Katie & Derek's Wedding - Heinz History Center - Pittsburgh Wedding Photographer Christina Montemurro

It’s hard to describe how much I loved Katie & Derek’s wedding at the Heinz History Center, and what a perfectly amazing and unique day it was. Mostly I’m going to let the pictures do the talking, but I’ll see if I can provide a little context.

I admit that I had high expectations based on their engagement session at Mellon Park last fall. Katie & Derek were so comfortable, relaxed and full of genuine smiles, and their session was one of my all-time favorites. It’s no surprise that their families were just as happy and wonderful to be around, and that made for such a great day.

We began with Katie and Derek getting ready at the Homewood Suites in the Strip District. When I saw Katie’s dress, I stopped and stared in awe for a moment before snapping back into action. Purchased at Luna Occasion (formerly Glitter & Grit), her dress was simple, classic, elegant and completely unique. And so light and comfortable to wear! Studio Seven provided Katie’s simple low updo and makeup was by Courtney Holdrieth.

Once everyone was ready, we drove to Washington’s Landing for Katie & Derek’s very sweet first look. We were able to do all of their family photos and bridal party photos, but when we heard some thunder Katie said she’d feel better if we went back to the shuttle. Good thing we followed her instinct, because as soon as we were in the van it started to pour down rain! Not just a few drops, but a heavy rainfall. We were all pretty dumbstruck at what a close call it was!

Our early return gave us time for some photos inside the Heinz History Center. We visited some familiar spots like the trolley, but I was very, very excited to have the opportunity to use the traveling Prohibition exhibit. It’s only there for a few more weeks, so I was thrilled to have time for some portraits in this very unique space.

Katie and Derek had a very sweet, emotional ceremony, officiated by Jim Burn, in the Heinz History Center Library & Archives Room. Guests enjoyed cocktail hour in the 4th floor Campbell Gallery before heading down to the Great Hall for the reception. This was my first time working with DJ Mark of Marquee Wedding Company, and he was fantastic! Katie & Derek’s guests were pretty remarkable too – check out the split!

Many thanks to Erica Dietz for shooting this wonderful wedding with me, some of the images below are hers.

Bride and her sister laughing as they get ready

Katie’s sister was overwhelmed by seeing her sister in her gown… what a sweet moment.

Katie chose not to wear a veil, and I think that was an excellent decision. Loved her simple, elegant, classic look! Bouquet by greenSinner.

The bridal party singing along to “It’s Raining Men” and “Let it Go” as we headed back to the History Center. Back at the History Center, we had a blast in the Prohibition exhibit.

Loved how the groomsmen embraced playing the part of the bartenders here. “If we’re bartenders, we should take our jackets off, right?” Katie absolutely nailed the mugshot expression.

Katie and her dad entertaining themselves before the ceremony.
Yes, they’ve already seen each other, but, awwwwww. Awwww again.

At my own wedding, my favorite photos were a few that our photographer shot right after my husband and I walked out of our ceremony. Erica, who has a fabulous sense of when and where something magical is going to happen, followed the newlyweds out of the ceremony and captured this super sweet moment. Cake by Bethel Bakery. Flowers by greenSinner.