Published in November 2014
Jewish Association on Aging: The Art of Aging
The Jewish Association on Aging (JAA) proved that maturing is not only graceful, but artful as well. The Art of Aging, held at Senator John Heinz History Center, entertained 350 guests of JAA donors and care recipients alike with an exhilarating speed art performance by The 3Painters, artists who create large renderings of pop icons during the course of one single song. The eight speedy masterpieces of Elvis, John Lennon, and others created that night were auctioned off following the performance. “We were able to entertain our guests, but we also reached our goal of letting our community know we need to help our seniors,” says Director of Development & Community Engagement Beverly Brinn. “We were able to talk succinctly about what it’s like to age in our community and the care people need. This is something that affects everyone — there’s no age barrier. We all start aging from the time we’re born.” The event raised more than $150,000 to support for the Benevolent Care Fund, which offers supplemental funds for seniors in the JAA’s residential communities. Care services include home health and day services; Kosher Meals on Wheels (KMOW); personal care communities; and nursing and rehabilitation. “We have never asked someone to leave one of our residences for lack of ability to pay, thanks to the Benevolent Care Fund, and we never plan to in the future,” she says.
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
WHIRL Magazine: Culture Page
Published in November 2014
Celebrating 40 years on the airwaves, WYEP’s Backstage Bash will be like having an all-access pass to the music party of the year. Local favorites Bill Deasy, Scott Blasey of The Clarks, and Jessica Bitsura will play acoustic sets at the Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel on November 6, as guests enjoy appetizers, carving stations, and select wines and beer. “This is the first event of its kind for WYEP,” says WYEP Marketing Director Elizabeth Baisley. “Because we are coming to the end of our 40th anniversary year, we thought a big party to benefit our independent music station would be a great way to cap off the year.” Guests can look forward to a silent auction, and top-ticket access to a private concert by Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue at the Byham Theater following the Bash. “We’ll be offering experiences, music memorabilia, and more,” says Baisley. “Who wouldn’t want to bid on a house concert by The Clarks?” We’re in! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit wyep.org/backstagebash.
Backstage Pass
WHIRL Magazine: Event Preview
Published in November 2014 (print only)
HELPING HEARTS
This season, support these nonprofits at their signature celebrations
Courageous Living
At 16, Maryana Stern found care and comfort at the Holy Family Institute (HFI). Now, she is a freshman at Duquesne University and the recipient of the 2014 Courage House Award, which will be presented at the 22nd Annual Arthur J. Rooney, Sr. Courage House Luncheon. Held at the Heinz Field East Club Lounge on November 4, this year's luncheon with the Pittsburgh Steelers will also feature a silent action, an autograph session, and a private reception for key-level sponsors. "The event aligns with our tagline of restoring hope and transforming lives," says Loren Zdunek, campaigns and marketing manager for the Holy Family Institute. "To celebrate an individual who came to our care, now has a hopeful future, and is preparing for a meaningful life – HFI is proud of Maryana and her accomplishments, strength, and courage." The luncheon will also honor Pittsburgh Steeler Sean Spence for his personal courage while overcoming injury. After hurting his knee in 2012, Spence has spent the last two years on the team's injured reserve list. "He has always been positive with a solid work ethic," says Head Athletic Trainer John Norwig. "Against the odds and with a strong will to overcome, Spence is currently one the Steelers' starting inside linebackers." The Ed Block Courage Award Foundation has designated the Holy Family Institute as one of 20 Courage Houses nationwide that is dedicated to improving the lives of neglected children, and works in partnership with the National Football Leagues to raise awareness and funds for its continuing efforts. For more information, visit hfi-pgh.org/chl.
Make a Pointe
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre is kicking off its 49th season with its annual black-tie gala, A Pointe in Time Ball: A Fairytale Evening on November 1. The Westin Convention Center Hotel ballroom will be transformed into a setting from a tale as old as time, paying homage to the ballet's premiere of Beauty and the Beast in February 2015. In addition to cocktail hour, a sit-down dinner and a silent auction with luxury travel packages, guests will witness some of the beauty the event supports. "The highlight of the evening, hands down, will be the opportunity for our guests to experience a one-of-a-kind, tableside performance by our company dancers," says Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Executive Director Harris Ferris. "This provides and up-close look at the artistry and athleticism of our dancers, and I think makes the ultimate statement about the art form that we are gathering to support." The 2014-15 season marks a milestone year for PBT with an equally reveolutionnaire repertoire, which includes two sensory friendly performances designed for patrons with autism and other special needs, productions with live performance by the orchestra, and its school studio expansion. "This is a chance for us to gather and celebrate how far we've come as a company – and a family of supporters – in 45 years," says Ferris. "It also gathers the support that is essential to secure a strong future for PBT in Pittsburgh." For ticketing, sponsorships, and event information, call 412.454.9138.
Rock, Rattle, and Roll
The Twenty-Five Club of Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC will celebrate its 75th anniversary with The Cradle Will Rock, "A Platinum Affair," on November 1 at the Omni William Penn Hotel! Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres begin at 7 p.m., followed by dinner and dancing to the Bobby Nicholas Band. One-of-a-kind, hand-painted chairs – which were made by lock artists and signed by celebrities and sports figures – will be available to purchase. Say chaperones Debbie Barbarita, Jeanne Caliguiri, and Kathleen Hess, "We continue to champion funds for newborn medicine, both prenatal and neonatal, and provide research at Magee-Womens Research Institute and clinical care at Magee-Womens Hospital. We purchase state-of-the-art equipment, and support research studies, training, and technical assistance funding so to better understand neonatology diagnosis and treatment." This year's honorees are Charles "Corky" and Frances Cost. Tickets are available for $250 per person and can be purchased by calling Barbara mendlowitz at 412.681.8182.
Trash for Charity
Show off your "trashy" side at The Salvation Army's Family Caring Center Garbage Bag Gala! The 13th annual event, held on November 6 at the Fairmont Pittsburgh, features a silent auction and fashion show to support The Salvation Army's Family Caring Center's education and recreational activities for homeless children and families. Designers from Anthropologie, Armani Nejor Designs, Karen Page, Lana Neumeyer, Pure Barre, So Me, Spool Fabric Shop, True Runner, White House Black Market, and students from CAPA and the Art Institute of Pittsburgh will craft chic ensembles from recycled materials – think plastic garbage bags, duct tape, pop tabs, newspapers, and more! "The Garbage Bag Gala was created from the idea that rather than spending money on expensive attire to attend a fundraising event, better use could be made of those resources by donating directly to the charity," says Alyssa Baker, development coordinator for The Salvation Army of Western Pennsylvania. "Making and wearing something made of trash bags and recycled materials instead furthered the concept that everyone and everything deserves a second chance to be something great." For tickets, visit garbagebaggala.org.
Edible Allegheny: Last Bite
Published in October/November 2014
Talk Turkey to Me
Roasted turkey. The scent of a steaming slice alone is enough to put anyone's holiday spirit into overdrive. While turkey is easily accessible in its many forms, whole-roasted turkey is a delicacy on Thanksgiving. The heavenly aroma that fills the house that morning evokes nostalgia. Creating a memorable meal each year for, say, four guests, is no less important than entertaining 15, and the prospect of prepping a full bird can easily overwhelm even a veteran chef. We looked to Giant Eagle Market District Corporate Chef John Gruver for tips on his approach to prepare a delicious, traditionally roasted turkey for the whole family, and some shortcuts for entertaining a smaller crowd without skimping on flavor.
Prep the bird. Lift up the skin of a thawed, pre-brined turkey, and add seasoning like rosemary, sage, cloves, salt, and pepper for intense flavor, says Gruver.
Don't be shy with salt, which can help hold in moisture during the long cooking process. "A tablespoon of salt seems like a lot, and that scares some people into using less," says Gruver. "But, when you're serving eight to 10 people, its really not that much."
Don't overstuff. Whether you're using actual stuffing, or just rough-chopped vegetables, leave some room for air to circulate and heat to evenly distribute throughout.
Work smart. Plan your prep and cook times the night before. "You can pull the turkey out of the oven, cover it with foil and dish towels, and it will hold the heat for up to an hour," he says.
Go for it. Opt for a deep-fried turkey. Gruver suggests skipping the herbs, which can quickly burn in the bubbling oil, and prepare a less traditional flavor. the smoking method requires the same prep work as roasting, but with a much longer cooking time and extra flavor.
Portion control. To avoid leftovers in smaller parties – not that that's a bad thing! – Gruver suggests a portioned or deboned bird. Prepare a breast, leg, and thigh the same was as roasting, but with a quick 45-minute cook time and much easier clean-up, he says.
Mix and match made-from-scratch and prepared side dishes to alleviate some pressure. "Make some of those things you hold dear, and have prepared sides, like Market District's roasted turkey gravy, for everything else," says Gruver.
Get lucky. Or, suggest a pot luck and ask guests to bring their favorite side dish. This frees up time and valuable real estate. And, everyone loves to share!
Never run out of gravy. Gruver says this is key, as is the perfectly cooked bird, for the most memorable meal.
Talk Turkey to Me
Roasted turkey. The scent of a steaming slice alone is enough to put anyone's holiday spirit into overdrive. While turkey is easily accessible in its many forms, whole-roasted turkey is a delicacy on Thanksgiving. The heavenly aroma that fills the house that morning evokes nostalgia. Creating a memorable meal each year for, say, four guests, is no less important than entertaining 15, and the prospect of prepping a full bird can easily overwhelm even a veteran chef. We looked to Giant Eagle Market District Corporate Chef John Gruver for tips on his approach to prepare a delicious, traditionally roasted turkey for the whole family, and some shortcuts for entertaining a smaller crowd without skimping on flavor.
Prep the bird. Lift up the skin of a thawed, pre-brined turkey, and add seasoning like rosemary, sage, cloves, salt, and pepper for intense flavor, says Gruver.
Don't be shy with salt, which can help hold in moisture during the long cooking process. "A tablespoon of salt seems like a lot, and that scares some people into using less," says Gruver. "But, when you're serving eight to 10 people, its really not that much."
Don't overstuff. Whether you're using actual stuffing, or just rough-chopped vegetables, leave some room for air to circulate and heat to evenly distribute throughout.
Work smart. Plan your prep and cook times the night before. "You can pull the turkey out of the oven, cover it with foil and dish towels, and it will hold the heat for up to an hour," he says.
Go for it. Opt for a deep-fried turkey. Gruver suggests skipping the herbs, which can quickly burn in the bubbling oil, and prepare a less traditional flavor. the smoking method requires the same prep work as roasting, but with a much longer cooking time and extra flavor.
Portion control. To avoid leftovers in smaller parties – not that that's a bad thing! – Gruver suggests a portioned or deboned bird. Prepare a breast, leg, and thigh the same was as roasting, but with a quick 45-minute cook time and much easier clean-up, he says.
Mix and match made-from-scratch and prepared side dishes to alleviate some pressure. "Make some of those things you hold dear, and have prepared sides, like Market District's roasted turkey gravy, for everything else," says Gruver.
Get lucky. Or, suggest a pot luck and ask guests to bring their favorite side dish. This frees up time and valuable real estate. And, everyone loves to share!
Never run out of gravy. Gruver says this is key, as is the perfectly cooked bird, for the most memorable meal.
WHIRL Wedding Guide: Real Weddings
Published in Volume 10
Victoria Bushmire & Justin Deardorff
The HighlightAmanda’s favorite memory came from her father, Bruce, who planned a skit with DJ Joel Lindsey. “The speech revolved around my dad trying to write a song for us, and the struggle he faced when trying to rhyme with the line ‘Amanda and Sean,’” says Amanda. “So, during the speech, Joel would chime in with a jingle like, ‘Two beautiful beasts, the Panda and Swan, can’t hold a candle to Amanda and Sean.’"
The Bride’s AdviceAmanda’s vision of romance, with a color scheme of lilac and deep blue, was made possible by Alexis Maddox from SHE | Shayla Hawkins Events. Her top tip to brides is: “Get a wedding planner right away. Alexis took any and all stress out of planning, and put my ideas and dreams to life!”
The AttireBrian and Andrew wore steel gray tuxedos by John Yves from Top Hat Tuxedos, adding their own lavender and robin’s egg blue details.
The FloralsJoe Mineo of Something New Events in Canfield, Ohio, transformed the Grand Ballroom into a romantic reception. Using roses and hydrangea in lavender, celery green, and ivory, he created a floral frame, which served as the decorative backdrop. For added design, he entwined mirrored rings to hang inside the frame.
Victoria Bushmire & Justin Deardorff
Two years after their first meeting, Justin Deardorff invited Victoria Bushmire to coffee with a Facebook message. Victoria, who had been “kicking herself” after letting one of the good ones go, happily agreed. After relighting the spark, the couple planned a wedding that incorporated dazzling décor against the “very Pittsburgh” backdrop of brick and exposed duct work at the Pittsburgh Opera. Every detail of the juxtaposition-themed nuptials glittered in the industrial setting. Victoria’s gown from Sorelle Bridal Salon had a mermaid silhouette, sweetheart neckline, beaded belt, and chiffon ruffles. Her bridesmaids shined bright, too, in silver strapless dresses.
The Proposal
On Christmas morning, Victoria found a small jewelry box at the bottom of her stocking with a note penned by the couple’s dog that read, “Will you be my mom? Love, Kane.”
The Bride’s Advice
With bellies full of butterflies, the couple’s first-look photo session was one of Victoria’s favorite memories of the day and something she encourages all brides to do, too.
The FlowersUsing a color scheme of purple and silver, freelance florist and Victoria’s co-worker Kate Walter added orchids and bright pink roses for some extra flair.
The First DanceA group of friends performed Dustin Kensrue’s “Pistol” during the couple’s first dance, as 150 guests looked on. DJ Andy Booth spun the sounds for the rest of the evening.
The DessertsBella Christie and Lil Z’s Sweet Boutique filled every inch of the dessert table with truffles, cupcakes, chocolate-covered pretzels, and, of course, some treats baked by the mothers of the bride and groom.
The HighlightVictoria says the highlight of the night wasn’t even planned. A friend snuck in a pink inflatable guitar that incited an epic air guitar battle on the dance floor. “It’s just a big party, and that’s what people will remember — not the details of the flowers or cake, but that it was fun,” she says. “In the end, you’re getting married, and that’s the most important thing.”
Amanda Crocker & Sean Coyle
New Yorkers at heart, Amanda Crocker and Sean Coyle were destined to be engaged in the Big Apple. Four years after meeting at a restaurant in New York City, Sean popped the question on a roof deck overlooking a Christmas-decorated Downtown Manhattan skyline. Says Amanda, “We went upstairs, walked outside, and I saw roses, tea lights, and the top of the Empire State Building right in front of me!” They returned home to Pittsburgh for a Heinz Chapel ceremony and a Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens reception to celebrate their wedding, which included touches of New York, like a New York Knicks groom’s cake from Batter & Dough in Bridgeville. Amanda, the store manager of Lululemon Athletica on Madison Avenue, hosted a morning yoga session, led by Kristen Hannan of South Hills Power Yoga, for her guests before the nuptials. The morning after, following brunch at the Omni William Penn Hotel, the pair jetted to Coachella in California and Maui for their honeymoon.
The CakeBella Christie & Lil’ Z’s Sweet Boutique created a three-tier cake with fondant waves to mimic the style of Amanda’s dress, alternating layers of almond cake with raspberry mousse and chocolate cake with chocolate mousse.The Proposal
On Christmas morning, Victoria found a small jewelry box at the bottom of her stocking with a note penned by the couple’s dog that read, “Will you be my mom? Love, Kane.”
The Bride’s Advice
With bellies full of butterflies, the couple’s first-look photo session was one of Victoria’s favorite memories of the day and something she encourages all brides to do, too.
The FlowersUsing a color scheme of purple and silver, freelance florist and Victoria’s co-worker Kate Walter added orchids and bright pink roses for some extra flair.
The First DanceA group of friends performed Dustin Kensrue’s “Pistol” during the couple’s first dance, as 150 guests looked on. DJ Andy Booth spun the sounds for the rest of the evening.
The DessertsBella Christie and Lil Z’s Sweet Boutique filled every inch of the dessert table with truffles, cupcakes, chocolate-covered pretzels, and, of course, some treats baked by the mothers of the bride and groom.
The HighlightVictoria says the highlight of the night wasn’t even planned. A friend snuck in a pink inflatable guitar that incited an epic air guitar battle on the dance floor. “It’s just a big party, and that’s what people will remember — not the details of the flowers or cake, but that it was fun,” she says. “In the end, you’re getting married, and that’s the most important thing.”
Amanda Crocker & Sean Coyle
New Yorkers at heart, Amanda Crocker and Sean Coyle were destined to be engaged in the Big Apple. Four years after meeting at a restaurant in New York City, Sean popped the question on a roof deck overlooking a Christmas-decorated Downtown Manhattan skyline. Says Amanda, “We went upstairs, walked outside, and I saw roses, tea lights, and the top of the Empire State Building right in front of me!” They returned home to Pittsburgh for a Heinz Chapel ceremony and a Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens reception to celebrate their wedding, which included touches of New York, like a New York Knicks groom’s cake from Batter & Dough in Bridgeville. Amanda, the store manager of Lululemon Athletica on Madison Avenue, hosted a morning yoga session, led by Kristen Hannan of South Hills Power Yoga, for her guests before the nuptials. The morning after, following brunch at the Omni William Penn Hotel, the pair jetted to Coachella in California and Maui for their honeymoon.
The DressIn search of the winning dress, Amanda, her mother, and her soon-to-be mother-in-law visited Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City, where she found her Marisa gown. Says Amanda, “I thought this visit would be just for fun. But, I knew the moment I put it on that I didn’t want to take it off. It was perfect!”
The FlowersHens and Chicks in Shadyside captured the theme with bouquets of hydrangeas and other blue blooms.
The HighlightAmanda’s favorite memory came from her father, Bruce, who planned a skit with DJ Joel Lindsey. “The speech revolved around my dad trying to write a song for us, and the struggle he faced when trying to rhyme with the line ‘Amanda and Sean,’” says Amanda. “So, during the speech, Joel would chime in with a jingle like, ‘Two beautiful beasts, the Panda and Swan, can’t hold a candle to Amanda and Sean.’"
The Bride’s AdviceAmanda’s vision of romance, with a color scheme of lilac and deep blue, was made possible by Alexis Maddox from SHE | Shayla Hawkins Events. Her top tip to brides is: “Get a wedding planner right away. Alexis took any and all stress out of planning, and put my ideas and dreams to life!”
Brian Curtis Corey & Andrew O'Connor (written with Andrea Bosco)
Nine months after meeting in Queens, N.Y., Brian Curtis Corey and Andrew O’Connor both knew they had found “the one.” The pair moved to Pittsburgh when Brian was cast in Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s production of CATS. On opening night, Andrew proposed with wine and a prepared speech in his hotel room, just before the curtain opened! Says Brian, “Talk about having a million emotions at once! I have no memory after that because I had to go into hair and makeup, and open a show. I do remember keeping my ring on under my ‘paws.’” Their marriage was not only a celebration of personal love, but a momentous occasion for the state of Pennsylvania. In June, the couple participated in a group ceremony, officiated by Mayor William Peduto, as one of 19 couples to be married at the City Council building! “It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” says Brian. “Who gets to get married during Pride Week and have a parade as their wedding processional?” Fairmont Pittsburgh and the Mayor’s Office collaborated with Sean Gray of Sean Gray International (SGI) to plan every detail, which included a white dove release and a group reception in pastel pink, green, and yellow. Says Brian, “We fell in love with Pittsburgh and waited it out — it was totally worth the wait. Who doesn’t want to get married in the place they call home?”The AttireBrian and Andrew wore steel gray tuxedos by John Yves from Top Hat Tuxedos, adding their own lavender and robin’s egg blue details.
The CelebrationBrian’s favorite memory is the roar of applause that followed their “I dos,” and the “whoops and hollers” during the Pride parade. “People were yelling and congratulating us every step of the way,” he says. “There was so much energy in the air that I actually felt like I was vibrating.”
The CakeFairmont Pittsburgh Pastry Chef James Wroblewski created a five-tier, raspberry-filled confection. Says Brian, “Cutting the cake was the first ‘traditional’ thing we had done that day. Every bride and groom has done the same thing for centuries, and I remember thinking, ‘Wow! Now, it’s finally my turn. This is really happening.’”
The CakeFairmont Pittsburgh Pastry Chef James Wroblewski created a five-tier, raspberry-filled confection. Says Brian, “Cutting the cake was the first ‘traditional’ thing we had done that day. Every bride and groom has done the same thing for centuries, and I remember thinking, ‘Wow! Now, it’s finally my turn. This is really happening.’”
The FloralsJoe Mineo of Something New Events in Canfield, Ohio, transformed the Grand Ballroom into a romantic reception. Using roses and hydrangea in lavender, celery green, and ivory, he created a floral frame, which served as the decorative backdrop. For added design, he entwined mirrored rings to hang inside the frame.
WHIRL Wedding Guide: Plan Like a Pro
Published in WHIRL Wedding Guide Volume 10
Pop-up Party
“Tented wedding receptions offer unlimited opportunities to create just the right ambiance with event lighting,” says PartySavvy owner Dan Skena. “A beautiful white tent provides a blank canvas for a lighting designer to create any atmosphere a bride may have in mind.” Skena says one of his favorite looks for an evening event involves lighting under a clear tent. Uplighting large trees and the surrounding landscape provides an additional point of interest, he says. One trend is using LED lighting fixtures around the perimeter of a white tent to “wash” the ceiling with almost any color imaginable. And, the colors can be programmed to change throughout the evening! Skena advises brides to consider pin-spotting their floral arrangements. “If the reception space is lit with low-level ambient lighting, the floral arrangements that people spend so much money on can get lost,” he says. “A pin-spot fixture will direct a narrow beam of light on each centerpiece, which really makes those beautiful arrangements pop.” Something to avoid? Mini Christmas-type lights on the ceiling of a tent, says Skena. “Thanks to Pinterest, there are a lot of photos of that type of lighting out there. It looks nice if properly done; however, doing it properly is very time consuming and quite costly.”
I DIY
Do-it-yourself mania is sweeping cyberspace, and social media makes it easier to embrace the inner craftsman (or woman) in each of us. “With the popularity of Pinterest, today’s brides are finding some really great DIY ideas for their weddings,” says Lisa Mason Eck, owner and event director of Extraordinary Events. “Incorporating a DIY item at the wedding gives the busy bride, who doesn’t have time to devote to the planning process, the opportunity to contribute to her wedding in a very special and personal way.” Eck only advises that brides don’t overdo it. “Choose one or two DIY projects, like a small escort card or guest party favors, to add that personalized touch without becoming overwhelmed.”
WHIRL Magazine: Weddings
Published in October 2014 issue
Chiara Bauccio & Ryan Huet
In true Pittsburgh fashion, watching a Steelers-Ravens playoff game in a Station Square bar turned into a meet-cute for Chiara Bauccio and Ryan Huet. After a date the following week, and two-and-a-half year courtship, Ryan proposed to Chiara during a surprise weekend getaway to Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa. When rain hindered Ryan's plan to propose on the mountainside overlooking the resort, he improved and got down on one knee in their resort room. "I'll always remember room 234, as that is where we got engaged!" says Chiara. Following a ceremony at Heinz Chapel, guests greeted the newlyweds with sparklers as these un began to set. The Carnegie Music Hall reception started with a cocktail hour and the bridal party introductions on the balcony. "After we were introduced, we had our first dance," says Chiara. "I felt like a pricness dance with Ryan while all of our friend and family watched from above." Missy Martz from Occasion Creation Designs achieved the couple's vision for a romantic theme with ivory, black, and red decorations; glowing candlelight' and a sprinkling of red rose petals across every surface. While dancing, cake-cutting, and speech making all created lasting memories, Chiara can relive them over and over thanks to the "Ham It Up" photo booth from Leslie Goodes. "Not only does she have awesome props, but she also makes custom scrapbook of all the photos from the night," she says. "We provided her with our color scheme before the wedding, and she coordinated our scrapbook and photo strips to match."
Photo caption:
Chiara's strapless, slim-fitting gown from Deborah's Bridal Traditions in Monaca freatured a lace appliqué and satin-ruhed waistband. Swarovski crystal details added a touch of glamour to the romantic theme.
Chiara Bauccio & Ryan Huet
In true Pittsburgh fashion, watching a Steelers-Ravens playoff game in a Station Square bar turned into a meet-cute for Chiara Bauccio and Ryan Huet. After a date the following week, and two-and-a-half year courtship, Ryan proposed to Chiara during a surprise weekend getaway to Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa. When rain hindered Ryan's plan to propose on the mountainside overlooking the resort, he improved and got down on one knee in their resort room. "I'll always remember room 234, as that is where we got engaged!" says Chiara. Following a ceremony at Heinz Chapel, guests greeted the newlyweds with sparklers as these un began to set. The Carnegie Music Hall reception started with a cocktail hour and the bridal party introductions on the balcony. "After we were introduced, we had our first dance," says Chiara. "I felt like a pricness dance with Ryan while all of our friend and family watched from above." Missy Martz from Occasion Creation Designs achieved the couple's vision for a romantic theme with ivory, black, and red decorations; glowing candlelight' and a sprinkling of red rose petals across every surface. While dancing, cake-cutting, and speech making all created lasting memories, Chiara can relive them over and over thanks to the "Ham It Up" photo booth from Leslie Goodes. "Not only does she have awesome props, but she also makes custom scrapbook of all the photos from the night," she says. "We provided her with our color scheme before the wedding, and she coordinated our scrapbook and photo strips to match."
Photo caption:
Chiara's strapless, slim-fitting gown from Deborah's Bridal Traditions in Monaca freatured a lace appliqué and satin-ruhed waistband. Swarovski crystal details added a touch of glamour to the romantic theme.
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