I’m back after a glitch in my internet yesterday, and I have an amazing wedding to share with you! There are so many things I love about Shannon and Obi’s wedding; their artistic style, the gorgeous vineyard at Six Mile Creek in Ithaca, NY, the fact that they walked down the aisle to bluegrass music, the rustic barn reception with spectacular lighting, antique décor, and a leafy vine cake. I also love Shannon’s violet heels and that the mint and mauve of her necklace match her bridesmaid’s dresses, and her beautiful tattoos. Read their story below.

Before the Ring:
Five years ago my bridesman David and sister Juliana introduced me to the latest guitarist for David’s band All-star Champs. With some encouraging words from Juliana to Obi, and my obliviousness of it all; our half-heard conversation started one of the most unexpected journeys in our lives. Obi and I have been infatuated with one another ever since that night. With his charm, and my quirkiness, we have been inseparable.

The Proposal:
While up in the Adirondacks on a family get away, we decided to see the Adirondacks from McCauley Mountain chairlift. As the family headed up first, Obi and I sat in our lift. I was mesmerized by the view and took many photos, but also feared that I would fall from the lift. As I was turning around taking pictures Obi asked “How is the view?” Then he asked with the ring in his hand how “this” view was. Confused, I looked down, and in his hand was the ring. So excited I tried prying my promise ring off my hand while tears of joy filled my eyes. He laughed and asked “Will you marry me?” I was so shocked that I forgot to answer until he asked again. On the rest of the way up the lift my Mom and sisters were telling everyone that passed them heading down. We had several Congratulations before we even reached the top. When we reached the top of McCauley Mountain, my family was ecstatic, clapping and taking pictures. I have to give it to Obi, he can still surprise me. I couldn’t have asked for a more romantic proposal.

Details of the Day:
I had a hard time finding a venue I liked, but then I somehow stumbled across Ithaca NY. I visited the winery and barn and fell in love! The colors were a funny story. Juliana and I were trying to steer away from traditional fall colors. She told me “You know what colors would be perfect? Those! ” as she pointed to my tattooed arm. Obviously I loved them enough for them to be on my skin, so why not for my wedding!

The mandolin player was an essential. Growing up I used to dance in the living room to Bluegrass music with my dad (hence the Allison Krauss song which my brother and I danced to). The place cards were pictures of our childhood. And the table numbers were us as a couple. I really wanted to have memories of our past that make us who we are, and the people that have helped shape and guide us along our journey. The hand painted wooden bridal party was also another significant detail; I wanted to make sure each individual was recognized. Obi also made his own ring at work! It looks heavy duty, but is ridiculously light!

Most Memorable Moment:
Shannon: When I saw Obi’s reaction as I walked down the aisle, and of course OUR FIRST KISS.
Obi: The Kiss!

Advice:
Shannon: Don’t settle for anything! There is always a cheaper way to achieve your vision! Make sure you do what you want, your guests will more than likely enjoy everything, so if you want Indian Food and crazy boots like I did, DO IT!!! And two years is still not enough time!
Obi: Don’t stress about anything!

Photoghraphy: Mabyn Ludke Photography / Hair: Crystal’s Spa and Salon / Makeup Artist: Crystal’s Spa and Salon / Dress Designer & Store Location: Nicole Miller at Kleinfeld’s Bridal / Rings: Shannon’s Nana’s Antique cocktail ring borrowed from her mother / Veil & Hair Accessories: Antique Hairpins from Tarrytown, NY, Veil: Tia Mazza from Kleinfeld Bridal / Shoes: Target Shoe Clips: from Etsy / Bridesmaid Dresses: JCrew / Groom’s Attire: Khaki Irish Linen Suit From JCrew, Shirt: Macy’s Shoes: S&K Tie: Recycled from Juliana Brady and David Rosenberg’s wedding! / Ceremony Venue: Six Mile Creek Vineyard Ithaca NY / Reception Venue: The Barn Ithaca NY / Florist: Plenty Of Posies, Ithaca NY / DJ: Liverpool DJs (Provided by Meegan Darby) / Caterer: India House Liverpool, NY / Cake: The Gingersnap (Provided by Juliana Brady and David Rosenberg) / Wedding Coordinator: Self and Juliana Brady / Special Ceremony Music: Peter McDonald- Mandolin (Waltz in Bluegrass- Frank Wakefield (bride’s parents wedding song) and an original written for her – My Rose of Shannon by her Godfather Buddy Merriam