As you may have guested from the title, Jess and Greg’s story began with a glass of whiskey and is steeped in Notre Dame tradition. Jess and Greg met at Notre Dame back in 2019 through a professional friend. Their first date was at the Exchange Whiskey Bar in South Bend so it was only fitting that we celebrate their wedding day with a trip down memory lane. (More about that later 😉).
Their day began at the Double Tree in South Bend where Greg and his groomsmen were getting ready. With 8 groomsmen, we decided to go down to the atrium for photos. Greg’s friends had no problem making sure he looked his best for the big day! 😎
I left the guys and met up with Jess and the girls at Jess’ house. As she was finishing up her hair, I captured her details. The classic A-line dress with pearl jewelry never goes out of style. It’s a personal favorite of mine! 😍
Jess’ mom and sister Liz helped her with her dress and jewelry. I absolutely LOVE this black and white moment between Jess and Liz.
Ceremony time! These two could not stop smiling once they saw one another! ☺️
The stunning colors inside the Basilica never get old. 😍
Readers and homily.
Exchanging of vows and rings with a surprise high-5 and kiss in the middle. 💍
Communion.
Jess and Greg took flowers to Mary. Lady Chapel is my favorite part of the Basilica. I feel like I’m looking up at the Sistine Chapel.
Dr and Mrs Gregory Floyd!!! 🥳
Formal portraits on the alter.
With 235 amazing guests, we had to get a giant photo of everyone. Such a fun time!
We then finished family formals just off to the side of the steps. The weather really was perfect!
After family formals, the 3 of us walked down to the Grotto so Jess and Greg could light a candle.
We walked back up to God Quad for photos at God and Country door and the Jesus statue.
Since Sorin Hall was where Greg lived, we definitely needed a few swing photos. These two could not stop squeezing each other all day. They were literally beaming from ear to ear.
The wedding party joined in on all the fun as we got photos with each individual member and the whole group. The guys started us off and were clearly enjoying themselves. 🤣
A quick little walk to Touch Down Jesus for the classic walking shot. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky so we just embraced the sun with a smile! ☀️
We left the wedding party and walked into the library for a few photos inside one of the reading rooms. Even though Jess and Greg never studied here together, they are both avid readers and share a love of theology.
I told Jess to go look over Greg’s shoulder and according to Greg, this happens all the time at home… hence the hilarious faces he’s making as she hovers over him. 😆
LOVE! ❤️
We popped back outside to get individual portraits and then they jumped onto the party bus.
A few minutes later, we all arrived at the Exchange Whiskey Bar in downtown South Bend. Like I mentioned above, this was Jess and Greg’s first date so the manager opened the bar just for us so we could recreate the moment. Plus who doesn’t need a little whiskey pick-me-up the middle of the day? 🥃 😉
I photographed their rings on top of their favorite bottle of whiskey. I was pretty proud of this particular ring shot and even showed it to the bartender. 😆
Let’s hear if for the ladies!!!
And our handsome gentlemen!
Such an amazing group of friends! 🤗
Jess and Greg freshen up their drinks and sat down on the iconic couch where they shared their first cocktail together. 
They really wanted to do the serious face lol. ⬆️😆
We left the Exchange Whiskey Bar and headed to the Palais Royale to photograph reception details. We were early but Noor (Palais Coordinator) already had the whole room decorated and was ready for us! Love the gold accents!
After cocktail hour ended, we all welcomed in the newlyweds!!! 🥰
Jess and Greg started the reception off with their first dance. These two really know how to boogie! 💃🏻
After their first dance, they played a video tribute to Jess’ dad. However, what Jess didn’t know was that Greg added a personal message from her dad at the very end. ❤️
Greg put on those dancing shoes again as he danced with his mom.
Let’s hear from the matron of honor (Jess’ sister Liz) and best man (Greg’s brother David). Two very epic speeches indeed!
Before dinner, Greg and Jess thanked all their guests for sharing this day with them.
After dinner, we took group photos out on the dance floor.
Instead of tossing the bouquet, Jess surprised her now sister-in-law, Nicole, with the bouquet since she had just gotten engaged. 🥰
Let’s dance!!! 🥳
Nephew love. ❤️
To end this speculator day, we walked over to the Morris Performing Art Center for some epic portraits. Jess and Greg’s look was perfect for the 1920’s venue. That’s why I love these moments in black and white so much… they truly speak to the feel of the whole day.
And of course we had to go into the theater. Less than 90 seconds later, we ended their story with an epic photo send off!
To Jess & Greg – Thank you truly for allowing me to be apart of your incredible day! You were both so wonderful to work with and your laughter and zest for life is infectious. ☺️ I wish you both all the love in the world as you go one to the next chapter of your lives together. I know the Lord has wonderful things in store for you! All my love – S
To see their full day, click here.
Vendors:
Photography: Sarah Sage Photography LLC
Ceremony: Basilica of the Sacred Heart
Hotel: DoubleTree South Bend
Venue: Palais Royale
Bar: Exchange Whiskey Bar
Catering: Navarre Hospitality Group
Floral: Merry Me Events
Dress: Greta’s Bridal
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