Pittsburgh Luxury Wedding Planner | Inside a Timeless Candelit Wedding at The Pennsylvanian

Some venues don’t just set the stage, they are the stage. And when it comes to iconic Pittsburgh wedding venues, The Pennsylvanian is literally a character in the love story: grand, architectural, and full of old-world elegance.

So when Rachel and Ross came to us with a vision of a timeless, elegant winter wedding dripping in candlelight and full of personalized charm and seasonal romance, we knew the historic train station-turned-venue would rise to the occasion. Here's proof that winter weddings can absolutely be bold, cozy, and utterly breathtaking!

Photography: Joey Kennedy

For the late November wedding, we leaned into a color story that felt rich yet soft, warm yet sophisticated: dusty rose, blush, mauve, garnet, and cabernet, layered with antique gold and rose gold for a romantic glow.

Guests were first introduced to the color palette through a classicly deckled-edge invitation suite featuring the couple's crest, velvet envelope liner, and foil details. Luxurious paper details are a true love language—and the first hint that your wedding is designed with intention from beginning to end.

Rachel and Ross started their day tucked away at the Fairmont Hotel, getting ready with their closest friends and soaking in a slow morning. The iconic staircase of the Fairmont set the scene for their sweet first look. From there, they joined their families for portraits before heading to the chapel hopping aboard Molly’s Trolley, a charming must for any Pittsburgh wedding.

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After saying "I do" at the historic St. Paul’s Cathedral, guests were welcomed into the grandeur of The Pennsylvanian for cocktail hour in the Vestibule of The Grand Hall. A classical string trio set the tone with soft, romantic melodies while custom cocktail napkins and personalized drink stirrers added a splash of fun. Guests were immediately immersed by the pop-up portrait studio experience curated by Michael Will Photographers that doubled as entertainment and keepsake—one of the many ways the couple made the evening feel uniquely theirs.

Inside the reception, we scrapped traditional round tables in favor of a curated layout of long and square tables for a more editorial, styled look. Wall-to-wall, champagne drapery and every inch aglow with candlelight created a warm, romantic ambiance that guests felt the moment they entered—made even more magical by elevated florals, crystal glassware, rose gold flatware, and varying layers of candlelight in tall candelabras, tapers, pillars, and votives.

We balanced structure with softness, using textural greens to create contrast and depth, while tones of blush and ivory softened the bold, moody palette. Each table had its own personality—yet the overall design remained completely cohesive. Every paper detail helped tell the story, creating a cohesive experience from start to finish. When even your bar signage feels intentional, guests take notice.

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Rachel and Ross prioritized the guest experience, and they delivered. A live band opened the dance floor before dinner (yes, before!) and truly, it never closed. Between high-energy dance sets and an unexpected photography experience that guests are still raving about, every moment was meticulously planned. The celebration ended on a sweet note with mini desserts and late night dance floor fuel.

Videography: Light Motion Studios

The couple's love story unfolded in every part—from the wow moments to the micro details, each decision made to honor the season, the space, and the story. Drop your favorite detail in the comments and scroll down to meet the dream team of vendors who brought this timeless winter wedding to life.

Planning: Shayla Hawkins Events

Venue: The Pennsylvanian

Photography: Joey Kennedy

Videography: Light Motion Studios

Floral Design: Fox and the Fleur

Rentals + Draping: All Occasions Party Rental

Linens: Mosaic

Lighting: EF Lighting

Branding + Stationery: Melissa and Seventh

Custom Bars + Seating Chart: Vast Made Studios

Custom Printing: SpeedPro Pittsburgh North

Cake + Desserts: Bella Christie's Sweet Boutique

Glam: Glam To Go

Dress: Pallas Couture

Bride Attire: Bridal Beginning

Groom Attire: David Alan Clothing

Guest Portrait Experience: Michael Will Photographers

Band: Studio E

String Trio: Radiant Strings

Transportation: Molly's Trolleys

Catering: Big Burrito