Erin and David
Erin and David first met in high school, when they were both on a college recruiting trip for swimming. Though they ended up going to different schools, the pair instantly connected and began a long-distance relationship that would last for seven years. They made it official on May 19, 2012 at the James J. Hill Library in downtown St. Paul. After the ceremony, the newlyweds celebrated with loved ones among vintage details, custom décor, and--of course--plenty of books.
The Fashions
Erin, who loves polka dots, knew her Christos gown was the one before she even tried it on. She paired it with a custom headpiece, made from a flower that was originally on the dress. David sported a Heimie's Haberdashery suit.
The Bride's Bouquet
The bride carried a soft clutch of peonies, spray roses, and scabiosa pods that were wrapped in the same fabric that was used for the table runners.
A Heartfelt Accessory
David carried an engraved pocket watch, a gift from his friend.
A Family Affair
Erin's three sisters, dressed in navy J. Crew dresses, and David's three brothers, who sported suits from Heimie's Haberdashery, served as the bridesmaids and groomsmen.
Snazzy Shoes
The bridesmaids' navy Menbur shoes featured a polka-dot pattern that complemented the bride's dress.
Posing for Portraits
The couple stopped for pictures in Mear's Park before the ceremony.
The Venue
David was an English major in college and Erin loves books as well, so the James J. Hill Library in downtown St. Paul was an obvious venue choice for both their wedding ceremony and reception.
A Photo-Op
The bookshelves inside the library offered a unique backdrop for Erin and David's portraits, snapped by Becca Dilley.
The Programs
A Milestone Paper Co. created simple ceremony programs to complement the couple's wedding invitations.
The Ceremony
The couple recited their own vows in front of 120 guests, then ended with a Champagne toast after their kiss. "Every guest had a glass of Champagne and we were toasted down the aisle!" said Erin.
A Special Reading
The ceremony readings included "Answer to a Child's Question" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, the groom's favorite author.
Party in the Library
Erin and David loved the library's historic charm and character and opted for simple décor to let the innate ambiance take center stage.
Keeping it Cozy
Small table lamps, which serve as lighting for the library patrons by day, served as cozy accents for the side tables that night.
A Touch of Nostalgia
Escort cards were housed in a vintage card catalog, which guests flipped through to find their seating assignments.
The Table Numbers
Instead of numbers, each table was named after David's favorite authors, another nod to his love of literature.
The Place Settings
Custom vintage-inspired runners in two different patterns embellished the library tables. The napkins, which were also custom-made, are now an entertaining staple in Erin and David's home.
Simple Centerpieces
Small floral arrangements in mercury glass vessels topped the tables, as did a few vintage books.
Father-Daughter Dance
"I don't know who was more nervous—me or my dad!" said Erin of her father-daughter dance. The two had taken lessons and choreographed a dance to "Daughter" by Loudon Wainwright III.
The Cake
The three-tiered buttercream cake featured a simple polka-dot pattern and was topped with fresh flowers.
Photobooth Fun
A prop-filled photo booth entertained guests, who placed photo strips in the guest book, and took some of the fun mementos home as favors.
Sources
Photography: Becca Dilley Photography
Event Planning & Design and Flowers: Rocket Science Weddings & Events
Catering: Chowgirls Killer Catering
Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas
Programs and Place Cards: A Milestone Paper Co.
Cake: Buttercream, Inc.
DJ: Jason Hanson for Bellagala
Ceremony Music: Robert Bell
Vintage Rentals: The Vintage Type
Other Rentals: Ultimate Events
Custom Table Runners and Napkins: Avant Decor
Photo Booth: The Traveling Photo Booth
Hair & Makeup: Emily J. Hair & Makeup