Saturday was a gorgeous, hot summer day for high school sweethearts Katie and Chris to tie the knot. These two have known each other for quite a long time, and were both so very excited to finally be getting married.

Katie was also super excited – with very good reason – to be wearing this amazing Sottero and Midgley gown. It looked amazing hanging in the window, but not nearly as gorgeous as it did once Katie put it on. Her awesome mom Kathy very capably laced up the back. As Katie and Chris’s ceremony began at 5:30pm, she and Chris opted to see each other and take pictures ahead of time. Katie told me this was the part of the day she was most excited about. With good reason – Katie and Chris were both positively glowing. Next two photos by my second shooter Nicki Dembski. Such genuine happy smiles! After Katie and Chris’s portraits in the Strip District, it was time to go to the Heinz History Center for their ceremony in the Great Hall. Chris smiled all day, but I particularly love seeing this smile as Katie comes down the aisle. I think the judge is reminding Katie who to put the ring on. Just married!The Heinz History Center’s service never ceases to amaze me. After the ceremony, guests attended cocktail hour on the fourth floor. In that short span of time, the History Center and Common Plea staff transformed the Great Hall from the ceremony setup into the reception location. I’ll share some more photos of the room and the details in a separate post.

First dance: “Better Together” by Jack Johnson. Katie’s father gave a very touching and sincere speech, clearly very moved to see his daughter getting married to the love of her life. Chris’s brothers tried to figure out who among them was the ultimate Best Man. Two very sweet dances followed dinner.You know, I’m not sure I have any photos of Chris not smiling. Katie and Chris’s guests never got tired of dancing – even chanting “one more song!” at the end of the night.  Flo Rida’s “Low” brought out some impressive acrobatics. Apparently the “Curly Shuffle” is a traditional dance song in Katie’s family. These guys went all out – and down – spinning around on the floor. Hilarious!Congratulations Katie and Chris! Wishing you buon viaggio.

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The Credits

Ceremony and Reception Venue:
Heinz History Center

Caterer: The Common Plea

Flowers: Gidas

Katie’s Dress: Bridal Beginnings – Sottero and Midgley

DJ: DJ Gary

Cake: Bethel Bakery

Hair & Makeup: Stephen Szabo Salon

Photo booth: Shutterbooth

Finally, a very special thank you to my assistant for the day, Susan Montemurro, for tirelessly lugging huge bags, moving light stands, holding flashes, changing lenses, driving, bringing me water… thanks, Mom.

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Christina Montemurro Photography is a top-rated photography studio specializing in special events, including weddings and bar mitzvahs, serving the greater Pittsburgh area. Christina’s focus is on creating genuine, heartfelt, relaxed images, with extraordinary attention to detail and customer service. Contact Christina now to check availability for your engagement session, wedding, bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah. Christina has been rated among top Pittsburgh photographers. You can read reviews by Christina’s past brides and grooms here and here.