from city strolls to rolling hills
Crisp autumn leaves swirled around the newly engaged couple, Liz and Matt, and their loyal companion, Beau, as they strolled hand-in-hand through Pittsburgh’s North Side. I captured their love story in photographs amidst the vibrant fall foliage. Fast forward to last weekend when the couple said: “I do.” Liz and Matt celebrated their wedding nestled amidst the rolling hills of southwestern Pennsylvania at the Grayson House.
a relaxed elegance
Liz and Matt envisioned a wedding that was both relaxed and elegant. They searched for a venue that reflected their love for nature and easygoing personalities. They infused the ceremony with personal touches, like writing heartwarming letters to each other that were shared for the first time during the ceremony. Even their sweet dog, Beau, was part of the day by being featuring in a photoshoot with the bride and groom outside the Grayson House before the festivities began.
a warm and inviting atmosphere
Liz, a natural planner, had a clear vision for their wedding: a low-key celebration of love, surrounded by the most important people in their lives. Liz wasn’t concerned about elaborate details or a stressful timeline; instead she envisioned a warm and inviting atmosphere where love and laughter could take center stage. Drawn to the beauty of the Grayson House’s whitewashed interior and the abundance of natural light, Liz knew it would be the perfect setting to bring her vision to life.
an emotion filled ceremony
The ceremony itself took place outdoors under a canopy of trees and flowers, creating a breathtaking natural sanctuary. Surrounded by loved ones forming the wedding party, including four flower girls, a ring bearer, friends, family, and coworkers, the atmosphere buzzed with joy and anticipation. Liz, escorted by her proud father, walked down the aisle, perhaps with a glimpse of Beau waiting patiently nearby. Tears welled up in eyes, and laughter filled the air – a testament to the beautiful tapestry of their relationship. This heartwarming exchange of emotions perfectly captured the essence of Liz and Matt’s love story, a story filled with love, laughter, and the joy of celebrating with those closest to them.
a celebration of love and laughter
The reception was a joyous celebration filled with music that kept everyone dancing well into the night. The Grayson House’s rustic charm perfectly complemented Liz and Matt’s love for nature. Tables adorned with flowers and flickering candles were set both inside the whitewashed venue and out on the patio, allowing guests to enjoy the fresh air and rolling hills. A delicious meal tantalized taste buds, featuring a spread of classic comfort food – roasted chicken, pasta, and juicy prime rib alongside a salad, creamy smashed potatoes, and perfectly seasoned green beans. Guests delighted in slices of wedding cake and an assortment of cookies, while the open bar offered refreshing drinks to toast to the happy couple.
embracing golden hour
As the golden hour cast a warm glow upon the rolling hills, Liz and Matt stole a few moments to dance alone outside, bathed in the golden light. Their love story, a testament to the enduring power of laughter, companionship, and the beauty of expressing love through heartfelt words, unfolded beautifully from the golden leaves of Pittsburgh to the rolling hills of southwestern Pennsylvania. May their journey together be filled with as much love, laughter, and joy as their wedding day.
The interview
Their wedding day was a beautiful culmination of their love story. Now, let’s delve deeper into their experience with a few questions for Liz!
How did you meet?
We met in the fall of 2021 in the backyard of mutual friends, Lisa Vellky & Ryan Douglas. Lisa kindly invited her new coworker Liz and her dog, Beau, over to their house one Saturday evening in September for a bonfire. Matt, who has been good friends with Ryan for years, was a regular Saturday night guest at Lisa & Ryan’s house but was intrigued with the cute new blonde guest, that showed up that night, Beau!
Matt and Beau developed an instant connection and quickly bonded over their shared love of whatever food Matt was eating. Lisa and Ryan continued to invite Beau and Liz over whenever Matt was around especially to watch Steelers games. Eventually, Liz took notice of Beau’s good taste and started to give Matt the time of day.
Matt and I had our first date in October of 2021 at Eighth and Hays. We continued to go on many dates that fall and winter including a Penn State Football game, comedy shows, Steelers games, trips to Matt’s family hunting camp, dinners cooked by one another and many walks with Beau. Since that fall, we have cooked countless meals together and traveled to Carolina Beach, Avalon New Jersey, Key West, Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Acadia National Park where we got engaged.
Where did you get engaged?
We were visiting Acadia National Park in Maine for a fall vacation. Matt popped the question on a hike at a spot near the ocean away from any onlookers. He knows Liz hates attention and would cringe at the thought of anyone clapping or making a scene.
What do you enjoy doing together?
We enjoy cooking, traveling, spending time with our dog, and playing board games. We especially like to bring games with us when we travel and often find time in the evenings to play a game of Chinese checkers. It’s fun to find a nice spot to watch a sunset while plotting our next move on the board.
Liz and Matt’s journey, from engagement photos amidst fall foliage to their wedding nestled in rolling hills, is a heartwarming testament to love. Their story reminds us that love can blossom in unexpected places, and beautiful memories can be created through each stage of a relationship. Wishing Liz and Matt all the happiness in the world as they embark on their new chapter together!
Extending gratitude to the incredible team who made Liz and Matt’s wedding day so special.
VENUE The Grayson House PHOTOGRAPHY Laura Mares Photography
FLORAL Something Borrowed Blooms HAIR Jessica Zegarelli
MAKEUP Tamie Konzier GOWN Custom Antonio Gaul DJ TK the DJ
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Birdygrey OFFICIANT Unity by Kristine
CATERING Hartsek Family Catering CAKE Four Oaks Bakery
COOKIES Beth’s Cookie Table WELCOME SIGN Balloon Boutique PGH
SHUTTLE SERVICE Red Carpet Limosine JEWELRY Jared
Let's tell your love story!
Let’s work together to create beautiful images that you can treasure for a lifetime!
