| Love, Fireworks... and Hockey
The lives of Cathryn “Catie” Manning and Major Brian Novogradac were joined together in an intimate outdoor ceremony at the Tucson Country Club. The celebration was equal parts traditional and modern while emphasizing the distinct personalities of both the bride and groom.
The beauty of the Southwest landscape, from the mesquite grove, dappled in lights, to the dazzling colors of the setting sun, set the mood for this personal and intimate service held in the round, encircling an antique wood table.
With a nod to tradition, the ceremony featured a Military Sabre Arch created by a six-member team of friends and co-workers of the groom, under which both guests, as well as the couple, passed. The ceremony music was unique and sentimental, with the Lakme Flower Duet being sung as the bride was escorted by her parents down the aisle.
Once the couple had exchanged vows, they were photographed in a modern outdoor living room setting, complete with sofa, coffee table and even a chandelier. Catie’s classic sophistication and Brian’s love of sports were highlighted during the reception. The candle-lit lounge was filled with elegant, decadent colors of mocha, espresso and deep red. Meanwhile, the table names reflected Brian’s fondness for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins. The groom’s cake was shaped like a giant hockey puck with the Penguins’ logo in the center. The more traditional wedding cake, on the other hand, featured antique brooches, delicate white pearl frosting, cascading chocolate ribbons and crimson-hued roses.
Despite the threat of rain, the day’s festivities went off without a hitch, including a twenty-minute surprise fireworks display over the golf course (secretly coordinated by the bride). The groom summed up the intensity of the day’s events, noting, “this was one of those moments where everything came together and was as close to perfection as one can get.”
Location:
Tucson Country Club
Photographer:
ZWeddingz by Philip Ramackers & Co.
Entertainment:
Desert DJs, Arianna String Quartet
Videography:
Beyond Video |