New York City couple Ashley and Ryan had a well thought out vision for their June South Bend Indiana reception at the Brick. The ceremony itself would take place at the Basilica of Notre Dame with guests then moving to the Brick with its exceptional industrial space while photographers Traci and Troy rushed to get pictures of the newlyweds on the field in Notre Dame Stadium.
The Brick has recently upgraded its outdoor patio area, enclosing it into a three-season space featuring the gorgeous bar and making it ideal for cocktail hours. To further enhance that space, we added a remote speaker in the bar area to provide cocktail music to the cocktail areas before guests made their way into the main space for dinner and dancing.
After cocktails the 200 or so guests were ready to party, but first a fantastic plated meal of filets was on tap from the chefs at the Lasalle Grill, followed by heartfelt speeches from the bridal party and both Ashley and Ryan’s fathers. Father Rocca of Notre Dame gave a moving blessing, and guests were also treated to a unique and hilarious bonus speech from Ashley’s grandfather. You had to be there, but let’s just say it involved a leprechaun “fertility doll” and a whole lot of laughs.
Another unique feature of this event was their flower-wall backdrop where guests could take pictures together all evening. This wall was custom made by the couple and became the gathering point for pictures and conversation all evening.
Special dances, speeches, and milestone moments abounded with this reception and culminated with a sparkler sendoff in front of the Brick on a gorgeous summer evening across from the St. Joe River. All Notre Dame couples hope for a luck of the Irish for their wedding, but Ashley and Patrick got all that and then some for this very special evening. The wedding is even featured in Wedding Day Magazine!
Ashley · married on 06/24/2017
5.0 Stars
I was very stressed about DJ vs Band; especially since we were planning from out of town. A lot of friends had gone for a band, so I was really nervous to go the DJ route. Blake (DJ Sticky Boots) totally eased any fear or anxiety that I had after talking to him throughout the planning process. We gave him a list of do/do not play, and he totally understood what we were going through and added his own touches (it wasn't just him playing our iTunes list). People were on the dance floor all night, which was so important to us! He made the entire night flow so smoothly, kept everything running on time, and even went with the flow when my grandfather made an impromptu speech. I could not recommend him enough and hope to see him at another wedding again!
Reception song selections:
Grand Entrance: Love Story – Taylor Swift
Cake Cutting: All You Need Is Love – The Beatles
First Dance: Whatever It Is – Zack Brown Band
Father & Daughter Dance: A Son for My Daughter – Ray Allaire
Mother & Son Dance: My Wish (custom edit) – Rascal Flatts
First Dance for Bride’s Parents: Through The Eyes of Love – Melissa Manchester
First Dance for Groom’s Parents: Just The Way You Are – Billy Joel
Anniversary Dance: Can’t Help Falling In Love – Elvis
Bouquet Toss: Haven’t Met You Yet – Michael Buble
Vendors
The Brick
Traci & Troy Photography
Lasalle Grill
Belle Behind the Ball