We’ve known Michelle and Ryan for years, so when they asked us to capture their wedding at the Urban Garden in uptown Charlotte, it was SUCH an easy yes. Aside from their venue being beautiful, Michelle told us a little secret about the reception that got us even more excited about the day… but we couldn’t mention anything about it to Ryan. The anticipation was killing us, but first, a little more about their day…

Michelle got ready for the day at the Omni Charlotte Hotel with her mom and bridesmaids, which was conveniently across the street from the reception venue. Michelle was emotional throughout the morning, especially when she sat down to write her letter to Ryan that would accompany some very thoughtful gifts including cuff links and a handkerchief featuring his late grandmother. Meanwhile, Ryan started the day with his groomsmen and the dads at their home in south Charlotte.

Catholic Ceremony at Saint Vincent de Paul

Ryan and Michelle had a very traditional Catholic ceremony at Saint Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. While Catholic ceremonies can often be long and somewhat boring, Deacon Larry knew the couple well and entertained us with his enthusiastic well wishes for them. Following the ceremony, Michelle, Ryan and their wedding party hopped on a party bus to First Ward Park in uptown for some fun group photos and newlywed portraits. They were even briefly joined by their sweet dog, Bailey!

Urban Garden Wedding Reception

After a quick outfit change, Michelle and Ryan arrived at the Urban Garden ready to celebrate! They had some sweet first dances and hilarious toasts before they opened up the dancefloor for the real party.

Should You Hire Sir Purr for Your Wedding? Heck yeah!

As we said at the beginning, Michelle had a secret that she wanted to surprise Ryan with on the dance floor of the Urban Garden! At one point in the night, Sir Purr came running into the reception hall and ended up dancing with the entire crowd! And he can *really* shake his hips, if we do say so ourselves.

Ceremony Location: Saint Vincent de Paul Catholic Church | Reception Venue: The Urban Garden | Getting Ready Locations: Omni Charlotte Hotel and Private Residence | Planner: ACE Wedding Planning | Officiant: Deacon Larry | Caterer: Compass Group | DJ: Split Second Sound | Photo Booth: Shutter Booth | Videography: Captures by Chelsea | Florals: Poppies Floral Design | Rentals: Party Reflections | Transportation: Silver Fox | Wedding Dress: Meagan Kelly Designs | Bridal Hair: Siena Robinson | Bridal Spray Tan: Brazilian Glow | Bridal Makeup: Liz Trinidad | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Azazie | Bridesmaids’ Makeup: Pallak Manocha | Bridesmaids’ Hair: Mirror Bomb Studio | Groom and Groomsmen Suits: Men’s Warehouse | Special Guest: Sir Purr