Internally, we had been preparing for Joanna and David’s wedding for weeks. Everything had to be perfect. We scouted the Hyatt Arcade in downtown Cleveland on multiple occasions. We went over the plan again and again. Finally the day had arrived, and what a day it was. While planning and scouting always has a place, nothing had prepared me for what was about to unfold. Start with amazing ladies making up the bridal party, add the most incredible “first look” I have seen, and top it off with one heck of a party! Oh, and throw in a dash of awesome parents.
Joanna and David really had something special going. And it all started with the first look. In fact, the first look was so amazing that it deserved an entirely separate post. I suggest you check it out. Beyond the first look, the wedding was centered around family and close friends. And I can understand why. David’s near-twin sisters were so sweet. Joanna’s sister and Maid of Honor is lovely. And their friends kept the whole group laughing and having fun. Heck, I think Michael made fast friends with David’s dad.
Even better was the location. The Hyatt Arcade is a mallway of sorts left over from the turn of the century. Featuring four floors and an atrium roof, it is completely decorated in bronze-painted wrought iron. To which Joanna and David added a smart, modern design. The whole place glowed warmly at night. My personal favorite was the table numbers, featuring photos from each year of their lives.
Once the festivities began, things really got crazy. The hora was amazing (and a little scary). A Soul-Train-esque dance line broke out and there was even a singing bride with a microphone. To say it was great fun would be an understatement.
Taking care of the little touches above and below.
Above – Joanna slipping into her gorgeous dress and a long debate of necklaces. Below, a last embrace from mom.
Ahh beer – the stable of gentleman’s morning preparations.
We could feel the anticipation building, like lightning about to strike. We were all in our places, and for a moment, no one knew how to begin.
With anticipation let loose, love filled the air. Michael and I just stood there and captured it all. The real magic came from Joanna and David.
I love the button above, and I think he did as well. Below – a beautiful view inside the Hyatt Arcade.
A quick review of the ketubah before signing, followed by a frantic search for yarmulkes before a prayer.
The above is my absolute favorite. Quick comfort from Maid of Honor and sister. I still can’t get over this photo.
With a crack and an embrace, it’s time to celebrate (that almost rhymes).
During the hora, I was almost as panic-stricken as Joanna. I think I almost dropped my camera twice, but we got the shot!
Above and below – a Soul-Train-esque dance line, shot two ways.
This I never expected – Joanna dancing with the microphone and singing “That Thing You Do”. Instant classic!
So that’s the end of a really exciting weekend. For Joanna and David, I’m eternally thankful that you included us in your wedding day. It was truly magical. Looking forward, we’ll have more great weddings soon.
