Reception at Carnegie Museum

Matt and Dana just so happened to pick two of my favorite Pittsburgh wedding venues for their big day: Sacred Heart parish in Shadyside and a reception at Carnegie Museum in Oakland. These locations are iconic! Both are stunning in and of themselves and require little to ‘make them beautiful’ as they are gorgeous as they stand.

When I stop to think about how fortunate I am that couples like this one decide to work with ME on such an important occasion, I am truly humbled and blown away. There is something special about a wedding, all emotions are felt and experienced on this day. It’s my job to take photos of moments that will only happen once in a lifetime. There are obvious big things you’d never want to miss (the first kiss, first dance, cake cutting and more!) but the subtle more private moments are the ones that are most meaningful to me. It’s always a treat to see what photos a couple chooses to share, their favorites are often ones that aren’t ‘big things.’ What are your favorite photos you’ve saved throughout your life? Think about it. 🙂

What was your inspiration behind your Reception at Carnegie Museum?

We essentially both wanted our wedding to feel elegant and romantic. To accomplish this, we stuck with beautiful neutral tones, a perfectly sized guest list, and just the right amount of decor. We were very lucky that our venues are absolutely stunning as-is, so there wasn’t much that needed to be done to transform them for our special day.

Advice to share with brides planning now?

Do your research, know what you want, and trust your vendors. We did a ton of research prior to our vendor meetings so we felt prepared with opinions ready on all the various decisions to be made. After you’ve selected your vendors, make sure to get their opinions and take their advice – they are the experts after all! 

How did you and your spouse meet?

We met through mutual friends in NYC back in Fall 2014. We were both visiting our friends the same weekend and got to know each other as we bar hopped around the city on a cold November day. And the rest is history. 

Proposal Details! How did it happen? 🙂

We planned a long weekend down in Charleston over the 4th of July in 2021. Matt surprised Dana on a walk across Shem Creek Park at golden hour. It was a really special moment with a lot of tears and a lot of sweat (Charleston humidity!).

What was your favorite memory from your Reception at Carnegie Museum? Two moments really stick out to us: 1. Seeing each for the first time as Dana walked down the aisle. We did not do a “first look” so this part was extra exciting for us. And 2. Getting the chance to celebrate with all our favorite people. Once the band took the stage, we grabbed our drinks, and danced the night away with all our family and friends. 

Photography: Steven Dray Photography

Ceremony Location Name: Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Reception Venue Name: Carnegie Music Hall

Florist: Holly Hanna Floral

Wedding Dress Designer: Ari Villoso

Wedding Dress Boutique: Bridal Beginning

Hairstylist Name: Beauty Justified by Justine

Bridesmaid’s Dress Designer: Jenny Yoo

Groom Attire Designer: Menguin

Paper Goods Company: Minted

Handmade Details: Cookie table by our moms!

Catering Company/Name: Culinaire Catering

Entertainment: Radio Tokyo

Bakery/Cake Baker Information: Culinaire Catering

Linen Rental Company: Lendable Linens

Any Other Vendor You Want to Recognize: Jeweler – Henne Jewelers, Alterations – Iron Horse Atelier