Colleen and Brandon’s fall wedding at Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh was the last wedding I photographed in 2019. What a great way to end the year! Who knew then how much the COVID-19 crisis would change weddings? 2020 was a year of smaller weddings – and in a lot of cases postponements. But things are looking up so it’s nice to see these photos and remember how much fun it is when we can be in big groups celebrating, eating, dancing and singing!
Fall Wedding at Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh
Unless you’re an essential worker (if you are, then I sincerely thank you) you’ve probably had a lot more time on your hands than you normally would. Even if you’re working from home a lot of the other stuff we fill our days with just isn’t happening. It’s not all bad. I’ve been reading a lot more and learning some new songs on guitar. Cooking and baking bread have been a bunch of fun, too. Thankfully there are no restrictions on outdoor exercise, so I was heading out for a run a little while ago when I saw Coleen and Brandon walking their sweet golden retriever Murphy. It was so nice to catch up and talk (properly distanced) for a little while. They’re terrific people and seeing them prompted me to get this post together. Enjoy!
Before the Ceremony
A question that comes up pretty often when I first meet with couples is whether one or two photographers would be better for their event. It’s an important question. There are a bunch of different elements involved in the answer. I shot this fall wedding at the Hotel Monaco by myself and it was the right answer for Colleen and Brandon. Everything happened at the Hotel Monaco. The only time we left the building was to go over to Mellon Square Park for a portraits. Like I said, it’s a good question and one for which I’m happy to help couples make a decision.
Colleen looked amazing! Her dress with an empire waist and the sheer top was so elegant. Those deep blue eyes, too!
Black tuxes and black dresses were a classy choice for the bridal party.
The rooftop at the Hotel Monaco is a great spot for a first look. Such a beautiful couple!
Bring on the flower girls!
After portraits we had a little bit of time so the flower girls practiced their walk.
Here’s Colleen’s bouquet. Take a minute and look through this post at the wonderful florals by Thommy Conroy. They’re outstanding.
Ceremony in the Sophia Ballroom
The cutest flowergirls!
Colleen and her dad.
Brandon waits for his bride to join him at the front of the Sophia Ballroom.
Talk about happy!!!
Beautiful Venue
The flowers in the Sheffield Ballroom along with the long banquet tables had the room looking fantastic.
Both the maid of honor and best man speeches had Colleen and Brandon laughing.
Dancing in the Foyer
The couple makes their entrance into the reception.
First dance.
Everybody was on the dance floor!
Parents dances.
Colleen with her mom and mother-in-law.
The littlest flower girl was already in bed, but the older ones stayed to dance.
Brandon joins the band for a song!
I’m hoping that by this summer we can have indoor weddings with lots of guests again. This fall wedding at the Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh reminds us just just how much fun there is to be had once we get back to a more open life. In the meantime, mask up, stay safe and get your vaccination when you can. I can’t wait to see you!
Here’s another great Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh wedding: Christine and Lenny