It was a shortly after noon when I arrived at the Arts Ballroom. The weather was surprisingly warm for the first week of October and the sun had just started to peak through the clouds. As I walked into the empty ballroom I was reminded once again just how beautiful the venue is.  The crystal chandeliers sparkled above me as I made my way up the grand staircase to the second floor, where I found Tanti and her Papertini floral team already hard at work on Rita’s center pieces.  Only a few tables were set by the time Christina and I had to depart for the ceremony, but we knew that upon our return the ballroom would be transformed into a dramatic wonderland.

The extraordinary Pete Malone from 217 Photography was there to capture all the amazing moments throughout the day and he was nice enough to share some of his beautiful photographs.

The day started off with everyone getting ready at the Sheraton Society Hill. The bridal party had a blast getting their hair and makeup done, and Rita’s up-do looked perfect thanks to Natalie from Hair by Natalie. (This iwas one of Natalie’s last weddings as a stylist. We will miss you so much!)

Rita’s romantic bouquet was covered with jewels and handwrapped in a deep brown satin ribbon. She wanted tons of sparkle at her wedding and her bouquet was no exception! Tiny crystals sat in the center of each rose, giving it that extra wow factor.

How amazing are Rita’s shoes! She went for sky high pumps and rocked them all night long.

Their “first look” moment was on a quaint cobblestone alleyway. Pete perfectly captured Chris’s anticipation and excited reaction to his soon to be bride.

Pete took the whole crew throughout society hill for some group pictures. The historic brick houses and streets made for great backdrops.

The intimate ceremony was held at The Headhouse Shambles. Floating candles lined the aisle and the couple said their vows under a archway hanging with orchids and crystals.

Once the ceremony was over, guests boarded a charter bus and made the short ride to The Arts Ballroom for the reception.

Guests were speechless as they stepped into the fairytale ballroom. The gold color of the chiavari chairs accented the orange pin-tucked table linens beautifully.

The center pieces were birch branches dripping in gems and orchids which were placed in tall cylinder vases.

Since the couple’s favorite restaurant is Stephen Starr’s Buddakan, it was only natural that they choose Starr Events to cater their wedding. The food was fabulous and the guests had tons of options for the buffet style dinner (including calamari salad my absolute favorite!) Rita found these adorable Buddha place card holders that guests could take home as favors.

After guests had their fill from dinner it was time to party! The couple’s friends were huge dancers and DJ Matt Blank from Synergetic Sounds kept the dance floor packed all night.

Rita was having so much fun that at one point she took Matt’s headphones and played DJ!

The moment we met Rita and Chris we knew that their wedding was going to be a blast. Rita’s bubbly personality along with Chris’s down to earth attitude is what makes them a perfect match. We couldn’t of  been happier to have help them plan their special day.

A big thanks to all the vendors who made the day possible!

Cheers!

Sarah

*Christina’s note: I wanted to chime in here and add my two cents about Rita and Chris’ wedding.  From the first instance I met Rita at the little coffee shop near my office, I knew we were going to be a great match.  Other wedding professionals asked if Rita was my friend, not client, because we had so much fun together!  It was great getting to know Rita and Chris, and also some family and friends that were there along the planning process.  This will be a wedding we will always remember, not just because of the fun and crazy guests or the amazing decor, but because of the beautiful couple we were all there to honor.  Thank you Rita and Chris for being amazing clients and for being a great friend! *