Weddings

Two-Day Luxury Wedding at The Carnegie and The Summit Hotel; An Elegant Celebration for Margaret & John

Sometimes you meet a couple that just dazzles you from top to bottom. Margaret and John are one of those rare renaissance couples that makes you simultaneously want to be them and be around them. They ooze kindness and charm at every turn and their wedding was a perfect extension of the life and community these two have built. This couple took a traditional wedding structure and thoughtfully expanded it into a two-day luxury wedding at The Carnegie and The Summit Hotel. The weekend began with an intimate ceremony on Friday evening, shared with only their closest family and friends. Margaret and John exchanged vows at St. Stephen Catholic Church surrounded by about forty loved ones, creating a warm and meaningful start to the festivities.

Before the ceremony, this effervescent couple shared a quiet first look. You can see their joy and sheer love for one another in these photos. They were even joined by their neighbors on the street to say hello before their ceremony, since they live right around the corner from this iconic venue!

Following their first look, Margaret and John gathered with their closest circle inside St. Stephen Catholic Church for a heartfelt ceremony. The intimate setting allowed every guest to feel deeply connected to the moment as the couple officially began their life together. The pomp and circumstance of this large church was paired delightfully with some light hearted commentary about John’s memorable whiskey collection and additional personal details that made their ceremony feel beautifully authentic.

After the ceremony, the celebration continued at the stunning Carnegie Center of Columbia Tusculum. I cannot understate the audacious beauty of these table scapes. (Pro tip: choose a singular color palette and use different shades vs. multiple colors but a refined look!) Margaret and John enjoyed an elegant evening reception filled with heartfelt toasts, laughter, and the first moments of their wedding celebration in the candle light. It was the perfect first night of their two-day luxury wedding at The Carnegie and The Summit Hotel!

The following day, Margaret and John welcomed a much larger circle of friends and family to continue the celebration at The Summit Hotel. While Friday evening was reserved for an intimate ceremony with their closest loved ones, Saturday was designed as a joyful gathering that allowed their wider community to take part in the celebration. The entire weekend struck a beautiful balance between meaningful tradition and vibrant celebration.

Margaret and John spent the afternoon getting ready with friends, basking in laughter and excitement as the evening approached. There were so many special details that were included in this beautiful wedding, from the rings and stationary to the custom shoes and floral purse (both made by Margaret), everything was planned with creativity and intention.

When guests gathered for the evening reception, Margaret and John chose to share deeply personal vows with one another. The moment was heartfelt and emotional, allowing their love story to take center stage in front of the community gathered to celebrate with them.

Following the vows, friends and family shared heartfelt toasts that reflected the joy and admiration surrounding the couple. The evening continued with the unmistakable energy of a room filled with people who were truly excited to be part of Margaret and John’s story.

As the night continued, the celebration transformed into an unforgettable dance party. They cut a gorgeous vintage cake that reminded us of Cassidy and Alexander’s cake from last year before hitting the dance floor! One particularly special tradition came from the groom and his college friends, who performed a song and dance that has become a beloved part of each of their weddings. The performance brought the room to life and perfectly captured the spirit of their wedding weekend!

By hosting a two-day luxury wedding at The Carnegie and The Summit Hotel, Margaret and John created a wedding experience that felt both intimate and expansive. The images truly reflected our signature approach to documenting non-traditional celebrations – capturing weddings that are deeply personal, intentionally designed, and filled with genuine joy.

Friday Venue St. Stephen Catholic Church @thecarnegiecenter
Saturday Venue & Catering @the_summit_hotel
Photographer @lovekmedia
Event Design & Signage @_thesocialcollective @signandsealed
Florist @evefloralco
Coordination @bluedahliaevents
Saturday Desserts @the_greek_baker
Live Band @bluewaterkingsband
Bridal HMU @flawlesshairandmakeupartistry
Custom Welcome Chocolates @aglamesisbros

About Kate

Kate Cohen (she/her) is an International LGBTQIA+ wedding photographer based in Northern California who is focused on storytelling, candid captures, and iconic portraits of couples all over the globe.

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