Leah + Chad’s gorgeously moody, vintage-inspired October wedding was definitely an Afternoon Media all-time favorite. Every detail was planned super intentionally – even down to the napkins! The day was both elevated and eclectic, incorporating jewel tones, funky florals, and velvet textures. I love when my couples consider every single detail and create a day that really reflects them – not just what they think a wedding should be.
When L + C first reached out to me, I was so sad because I was already booked! I rarely offer associates, but from their message, this sounded like an AM wedding to the T. I am so thankful that my associate team for the day – Prince and Sarah – truly understood their vision and were able to tell the story of their day through all the bustling + chaos!
Leah and Chad began their day at The Industrialist Hotel in downtown Pittsburgh. It was an uncharacteristically warm and sunny October day. Earlier that year, I sent them a little care package with a cute matchbook that reminded me of them – to my surprise, they included it in their detail photos!!! I was so happy! I’m also obsessed with their matching pearls – Chad’s were actually a family heirloom. Both L + C spent the morning hanging out with their favorite people and taking it all in.
Time for the big reveal! They opted for a first look in front of the hotel, and I absolutely love the checkered floor and brass details in the background. The two shed lots of tears and read private vows. After touching up and taking a few portraits inside (taking advantage of the very cool marbling on the walls), they ventured around the block with their wedding party. I LOVE a good crosswalk shot, and the whole group nailed it.
Finally, it was time for the group to hop on the shuttle and head to The WBU! It was the perfect venue for them – the industrial atmosphere created a cozy yet moody vibe for the entire day. The Copper Petal went all out and created a stunning floral meadow for the ceremony altar. Leah’s dad had unfortunately passed away a few years prior to the wedding (something that I can relate to that we bonded over), so they created a sweet tribute to him with a decorated chair in the front row. At last, The Connells were finally official!!!
I had to create a dedicated section just for their cocktail hour – Black Radish seriously understood the assignment with their charcuterie and snack displays!!! I live for a foodscape, and everything looked absolutely delicious. Cocktail hour is an often overlooked part of wedding days because usually there are several things going on – all the portraits (family, couple, wedding party), reception set-up, dinner prep, etc. But thankfully, since L + C opted to have all of their photos finished before the ceremony, they got to enjoy it and mingle with guests!
The reception space was STUNNING – a total culmination of the day’s visual feel. Each guest table was decked out with flowers, which popped against the all-black linens and tableware. The table numbers had photos of L + C at their corresponding ages, which I always love to see. My favorite part personally was the sweetheart table, which had its own floral meadow and a very cool “Til Death” velvet banner. They even included several touches featuring their pup, Gizmo (looks like he enjoyed the cake, hehehe)!
The reception officially began with a wedding party entrance and Leah + Chad’s first dance to “All Your’n” by Tyler Childers (great choice). After a few tear-jerking toasts, a delicious dinner was served by Black Radish. To open the dance floor, Chad danced with his mom and Leah danced with her mom and brother. I tell ya, there wasn’t a single dry eye in the room! These moments are so bittersweet when you’ve lost a parent, and I think everyone in the room felt it.
At long last, it was time to throw it back (shots and in the dancing way). Guests of all ages were getting down, letting loose, and even playing some Pokemon with Chad! Near the end of the night, Leah and Chad decided to order some Taco Bell – a frequent fast food stop for them since they have good vegetarian options. They took a quiet moment outside together, basked in the glory of being newly married, and shared some sweet, sweet Baja Blast.
L + C are some of the kindest, coolest people I have ever worked with. While I was so sad that I couldn’t be there in person, reliving their day while editing their gallery was so incredibly fun. I’m so thankful that I got to experience a slice of them that day, and that they made everything truly their own!!! Congrats to the Connells!!!
Vendor Team
Venue | The WBU
Hotel | The Industrialist
Photographer | Afternoon Media, with associates Prince and Sarah
Day-Of Coordination | Nancy with Functions Pittsburgh
DJ | 2nd II None Productions
Florals | The Copper Petal
Officiant | Wild Moon Weddings
Catering | Black Radish
Cake | BB & Bur
Rentals | The 1978 Collection
Hairstylist | Promise Bridal Artistry
Makeup Artist | Makeup by Claud
Dress | Lovely Bride Philly
Sweetheart Table Banner | Olive Juice Design Co.
