I’ve been a wedding photographer for twelve wedding seasons and before that, I was an assistant for five seasons. The last time I was at the Carnegie Museum for a wedding was probably around 2006 as an assistant, so I was really really really looking forward to this wedding.
Chandler and John are such kind people. During our last Zoom meeting before the big day, they actually were out and about buying a cake for a co-worker’s birthday and dropping it off – I could just tell they are thoughtful people.
Chandler’s gown was gorgeous. It shimmered and sparkled and it came from the Ukraine. The veil was custom made to match.
The Oaklander is an amazing hotel and after the ladies readied themselves in the Presidential Suite, we headed over to a private first look for the couple on the stairs of the museum in the more modern section. With the weather being so hot, we kept the outside photos brief – just a quick spin near the Mary Schenley Fountain (this is a new favorite spot of mine near the Frick Fine Arts Building) and then we were able to do photos all over the museum grounds. I have to say, as a photographer, this is probably hands down the most photographic opportunities of any venue in the city.
I love old buildings so I was captivated by all the charming aspects of the museum, which is celebrating 125 years. Chandler and John chose to have a ceremony in the actual Music Hall, which you don’t see often. It reminds me of Heinz Hall (and indeed, it was where the symphony played before Heinz Hall was built). Following the ceremony, they had their cocktail hour in the balcony space above the Music Hall Foyer and the reception itself was held in the Music Hall Foyer proper.
Dallas and the entire staff at the museum are incredible. I can’t say enough about all the vendors that made this day go smoothly. And of course the most credit goes to Chandler and John – the emotion, the sweet dinosaur cufflinks she had for him, their caring nature and affection for each other – it makes you fall in love with weddings all over again as a vendor.
Note to the couple:
Chandler and John, it was a pleasure to work with the two of you! We thank you for choosing Kristen Wynn Photography and wish you a lifetime of love and happiness always. Congratulations!
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Vendors:
Invitation: Blush Paper Co.
Prep location: The Oaklander Hotel
Gown Designer: Pollardi Fashion Group – Ida Torez – Seduction Collection – Airiness
Bridal Salon: For Love Bridal
Shoes: Badgley Mischka & Keds for Kate Spade
Headpiece: Dareth Colburn
Bridesmaid Dresses: Revelry
Men’s Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse
Florist: Blossoms by Jilliann
Hair Stylist: JL Makeup Studio & Beauty Boutique
Make-Up Artist: JL Makeup Studio & Beauty Boutique
Hotel Accommodations: The Oaklander Hotel
Coordinator/Planner:Day of Pittsburgh/Katie Gittien
Ceremony venue: Carnegie Museum of Natural History Music Hall
String Quartet: Stellare Strings
Flower Wall: Pittsburgh Flower Wall
Officiant: A Simple Vow
Reception venue: Carnegie Museum of Natural History Music Hall Foyer
Cake: Culinaire
Catering: Culinaire
Entertainment: Andy Booth Productions
Rings: Frost & Co.
Linens: Lendable Linens
Rentals: Vintage Alley Rentals
Favors: Cookies
Reception Lighting: Benack Sound Productions, Inc.
Alterations: Exquisite Fit Bridal
Rehearsal Dinner Location: Atria’s
Additional KWP Team Member for this wedding: Custom Portraits by Charlene
Photographer: Kristen Wynn Photography
