Tina and James chose to marry  at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. They met in the fall of 2003 as freshman in Italian class, and seven years later, brought their relationship full circle, by tying the knot where it all began! Guests, for the wedding, came from as far away as Caracas, Venezuela, where the bride spent much of her childhood, so incorporating elements that reflected her background was important to her.  Chocolate bon bons, hand carried from Venezuela by her Mother, served as the guest favor. A Latin salsa band delighted and entertained guests during the reception, and the evening was topped off with a custom called ‘cotillion’. Guests were invited to don feathered masks, top hands, shake maracas, blow horns and join the conga line in this custom that feels like a combination of Mardi Gras, New Years Eve and a Masquerade Ball!

Tina’s clutch was embroidered with her new married name, and wedding date – what an amazing keepsake! I absolutely adored it!

This bench on campus was where Tina and James shared their first kiss! They spent a few quiet moments there before the ceremony.

Just before it was time to go to the Basilica to await the ceremony – the skies opened up!! James, with an assist from a couple of his groomsmen, made sure Tina got to the church safe and dry!

Tina, in her cotillion mask and…..

more cotillion shenanigans!!

Our vendors:

Ceremony site: Basilica of the Sacred Heart, University of Notre Dame

Reception site: Palais Royale Ballroom, South Bend, IN

Floral/Decor: MichaelAngelos

Photography: Adam Novak Photography

Videography: Blink of an Eye Productions

Event Design & Coordination, Specialty Rentals: Celebrated Events

Paperie: Cloud Nine Invitation Design

Wedding Cake: Rascia’s Creative Cakes

Hair: Emerald Cut Salon and Spa/ Bridal Hair Stylist: Eric Woolridge

Makeup: Gabrielle Thompson/ GabGlam

Reception Entertainment:Rica Obsesion

Favor: La Praline Chocolatier, Caracas, Venezuela