Lauren and Cole’s journey towards wedded bliss began in the midst of a pandemic, with a chance encounter on the dating app “Hinge.” Little did they know that this serendipitous connection would lead them to a breathtaking wedding at the Oakmont Country Club, with a heartwarming ceremony at the St. Paul Cathedral in Pittsburgh. I absolutely adored working with these two! Everything about their personalities, families, and wedding day was perfection.
A Match Made on Hinge
Cole and Lauren’s love story began in November 2020 when they matched on the dating app “Hinge.” In the midst of a world grappling with lockdowns and social distancing, their connection blossomed through heartfelt conversations. Although they eagerly wanted to meet in person, the pandemic made it a challenging endeavor. Their patience was soon rewarded.
On January 4th, 2021, the day when Pittsburgh’s bars and restaurants opened up again, the couple had their first date at Industry Public House. What was initially meant to be a casual meeting for drinks turned into a five-hour conversation filled with shared interests and dreams. In that moment, they both knew they had found something truly special.
A Proposal to Remember
The journey towards their wedding day reached an unforgettable milestone when Cole popped the question. After an exhilarating climb to the top of one of Pittsburgh’s iconic sets of stairs, overlooking the city’s stunning skyline, he got down on one knee and proposed to Lauren. With the breathtaking cityscape as their backdrop, it was a moment that will forever be etched in their hearts.
But the surprises didn’t end there. Following the proposal, the couple headed to Industry Public House, the very place where their love story began. What awaited Lauren was an engagement party filled with the warmth of their families and friends. It was, as Lauren describes, the “Best. Day. Ever.”
Wedding Day Vision
For Lauren and Cole, their vision for the wedding day was inspired by the love and celebrations they had witnessed at the weddings of their friends and family. Drawing from these beautiful moments, they aimed to create a day that was a reflection of their love, dreams, and shared interests.
Lauren and Cole’s wedding at the Oakmont Country Club and St. Paul Cathedral in Pittsburgh was not just a union of two souls but a testament to the power of love, patience, and the serendipity of online connections. As their love story continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder that sometimes, amidst life’s challenges, you can find something beautiful and enduring.
Wedding Day Prep at The Oaklander Hotel
On their wedding day, the bride and groom chose The Oaklander Hotel in Pittsburgh as the perfect setting to get ready for their momentous occasion. With its elegant and luxurious ambiance, The Oaklander provided an exquisite backdrop for Lauren and Cole’s pre-wedding preparations. The spacious and beautifully appointed rooms allowed the bride and groom to relax and prepare, surrounded by their closest family and friends. As they donned their wedding attire and shared heartfelt moments, the anticipation and excitement of the day ahead filled the air. Lauren got ready with just her mom in her bridal suite after doing hair and makeup with the wedding party, so it was a really nice quiet moment. The Oaklander Hotel is also a great place to photograph details – so much natural light!
Wedding Ceremony at St Paul Cathedral
A Catholic wedding ceremony at St. Paul Cathedral in Pittsburgh is a sacred and deeply meaningful experience. The cathedral’s stunning architecture and awe-inspiring interior provided a majestic backdrop for Lauren and Cole’s union. As the they stood before the altar, they exchanged their vows, received blessings from the clergy, and partook in the Eucharist, symbolizing the spiritual union of their souls.
Wedding Reception at Oakmont Country Club
Lauren and Cole’s wedding reception at the Oakmont Country Club was a delightful fusion of sophistication and natural beauty. Guests were treated to cocktail hour overlooking the golf course, where they captured precious moments amidst the serene landscape. The towering, stately tree on the golf course became a focal point for our photos – it was so grand and beautiful against the blue sky!
The snapshots taken by the charming church pews area added a touch of timeless elegance to the celebration. What guy that loves golf doesn’t want wedding pictures at the church pews? None! With the golf course and these enchanting spots as the backdrop, Lauren and Cole’s reception was not only a celebration of their love but a true reflection of the timeless beauty of their surroundings.
Vendors That Brought the Dream to Life
A wedding is not complete without the dedicated and talented vendors who make every detail come to life. Here are some of the fantastic vendors who helped make Lauren and Cole’s special day unforgettable:
- Florist: Meant to Bee Floral
- Catering: Oakmont Country Club
- DJ: Joel Lindsey Entertainment
- Dress Shop: One White Lane Bridal
- Dress Designer: Sophia Tolli
- Hair: Black Label Society Salon
- Makeup: Pittsburgh Makeup by Julie Marckisotto
Each of these vendors played a crucial role in bringing the couple’s vision to life, ensuring that every detail of their special day was perfect. The Oakmont Country Club, with its timeless elegance, provided the perfect backdrop for their celebration, and the St. Paul Cathedral added a touch of grandeur to their ceremony.
Lauren and Cole’s wedding was a day filled with love, joy, and unforgettable memories. It serves as a beautiful reminder that love knows no bounds, and that even during challenging times, it can bloom into something truly magical.
