When I first had a conversation with Bridget about her 300+ guest celebration at Butterfield it was in the early parts of 2021. On my agenda for that week was likely a series of other conversations with 2020 reschedules who were either postponing for a second (or third, or fourth) time or deciding to forego their receptions all together. It seemed inconceivable to be thinking about bringing together a group of that size when gatherings were restricted to 25 people! However, as soon as Bridget mentioned her plans for a lighthearted Valentine’s-themed wedding I was hooked. I am so thrilled we were able to make this incredibly unique and fun celebration happen for such an amazing couple.
The morning was filled with boundless energy as the ladies hung out in their Valentine’s jammies and enjoyed some mimosas. It was a bright and beautiful day outside and we knew it was going to be a fun one! Bridget’s hairstyle was by the incomparable Alex Brown while Erin Graham and team took care of the rest of the wedding party. To round out the glam squad, Joey Claeyssen and his artists took care of makeup for the crew. Everyone truly looked stunning! Kerri Carlquist and Aaron Bean ensured every moment was captured for posterity.
Meanwhile, Brian and his gents were at the Ritz Carlton enjoying an easy morning before it was time to meet up for photos!
Bridget put on her gown with her mom and sisters. Her “reveal” moment with her bridesmaids was a favorite. Obviously Bridget looked gorgeous and I just loved all the fun reactions from her incredible group of ladies.
When Bridget and Brian shared their first look stepping out of the vintage Rolls Royce from CelebLux Limos, you would never have known temperatures were well below freezing. Thankfully the group was able to catch a handful outdoor pics before jumping in their vehicles to head to the church.
Holy Name was the perfect setting for this grand occasion and the service was beautiful. Father Jack Wall presided and as a friend of the family, he shared many personal anecdotes about the couple.
Guests and wedding party alike boarded buses from Way to Go Limousine to head to Butterfield Country Club for the reception. The epic Valentine’s celebration was about to begin!
Avant Gardenia knocked the decor out of the park. As I mentioned, at the start Bridget was looking for a “light” Valentine’s theme…but Jenna and I were able to convince her that you have to go all in and we are SO glad she took our advice. Cocktail hour featured a Photo Booth by Magic Moment with this custom “kissing both” display placed in front. Could not have been more adorable! Guests were treated to Valentines as escort cards (thanks, Greenstar Paperie!) and signature cocktails with a pink cloud of cotton candy on top.
Inside the ballroom, the space had been transformed: a white vinyl dance floor with a heart B&B logo, a floral stage front and an incredible 3-dimensional band backdrop with candy hearts, a giant carnation heart in front of the sweetheart table, several different tabletop concepts, and a cake by The Pastry Palace with a mini replica of their dog Dutch taking a little bite out of the cake. Bridget was in awe when she walked in, and her vendor team were all ECSTATIC with how perfectly everything came together.
Following a delightful meal served by Butterfield Country Club, the bride and groom were toasted by many friends and family members. Because the Catholic Church doesn’t allow couples to write their own vows, after cutting their cake Bridget and Brian shared their personal vows to one another on the dance floor and they were as memorable as could be (Bridget is actually a ghost writer for wedding toasts, so clearly she had some experience in this genre!)!
Finally it was time to PARTY! Rod Tuffcurls and The Bench Press was on hand to kick off dancing and the party did not stop until the wee hours of the morning. Guests got a chance to take home some human cookies OR some special doggie treats for their pups, courtesy of Dutch.
Absolutely LOVED this video short Aaron Bean created.
Bridget and Brian, it was a total pleasure getting to know you. Can’t wait to hear about all your upcoming adventures!
