Delightfully Simple Wedding at the Grand Concourse: Jeni & Paul

This summer wedding is evidence that a modest, uncomplicated wedding may be just as beautiful as an elaborately planned one. Instead of concentrating on everything, Jeni and Paul prioritized their marriage, family, and love. Although planning and designing details are enjoyable, they are not the most critical aspect of a wedding. Instead, the Grand Concourse, the reception location, created a 1920s atmosphere through its design and atmosphere, which was subtly incorporated into many components. All it needed to add some flair to this wedding was an art deco wedding cake, metallic gold decorations, and beaded mint bridesmaid skirts with a fish scale design. This couple decided to focus on their closest loved ones and keep their wedding modest. And what would you like to know? This feature has captured my heart just as much as the others. A few of my favorites?

  • Jeni's audacious lip. This bride looked quite stunning, even though she kept her outfit basic. The Pittsburgh Stylist's vibrant red lip contrasted with her dainty lace gown. The first kiss is ready!
  • Charitable favors. Instead of giving thank-you presents, Jeni and Paul donated to CORE in her father's name. The man who took her father's heart after he died years ago escorted Jeni down the aisle, adding to the sentimental experience. So tender and sentimental.
  • Those pictures. Jeni and Paul are radiating joy and unadulterated love, as shown in the pictures taken by Lauren Renee Designs. This was the most joyous day of their life. Cute!

Despite being delicate and understated, this wedding is sure to inspire! Friends, simplicity is beautiful.

When and how did you two meet?

I met Paul online, but that's not the whole story. According to my belief that "everything happens for a reason," Paul's orders to deploy to Djibouti had been canceled in the summer of 2013, which was a unique reason why he was still in town, still using the dating service, and still searching for love. His deployment had been delayed six months (he was supposed to go at the end of May; we met in July), and he was heading to Germany instead. We spent the remainder of the summer and early fall seeing Washington, DC, as we got ready for Paul's departure to Germany at the end of October. Our first date was at a Thai restaurant in Old Town, Alexandria, VA.

Juicy details on the proposal, please! Where, when, how?

The night before the day we were engaged, Paul and I attended a friend's wedding in the Virginia region known as the Blue Ridge Mountains. I didn't even suspect that would occur. Paul told me about these pumpkin patches where we could pick our pumpkins. He insisted we could locate a "Cinderella" (squashed) pumpkin there, even though I knew I wanted one. We trekked over the steep area, looking at pumpkin after pumpkin because it had been raining all week. Paul didn't care that I was covered in mud because he exclaimed, "Make sure to inspect it!" as soon as he took my pumpkin off the vine. Paul proposed to me on one knee as I was doing it! I can't even recall precisely what I said, but it was unquestionably "yes!"

Describe the wedding—the look, theme, style, colors, etc.

The most gorgeous pictures of Paul and I exchanging tender, heartfelt glances during the pre-reception photo shoot were taken by Lauren. When I look at such photos, I feel like I melt. One day, your grandkids will be able to show their children and grandchildren these kinds of pictures, which will help them understand the depth of your love and what it's like to have someone who embodies that love. Naturally, Lauren complied with our requests, and everyone appeared to be having a great time! The photos we shot from the bridge above the Grand Concourse were fantastic. That touch is Lauren's!

What inspired your vision?

I knew exactly what I wanted—a very subdued 1920s theme—as soon as I found THE DRESS (which was very different from what I had gone into the boutique to try on!). The Grand Concourse in Station Square is the ideal venue for this theme. Adrianna Papell created the drop-waisted, fully beaded bridesmaid dresses. Everything we did was understated and straightforward. No one noticed or missed the frills I didn't spend much on! I wanted the venue and my outfit to be the first things people noticed!

What was your favorite moment of the day?

What a loaded question! There were numerous incredible moments. I was fortunate to have such a perfect day. If we're being sincere, Paul is my favorite part of the day. I wanted to run down the aisle because I was so happy to see him. My heart is overflowing with memories of the highlights of my day: I got to pray with one of my bridesmaids following the ceremony; my new brother-to-be called me that morning to say hello; my uncle danced all night long in his sunglasses after forgetting his prescription glasses; and my friends created a blow-up photo of my head and continued to dance with it throughout the evening. The list is endless!

Bride to Bride

What advice would you give to other Flowersarch planning their big day?

Try to include a favorite part of the city in your special day. I knew returning to Swissvale, my hometown, was a must. In addition to getting married in the same church as my parents, I wanted to share it with the people I care about. Make use of as many family-run, locally owned companies as you can! The owner, a kindergarten buddy, created the most elaborate personalized cookies I've ever seen. Check out SGR Cookie. Do small business if you can't locate it locally. Leccaire Lollipops, whom I discovered on Etsy, provided us with the best experience. She did our favors and is based in Georgia. AWESOME!

Additionally, ensure you and your new spouse have some alone time before the reception. Before our visitors were admitted, we had a tour of the Grand Concourse. We also had a private cocktail hour and watched everyone arrive on the balcony with just our bridal party. Be kind to one another and create those memories. I spent as much time as possible making memories with as many individuals. Never believe someone who says, "Something is going to go wrong!" Remain focused on having the best day of your life, regardless of any tiny setbacks. It passes in a flash.

Any must haves, must dos, or can't live without? Anything you would do differently?

My day exceeded my expectations in every way. Everything went flawlessly; it was undoubtedly a wedding present from my dad, who could not attend. We had little traffic and no accidents, even though the town was hosting the Regatta and the Pirates were performing. However, it can assist or hurt your timing and plans. Therefore, look at the town's calendar of events for that weekend! It is imperative to have a cookie table. Not everyone knew of the Pittsburgh custom, which was the biggest hit! (The majority of my in-laws are from Baltimore.) Selecting a hotel that is convenient for your wedding guests is essential. At the Sheraton, we received excellent service.

Additionally, I advise scheduling your bridal party and guests separately the night before the wedding. This will provide you with more privacy, especially on the wedding night. Make sure to play the Pittsburgh Polka and have a Dollar Dance. I can't recall ever having so much fun and laughing so hard in my recent memory. Don't forget to ask someone else to carry your essentials in your purse. We nearly left mine behind! That day, I made the best life choice by not bringing my cell phone. That would be on my list of things I really must do.