MJ + Michael | Hotel Monaco Wedding Photos

Oh man am I excited to share this wedding :) I’ve been looking forward to MJ & Michael’s wedding ever since their amazing Pennsylvanian and North Shore engagement session last year. I knew immediately that these two were going to make my job super easy and they did not disappoint. All events were at the super chic Kimpton Hotel Monaco in downtown Pittsburgh and it was the perfect venue. Between this venue, the amazing list of vendors, and this incredible couple I can’t get enough of this wedding. I could go on and on but MJ summed it up perfectly…

From MJ:

Michael and I met at a coffee shop; I was getting a large latte when I noticed him ordering a small, decaf tea. He had a terrific smile, so I decided to give him some sass for his order. This encounter led to Michael taking me on the most spectacular city date. When friends asked how it went, he replied, “Great! I met my wife.”

It didn’t take long to realize our relationship was as good as it gets. We loved being in each other’s company, and our shared hopes and dreams always circled back to family and God. On September 24, 2017, one year from our first date, Michael proposed in a downtown courtyard at sunset. The ring still takes my breath away. It’s engraved, “Worth the wait.”

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh is near and dear to our love story, and there was no turning back once we took my mom for a tour. We wanted guests to experience the chic, vibrant interior as well as the open-air rooftop deck, and we knew Aaron Varga’s exquisite, bold, timeless photography style would be perfect for Monaco.

Our wedding aesthetic was driven by the words of Coco Chanel: “Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.” Décor was intentionally minimal as the venue is stunning all on its own. Our black, white and ivory palette was inspired by the hotel’s signature houndstooth curtains, and the couple pieces we added to fingerprint the ballrooms will be used in our new home.

As a Monaco bride, a clean dress with a timeless silhouette was essential. My fit and flare gown featured a straight neckline, cascading buttons, and architectural seams, which complimented our long stem calla lilies. Michael was the forever guy, and this was the dress I would always love. Since the gown had minimal embellishment, I decided to have some fun by switching up accessories for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. Michael surprised me with a show-stopper necklace that lit up the dance floor.

Our wedding marked the first time everyone came together to celebrate us, which made the day so momentous. We opted to forgo a bridal shower and bachelor(ette) parties but wanted family and friends present as we exchanged vows. Our ceremony included Michael and I sharing statements of love, meaningful music selections, a beautiful message on God’s love, and a tribute to our parents. They mean the world to us and deserved to be recognized that day. The greatest moment was the double doors opening on cue to Barbra Streisand; all guests were on their feet and my handsome prince was waiting for me. My “someday” was May 24, 2019. #ido412

Here are just a few of my favorites from their Hotel Monaco wedding!

Venue: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh
Coordinator: Kristen Stewart of Hotel Monaco
Officiant: Josiah Leuenberger of Orchard Hill Church
Stationary Designer: Angela Laskovics of Angela Pro Design
Florist: David Ludwig of Hepatica
Hair Artist: Shari Tuminello of Tease Salon
Makeup Artist: Lyndsie Hinch of Makeup Design Studio
Cake Designer: Beverly Tuminello of The Tasty Baker
Disc Jockey: John Mitch of 2nd II None Productions
Wedding Gown: Maggie Sottera from The Exquisite Bride
Reception Dress: Eliza J from Nordstrom
Jewelry: Sara Gabriel, Cartier, Camilla Christine
Shoes: Louise et Cie
Bride’s Attire Consultant: Courtney Shovel of Exquisite Bride
Bridesmaid Dress: Avery G from Bloomingdale’s
Suits: Jos. A. Bank
Groom’s Attire Consultant: Jacqueline Hayes of Jos. A. Bank
Engagement Ring: Ritani
Wedding Bands: Henne (hers), Paul Michael Design (his)
Honeymoon: Greece
Videographers: Jeremy and Amanda Scott of Jeremy Scott Films
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!