eight months later, when the couple said “I do,” among an intimate gathering of family and friends, at Atlantis Paradise Island Resort in the Bahamas. A pair of violinists led a graceful processional, and in-house DJ Silva kept everyone on their feet at the reception with a mix of current pop songs and ‘90s rap — the couple’s favorite. Atlantis Catering whipped up a delicious, three-tiered chocolate and yellow cake with buttercream filling and icing, which was finished with indigo cymbidium orchids by Wildflowers Events & Occasions. “It was the best cake I had ever eaten in my entire life,” Courtney says. “We loved it so much that we ordered a mini version for our anniversary trip one year later!” When asked of her best advice for couples planning destination weddings, Courtney says, “Work with a team that’s all-inclusive. I truly was in contact with one person, and everything branched out from there. Our wedding coordinator was fantastic. I would recommend Atlantis in a heartbeat.” WW wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

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Stephanie made all of the arrangements for her big day, including her bouquet of Juliet and Patience garden roses, blush tulips, white ranunculus, hellebore, Pieris buds, and eucalyptus. She wrapped the bundle in ivory satin and a piece of lace from her mother’s wedding gown, then tied it with French silk ribbon tails. Stephanie found her charming lace, fit-and-flare Maggie Sottero gown and matching custom cathedral-length veil at The Exquisite Bride in Murrysville. “The seamstress was phenomenal,” she says.

Stephanie Lenhart & Patrick Kirby BY LIZ PETONIAK PHOTOGRAPHS FROM RYAN ZARICHNAK

For Valentine’s Day, Patrick Kirby recreated the date where he and Stephanie Lenhart, his girlfriend of over a year, shared their first kiss. Beginning with a romantic dinner at Bangkok Balcony in Squirrel Hill, the pair then went ice skating at Schenley Park and for a walk up the hillside next to the rink. Stephanie remembers, “He stopped and said ‘I think our first kiss was right about here. I think this is the perfect place,’ and then he proposed. I’m so lucky — of course I said yes!” The lovebirds tied the knot at the stunning Immaculate Conception Church in Irwin — the same place Stephanie’s parents and grandparents were both married. “We didn’t do a first look, so walking down the aisle when we saw each other, we both had a ‘holy cow, I actually get to marry this person’ moment. It was my favorite memory from the day,” she says. Their 136 closest friends and family members gathered at the Grand Concourse to celebrate the couple, dance, and nosh on delicious food all while taking in the historical setting. Stephanie, floral designer and owner of The Blue Daisy Floral Designs, savored the experience of creating unique arrangements for the various table sizes at the venue. “It was my time to just do what I wanted — very romantic and vintage. I tried to keep in season as much as possible and had a lot of fun playing with the palette of the pinks, mauves, and that dusty green color.” Completing the nostalgic atmosphere and bringing together the vintage, throwback theme, The Boilermaker Jazz Band succeeded in getting guests on their feet following Stephanie and Patrick’s first dance to “Crazy Love” by Van Morrison. “We loved every minute of it,” she says. WW 86

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Madison Avenue Specialty Cakes created a four-tiered cake with almond batter and apricot filling, and chocolate batter with Bailey’s liquor filling, inspired by the glass windows and the arched ceilings of the Grand Concourse

Chelsey and Christopher shared the vanilla and chocolate mousse cake by Bella Christie and Lil’ Z’s Sweet Boutique with their matron of honor and best man, as guests noshed on crêpes with berries and chocolate, and Italian cookies by Michelle Maseth.

Pittsburgh DJ Company and Robert Matchett Jazz Band kept the party roaring all night long! At 11 p.m., latenight bites of mini Primanti Bros. sandwiches and Philly cheesesteaks were served as odes to the bride’s and groom’s hometowns, respectively. Chelsey says of her favorite memory, “I loved walking down the aisle with my dad and seeing my groom at the other end!” Christopher adds, “The entire weekend was surreal. Having all of our friends and families in the same place celebrating us made it so memorable.“

Chelsey Capra & Christopher O’Connell By Andrea Bosco Stehle and Rebecca Torchia Photographs from Krystal Healy Photography

Chelsey Capra and Christopher O’Connell met as Mountaineers at West Virginia University on the last day of their freshman year. Five years into their relationship, Christopher picked up sushi for dinner in preparation of Chelsey’s arrival home from a business trip in Virginia. Upon realizing sushi did not come with fortune cookies, he ran to the store just in time! “He bought them, used tweezers to fish out the existing fortune, and put his inside,” Chelsey says. “He melted the edge of the plastic and resealed it.” She only learned these details after she cracked open the cookie and pulled out the fortune that read “Will You Marry Me?” The next day, Christopher planned a spa day for Chelsey. When she arrived home, she was surprised again — this time with a spontaneous engagement party with friends and family. The couple celebrated their love before 160 guests with a ceremony at Epiphany Catholic Church and a reception at the Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel, which was decorated in glamorous shades of ivory and gold with splashes of berry. Allison McGeary Florist arranged centerpieces of white hydrangeas, orchids, ostrich feathers, raspberry roses, and eggplant carnations. Chelsey carried a bouquet of gardenias — in memory of her late grandmother — blush roses, eggplant scabiosa, greenery, and pheasant feathers. Her choice of varied elements reflects her advice for future brides: “Do what makes you and your groom happy, not everyone else. And, don’t be afraid to step outside of the box. The most memorable weddings are the ones where something unusual or unexpected is done.” WW wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

Let Us Host Your Next Special Event

A Venue As Unique As You!

Private Parties For 25-75 Guests Hosting Bridal And Baby Showers, Rehearsal Dinners And Weddings Menu Plans To Suit Your Style And Budget

MALLORCA RESTAURANT

MALLORCA RESTAURANT 412-488-1818 2228 E. Carson Street on Pittsburgh’s South Side

412-325-2227 2224 E. Carson Street, Pittsburgh

215 E. Sixth Avenue Tarentum, Exit 14 • 5 Miles past Pittsburgh Mills

seitajewelers.com 724-224-9114

FREE VALET PARKING

Let the natural beauty of

Set the tone for your big day.

Make your wedding day special with a beautiful and delicious cake created just for you! Visit our spacious bakery for more cake and cookie ideas. Call Tony at least 3 months before your wedding to schedule an appointment to sample flavors and to design the perfect wedding cake for you!

Exchange vows vows Exchange on our our 50-acre 50-acre on estate — — in in front front estate of aa historic historic of mansion or or beside beside mansion an expansive expansive pond pond an surrounded by by trees. trees. surrounded We’ll work with you to create your perfect wedding and reception. Contact us for an appointment and tour of Succop Nature Park.

(724) 586-2591 | aswp.org events@aswp.org 185 West Airport Road | Butler, PA

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412.372.6700 • 1.877.372.6701 4209 William Penn Highway, Monroeville WWW. MOIOS. COM

WW / Rings 14K Rose Gold Halo Style Setting with a 0.72 carat Round Brilliant Diamond and 26 Round Brilliant Diamonds in Pave Set in the Under Bezel, $4,300. 18K Rose Gold Hearts on Fire Lorelei Floral Diamond Women’s Band, $1,675. 14K White and Rose Gold 6.5mm TT Fusion Men’s Wedding Band with 14Kt Satin Center, $999, Henne Jewelers.

All Set Celebrate the love for your perfect match with perfectly matching rings! By Rachel Jones • Photographs by Michael Fornataro

As we stroll by the glass cases in our favorite local jewelry stores, we’re seeing more and more bridal sets for sale. Pairing your engagement ring with a matching wedding band symbolizes the unity between you and your loved one on your wedding day. As the two of you come together as one, let your rings do the same, opting for pieces with similar details and colorings. Some women’s bands offer a dipped front to accommodate a diamond- or gemstone-centric ring on top. Other brides choose to make the connection permanent by welding their engagement ring and wedding band together. Bring your hubby’s ring into the equation, too, by incorporating more subtle similarities, like the rose gold strip in the band above to match the solid rose gold engagement ring. Find inspiration on the next few pages, and you’ll be all set!

Details in WHIRL Wedding Directory, page 92. wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

For him

+ her

14K White and Rose Gold Men’s Wedding Band, price available upon request, Seita Jewelers.

For him

14K Rose Gold Diamond Women’s Wedding Band, $743, Seita Jewelers.

+ her

Captain America’s Team Men’s Band, price available upon request, Paul Michael Design.

For him

18K White Gold Mark Patterson 6mm Men’s Wedding Band with Satin Finish and Polished Edges, $1,420, Henne Jewelers.

For him

Platinum Christian Bauer Men’s Wedding Band, price available upon request, Joden World Resources.

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14K Rose Gold Diamond Engagement Ring with a 0.75 carat Cushion Cut Diamond, $4,190, Seita Jewelers.

Swirl Diamond Wedding Set, price available upon request, Paul Michael Design.

+ her

Mark Patterson Bead Set Diamond Women’s Wedding Band, $2,200, Henne Jewelers.

Platinum and Diamond Mark Patterson Engagement Ring with an Oval Diamond, Braided Shoulder, and 4-prong SemiMount, price available upon request, Henne Jewelers.

+ her

18K White Gold Wedding Set with a 2.01 carat Round Brilliant Diamond and 13 Emerald Cut Diamonds, price available upon request, Joden World Resources.

Photographs from Joden World Resources

For him

+ her

18K Yellow and White Gold 7.5mm Men’s Wedding Band with 8 Rectangular Yellow Gold Sections, 8 White Gold Sections in the Center of the Band, and 32 Round Brilliant Diamonds, price available upon request, Joyce’s Fine Jewelry.

18K Yellow and White Gold Engagement Ring with a 1.9 carat Radiant Cut GIA Certified Fancy Yellow Diamond and 60 White and Yellow Diamonds on the Curvy Triple Row Mounting, price available upon request, Joyce’s Fine Jewelry.

14K Yellow Gold Diamond Women’s Wedding Band with 18 Round Brilliant Diamonds, price available upon request, Joyce’s Fine Jewelry.

For him + him

For her + her

18K White Gold and Rose Gold Men’s Diamond Band with 0.90 carats, $6,765, Casa D’Oro.

18K White Gold Women’s Domed Diamond Band with 3.01 carats, $8,770, Casa D’Oro.

18K White Gold Men’s Diamond Band with 0.63 carats, $4,065, Casa D’Oro.

18K White Gold Women’s Diamond Band with 1.84 carats, $9,660, Casa D’Oro.

wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

WW / Directory

Fall in love with this autmn-inspired arrangement by Karrie Hlista Designs.

WHIRL Wedding Directory

Your complete resource for wedding experts in Western Pennsylvania Directory Bakeries 92 Beauty 92 Bridal Shops 93 Catering 93 Entertainment 93 Florists 94 Honeymoons 94 Jewelers 94 Lighting 96 Photographers 96 Rentals 97 98 Restaurants Stationery 99 Tuxedos 99 Venues 99 Videography 103 Wedding Planners 103

Bella Christie & Lil’ Z’s Sweet Boutique Bella Christie & Lil’ Z’s Sweet Boutique offers unique and whimsical cookies, decorated cakes and cupcakes, and of course, gourmet desserts for your wedding day. 213 Commercial Ave., Aspinwall. 412.772.1283. 3511 Butler St., Lawrenceville. 412.687.1265. asweetboutique.com.

Fenoglietto’s Wedding Cakes Family-owned and operated since 1979, Fenoglietto’s bakes each wedding cake to order. Fenoglietto’s exclusively bakes wedding cakes, with the staff devoting its full attention to serving the special needs of brides and grooms. 2549 Penn Ave., Strip District. 412.566.2900. 2955 Leechburg Road, Lower Burrell. 724.335.5376. ultimateweddingcakes.com.

Gaby et Jules You deserve the very best on your special day, and Gaby et Jules provides you with nothing less. The authentic French pastries and macarons are as beautiful as they are tasty, and have a touch of elegance incorporated into every pastry and cake. 5837 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill. 412.682.1966. 435 Market St., Market Square. 412.281.3818. gabyetjules.com.

Madison Avenue Specialty Cakes

just for you. 4209 William Penn Hwy., Monroeville. 412.372.6700. moios.com.

Prantl’s Bakery Home of the famous Burnt Almond Torte, Prantl’s is also available for special orders, including wedding cakes, pastry trays, birthday cakes, and more. 5525 Walnut St., Shadyside. 412.621.2092. 438 Market St., Market Square. 412.471.6861. prantlsbakery.com.

Priory Fine Pastries

Offering one-of-a-kind specialty cakes, these award-winning creations will complement any wedding day. Plus, no cookie table is complete without delicious, hand-detailed sugar cookies! 994 Perry Hwy., Wexford. 412.364.3287. madisonavecakes.com.

A place where locals can come for a good cup of coffee and a pastry, brides and grooms can also go for large orders of sweets, cookies, and cakes. 528 E. Ohio St., North Side. 412.321.7270. prioryfinepastries.com.

Krency’s Bakery and Catering

Serving gourmet cupcakes, cookies, pastries, and specialty cakes, the employees at Spinola’s put love into each delicious baked good. Wedding cakes are one-of-a-kind with icing and texture that will wow your guests in more ways than taste. 3845 Old William Penn Hwy., Murrysville. 724.519.7741. spinolasbakeshop.com.

Krency’s Bakery and Catering has offered cakes, catering, pastries, and cookies for more than 50 “sweet” years. 990 Jefferson Ave., Washington. 724.222.6690.

Mediterra Cakehouse Mediterra Cakehouse is the sister company to Mediterra Bakehouse, creating exceptional, original celebratory cake creations. Pastry Chef Aundrea Ambeliotis works with her clients to dream up one-of-a-kind delicious and elegant desserts for weddings, showers, and more. 801 Parkway View Drive, Building 8, Robinson. 412.490.9130. mediterracakehouse.com.

Spinola’s Bake Shop

Vanilla Pastry Studio A boutique bakery, Vanilla Pastry Studio is the place for goodies made from scratch! The Sugar Fairies bake with unsalted butter, fresh fruits, pure Madagascar vanilla, and premium chocolates. 1130 S. Braddock Ave., Regent Square. 412.242.9820. vanillapastry.com.

Moio’s Italian Pastry Shop Make your wedding day special with a beautiful and delicious cake — white batter with a slight almond flavor and buttercream filling — personally created

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European Wax Center

environment, European Wax Center gives a complimentary wax for first-time visitors! 5854 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill. 412.586.4571. 5505 Walnut St., Shadyside. 412.683.2124. 4080 Washington Road, McMurray. 724.260.5481. 4868 McKnight Road, Ross Township. 412.364.9299. waxcenter.com.

Mina Rose Beauty, LLC Combining the names of their grandmothers, Amanda and Shannon created Mina Rose Beauty, LLC, to offer special bridal services as professional makeup artists and licensed estheticians. Specializing in airbrush makeup application and skin care techniques, Mina Rose offers wedding day makeup, makeup lessons, girls’ night out makeup parties, tattoo coverage, waxing, skin consultations, and more. minarosebeauty.com. minarosebeauty@gmail.com.

Philip Pelusi Pelusi-Life Salons and Pelusi 2 Salons offer hair cuts, color, makeup applications, scalp massage therapy, and organic products. 888.263.4720. philippelusi.com.

Glam Earth Natural & Organic Beauty Boutique Two-time Emmy Award-winning makeup artist Marianne Skiba has been a dynamic force in the beauty business for more than 15 years. She offers the area’s widest selection of natural and organic makeup, skin care, and beauty accessories at Glam Earth. The Shoppes at Quail Acres, 1445 Washington Road, Washington.412.512.0266. goglamearth.com.

Offering world-class waxing services for both men and women in a chic, upscale, and comfortable

Photograph by Michael Fornataro

Posh Beauty Salon

Bella Bridesmaids

Trust owner Lisa Martin Campbell and her posh stylists, and you will leave looking stylish and beautiful. Posh Beauty Salon offers hair services, hair removal, posh eye treatments and enhancements, makeup, magic tans, skin treatments, and hand and foot treatments. 1725 Washington Road, Upper St. Clair. 412.833.6636. poshbeauty.com.

Stylish, wearable, and chic bridesmaid dresses are offered in an upscale, approachable, and one-on-one environment. 1752 N. Highland Road, Upper St. Clair. 412.854.4422. bellabridesmaids.com.

Pure Barre Transform your body with the Pure Barre technique, a low-impact workout, creating long, lean muscles without bulk. Ask about the unlimited, three-month package for brides! 12091 Perry Hwy., Wexford. 724.719.9191. 5986 Centre Ave., Shadyside. 412.248.3333. 1612 Cochran Road, Mt. Lebanon. 412.248.2424. 4000 Washington Road, McMurray. 724.941.8663. purebarre.com.

SPA Jema A chic, modern retreat offering an exclusive range of beauty and wellness treatments. The elegant lounge, cozy fireplaces, and private courtyard provide plenty of room to enjoy a glass of wine or tea, read a book, or simply relax and unwind. 117 First Ave., Downtown. 412.281.3336. spajema.com.

The Spa & Salon at Southpointe The Spa & Salon at Southpointe provides a serene sanctuary from all of the wedding day stress. The salon offers hair, skin, body, and nail care by certified technicians and massage therapists. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, revitalized, and radiant the whole day through. 1800 Main St., Canonsburg. 724.873.7337. southpointespa.com.

Valarie Panei Make-Up Artist Valarie has set out to provide quality, customer satisfaction, and excellent service. She is expertly trained and knowledgeable in many fields, making you the best version of yourself for your big day. 412.480.1132. valariepanei.com.

Anne Gregory for the Bride A premier salon, Anne Gregory for the Bride features high-end couture for brides, bridesmaids, and mothers of the bride, as well as formalwear. Owner Greg Cherico will work with you to find the perfect dress for your special day. 2975 West Liberty Ave., Dormont. 412.531.3160. annegregorybrides.com.

The Exquisite Bride At this full-service bridal, prom, and special occasion gown boutique, the experienced staff will help you from beginning to end — from choosing the dress to the alterations. 4353 Old William Penn Hwy., Murrysville. 724.3BRIDES. 5349 William Flynn Hwy., Route 8, Gibsonia. 724.443.0400. theexquisitebride.com.

Glitter & Grit Offering a uniquely curated selection of handmade, independently designed wedding dresses and accessories to Pittsburgh’s boldly engaged, this warm and welcoming environment is open to all lifestyles and wedding concepts. 5300 Butler St., Lawrenceville. 412.781.2375. glitterandgritpgh.com.

Koda Bridal Koda Bridal specializes in premier plussize gowns, sizes 16-34, while creating a wonderful experience for brides. The shop has a variety of bridal, bridesmaid, and mother of the bride/groom styles, including one for your special day. 246 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon. 412.343.3212. kodabridal.com.

MB Bride & Special Occasion Pennsylvania’s largest independently owned bridal store features prom gowns, bridesmaid gowns, wedding dresses, tuxedos, and more. 123 S. Urania Ave., Greensburg. 724.836.6626. mbbride.com.

Sorelle Bridal Salon Peruse beautiful gowns for brides, as well as dresses for bridesmaids, mothers, and flower girls. 1855 W. Chestnut St., Washington. 724.206.0791. sorellebridalsalon.com.

Road, Fox Chapel. 877.9.ANDORA. andoracatering.com.

Arista Catering & Event Planning The exclusive caterers and hall managers of the Holy Trinity Center at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Arista Catering & Event Planning offers polished, professional catering and planning in three different stunning event spaces. 985 Providence Blvd., McCandless. 412.716.2835. facebook. com/AristaCateringAndEventPlanning.

big Burrito Full Service Catering For events big or small, big Burrito Catering takes care of every aspect of the event, developing customized menus and pricing options and working with event planners, suppliers, and venues to pull everything together. 5740 Baum Blvd., Shadyside. 412.361.3272 x209. bigburrito.com/party/fullservice.

Big Y Group The Big Y Group caters to you with its catering service. With restaurants and venues like Perlé, Seviche, Sonoma, and NOLA on the Square, your private party, whether it be a wedding, bachelor, or bachelorette party, will be on another level. bigygroup.com.

Common Plea Catering The exclusive caterers for some of the most beautiful venues in Pittsburgh, including the Senator John Heinz History Center and the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, will make your day the best ever. 2495 Smallman St., Strip District. 412.281.5140. commonplea-catering.com.

The Fluted Mushroom Owner Lee Deiseroth and the entire staff at The Fluted Mushroom approach every event — intimate weddings, boxed lunches, banquets, picnics, cocktail parties, and gourmet gift baskets — with the same philosophy. 109 S. 12th St., South Side. 412.381.1899. flutedmushroom.com.

The Olive Merchant All in Good Taste Productions Owner Bob Sendall is known for his boundless energy, demand for perfection, and eye for detail. As chef, event producer, wedding coordinator, consultant, chocolatier, and co-author, he wears many hats and will make your wedding a day to remember. 1520 Monterey St., North Side. 412.321.6869. allingoodtasteproductions.com.

Andora Catering The Sewickley restaurant’s catering service can make your next event a great one. They use the finest ingredients, and the top-notch staff works to make sure your guests are satisfied and wanting to come back for more. 599 Dorseyville

Offering the finest selection of olive oils and vinegars in Murrysville, The Olive Merchant has the perfect gift or favor for your special event. These highquality products will please any guest. 4430 William Penn Hwy., Murrysville. 724.519.8576. theolivemerchant.net.

Rania’s Catering For 35 years, Rania Harris and her team of trained professionals have catered beautiful, delicious events. Rania tailors each menu to the specific event’s taste and budget, and offers cooking classes in her to-go restaurant, too! 100 Central Square, Mt. Lebanon. 412.531.2222. rania.com.

Yes, We Cater Enjoy your special day with the comfort of knowing that all of the details are handled by passionate, detailed, and experienced event planners from venue to menu, entertainment to photography. 2326 Mosside Blvd., Monroeville. 412.373.9322. yeswecater.net.

Andy Booth Productions DJ Andy Booth has been entertaining brides, grooms, families, and friends since 1979. He’s performed at more than 1,200 events and over 1,000 wedding receptions! A partner of Jeremy Ganss Productions, Booth’s experience and top-of-the-line equipment ensure the once-in-alifetime reception of your dreams. 814.221.0737. jeremyganss.com.

Big Day Entertainment Since 1995, it’s been the one-stop source for the best entertainment, video, and photography in the tristate area since 1995. 2549 Penn Ave., Strip District. 412.566.2900. bigdayentertainment.com.

Elite Showband The goal of the Elite Showband is to make sure the newlyweds are the stars of the evening. Have a fantastic evening together, one that guests will never forget! 1525 Park Manor Blvd., Suite 279, Robinson. 888.400.5013. eliteshowband.com.

Entertainment Unlimited As the largest, most experienced entertainment booking agency in the region, it has offered a variety of top quality entertainment including bands, DJs, tribute acts, comedians, magicians, theme parties, and casino nights for over 45 years. 1701 Banksville Road, South Hills. 855.899.3677. entertainmentunlimited.com.

John Parker Band John Parker Band is an industryrecognized name for private and corporate events, performing internationally for parties, weddings, mitzvahs, fundraisers, and more! 888.4JP.BAND. jpband.com.

Kelli Burns DJ Entertainment With more than 20 years of experience, it offers ground-breaking creativity, exceptional customer service, and organization to make your event highly entertaining. 554 Washington Ave., #4, Carnegie. 412.276.5665. kelliburns.com.

Party-Time Productions Pittsburgh’s most exciting and unique DJ and event lighting company will create the “wow” wedding of your dreams. 215 Carriage Blvd., Murrysville. 412.401.5320. partytimeprodj.com.

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Pittsburgh DJ Company A full-time, insured, professional DJ business with over 43 years of combined experience, it specializes in weddings, corporate events, proms, night clubs, and any event that needs music and dancing! 412.638.5350. pghdjco.com.

Steven Vance Strolling Violins Steven Vance Strolling Violins is the No. 1 source for elegant, stylish, and professional wedding and special event entertainment. It features the finest string groups, strolling performers, a one-of-a-kind violin and DJ package, harpists, pianists, jazz, Irish, Italian, gypsy, fiddlers, electric violin, bands, and everything from steel drums to Sinatra impersonators. 724.444.8400. stevenvance.com. facebook.com/ stevenvancestrollingviolins.

Studio-E Entertainment

408 Beaver Street, Sewickley PA 15143 412-259-8243 www.KarrieHlistaDesigns.com

This talented team produces every party for their clients, scripting the songs you love into a night of memorable music. 320 Ft. Duquesne Blvd., Suite 190, Downtown. 412.572.5090. studioeentertainment.com.

Wenning Entertainment From music and lighting, to photographer, cinematographer, and décor, Wenning Entertainment is a one-stop shop for all of your wedding day needs. 355 Fifth Ave., Downtown. 412.292.8776. wenningent.com.

walking down the aisle, this florist is here for you. 4805 Penn Ave., Bloomfield. 412.361.4141. mocharose.com.

Mt. Lebanon Floral Peruse a gorgeous selection of bridal bouquets, floral cake decorations, ceremony flowers, and centerpieces to fit any budget. 725 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon. 412.561.2500. mtlebanonfloral.com.

pete Donati & Sons This florist offers professional service, select products, and artistic floral presentations, working with your budget, striving to assist you in all of your wedding needs. 35 Donati Road, Upper St. Clair. 412.835.4420. petedonatiflorist.com.

Olsen-O’Leary Travels This top-notch travel agency has been in business for 45-plus years. Leave the adventure planning to one of its experienced agents, who will hook you up with tons of options and VIP services. Register your honeymoon, and guests can contribute toward the trip, too. 1147 Freeport Road, Fox Chapel Plaza. 412.963.7272. olsenolearytravels.com.

Pittsburgh International Airport Fly safe and have fun! 1000 Airport Blvd., Moon. 412.472.3525. flypittsburgh.com.

Blooms Florist For more than 25 years, Blooms has been designing couture weddings and parties, and will turn your wedding’s dreams into lifelong memories by designing the perfect floral package for your big day. 2722 Penn Ave., Strip District. 412.281.8110. bloomsflorist.com.

Cuttings Cuttings’ beautiful 1860s Italianate house location is brimming with special finds from around the country, as well as high-quality flowers and plants. The Cuttings staff specializes not only in floral design, but also interior display. 524 Locust Place, Sewickley. 412.741.7227. cuttingsfg.com.

GreenSinner Floral & Garden GreenSinner grows flowers in Western Pennsylvania and sources many materials and plants in a 500-mile radius. 5232 Butler St., Lawrenceville. 412.532.6107. greensinner.com.

Mocha Rose Floral Designs Weddings are the specialty of Mocha Rose Floral Designs. From your very first consultation until you begin

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Beeghly and Company jewelers Providing you with the individual taste, styling, and design that you desire, Beeghly and Company Jewelers is one of the most trusted names in jewelry, working with the finest manufacturers in the world. 401 S. Main St., Greensburg. 724.832.1500. beeghlyandcompany.com.

Brooks Diamonds Specializing in bridal jewelry and unique, high fashion pieces with a wide selection and competitive prices, it offers commitment to exceptional customer service. The Clark Building, 717 Liberty Ave., Suite 303, Downtown. 412.434.6007. brooksdiamonds.net.

Caesar’s Designs Fine Jewelry Creations Caesar combines what he learned in his father’s jewelry store, his formal education in gemology, and his contemporary flair to create breathtakingly fresh and personalized wearable works of art. 5413 Walnut St., Shadyside. 412.621.0345 caesarsdesigns.com.

Casa D’oro Pittsburgh Jewelers From the simplest repair to the dream design, Casa D’Oro’s in-house jeweler creates beautiful works of art. 910 Sheraton Drive, Cranberry. 724.776.2424. casadoro.com.

Chapel Hills Jewelry Enjoy a wide range of the highest quality designer jewelry with a selection fit to satisfy any special occasion. Chapel Hills says beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and the beholder’s happiness is at Chapel Hills Jewelry. 503 Freeport Road, Aspinwall. 412.782.1757. chapelhillsjewelry.com.

Goldstock Jewelers From nailing the proposal to finding the wedding bands, Goldstock Jewelers has you covered. The Clark Building, 717 Liberty Ave., Suite 203, Downtown. 412.281.1789. goldstockjewelers.com.

Grafner Brothers Jewelers This multi-generational business has become a premier source for engagement and bridal sets, fine gemstones, custom creations, and more. Pine Tree Shoppes, 12063 Perry Hwy., Wexford. 724.935.5070. grafnerbrothers.com.

Henne Jewelers Your happily ever after begins with rings that celebrate your love and commitment. Henne carries an array of engagement rings, wedding bands, and the option to design your own. 5501 Walnut St., Shadyside. 412.682.0226. hennejewelers.com.

Joden world resources This wholesale trading company specializes in estate jewelry and estate collections — the perfect place to find unique, antique engagement rings and wedding bands. 144 S. Broad St., Grove City. 724.458.1111. joden.com.

Joyce’s Fine Jewelry With more than 30 years of experience, spanning over two generations, Joyce’s Jewelry continues to offer high quality and distinctive jewelry at the best prices. 5 E. Main St., Uniontown. 724.439.4278. joyces-jewelry.com.

Karats of Pittsburgh This family-owned jeweler is expanding its horizons beyond what once was a focus on wholesale capacity, but still focusing on wholesale prices. Karats of Pittsburgh has the diamond and gemstone jewelry for any of your special occasions. 501 Valleybrook Road, Suite 103, McMurray. 724.941.1973. karatsburgh.com.

KSB Jewelry Designs at The Collection

jeweler you can trust. Select one of its unique and timeless designs or work with the team of talented artists to create a custom treasure. 732 Filbert St., Shadyside. 412.682.6668. thecollectionpittsburgh.com.

Louis Anthony Jewelers The world’s most exclusive bridal designers, a brilliant collection of engagement rings, wedding bands, and a bridal registry and bridal services are here for you. Norman Center II, 1775 N. Highland Road, South Hills. 412.854.0310. louisanthony.com.

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Omega This company’s pioneering spirit has taken it to the moon, helped conquer the oceans’ depths, and allowed it to time the world’s most important sporting events. At the same time, the company was setting precision records and has been continuously redefining state-of-the-art mechanical watchmaking since 1848. Ross Park Mall, 1000 Ross Park Mall Drive, North Hills. 412.364.6910. omegawatches.com.

Paul Michael Design A designer, goldsmith, and technologist, Paul Michael is at the forefront of design technology. His staff creates jewelry in its state-of-theart facility to make couples’ dream wedding bands a reality. 3453 Butler St., Lawrenceville. 412.486.2016. paulmichaeldesign.com.

Robert Currens Fine Jewelry & Custom Design Committed to providing quality jewelry, and experienced and trustworthy service at reasonable rates, Robert Currens Fine Jewelry & Custom Design offers bridal jewelry that’s custom-designed for your individual taste. 510 Allegheny River Blvd., Oakmont. 412.828.2877. robertcurrens.com.

Your Sweetest Day Deserves A Delicious Memory. Memory

Seita Jewelers For 60 years, this family-owned business has offered the world’s most brilliant diamonds. Seita is one of the area’s only Independent Jewelers Organization jewelers, who use their expertise to bring you the latest styles and trends from top designers. 215 E. Sixth Ave., Tarentum. 724.224.9114. seitadiamondjewelers.com.

South Hills Jewelers Established in 1982, South Hills Jewelers is a full-service jewelry store that will help you with all of your nuptial needs, from engagement ring to bridal bling. 5247 Library Road, Bethel Park. 412.709.5536. southhillsjewelers.com.

Fifty years of experience make The Collection an obvious choice for a

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Goldstein Photography ever forward Lighting Family owned and operated, E.F. Lighting specializes in enhancing your event with the beauty of light! From lighting centerpieces to changing the mood of a room, E.F. Lighting can help you brighten up your event. 412.979.1459. everforwardlighting.com.

luxe lighting + atmospheres Illuminate your big day with LUXE Lighting + Atmospheres. The full-service creative studio shines, customizing dynamic designs for clients across the world. 3401 Butler St., Lawrenceville. luxepgh.com.

Started in 1997, Goldstein Photography specializes in professional wedding photography. Its two decades of experience show in the high quality photography and engenders the confidence of clients in their ability to accurately and emphatically illustrate your joyous occasion. 412.687.8333. goldsteinphotography.com.

Hot Metal Studio Jonathan and Tiffany, the masterminds behind Hot Metal Studio, are modern photographers with an alternative style. If you’re looking to step away from run of the mill photos for your special occasion or any occasion, check them out! 724.493.2691. hotmetalstudio.com.

Jenni Grace Photography Araujo Photography This exclusive wedding photography is available for travel world-wide. 412.263.2711. araujophoto.com.

Big Day Entertainment 2549 Penn Ave., Strip District. 412.566.2900. bigdayentertainment. com. See Entertainment for more information.

The Brand Studio The Brand Studio photographers John Pascarella and Sean Blair have nearly 20 years of combined experience in creating, exhibiting, and teaching photography and fine art. They offer clients a fresh perspective on wedding and lifestyle photography. 412.693.3007. thebrandstudio.com.

Dianne Adrian Photography This local and travel-based wedding photographer specializes in creative, artistic wedding photojournalism. 412.215.5296. adrianphoto.net.

Elizabeth Craig Photography A Style Me Pretty Little Black Book member, Elizabeth Craig Photography believes in storytelling through photography. Husband-and-wife team Elizabeth and John Craig specialize in capturing the authenticity of a couple’s big day through creative photojournalism. 502 W. North Ave., North Side. 724.355.9079. elizabethcraigphotography.com.

Elizabeth Vincent Photography Trained photojournalists and husband-and-wife duo Elizabeth and Vincent Pugliese understand the day is all about you. Elizabeth and Vincent have more than 30 years of combined experience at various newspapers and magazines, and have won several national and regional photojournalism awards. 412.304.2456. elizabethvincentphotography.com.

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Pittsburgh native Jenni Repcik prides her work on capturing moments and preserving a beautiful story. Trained in graphic design and digital imaging, Jenni Grace Photography produces fine art pieces and storybook albums that will immortalize your day for years. 412.266.6770. jennisphotography.com.

Lokmer Photography Internationally traveled and awardwinning photography, Lokmer Photography, Inc., has earned local and national recognition for his creative photography work. You receive contemporary, artistic, and romantic images that are truly unique — memories from the heart, and memories in a variety of blends and styles for that very special couple that will last forever. 412.765.3565. lokmerphotos.com.

Michael Will Photographers Michael Williams will match a style and process to what you want — always, of course, adding his own flair and perspective to ensure unmatched shots that will impress for a lifetime. 724.242.0235. michaelwillphotography.com.

Michelle Fulton Photography These Pittsburgh photographers specialize in wedding photography with a photojournalistic style and artistic edge. 412.979.0065. michellefultonphoto.com.

Ovation Images Don Merz and Shawn Rodgers are two creative, fun-loving guys, dedicated to brides and to photography. They met in 2006 at a week-long professional seminar for wedding and portrait photographers. It only took a few weddings to realize that together they could provide wedding couples with the kind of photography and personal service that most solo photographers can only aspire to. 736 Bellefonte St., Shadyside. 412.735.4959. ovationimages.com.

Rhaina Taylor describes wedding photography as a combination of photojournalism and beautiful portraits to create art for a lifetime. Rhaina’s pictures capture the amount of time and attention to detail of the bride and groom from the preparation, to the ceremony, to the reception. 412.916.1374. rhainataylor.com.

Skysight Photography Autumn Stankay is an award-winning photographer whose images capture the love between a bride and groom on their wedding day. 409 Coulter Ave., Greensburg. 724.889.3326. skysightphotography.com.

selection of special event, formal, and bridal rental inventory. 850 Pittsburgh St., Springdale. 724.274.4252. arvayeventdesign.com.

Event Source With more than 30-plus years in the special events industry, Event Source offers over 2,900 different high-quality rental products and has a total of 645,000 items in stock. With a green initiative and a knowledgable, professional staff, Event Source offers total customization for any size event. P.O. Box 2538, Cranberry Township. 412.809.8100. eventsource.net.

Lendable Linens Distinctive linen rentals for parties and events, including table linens, chair covers, napkins, napkin rings, charger plates, and aisle runners. 3253 Old Frankstown Road, Plum. 724.325.5555. lendablelinens.com.

Marbella Event Furniture and Décor Rental Complete your space with Marbella Event Furniture and Décor Rental, which specializes in event furniture, décor, and event branding in the region. 3600 Liberty Ave., Downtown. 412.681.3000. 72 Wilson Road, Eighty Four. 724.743.3300. marbellaeventrental.com.

Rhaina Taylor Photography

Your destination wedding is right here in town. To create the wedding of your dreams, contact our Event Sales Department at 412/622-6915 ext. 6404. phipps.conservatory.org

Molly’s Trolleys Suzanne Bobosky Photography As a photojournalist, Suzanne captures moments that tell the story of people’s everyday lives and has a passion for shooting documentary style weddings, portrait photography, and commercial work. 1230 New Bedford-Sharon Road, West Middlesex. 724.964.3045. suzannebobosky.com.

Veronica Varos Photography Through years of photography experience, Veronica Varos has learned that the important moments cannot be forced or staged. Her artistic style of capturing weddings and engagements allows couples to live in the moment, showing them as they truly are. hello@ veronicavaros.com. veronicavaros.com.

All Occasions Party Rental The premier rental company in Pittsburgh carries tents, tables, chairs, linens, décor, layout, and more. 3600 Liberty Ave., Downtown. 412.471.2100. 72 Wilson Road, Eighty Four. 724.745.1500. allparty.com.

Arvay Event Design

Providing charming vehicles that are reminiscent of 1920s-style trolleys, Molly’s Trolleys offers transportation in style with its 30-passenger vehicles, which are also available for out-of-town guest transportation and wedding rehearsals. 412.281.2085. weddings@mollystrolleyspittsburgh. com. mollystrolleyspittsburgh.com.

Mosaic Offering one of the largest and most comprehensive rental linen collections in the USA, Mosaic’s team curates offerings with its decades of experience in the special events industry. Qualified staff designers help clients bring their vision to life, creating memories of their celebrations which last a lifetime. 3050 Sassafras Way, Strip District. 412.562.2800. partymosaic.com.

PartySavvy For 45-plus years, PartySavvy has worked hand-in-hand with its clients to assemble memorable events for every occasion. From lighting effects to dinnerware, PartySavvy provides all you need for a fabulous wedding. 4315 Old William Penn Hwy., Monroeville. 412.856.8368. partysavvy.com.

Arvay Event Design has been creating custom wedding and party designs in Pittsburgh since 1981 with its exquisite

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Shamrock Limousine Make you big day lucky with this premiere limo service known for its reliability, affordability, and customer service that will have you traveling in luxurious style to and from your wedding destinations. 1501 Kennedy Blvd., Beaver County. 20459 Route 19, Cranberry. 877.288.4305. shamrocklimousine.com.

Altius Enjoy fine dining on the next level — literally! Altius sits atop Mt. Washington, overlooking the best view of Pittsburgh. Experience the chefdriven menu’s whimsical dishes, from artisanal Gorgonzola to grass-fed beef, and gluten-free and vegetarian options. 1230 Grandview Ave., Mt. Washington. 412.904.4442. altiuspgh.com.

Angelo’s Restaurant Angelo’s private party rooms provide the perfect relaxed atmosphere for rehearsal dinners or bridal showers, and accommodate up to 60 guests. The homemade gelato is a must. 2109 North Franklin Drive, Washington. 724.222.7120. angelosrestaurant.com.

Cioppino Restaurant & Cigar Bar Nestled within Pittsburgh’s famous Strip District, Cioppino Restaurant & Cigar Bar offers an eclectic dining experience, perfect for any occasion. 2350 Railroad St., Strip District. 412.281.6593. cioppinoofpittsburgh.com.

Cornerstone Restaurant

We vow to provide the personal service you expect and deserve. The welcoming charm of our facilities and the

warmth of our staff will make your special day one full of elegance, luxury and lasting memories. Our on-site la event coordinator helps with each aspect of your celebration and is dedicated to surpassing your expectations. With valet service, five unique banquet rooms, capacity up to 325 guests, a covered patio & porch and a picturesque view of our golf course, we make sure you find

G REENSBUR G COUNTRY CLUB

everything that you hoped for on your wedding day.

Cornerstone Restaurant strives to provide fantastic food and beverages in a warm and welcoming setting. The private dining room holds up to 60 guests for rehearsal dinners. Choose from innovative menus that change with the seasons. 301 Freeport Road, Aspinwall. 412.408.3420. cornerstonepgh.com.

DiSalvo’s Station Restaurant Once used for the arrival and departure of rail passengers, it now serves as the most unique passage to culinary treasures of any restaurant in America. 325 McKinley Ave., Latrobe. 724.539.0500. disalvosrestaurant.com.

Eddie Merlot’s As one of America’s great steakhouses, Eddie Merlot’s promises exceptional service, an unparalleled atmosphere, and the highest quality of foods. Several private dining rooms accommodate as few as 10 guests or as many as 300 for your rehearsal dinner, wedding shower, or reception. 444 Liberty Ave., Suite 100, Downtown. 412.235.7676. eddiemerlots.com.

Girasole Restaurant Enjoy upbeat European ambiance with an innovative, modern-Italian menu

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based on the freshest ingredients and highest quality products available. 733 Copeland St., Shadyside. 412.682.2130. girasolepgh.com.

Ibiza Tapas & Wine Bar Ibiza Tapas & Wine Bar promises endless ambience with savory dishes of seafood, steak, and Mediterranean flavors. The private space above the bar is perfect for rehearsal dinners. 2224 E. Carson St., South Side. 412.325.2227. ibizatapaspgh.com.

Mallorca Restaurant Dine on fresh, Spanish cuisine, while hosting your shower or wedding reception. Choose from 10 different party menus, starting at $20 a plate. Go for the great food, awardwinning wines, excellent service, and lasting memories. 2228 E. Carson St., South Side. 412.488.1818. mallorcarestaurantpgh.com.

Osteria 2350 The Cioppino Restaurant Group owns Osteria 2350, a casual Italian eatery, featuring seasonal and madeto-order offerings. 2350 Railroad St., Strip District. 412.281.6595. osteria2350pittsburgh.com.

PointBreezeway Tucked in the East End neighborhood, PointBreezeway Studio and GuestHouse is a rustic escape from the city streets. Perfect for an intimate rehearsal, shower, or reception, the cocktail-style venue boasts casual seating and mingling with all of the comforts of home. 7113 Reynolds St., Point Breeze. 412.770.7830. pointbreezeway.com.

Rivers Club Capture your wedding day vision at the Rivers Club. Choose between one of five rooms available, including the newly updated Three Rivers Ballroom, which comfortably seats up to 300 guests. 301 Grant St., Downtown. 412.391.5227. riversclub.com.

Savoy SAVOY, Pittsburgh’s premier dining experience attracts, celebrities and sports figures, whether it’s for brunch or dinner. The high-class establishment also caters special occasions and can host large parties and events. 2623 Penn Ave., Strip District. 412.281.0660. savoypgh.com.

Six Penn Kitchen Six Penn Kitchen is a neighborhood American bistro that focuses on relaxed but attentive service, unfussy but expertly prepared food at down to earth prices, and an overall feeling of hospitality that will cultivate a loyal fan base of guests who drop in for lunch or dinner regularly. 146 Sixth St., Downtown. 412.566.7366. sixpennkitchen.com.

Sonoma

Larrimor’s

Soak in Sonoma’s sophisticated, casual atmosphere while enjoying its delectable dishes prepared with local ingredients. The West Coast kitchen and wine bar is available for hosting private events. 947 Penn Ave., Downtown. 412.697.1336. thesonomagrille.com.

A family-owned, upscale store, Larrimor’s specializes in custom suits, custom dress shirts, and clothing for men. It also offers quality women’s clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Larrimor’s will outfit your bridal party, or your guests, in style. One PNC Plaza, 249 Fifth Ave., Downtown. 412.471.5727. larrimors.com.

Steelhead Brasserie and Wine Bar Experience Steelhead service and quality in the intimate setting of its private dining rooms. The Allegheny Room has seating for up to 35 guests and is the perfect setting for your wedding rehearsal dinner. Pittsburgh Marriott City Center, 112 Washington Place, Uptown. 412.394.3474. thesteelhead.com.

Willow Contemporary American cuisine and tree-lined views play host to the restless palate at Willow. 634 Camp Horne Road, North Hills. 412.847.1007. willowpgh.com.

Anne Lehman Design A beautiful collection of hand-crafted invitations and announcements that reflects your style is ready for you. 724.272.0513. annelehmandesign.com.

More Than Words Fine Papers Peruse original, hand-crafted invitations and announcements, stationery, fine paper, desk accessories, and more. Appointments are suggested for wedding invitations. 33 E. Main St., Carnegie. 412.343.9673. facebook.com/ morethanwords.pittsburgh.

Nota Bene Choose fine stationery, including announcements, invitations, and thank-you notes, from stationers like Crane, William Arthur, Martha Stewart, Vera Wang, and Kate Spade. 9 Brilliant Ave., Aspinwall. 412.782.6300. notabenepaper.com.

Scribe Pittsburgh’s premier paper boutique offers products from the country’s finest letterpress, stationery, and print designers, including Gilah, Julie Holcomb, Wiley Valentine, Ink+Wit, and Rifle Paper Co. Its focus on individual service and style leaves every customer satisfied. 731 1/2 Filbert St., Shadyside. 412.682.1644. scribepgh.com.

MB Bride & Special OCcasion 123 S. Urania Ave., Greensburg. 724.836.6626. mbbride.com. See Bridal Shops for more information.

Valotta’s Tuxedo Since 1977 Valotta’s Tuxedo has offered designer tuxedo and accessory rentals, sales, and tailoring, plus formerwear for weddings and proms alike. 4706 William Flynn Hwy., Allison Park. 412.486.8900. 4050 Brownsville Road, Brentwood. 412.882.4800. valottastuxedo.com.

The Atrium Its greenhouse, patio, gazebo, and mail hall that can accommodate up to 300 guests for your special day. 1031 New Castle Road, Prospect. 724.865.2830. theatriumonline.com.

Banquets Unlimited Banquets Unlimited offers two event spaces, catering services, and menus that are fun, creative, and delicious. Ask about the Build Your Own Burger buffet and the Cinderella Wedding Menu. 200 Bridge St., Wilmerding. 412.823.6550. 544 Caruthers Lane, Irwin. 724.864.1646. banquetsunlimitedinc.com.

Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa Listed as one of America’s Top 10 Most Romantic Inns on the National Register of Historic Places, the Buhl is perfect for romantic getaways, indulgent spa escapes, exclusive retreats, and castle weddings. 422 E. State St., Sharon. 724.346.3046. buhlmansion.com.

We cater to your every need!

Carnegie Museum of Art Plan around an atmosphere that is elegant and dramatic at Carnegie Museum of Art. From hors d’oeuvres to cake, Parkhurst Dining Services caters and tailors its menu to each bride and groom. 4400 Forbes Ave., Oakland. 412.622.3131. cmoa.org.

Circuit Center & Ballroom Operated and managed by The Fluted Mushroom, the Circuit Center & Ballroom features 8,000 square feet of space on one level and seating for up to 600. Five Hot Metal St., South Side. 412.432.1420. flutedmushroom.com.

The crystal Ballroom & Terrace Room Enjoy meeting, banquet, and hospitality rooms that accommodate up to 1,500 people, as well as a full catering staff. 139 Pittsburgh Road, Route 8, Butler. 724.287.6761. crystalroombutler.com.

Weddings • Rehearsal Dinners • Showers Reserve our private party room or we’ll cater at your location! Cornerstone Restaurant & Catering 301 Freeport Rd., Aspinwall 412.408.3420

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Destiny Hill Farm Destiny Hill Farm is a lavender, fresh cut flower, and berry farm, as well as a seasonal event center, hosting weddings, large outdoor parties, and business or organization events. 1069 S. Main St., Washington. 724.222.3015. destinyhill.com.

DoubleTree by Hilton — Green Tree Located only 10 minutes from Downtown Pittsburgh, this hotel is within 20 minutes of Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT). Take advantage of the complimentary airport shuttle. 500 Mansfield Ave., Pittsburgh. 412.922.8400. doubletree3.hilton.com.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Pittsburgh — Monroeville Convention Center This convenient location is perfect for weddings of all sizes. The Monroeville Convention Center offers more than 100,000 square feet of space and creative catering options for your special day. 101 Mall Blvd., Monroeville. 412.373.7300. doubletree3.hilton.com.

Doubletree by Hilton —Pittsburgh Meadowlands

On-Location Airbrush Makeup for the lovely bride-to-be

The DoubleTree by Hilton Pittsburgh — Meadow Lands, where the little things mean everything, is just south of Pittsburgh and offers full service, upscale accommodations in the perfect Western Pennsylvania location. 340 Racetrack Road, Washington. 724.222.6200. doubletree3.hilton.com.

Fairmont Pittsburgh

Professional Makeup Artists and Licensed Estheticians

Find out more:

www.minarosebeauty.com

A Fairmont Pittsburgh wedding features the services of an experienced catering sales manager to coordinate all the details of your wedding, a banquet maitre’d to flawlessly orchestrate your event, and an awardwinning culinary team to ensure that the cuisine is perfect. 510 Market St., Downtown. 412.773.8800. fairmont.com/pittsburgh.

Gilfillan Farm

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The Grand Hall at the Priory The Grand Hall, situated in the former St. Mary’s German Catholic Church, offers a breathtaking space for weddings, banquets, parties, charity events, and gatherings of all types. 614 Pressley St., North Side. 412.231.3338. thepriory.com.

Greensburg Country Club It offers an array of choices to make your day special, customized menus, a trained and experienced staff, and a capacity of up to 325. 309 Pleasant Valley Road, Jeannette. 724.837.1810. greensburgcc.com.

Hilton Garden Inn — Pittsburgh/Southpointe Let us take you back to an age of luxury and romance with ballrooms that can accommodate from 40 to more than 1,500 guests. 1000 Corporate Drive, Canonsburg. 724.743.5000. hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Pittsburgh — Southpointe Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere many couples enjoy when planning their new lives together and a variety of home-like amenities to make your wedding party as comfortable as possible. 3000 Horizon Vue Drive, Canonsburg. 724.745.4663. homewoodsuites3.hilton.com.

J. Verno Studios This full-service photography studio is also a stunning, diverse event space. 3030 Jane St., South Side. 412.381.5350. jvsevents.com.

James Gallery Known for its fine art by regional, national, and international artists working in all media, James Gallery offers its unique, well-appointed gallery space and sculpture garden for hosting events, sophisticated or casual. 413 S. Main St., West End Village. 412.922.9800. jamesgallery.net.

The historic red farmhouse at Gilfillan Farm is a rustic feature along Route 19 in Upper St. Clair not to be missed. It’s a guaranteed way to bring rustic charm to any nuptial, private party, or bridal shower. Washington and Orr roads, Upper St. Clair. 412.835.2050. hsusc.org.

Jergel’s Rhythm Grille

The Golf Club of Washington

LeMont

Plan your event at The Golf Club of Washington’s private rooms with the help of its attentive and pleasant staff. The extensive catering menu offers delicious selections for any event and can be customized specifically for you.

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599 Country Club Road, Washington. 724.225.9245. golfclubofwashington.com.

Jergel’s Rhythm Grille is a unique music and entertainment venue, providing guests with a host of live performances. In addition, a high-quality restaurant and food offerings provides the best of all worlds. 103 Slade Lane, Warrendale. 724.799.8333. jergels.com.

For 50 years, LeMont has been the place for special occasions. Pittsburgh’s only five-star diamond award winning restaurant will make sure your wedding reception exceeds your expectations. 1114 Grandview Ave., Mt. Washington. 412.431.3100. lemontpittsburgh.com.

Lewis Family Farms Host your event on the authentic working family farm that features a barn built in the 1880s, stunning, panoramic views, and plenty of other outdoor locations. 258 Zeigler Road, Zelienople. lewisfamilyfarms.com.

Lidia’s Italy Pittsburgh For nearly 15 years, Lidia’s Italy Pittsburgh has served homemade pastas that incorporate the seasons freshest ingredients. The open-warehouse atmosphere is nestled in the heart of the Strip District and offers private dining for events, such as rehearsal dinners. Lidia’s Loft can accommodate up to 80 guests for a seated event, or 120 guests for a cocktail reception. 1400 Smallman St., Strip District. 412.552.0150. lidiaspittsburgh.com.

Ligonier Country Inn This charming venue offers either the romantic General Forbes banquet room for up to 80 guests or its larger, poolside Carriage House for receptions of up to 300 guests. The idyllic location can also provide overnight accommodations with its 26 rooms and three cottages. 1376 U.S. Route 30 East, Laughlintown. 724.238.3651. ligoniercountryinn.com.

Mansion at Maple Heights The Mansion at Maple Heights offers its beautiful event space, five fully renovated bedroom suites, and a network of talented vendors, including big Burrito Full Service Catering, All Occasions, and Mosaic. 5516 Maple Heights Road, Shadyside. 412.586.7940. mansionmapleheights.com.

Mansions on Fifth As a dramatic venue for spectacular weddings, dinner parties, business retreats, and fundraisers, the Mansions on Fifth will dazzle you and your guests. The Mansions’ Grand Hall and staircase, with expansive stained glass windows, outdoor terrace, and baby grand piano, creates one of Pittsburgh’s most breathtaking wedding venues. 5105 Fifth Ave., Shadyside. 412.381.5105. mansionsonfifth.com.

THE Meadows Casino A standardbred harness racing track and slot machine casino, The Meadows Casino offers wedding packages, which include plated dinners, cocktail receptions, bachelorette and bachelor parties, wedding showers, and additional accommodations and services to provide a fun, personalized, and memorable experience. 210 Racetrack Road, Washington. 724.503.1200. meadowsgaming.com.

National Aviary Experience a world of birds at the National Aviary and host your special event at this perfectly unique venue. Guests will cherish an evening spent amidst the blossoming rose

garden, peering at the stars through the newly renovated glass-domed Atrium, strolling through the freeflight exhibits, and mingling with fine, feathered friends. 700 Arch St., North Side. 412.323.7235. aviary.org.

HOME OF THE FAMOUS Burnt Almond Torte & theWedding Cake of your Dreams

Olivia’s Banquet Facility Olivia’s Banquet Facility provides a warm ambiance and elegant atmosphere that will make you feel at home. Choose from two banquet rooms that accommodate both small and large receptions of 20 to 170 guests. 318 Forest Grove Road, Coraopolis. 412.331.9282. thepinerb.com.

Omni Bedford Springs RESORT & Spa A destination wedding site like no other, it features opulent choices for the bride and groom, including the outdoor wedding pavilion and lawn, spa garden, colonnade ballroom, and more. 2138 U.S. 220 Business, Bedford. 814.623.8100. omnibedfordsprings.com.

Downtown • 438 Market Street • Pittsburgh, PA 15222 • 412 471 6861 Shadyside • 5525 Walnut Street • Pittsburgh, PA 15232 • 412 621 2092

"Where Events Come To Life"

Omni William Penn Hotel Renowned for its beauty and sophistication, this 1916 National Historic Landmark will cater to your every need with attentive service, elegant banquet space, and spacious guest room accommodations perfect for your wedding night. 530 William Penn Place, Downtown. 412.281.7100. omniwilliampenn.com.

Michelle Foster, President

318 Forest Grove Road Coraopolis, PA 15108 412.331.9282 | www.OliviasBanquet.com

Paint Monkey As Pittsburgh’s premiere provider of painting classes and parties, Paint Monkey welcomes guests to create their own masterpiece while sipping on their favorite wine or beer. Classes are geared toward beginners in a relaxed and loose setting, and are perfect for a fun and creative bachelorette party. 100 43rd St., Studio 212, Lawrenceville. 412.770.4923. 1301 Freedom Road, Cranberry. 724.900.0150. beapaintmonkey.com.

Painting with a Twist Bring your favorite beverage, invite your friends, and enjoy step-bystep instruction with experienced and enthusiastic local artists. Book a private party, from birthday and bachelorette parties, and choose from over 2,500 paintings. 5994 Steubenville Pike, Suite G, Robinson Township. 412.787.7928 paintingwithatwist.com.

Perlé Perlé offers private groups multiple types of food and beverage banquet options, including unique Champagne and entertainment packages to be hosted any time of the day, any day of the week. From menu planning to décor, flowers to entertainment, and parking to music, Perlé will transform your function into a cherished memory. 25 Market Square, Downtown. 412.471.2058. perlepgh.com.

DJ ENTERTAINMENT GUARINOGROUP.COM EVENTS@GUARINOGROUP.COM 412 - 600 -6171 wh i r LWE D D I N G S . c o m / W h i r l WEDDING GUIDE

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Phipps Conservatory, one of the nation’s oldest and largest Victorian greenhouses, provides the perfect location for any special event in the elegant Outdoor Garden or beautiful Special Events Hall. Don’t forget a photography session in the formal French garden, too! One Schenley Drive, Oakland. 412.622.6914. phipps. conservatory.org.

Pittsburgh Marriott City Center When you decide on a hotel wedding, these planners make your wedding a dream come true by making everything perfectly yours. 112 Washington Place, Uptown. 412.471.4000. marriott.com/pitdt.

Pittsburgh Marriott North This luxury wedding hotel specializes in traditional and international wedding packages with custom catering. 100 Cranberry Woods Drive, Cranberry. 724.772.3700. pittsburghmarriottnorth.com.

Finally...that unique and charming venue you've been looking for!

Pittsburgh Opera Host your reception in the original George Westinghouse Air Brake Factory, now home to Pittsburgh Opera. The building has the raw industrial feel of an 1869 warehouse that allows you the flexibility to create the ambiance you desire. 2425 Liberty Ave., Strip District. 412.281.0912. pittsburghopera.org.

www.pointbreezeway.com pointbreezeway@gmail.com 412-770-7830

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium

is only valid at * Package location where it was purchased

Mt. Lebanon • 412.248.2424 Wexford • 724.719.9191 Pittsburgh • 412.248.3333 Murrysville • 724.519.8571 Fox Chapel • OPENING FALL 2015

purebarre.com

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium has a wide array of venues to make your wedding reception absolutely perfect — choose from the PPG Aquarium, Water’s Edge, or Garden Tent to design your reception. One Wild Place, Highland Park. 412.665.3640. pittsburghzoo.org.

PNC Park Unique venues that can accommodate 20-2,000 guests, with captivating views of PNC Park and Downtown Pittsburgh, world-class cuisine, and multi-media capabilities will make your wedding a home run. 115 Federal St., North Shore. 412.325.4746. pirates.com.

The Priory The Priory is a 42-room historic boutique hotel restored to modern standards on Pittsburgh’s North Shore. The Grand Hall is an ideal wedding venue, offering two package options for making your special day perfect. 614 Pressley St., North Side. 412.231.3338. thepriory.com.

Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel Host your wedding in the 3,500 square foot Symphony Ballroom, which offers floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking PNC Park and the Allegheny River, or

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explore the hotel’s smaller event rooms, perfect for intimate receptions, and able to accommodate up to 250 guests. 107 Sixth St., Downtown. 412.562.1200. renaissancepittsburghpa.com.

Senator John Heinz History Center The History Center presents the most compelling stories from American history with a Western Pennsylvania connection, all in an interactive environment perfect for visitors of every age. 1212 Smallman St., Strip District. 412.454.6000. heinzhistorycenter.org.

Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square Kick back and relax at Pittsburgh’s only riverfront hotel. The Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square offers a luxe lounge upon arrival and many amenities, not to mention choice location near 30 shops, restaurants, and nightclubs. 300 West Station Square Drive, Station Square. 412.261.2000. sheratonpittsburghstationsquare.com.

Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum With a variety of available areas, Soldiers & Sailors provides a distinctive alternative to conventional venues for a refined and formal event or for a fun and casual affair. 4141 Fifth Ave., Oakland. 412.621.4253. soldiersandsailorshall.org.

Southpointe Golf Club Southpointe Golf Club provides a spacious clubhouse nestled in the rolling hills of Washington County that prides itself on top-rated service, one that is steeped in traditional values. 360 Southpointe Blvd., Canonsburg. 724.746.2950. southpointegolfclub.com.

Studio on Fifth Studio on Fifth is located at WQED’s historic Fred Rogers Studio. There are three venue spaces that are flexible and can be transformed into the atmosphere desired for any event. 4802 Fifth Ave., Oakland. 412.622.1395. wqed.org/about/thestudioonfifth.

Succop Nature Park The centerpiece of this 50-acre estate is a stately 170-year old mansion that can be rented for your wedding or next important event. 185 Airport Road, Butler. 724.586.2591. aswp.org/ locations/succop.

Tara — A Country Inn Inspired by Gone with the Wind, receptions can be held in the Shiloh Banquet & Conference Room, the Old South Armory, and in the summer, up to 150 guests can be accommodated on the grounds of the Tara. 2844 Lake Road, Clark. 724.962.3535. tara-inn.com.

Twentieth Century Club No detail is left behind at the Twentieth Century Club. Imagine how impressed your guests will be when they enter the chandelier-lit ballroom to swoon over the Art Deco style of the 1930s. 4201 Bigelow Blvd., Oakland. 412.621.2353. thetwentiethcenturyclub.com.

The University Club From elegant receptions to intimate rehearsal dinners or bridal brunches, The University Club offers elegant event spaces and exceptional food and beverages for an affair of any size. On-site wedding consultants provide extraordinary personal service and an attention to detail that ensures everything goes as planned. 123 University Place, Oakland. 412.648.8213. uc.pitt.edu.

Westin Convention Center Pittsburgh A sleek destination in the heart of Downtown, The Westin Convention Center Pittsburgh is the only hotel connected by skywalk to the 1.5-million-square-foot convention center. 1000 Penn Ave., Downtown. 412.281.3700. westinpittsburgh.com.

Venue at Bella Sera Venue at Bella Sera offers a unique venue for weddings and other events. Customize a menu through the catering services or experience the all-you-can-eat lunch buffet at Bistro @ Bella Sera. 414 Morganza Road, Canonsburg. 724.745.5575. bellaserapgh.com.

The Willow Room Planned and constructed to make a lasting impression on every visitor, The Willow Room accomodates up to 400 guests with a marble entrance, exquisite chandeliers, panoramic views, and an open terrace. 800 Plaza Drive, Belle Vernon. 724.379.5666. thewillowroom.com.

Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown With premier wedding services, a host of modern guest amenities, and an unbeatable Downtown location, adjacent Point State Park, the Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown offers sweeping city views and an excellent destination to celebrate your wedding. 600 Commonwealth Place, Downtown. 412.391.4600. wyndham.com.

VIDEOGRAPHERS Post Script Productions The creative professionals at Post Script Productions can capture the love and excitement of your wedding day, so you can preserve the sweet memories and relive the magic for many years to come. 1101 Bingham St., South Side. 724.986.3455. postscriptproductions.com.

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All in Good Taste Productions 1520 Monterey St., North Side. 412.321.6869. allingoodtasteproductions.com. See catering for more information.

w w w. p os h - b eau t y. com

1597 Washington Pike Bridgeville, PA 15017

Bonnie Walker Events Drawing on more than 25 years of experience, Bonnie Walker is a pioneer in the event planning field. 320 Duquesne Blvd., Suite 190, Downtown. 412.572.5227. 445 Park Ave., Ninth Floor, New York City. 212.829.5659. bonnie@bonniewalkerevents.com. bonniewalkerevents.com.

Custom favors & Hotel Welcome Bags

412.564.5416

EFM Image Consultants The staff at EFM Image Consultants provides custom services, including sending emails and faxes for the busy couple; invitations; themed parties and ladies-gents night out; “Day of Director” coordination; ceremony instrumentalists; entertainment; and full-service party rental. imageconsultantsevents.net.

www.myfavoritesweetshoppe.com

Delight Your Guests

The Event Group For landmark moments in life, or the everyday cause for celebration, The Event Group will bring your vision to life, coordinating a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you to remember. 1008 Washington Blvd., East End. 412.441.9811. eventgroupproductions.com.

Extraordinary Events Extraordinary Events offers customized services to fit any schedule or budget to ensure a planning experience that is organized and enjoyable. 2004 Pelone Drive, Verona. 412.427.2987. extraordinaryeventsgroup.com.

With Beautiful Sugar Cookies, Chocolate Favors, and a custom Spinola’s wedding cake all Made from Scratch.

Tues-Fri: 7:30 AM - 6 PM Sat: 7:30 AM - 4 PM Sun: 10:00 AM - 3 PM

724-519-7741 spinolasbakeshop.com contact us at spinolasbakeshop@gmail.com Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

Sean Gray International Sean Gray International creates extraordinary experiences, from conception to implementation, with three ideas: comfortable sophistication, effortless entertaining, and gracious living. 412.512.5208. seangrayintl.com/bca.

Plan Your Perfect Wedding Day We’ve compiled the complete, definitive resource with everything you need to plan your wedding, shower, bachelor/bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner, and honeymoon in Western Pennsylvania — and beyond!

WW whirlweddings.com

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This Magic Moment

By Colleen Ferguson • Photograph from Clean Plate Pictures

s Ashley Campolongo was planning her dream wedding with Jeffrey Czaplicki, one detail became immediately obvious: “There’s no way I was going to sit on an uncomfortable seat all night in a big, poofy gown!” To accommodate the full, tulle skirt the bride tied on to her lace Monique Lhuillier gown, the couple opted to break from tradition and share a plush, sweetheart throne. Surrounded by their bridal party members, who sat at a customary head table, the happy couple stayed cozy while still celebrating with those closest to them during their reception. Jim Carlucci, owner of Della Robbia Flowers & Gifts in Jefferson Hills, constructed an ivy wall behind the upholstered statement piece from All Occasions Party Rental, and adorned the backdrop with picture frames and mirrors that Ashley and Jeffrey had thrifted and spray-painted gold. The result was an intimate and romantic scene under a billowy tent on The Frick Art & Historical Center’s Great Lawn. Gilded touches covered every inch of the space — from the pearl-and-paisley-covered cake by Rania’s Catering, to the grand candelabras from Keystone Ribbon & Floral Supply — creating a timeless scene straight out of Ashley’s Gatsby-inspired dream. “I wanted to do something different,” Ashley says. “When you’re different, that’s what people remember. It was like a fairytale.” WW

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Anything but common! WEDDINGS AND

SPECIAL OCCASIONS

commonplea-catering.com