Steve and Cassie first met when they were 14 at high school band camp and began dating after their high school graduation. Seven years later, Steve popped the question after the two finished watching Monsters Inc. — the first movie they had watched together as high school seniors.
Cassie and Steve chose to marry at The Lighthouse because of its gorgeous view from the terrace and the industrial feel of the hardwood floors and exposed duct-work. In fact, Cassie’s sister and maid of honor, Olivia burst into tears when she first saw the space, because it was so perfect. “But really it was all about the food,” says Cassie. “And Abigail Kirsch did not disappoint!”
Cassie wanted the event to feel like a garden party, which translated into paper lanterns hanging over the dance floor, escort cards clothes-pinned to twine strung along the railing, and very simple wildflowers on the tables in a variety of brown bottles.
The couple added special DIY touches — the most prominent being Steve’s home-brewed beer with “Ale You Need Is Love” on each table. They kept the theme going by naming the tables after their favorite craft breweries, making coaster escort cards, and giving bird bottle openers (combining Cassie’s love of animal-shaped kitchen items with Steve’s favorite hobby of brewing). They even added homemade favor tags that read: “Thank you so much for coming! It wouldn’t have been the same without you here. Cassie hopes this little bird will make you smile; Steve hopes you’ll have a beer.”
Cassie: A fantastically delicious tie between the Mac & Cheese BBQ Chicken hors d’oeuvres and the Harvest Trio dessert. And the mini ice cream cones!
Steve: Ginger cinnamon ice cream and cranberry sorbet pumpkin cake sandwich (part of the Harvest Trio)
“In Steve’s family, there is a tradition in which everyone forms a circle and dances around a bottle. It was wonderful to see his family welcome my family to join in — which they did quite enthusiastically,” says Cassie.
“The phrase ‘best wedding ever’ is one that we have heard often — this proclamation came from one guest even before dessert was served,” says Cassie. “Our guests frequently comment on the small, personal touches that made our wedding unique. Additionally, people have shared with us how much they enjoyed the wine, the cocktail hour, entrees, and especially the red velvet cake. Our guests compare the food to their favorite restaurants, rather than to typical wedding fare. Though most of the compliments were directed at the food, we have also had guests comment on the beauty of the decorations and The Lighthouse itself. My dad frequently remarks on how attentive and helpful our event manager was, and how he could easily relax and enjoy the party!”
floral design: Atlas Floral | photography: Brett Matthews | entertainment: MME Entertainment | wedding dress: Henry Roth | groom’s attire: RSVP Tuxedos | bridesmaid dresses: Jim Hjelm
