Kenzie + Anais’s Halloween wedding bash at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh’s North Side was an unforgettable mix of feathered friends, silliness, and a touch of spookiness. The two wanted to celebrate with their closest friends and family in a way that was totally authentic to them, and I think they 100% nailed it! This was some of the most fun I’ve had photographing a wedding, so strap in!
First, the details – I was OBSESSED! Kenzie works at a locally-owned print house, so they designed and printed all of the wedding signage! They incorporated jewel-toned greens, blues, and gold throughout the decor, which was fitting for a late fall wedding. They both love animals and nature, and you can see that in their geode-patterned stationery, leafy handfasting cord, and outfit accessories (we’ll get to that later!). Even their rings were moss agate, which is one of my favorite stones!
They incorporated some subtle nods to Halloween with mini pumpkins, dramatic black candelabras, and candy at each table! Even the cookie table had Halloween elements – look at those bats!!! Arguably my favorite part was their tarot card guest book, which is an idea I may or may not steal in the future.
After arriving with my videographer Missi and taking some detail shots, Kenzie and Anais decided to get ready together. I love when couples spend time together getting ready. It makes for an incredibly sweet + special moment, plus you get more quality time together! K + A wore gorgeous, inverse-color suits and boutonnieres. While Kenzie donned a gold insect bolo tie, Anais wore a feathered bow tie and bird skull hairpiece. Perfectly on-theme! After they got ready, we ventured to the Tropical Rainforest where Kenzie and Anais exchanged vows under all of their bird friends. (Since Anais works at the Aviary, they had to clean up a fun bird surprise beforehand lol)
After a few rainforest portraits, we walked to the nearby Allegheny Commons Park to take advantage of the late fall yellows and greens. These two could not stop cracking each other up the entire time, which makes for the best photos!!!
When we got back to the Aviary, we spent some time with the wedding party and family. Before we knew it, it was time for the ceremony! While the Aviary’s Rose Garden is usually used for ceremonies in the warmer months, the fall leaves paired wonderfully with their pumpkin decor! Kenzie and Anais walked in to some of their favorite fantasy soundtracks from The Hobbit and Baldur’s Gate, which was a great personal touch. They literally tied the knot as the sun set over the garden!
A flippered guests joined us for cocktail hour to the delight of everyone (including me). As guests settled in for the reception, the wedding party made their grand entrance and K + A had a super fun choreographed first dance! After a few heartfelt speeches, cake cutting, and a delicious dinner from Atria’s, the dance floor was officially open. To break up the dance floor, K + A hosted something I had never seen before at a wedding – scavenger hunt musical chairs! Guests desperately searched for purses, spoons, and IDs before racing back to claim a chair until there was a winner. This wedding was truly one of the most unique I’ve ever had the pleasure of capturing, and I don’t think I’ll get the opportunity to see Patrick Bateman from American Psycho dancing to Lady Gaga ever again!
Vendors
Venue | The National Aviary
Photography + Videography | Afternoon Media
Catering | Atria’s
DJ | Soundwaves Event Group
