Nobody would want their wedding ever to be considered ‘normal’ or ‘typical’, yet it’s so easy to stick with standard wedding traditions, even if those traditions don’t really feel natural to the bride and groom.  I always encourage my clients to make new traditions and forget the ones that don’t work for them.  Ann Donovan and Joe Carretta igrnored almost every standard wedding tradition and created something truly unique for their reception at the Pittsburgh Zoo.

The tent area at the Pittsburgh Zoo is a wonderful, large space for a reception.  The weather was perfect so guests could enjoy themselves both inside and out on a beautiful August day.

Instead of a cake, Joe and Ann had a table filled with amazing cupcakes!

The music for the reception was a fun mix of every genre.  Cocktail hour and dinner was filled with great singer/songwriter songs from the likes of Jack Johnson.  When dancing began, the guests crowded the floor to everything from Motown to disco to modern hits.

Joe and Ann had a sweet first dance after dinner, and then it was on to the celebration!

One of the things I loved about Joe & Ann’s reception was how everything was set up to be very family friendly while still including ways for the adults to party.

Joe and Ann now share their anniversary with the birthday of their sweet daughter Stella.  At the end of the night she was still going stronger than most of the guests. Look at those beautiful eyes!

It was great to work with Ann, Joe & Stella to make a day that suited their new family perfectly.  They created an amazingly unique day for their friends and family that was truly special for everyone.

Photography: Dawn Hartman Photography
Photobooth: Shutter Booth
Venue: Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium

The outdoor tent makes for a beautiful location for a reception.  The weather was amazing for Kate and Josh’s big day so guests could enjoy the outdoor cocktail hour and then enter the tent for dinner.

In place of name cards, each guest’s name was printed on to a beautiful rock.  I still love this idea.

This little guy made his own grand entrance before the reception began…

It’s always a terrific experience to perform for an outdoor reception, the open environment really helps people relax and enjoy themselves.  This year Kate and Josh are  coming up on their 4th wedding anniversary!   They were wonderful and fun to work, it was easy to make their day a fun and unique celebration.

Venue: Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium