School’s In Session: Alyssa Carlotta and Joe Flading

A never-done-before venue and an unexpected choice of music made this couple’s wedding a one-of-a-kind event.
470
CWW16_FEATURE_School1

Photographs by Jonathan Gibson Photography

There were several details Alyssa Carlotta and Joe Flading knew they wanted for their wedding from the very beginning: a winter setting, soft lighting, and a wallet-friendly price tag. “Fabulous on a budget” is how Alyssa describes her vision. “I wanted it to be classic but not too over-the-top.”

Having the 237-guest reception in the auditorium of Roger Bacon High School—Alyssa’s alma mater and where she is currently employed as assistant director of admissions—was the perfect place to start. “It’s a beautiful space that no one had ever done a wedding in before,” she says.

Roger Bacon High School
Roger Bacon High School

Photographs by Jonathan Gibson Photography

String lights dangled over the dance floor and clusters of candles gave the space a warm glow. Bundles of baby’s breath were used as bouquets and centerpieces, a charming nod to snowballs for the February wedding. Gold chargers and gold flower vases gave the room an elegant touch, but canned Bud Light and red Solo cups kept the vibe down-to-earth. It was festive but not frilly, lovely yet low-key.

CWW16_FEATURE_School2

Photographs by Jonathan Gibson Photography

In lieu of a traditional band or DJ, Alyssa and Joe opted for dueling pianos as the evening’s entertainment, which was a surprisingly affordable choice. “They played everything from classical music to modern-day pop,” Joe says, noting that the pianists happily took guests’ requests. “So many people danced at the wedding.” During their ceremony at St. Francis de Sales Parish, a string quartet played a nontraditional lineup that included “I See the Light” from Disney’s Tangled and “Feather Theme” from the Forrest Gump soundtrack.

Guests were served Eli’s BBQ for dinner, complete with all the sides and fixings. In addition to a gorgeous white wedding cake, Joe was also presented with a chocolate-on-chocolate groom’s cake that paid tribute to his football career at Ohio University.

Eli's Barbeque
Eli’s Barbeque

Photographs by Jonathan Gibson Photography

Wedding Cake

Photographs by Jonathan Gibson Photography

To honor Alyssa’s late father, who passed away in 2004, her mom sewed his initials into Alyssa’s veil, which she hand made. On the back of her shoes, Alyssa pasted pictures of her father and uncle, who had passed away the December prior. Other members of the two families were represented in a display of family wedding photos.

CWW16_FEATURE_School3

Photographs by Jonathan Gibson Photography

With everything now behind them, Alyssa offers this advice for future brides: “Make sure you enjoy the process, and take help when people offer it!”

Vendors
Wedding Date: February 7, 2015 Ceremony: St. Francis de Sales Parish Reception: Roger Bacon High School Flowers: Kreutzer & Dorl Florist (bouquets and boutonnieres) and Simply Elegant FloralDesign LLC (centerpieces) Gown: Maggie Sottero, Bridal and Formal Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo Groomsmen Tuxes: Folchi’s Formal Wear Bride’s Hair: Suzanne McLain-Merkin Bride’s Makeup: Jessica Penney Ceremony Music: Hawthorne String Quartet Entertainment:
Metro Live Entertainment LLC (dueling pianos) Catering: Eli’s BBQ Cake: North College Hill Bakery Invitations/Stationery: Kayla Risch Design Transportation: Jimmy’s Limousine Service

Facebook Comments