Shannon + Philip | Renaissance Hotel Pittsburgh Wedding Photos

I love the Renaissance Hotel Pittsburgh so much. It’s a beautiful hotel, and it’s in a perfect location in the heart of downtown. It’s no surprise I was really looking forward to Shannon & Philip’s wedding, especially since they carved out almost 2 full hours for photos! Umm, yes please :) It was so wonderful working with them too, they’re so laid back and up for anything (you know, like following me around downtown for 2 hours). Here’s their story…

An event 9+ years in the making, Shannon and Philip met in suburban Pittsburgh at the ripe age of 13 in a Middle School study hall. It would be several more years until a mutual friend’s locker location would lead them to cultivate a friendship that centered on hallway interactions and T9 texting. That friendship would blossom into a first date at the local skating rink and Shannon taking the big leap of asking Philip to the Sadie Hawkins Dance (in his khaki pants). And as they say, the rest is history.
High School dances in Pittsburgh, an undergraduate experience in Lexington, a graduate degree and career kickoff in Pittsburgh, and a couple years under their belt in New York City.
They’re finally ready to do this thing!

After months of throwing her off the scent by saying things like, “We should just never get married and see how mad we can make people,” Philip proposed over a Memorial Day weekend trip home to Pittsburgh. With his brother and sister in tow as “secret” photographers, Philip proposed at the fountain at Point State Park. Underestimating how busy that area of town has become during Downtown’s new revival, they were met with applause and cheers by those strolling the park.

We’re using this as an opportunity to show off our hometown. Having spent just 1 of the last 7 years in Pittsburgh, we have a fondness for the city which made us into who we are today and sing its praises as often as possible. With a guest list of mostly out-of-towners, it was important to have signature pittsburgh touches like a cookie table and pair an industrial feel with a classy atmosphere.

Here are a few of my favorites from their Renaissance Hotel Pittsburgh wedding!

 

Hair & Makeup: Verve 360
Wedding Dress: The White Gown
Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal
Tuxedos: Bloomingdales (Groom), Men’s Wearhouse (Groomsmen)
Engagement and Wedding Rings: Malidani Jewelrey
Ceremony & Reception: Renaissance Hotel Pittsburgh
DJ: First Class Entertainment
Cake Artist: Prantls
Honeymoon: St. Lucia
Wedding Photographers: Aaron Varga Photography

Aaron Varga Photography is a top Pittsburgh wedding photography studio serving downtown Pittsburgh and all surrounding areas. We specialize in creating modern, glamorous, and timeless photographs and providing an unmatched photography experience. Contact us for information and availability for your wedding or engagement session!