The forecast had been all over the place for Gabby and Charlie’s wedding at the Lake House Inn on Lake Nockamixon, but the rain held off, and it was perfect! We were so excited as we cruised up the turnpike for what this beautiful day would bring. We were not disappointed!
Getting Ready at the Lake House Inn
In the uppermost room at the Lake House Inn, overlooking Nockamixon below, Gabby and her bridesmaids were enjoying a fun morning of champagne and getting pampered. Her lovely dress hung in the huge double doors that lead to the outdoor deck. We loved this simple and elegant dress with a secret weapon – pockets! Seriously, all dresses should come with pockets.
When the time came, Gabby slipped into that amazing dress and it fit her like a glove. Perfection. Her bridesmaids were in a gorgeous shade of slate grey, with a party piece of their own: a thigh high slit that would make Angelina Jolie proud. These fantastic ladies were ready! But first Gabby wanted to see Charlie on her own.
While Gabby was at the highest point of the Lake House Inn, Charlie was in the man cave. The billiards room served as base camp for the guys, complete with beer tap outside. As they got ready, all eyes were watching the Italy v Belgium football game. European football that is! Because both the bride and groom come from full blooded Italian families, this game had great significance. We’re happy to say they won!
With the excitement of the game adding to his own for his wedding day, Charlie was a bit anxious to see Gabby, so we stole away outside for their first look.
First Look Before the Ceremony
The sun was beginning to poke out through the clouds as we placed Charlie at the bottom of the stairs to await his bride. Staring out over where he would shortly marry Gabby, the tension built as she carefully navigated the steps on her way to tap him on the shoulder. Sometimes first looks are a burst of fireworks. Lots of massive smiles, maybe some happy tears, excited twirls to show off the wedding day look, and a big smooch to top it all off. Sometimes, though, it is a gentle moment marked by two souls joining. That was Gabby and Charlie.
Bridal party had been watching from the windows and joined us for pictures, as well as the family. We got it done with a few moments to spare as guests started arriving. We hid the almost-weds away and got set for the ceremony at the Lake House Inn.
Ceremony & Reception at the Lake House Inn
The sun decided to come out for the majority of Gabby and Charlie’s ceremony. It was a little warm, but the light on the bride and groom as they shared their vows was dreamy. Gabby’s dad pulled double duty as he walked her down the aisle, gave her hand to Charlie, then donned a robe and officiated their wedding. He had gotten ordained as a “just in case” for her sister’s wedding, but hadn’t needed to fill that role there. So, he did for Gabby instead.
They shared traditional vows and rings, then shared a great kiss despite being directly in front of Gabby’s dad. They were officially married.
Then it was reception time. Guests were invited up to the terrace for drinks and hors d’oeuvres while we snagged a few extra moments with Gabby and Charlie.
Then we captured the beautiful details of their reception at the Lake House Inn. Gabby had done a large part of the florals herself, and had picked a white rose to be placed at each guest’s seat. The head table had beautiful laser cut and calligraphed place cards for the wedding party. We loved the elegant black and gold theme! The gold candle holders with black candles inside were striking.
Masquerade the band struck up for the intros and Gabby and Charlie opened the dance floor along with their parents. That floor would be mobbed all night! Everyone was ready to party.
Gabby’s sister shared a fun toast full of memories about how the newlyweds had met at a Kenny Chesney concert a few years earlier, while Charlie’s best man regaled with tales of the hockey glory days.
The rest of the night was full of fun and dancing! Here’s to love and summer!
