When I first met Leah and Shawn, it was an instant like. If there was ever a reason to give online dating a try, it would certainly be this success story. They are not only a perfect match, but they are a blast to be around. Humorous, charming, intelligent, and downright adorable… they are a sparkling pair! Their wedding was the most wonderful way to kick off the new year, from the first look on State Street bridge (in February no less) to the hilarious speeches and crazy dance party at Stan Mansion (hopefully they can forgive me for suggesting a pre-ceremony kiss, leading to a major red lipstick/makeup fiasco!). This gorgeous couple is right on track for an incredible and fun-filled life together, congrats Leah and Shawn!
Her dad was all smiles.
Leah was so excited!
Shawn was on the bridge, ready to see his bride.
Union Station is a great location for photos when it’s too cold (or too hot) outside, and these two looked perfect with the dramatic backdrop (thanks Shawn for arranging the permit).
They both had great details…
Leah looked so pretty, random people were asking to take her photo.
Leah grabbed a refreshment before the wedding party arrived…
Mixing drinks in a phone booth- classy!
The best man was wearing the rings so he couldn’t forget them.
The groomsmen were all about having fun.
And then, without thinking it through, I suggested they give each other a big smooch… red lipstick everywhere! (not a smart move on my part)
Leah stayed covered up after fixing her makeup (big thanks to Angela for running to the CVS and saving the day with concealer and powder!).
One last stop before the church.
It was time.
Shawn had happy tears when he saw Leah.
That pesky red lipstick! (but it sure looks good)
Everyone headed over to Stan Mansion for the reception.
Leah and Shawn made special flags for all the drinks.
Surprise dance party with some of the younger guests!
Another great night of music by the fine ladies of Toast and Jam DJ’s!
Awesome night shot on Kedzie Blvd., congrats Leah and Shawn!
Second photographers: Jamie Hartley and special guest appearance from Angela Renee! (www.angelareneephoto.com)
Hair and makeup: Bride, Mother-of-Bride, Maid-of-Honor Hair: Teri Kuhlman , Bridesmaids Hair: Rita Plengsirivat. Makeup for whole bridal party: Lindsay Madonna Konrady
Florist: Cattleya Bridal & Floral Design
Ceremony location: Minnekirken Church (Open to all denominations!)
Reception location: Stan Mansion
Reception lighting and decor: Art of Imagination
Event Planner: The bride… with some help from the groom
Officiant: Rev. Bruce Otto (Spirited Weddings)
Cake: Lutz Cafe & Pastry Shop
Caterer: D’Absolute Events & Catering
Dress: Mori Lee, purchased at The Wedding Shoppe in St. Paul, MN
Accessories: Leah’s accessories: Birdcage & Fascinator- Pishposhes (etsy), Earrings- from Shawn, Fur stole- awesome find at Crossroads Trading on Milwaukee Ave, Broach- Grandmother’s, Shoes- Zappos (Vaneli), Shoe Clips- MissJoansHobby (etsy), Garter- Lola in Lace (etsy). Shawn’s accessories: Ohio Tie Clip- DaisyMaeDesigns Shop (etsy), Cufflinks- QA Create (etsy). Bridesmaids: Necklaces- DivineJewel (etsy)
Reception Accessories: Cake Toppers- Dandelionland (etsy), Guestbook- Grimm (etsy), Jam Favor Labels- MTipsy (etsy), Chair Signs- Flair Designery (etsy), Kid’s Coloring Activity Book: SugarPie Studio (etsy), Customized Drink Stirrers- Dill Pickle (etsy)
Ceremony music: Ravenswood String Quartet
DJ/Band: Toast & Jam (Sarah Kohtala rocked our dance world!)
First Dance: Northern Lights by Bowerbirds
Father/daughter: My Girl by The Temptations
Mother/son: God Only Knows by The Beach Boys
Q&A with the bride and groom:
What was the most memorable moment of your day?
Leah: Walking down the aisle
Shawn: Watching Leah walk down the aisle. We also loved our awesome dance party!
What was your favorite detail?
Having our ceremony at Minnekirken Church- it so was intimate and beautiful.
Funniest memory from your wedding day?
Bethany forcing us to make out which caused a makeup emergency ; )
Any advice for future brides/grooms?
Do a receiving line at the end of the ceremony so you can enjoy dancing at the reception instead of having to stop at every table
If you could do it all over, would you change anything?
Nothing! … well except for maybe not applying red lipstick a minute before walking down the aisle which happened to break off and fall down the front of my dress, ahhh memories…
Where did you go on your honeymoon?
Costa Rica… ziplining, horseback riding, hiking, Shawn eating his weight in plantains = no rest!