We are a Tinder app success story! Fate had it’s eye set on us as we actually matched not once but twice on the app before going on our first date!
Tell me about the proposal!
We got engaged on the beach in Panama City Beach, FL on September 7, 2019. Samantha would soon find out that wasn’t actually Drew’s initial plan for the engagement. Flash back to a few days before September 7th, we were flying to FL for a visit while a tropical storm was moving through the Panhandle/Panama City Beach, stirring up the ocean waters and Drew’s engagement plans. Drew had been planning to hire a boat captain to take them to a secluded barrier island. His plan was to pretend he found something while looking for shells and then pop the question with the ring! Unfortunately, Drew’s reservations with the boat captain were cancelled! Determined to make it special still, Drew decided to rent a boat himself and continue on with his plan to go to the secluded barrier island. Samantha being the nervous nelly that she is, did not like the idea of taking a boat out after the tropical storm, but Drew encouraged her to try (he was very determined!). Ultimately, the waters were too rough and the semi-adventurous couple decided to turn around and head back to shore, never making it to the barrier island. Finally, Drew had his chance to pop the question while walking on the beach later that morning. Of course Samantha said YES! and we celebrated with champagne and swimming in the crystal clear water!
What inspired your vision for your wedding day? Do you have a theme or color palette? How do you envision your ideal wedding day?
Our colors a white, black, and metallic/glittery gold. Our themes area Pittsburgh and a modern take on traditional. We drew our color selection from Samantha’s clothing style. We like the clean, modern, elegant look but are also incorporating some older, more traditional things such as our church and reception venue.
What is the most anticipated moment of your wedding day? If you could only choose one photo to walk away from your wedding day with, what would it be?
I can’t pick one!! But if I had to it would be the crowning part of the ceremony because it’s very unique and also the groom’s reaction to seeing the bride walk in.
Hair Stylist- LAB Salon
Make Up Artist- LAB Salon
Dress- custom designed by Anomalie
Veil- handmade by Mother of Groom
Overskirt- handmade by Mother of Groom
Groom and Groomsmen Tux Rentals- Men’s Warehouse
Videographer- Kyle Nash Films (Kyle Barger)
Ceremony Venue- St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church
Officiant- Rev. Father Valerian Michlik
Reception Venue- LeMont
Caterer- LeMont
Band/DJ- Fireside Events
Wedding Cake- Fenoglietto’s
Cookies- Family and Friends
Stationery and Paper Goods- Fresh Cut Prints
Florist- One Happy Flower Shop (Carrie Anne Powell)
Dawn is based in Pittsburgh PA but will travel across the world for her clients
hello@dawn-derbyshire.com
Dawn Derbyshire Photography loves love. I strive to create an inclusive, welcoming space for my employees, vendors I work with, AND my clients of all races, religions, sexual orientations and identities. All of my clients (and their love stories) deserve respect, are cherished, and are valued by me and my business. You are welcome in my business, my life, and my heart.