David Lawrence Convention Center Wedding
As a Pittsburgh wedding photographer, I’m constantly drawn to venues that allow couples to do something truly different. A David L. Lawrence Convention Center wedding is exactly that—architectural, modern, and completely customizable. Located along the Allegheny River in downtown Pittsburgh, this venue offers a scale and flexibility that few wedding spaces can match.
For couples who want their wedding to feel elevated, intentional, and unmistakably urban, the David L. Lawrence Convention Center delivers an experience that is both visually striking and deeply personal.
Why the David L. Lawrence Convention Center Is Such a Unique Wedding Venue
The David L. Lawrence Convention Center stands apart from traditional wedding venues because it is designed as a blank canvas. Instead of fitting your celebration into an existing ballroom aesthetic, you are free to build a wedding that reflects your vision from the ground up.
Architectural Impact and Natural Light
With expansive glass walls, soaring ceilings, and clean industrial lines, the Convention Center provides dramatic backdrops that photograph beautifully. The natural light during the day and cityscape views at night create a dynamic environment that evolves throughout your wedding.
Downtown Pittsburgh Energy
A David Lawrence Convention Center wedding places you in the heart of the city. Guests are surrounded by Pittsburgh’s skyline, river views, and walkable access to hotels and cultural landmarks, making it ideal for couples hosting out-of-town guests.
Creative Freedom at Scale
Whether you are planning an intimate modern ceremony or a large, black-tie celebration, the flexibility of the space allows for custom layouts, lighting installations, and design-forward concepts that simply aren’t possible in more traditional venues.
Why Working With a Planner Like Wynn Events Matters
Because the David L. Lawrence Convention Center is a large-scale, open venue, an experienced planner is essential. This is where Wynn Events truly shines.
Wynn Events is known for producing sophisticated, detail-driven weddings with seamless execution. Their expertise in logistics, vendor coordination, and design is especially critical in a venue like the Convention Center, where timelines, load-ins, and spatial planning must be handled with precision.
When couples work with Wynn Events, they gain a planning partner who understands how to translate a creative vision into a flawlessly executed event—while keeping the experience enjoyable and stress-free.
Photographing a David L. Lawrence Convention Center Wedding
At Steven Dray Photography, we approach Convention Center weddings with an editorial mindset and a deep understanding of complex spaces. Photographing a venue of this scale requires more than technical skill—it requires intentional storytelling.
We focus on:
- Capturing the full scope of the space through wide, architectural compositions
- Highlighting thoughtful design details created by the planning and vendor team
- Preserving authentic moments between couples and their guests within a grand setting
Our experience photographing large, modern venues allows us to navigate mixed lighting, expansive layouts, and fast-moving timelines while ensuring that no moment or detail is missed.
The Power of the Wynn Events and Steven Dray Photography Partnership
When Wynn Events and Steven Dray Photography work together, the result is a wedding that feels cohesive from planning through documentation. Thoughtful timelines, intentional design, and a shared attention to detail allow us to create imagery that reflects not just how the wedding looked, but how it felt.
This partnership is especially impactful at a venue like the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, where collaboration is key to turning a large, open space into an intimate and meaningful celebration.
Is a David L. Lawrence Convention Center Wedding Right for You?
A David Lawrence Convention Center wedding is ideal for couples who want:
- A modern, architectural setting
- A fully customized wedding experience
- A downtown Pittsburgh location
- A team of professionals who understand complex, high-end events
With the guidance of Wynn Events and photography by Steven Dray Photography, this iconic Pittsburgh venue becomes the foundation for a wedding that is bold, refined, and completely your own.
Be sure to read more from the bride and groom after the photos below! 🙂
What was your inspiration behind your David Lawrence Convention Center Wedding?
Our inspiration was to create something different and unique from the other Pittsburgh weddings we have attended. The venue offered incredible backgrounds and backdrops, which helped bring our vision to life. I really wanted a Garden party vibe to balance the Pittsburgh cityscape!
Advice to share with brides planning now?
Remember to have fun every step along the way! And don’t worry about outside expectations (Instagram, Pinterest, tik tok, etc) – make your wedding day perfect for you and your spouse!
How did you and your spouse meet?
We have been friends for over 25 years! We basically grew up together, and when we both moved back to Pittsburgh after college, we became even closer!
Proposal Details! How did it happen? 🙂
After work on a nice fall day, Paul asked if I wanted to go for a walk on the river trail behind our apartment in the Strip District. I didn’t think anything of it since it was something we did regularly. On our walk, we stopped at some Adirondack chairs to enjoy the view/weather. Paul then got down on one knee – I, not expecting this, immediately asked him what he was doing haha. He then asked THE question and of course I said yes! And then another surprise was in store for me- he had planned dinner with both of our parents afterwards to celebrate!
What was your favorite memory from your big day?
Our First look! The excitement and anticipation leading up to it were unforgettable and getting to see each other in a low key setting just the two of us was a great start to the celebration. It helped calm any nerves and made the rest of the day feel even more special.
David Lawrence Convention Center Wedding Vendors:
Photography: Steven Dray Photography
Ceremony and Reception Venue: David L Lawrence Convention Center
Event Planner: Holly with Wynn Events
Florist: Lilac and Fawn
Wedding Dress Designer: Allure
Wedding Dress Boutique: Luxe Redux
Hair and Makeup: Glam to Go
Accessories: Veil from Luxe Redux
Bride’s Shoe Designer: Stuart Weitzman
Bride’s Ring Designer: Barsky’s
Groom Attire Designer: Tux from Joseph Orlando
Groom Ring Designer: Barsky’s
Paper Goods Company: Minted
Catering: Levy through the DLCC
Entertainment: Bachelor Boys
Bakery: Oakmont Bakery
Linen Rentals: The 1978 Collection
