To mix things up a little I’m going to show you photo coverage that will give you an idea of the whole package: From Amanda and Jared’s engagement portraits to their wedding at the Pittsburgh Renaissance.
Engagement Portraits with Pups!
I encourage my couples to do an engagement portrait session if they can. In fact, a session is included in my regular wedding photography coverage. Amanda and Jared planned their wedding from out of town — which is always a challenge. But when they came into town to finalize wedding plans we were able to meet up for an early morning portrait session. And they brought their pups, Bandit and Teddy!
Context brings another layer of meaning to photographs. Amanda and Jared met at the University of Pittsburgh so that’s where we met for the the photo session. Don’t you just love Bandit and Teddy’s bow ties? They’re stylish dogs, to be sure.
Wedding at the Pittsburgh Renaissance
The Pittsburgh Renaissance is one of my favorite wedding venues. If you scroll through past weddings you’ll see for yourself. I met Amanda and the ladies in her suite. I saw this scene as I was walking through the door. It was the first photo I made that day. Off to a good start!
The flowers were beautiful and perfectly matched Amanda and Jared’s color palette.
A lovely moment with the junior bridesmaids and flower girls. This is the sort of thing I’m looking for during the “getting ready” part of the day.
Speaking of moments, this sequence of photos when Amanda’s mom Dawn saw her all dressed for the wedding was really special.
The guys got ready down the hall. Jared’s mom Cheryl has a photo of her kissing each of his brothers on the cheek. She wanted one to complete the set and I was happy to oblige. Watch out for the lipstick though!
Before the day started moving fast with the first look, etc. I took a few minutes to do some portraits of Amanda. So beautiful!
First Look
Amanda and Jared stood back-to-back as they read letters that they wrote to each other.
While that was going on I saw their families watching in the doorway to the balcony. If you remember to keep an eye on what’s going on around you you’ll find pictures that help to tell the story.
I love their expressions when they finished the letters and turned around to see each other.
We had time for a couple of portraits before the ceremony. This is the sort of thing that engagement portraits help with. When you’ve got just a little time to work with the trust and experience with posing has already been built. So all you have to do is shoot away.
Wedding Ceremony on the Grand Staircase at the Pittsburgh Renaissance
I love the expressions on everyone’s faces as Jared greets Amanda and her parents at the bottom of the staircase.
That landing is such a great place for a ceremony. The elegant marble adds an element of classical beauty to the scene.
Amanda was absolutely glowing with joy after the ceremony. This is the moment before the rest of the wedding party joined them at the back of the hotel lobby after the recessional.
Portraits
Directly after the wedding ceremony at the Renaissance we went outside for some portraits. There’s been an unending construction project outside around the Clemente Bridge for what seems like most of the 2020’s. But if you’re careful with framing and focus it’s still a great spot for photos.
I’ve got to hand it to Jared, he really applied what he learned during the engagement session a couple of months earlier. I hardly had to offer any suggestions!
The couple and their witnesses signed the self-uniting marriage certificate to make it official! Pennsylvania has a great option for couples who prefer to self unite that’s commonly referred to as a Quaker Wedding. All you really need is the license and two witnesses. This way Jared’s uncle was able to act as sort of an emcee during the wedding without having to be ordained. He did a great job — even stepping out of the way when they kissed, just like an old pro!
Wedding Reception in the Symphony Ballroom at the Renaissance Pittsburgh
The room was set with dark table cloths and floral centerpieces. Check out the custom cake topper — Bandit and Teddy make an appearance!
The couple’s first dance was followed by parent’s dances. Amanda surprised her mom with a dance. What a beautiful moment!
Once dinner was over it was a night filled with dancing. Fun!
We went back up to the balcony of the bridal suite at sunset. The Pirates were playing to a packed crowd and the sky was glowing. It was the perfect end to a wonderful day.