Rachel and Christian’s wedding was held in December, just a few weeks before Christmas.  I love this time of the year and all the beautiful holiday decorations that come with it.  The Hyatt Arcade in downtown Cleveland, is one of the prettiest locations in the city, but at Christmas time, it’s over the top for achieving that Christmas feeling! So, having your winter wedding at the Hyatt Arcade, couldn’t be more special this time of the year.

The wedding day began with Rachel getting ready at her parents new home, just minutes from where we live.  An easy commute to begin the day for us!  As usual, John came in to say hello, helped with a few detail shots and then headed to meet up with Christian and his groomsmen.   Christian’s preparations were at the Hyatt Arcade, so John was able to capture the guys there before heading to the church.

Their wedding was held at Christian’s family church St. Vincent de Paul. The church was beautifully decorated for the ceremony and also had a few Christmas decorations as well.  I really liked including them a few pictures.  Then off to Cleveland for formal pictures!

Even when it’s winter, it’s nice to include a few outdoor pictures if possible!  With just a little snow on the ground, we walked around the Cultural Gardens and found some locations that were beautiful anytime of the year!  Then we photographed quickly along the lake shore, just get something a little more dramatic and then happily drove to the Hyatt for pictures in a warm location!

Just entering the Hyatt Arcade for their wedding, had to be one of the highlights of their day!  It was just sparkling and twinkling with all the gorgeous lights that were strung along the vintage railings! The huge Christmas tree at the other end of venue was even more dramatic. From all the different vantage points, you could see the beautiful tables and flowers that were decorating the reception area.  But, before entering the reception area, first there was the cocktail hour up above and then the cake cutting as well!  Everyone cheered as the couple kissed and then headed down the infamous staircase to the reception.

Right at the front of the reception entrance was the wedding party’s king’s table.  I love a king’s table!  It’s were the wedding party faces each other (just like a dinner table) instead of being spread out  along the room.  It’s not always possible to have this set-up, but when it is, it’s a refreshing change.  As Rachel and Christian entered the reception they began their first dance.  The location is so dramatic for a first dance and the parent dances as well.   After toast and dinner, the dancing kicked in and was nonstop the rest of the evening! It was a beautiful day, with a beautiful couple and their families!  Thank you so much for having us capture wedding and congratulations!

Dress Shoppe-Galleria Gowns

Dress-Allure

Florist-Off Broadway Floral

Ceremony-St.Vincent de Paul

Cake-Wild Flour

Rental Company-L’Nique

DJ-HiFi Entertainment– Jim