Wedding at Ariel International Center | Jessica and Tony

Weddings

September 29, 2021

Jessica and Tony are MARRIED! These two had a vibrant wedding at the one and only Ariel International Center in Cleveland, Ohio on July 30th, 2021—and I’m sure I’ve said this about other weddings, but it’s never been truer: this wedding day will forever and ever be etched into my mind.

Tony and Jessica met at a dive bar and hit it off right away, which is no surprise, considering they’re both kind, brilliant, and funny—with just the right amount of quirkiness. They really, really appreciate one another, and have the kind of love that you can feel just by being in their presence.

I’d be remiss not to mention that an incomprehensible tragedy occurred just hours before these two were scheduled to say “I do,” but I want to place my emphasis on the day’s unspeakable love and joy—and the way Jess and Tony’s family and friends rallied around them, radiating light and doing everything in their power to give them as normal of a wedding day as possible.

So, Ariel International Center: love, love, love this venue. It offers the perfect industrial vibe, as well as jaw-dropping views of downtown Cleveland. Jess and Tony had their first look on the rooftop, where birds kept soaring by, and the clouds were pretty, which truly amplified the profound emotion felt in those moments. I always enjoy first looks, but this particular one—and the way Jess and Tony so tangibly found comfort in each other’s presence—about did me in.

Jess wore a gorgeous v-neck wedding dress with subtle hints of polka dots. She had hearts sewn into her dress, as well as a photo in her bouquet, to hold tribute to loved ones no longer with them. Tony looked dapper as all get-out, and I’m a big fan of the flamingo lining he had sewn into his jacket.

There was lost-in-the-moment dancing, SO much laughter, and love beyond words—and I’m just incredibly grateful I’m the one who got to photograph day one of Jess and Tony’s official forever. Cheers to you, Jess and Tony—and here’s to many, many years of nothing but the good stuff.