Alicia and Nick said “I do!” on the most perfect fall day at Notre Dame. An elegant Gatsby flair were the theme of the day and it was felt down to the smallest detail. Nick’s black and white shoes and Alicia’s shoulder necklace were pure 1920’s. You all know that large elegant weddings with a 20’s feel is my absolute FAVORITE, so needless to say, I was in Heaven.

Our early morning began at the DoubleTree South Bend. The ladies were starting hair and make up while I photographed the details. Alicia’s dress was the perfect background for each beautiful detail.

While I was playing with the details, my second shooter (Bethanne) was capturing Alicia’s makeup application.

Just a few cuddle moments in their matching robes before the ladies got dressed.

Once the bridesmaids were dressed, it was Alicia’s turn.

Everyone helped out, including with her shoes. Alicia literally could not stop giggling.

That shoulder veil is to die for!

Alicia put her mom’s corsage on and then she showed her dad the photos of her grandparents that couldn’t be with us today.

We snuck downstairs to the atrium for morning portraits. The light is always flattering and it was the perfect way to show off the veil.

Now it was Nick’s turn! It took me a minute to get his class ring to standup in the bowtie, but we got it!

His groomsmen, mom and stepdad helped Nick with his finishing touches.

Morning portraits… sorry ladies, this one’s taken! 🔥

Nick helped his mom with her corsage and Alicia pinned her dad’s boutonnière on when we arrived at the Basilica.

That moment when you see one another for the first time. 🥰

Alicia and Nick had a traditional Catholic ceremony, complete with readers, a homily, exchanging of vows and rings, communion, offering flowers to Mary, the blessing and of course, the first kiss.

Mr and Mrs Nicholas Pellegrino!

Formal photos at the alter.

Outside we found all their guests were already waiting for us on the stairs! This was a first; thanks Bridget!

Family formals.

Our awesome wedding party!

And of course, our newlyweds!

We walked down to the Grotto so Alicia and Nick could each light a candle and share a private moment together.

Swoon! 😍

Wedding party shenanigans!

Back up to God Quad for an iconic Dome photo and of course, the kissing tree! 😘

This wedding party definitely knows how to pose!

Epic jump shot! 🤣

Every moment is epic with that veil. 🥰

We said goodbye to our awesome wedding party and headed to the arch at Fitzpatrick Hall but not before stopping at the law school.

These two can not take a bad picture… it’s impossible!

WOW! 😱

I told you, I just can’t get enough of that veil!

Class rings! 💍

Martin’s Supermarket knocked it out of the park with these fall colors!

Our day wouldn’t have been complete without a trip to Touchdown Jesus and one last veil swoop!

Alicia and Nick headed back to the hotel to freshen up and get some much needed snacks while Bethanne and I went onto the reception. This break gave them time to relax and sit down (very important) and gave myself and Bethanne time to capture reception details. Shortly after that, Alicia and Nick met us at the Century Center to take a few photos on the island.

Power couple… so gorgeous!

Alicia, Nick and their guests enjoyed cocktail hour on the island while Bethanne and I finished details inside.

Merry Me Events did a beautiful job of decorating the ballroom with unique geometric shapes and candles. Alicia wanted something different from the traditional flowers and they nailed it!

Alicia and Nick’s grand entrance into the reception!

Alicia’s dad gave the welcome speech and prayer as salads were being served.

Once salads were cleared, Alicia and Nick cut their cake. 🍰

Mary, (maid of honor), and Aaron, (best man), gave heartfelt speeches that made everyone laugh and cry.

Their first dance as husband and wife.

Parent dances.

Put on those dancing shoes! This party is just getting started!

The lights hanging from the ceiling made it look like it was raining stars on Alicia and Nick.

How do you end an epic day… with not 1 but 4 epic night shots!

I wish I could take credit for the rainbow on the water but it was just the right place at the right time. This is breathtaking and definitely one of a kind.

There are no words… 😱

To Alicia and Nick – I honestly don’t even know where to begin. I couldn’t have asked for a better couple to work with and now, become life long friends with. This entire process was an absolute pleasure to be apart of and I can’t wait to see where the Lord takes you both in your next chapter as husband and wife! I’m always here if you ever need anything. All my love – S

To see their full day, click here.

Vendors:

Photography: Sarah Sage Photography LLC

Hotel: DoubleTree South Bend

HMU: Beauty & Bliss

Tuxedo: Louie’s Tux Shop

Church: Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Venue & catering: Century Center

Decor: Merry Me Events

Floral: Martin’s Supermarket

Cake: Macri’s Bakery

DJ & uplighting: EA Pro Music