Downtown Pittsburgh Wedding

A Fairytale Celebration: Harry and Ilyssa’s Downtown Pittsburgh Wedding

On a beautiful Friday afternoon, May 23, 2025 Harry and Ilyssa began their forevers with a downtown Pittsburgh Wedding. Before we made our way over to the stunning Cathedral, the bride and groom to be spent their morning at Oh So Frilly Events in Sewickley. Mia, the owner of this incredible gem, was there to serve the bridal party all morning. When we arrived, we had nothing but smiles on our faces knowing that this couple was going to get amazing photos even before we headed into the main event! At Oh So Frilly Events, there are TONS of opportunities for charming photos and we were sure to take advantage of some of them. One of my favorite moments was when Ilyssa’s grandmother took a moment to embrace Ilyssa and tell her how proud she was of her. The endearing looks that were exchanged and the extra hugs that were given back and forth brought me to tears.

The Main Event

After everyone had gotten ready in their dresses and suits, love, joy, and a touch of grandeur came together as Harry and Ilyssa exchanged vows at the stunning Saint Paul’s Cathedral in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With white and gold as the main colors on the inside, cascading stained glass windows, and the hush of reverence that only a place like Saint Paul’s can inspire, their ceremony was nothing short of magical.
Friends and family gathered in celebration, filling the grand cathedral with emotion as Ilyssa walked down the aisle with her father in a breathtaking gown. Harry, standing tall with a look of awe and love, met her at the altar. The moment they joined hands, the world seemed to still — a quiet, beautiful pause for a couple whose story had led to this moment.

A Moment of Surprise

Directly following the ceremony, we swept the bridal party away for some fun photos nearby, and then spent some time with the newlyweds. We were able to locate some incredible places nearby the cathedral and capture some stunning photos of Harry and Ilyssa. And right after capturing some breathtaking photos, Ilyssa snuck away and surprised Harry by chopping her hair! When Ilyssa told me her plan, months ago, I couldn’t wait for the moment that this would happen. And it did NOT disappoint! With freshly cut hair she surprised her husband who was clueless this was happening. Harry’s face when he saw Ilyssa with her short hair was that of surprise and excitement!

Dancing the night away

After the heartfelt “I do’s,” and photos of the bride and groom, guests made their way to the iconic Pump House along the Monongahela River for the reception. A venue with deep historical roots and rustic charm, the Pump House provided the perfect contrast to the formality of the cathedral. Twinkling lights, exposed brick, and an atmosphere filled with laughter and music transformed the space into a celebration of modern romance.

From their first dance beneath the open beams to heartfelt toasts and a dance floor that stayed full well into the evening, every moment radiated warmth. The couple’s love was palpable — not just between the two of them, but in the way their community rallied around them, with joyful tears, tight hugs, and endless smiles.

The evening ended the way all perfect weddings should: surrounded by those who matter most, with hearts full and memories made.
Congratulations to Harry and Ilyssa — may your love story continue to unfold with the same elegance, excitement, and grace as your unforgettable wedding day.