Real Wedding: Rachel + Chris in Ohio

Wow, talk about a dream venue! Captured by Studio Elle Photography, Rachel and Chris were married last June in a beautiful church ceremony in Akron, Ohio. The church was actually renovated by the bride’s father, Jay Crafton, a Youngstown, Ohio architect. Every detail of the day was expertly curated to reflect the couple’s modern sensibilities. Rachel is an aspiring architect and art enthusiast, so it was very important to her to have a clean, modern environment for her wedding. I absolutely love that the reception was held in a local modern art museum! The angular architecture and bold colors of the museum served as a fabulous backdrop for photos. The guests enjoyed a variety of cake balls instead of a traditional wedding cake, allowing each guest to pick their favorite flavor. Gray and yellow reception decor perfectly accented this modern event.

The couple’s story from the bride:

Rachel and Chris began dating in high school. In 2005, Rachel went to Kent State University to pursue a degree in architecture, while Chris studied mechanical engineering at the University of Akron. They successfully made it through four years of undergraduate school together, emerging as a stronger couple in 2009.

Chris’ job moved him to Birmingham, AL in 2010. After they realized that being apart was something that they never wanted to experience, Chris popped the question on July 4, 2011. Rachel happily accepted and after 9 years of friendship and fun, they tied the knot on June 30, 2012.

The modern concrete and glass structure of the Akron Art Museum was the perfect setting to celebrate with their family and friends. The wedding and reception reflected every aspect of their personalities and lives together: a simple and casual yet understatedly glamorous evening complete with many DIY touches. The decision to open the art galleries and include a blues band is a juxtaposition that wonderfully encapsulates their entire relationship together.

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Photographer: Studio Elle Photography
Ceremony Venue: Our Lady of Perpetual Help
Reception Venue: Akron Art Museum
Catering + Rentals: Robert J. Events & Catering
Reception Lighting + Sound: Hubbard Music
Bridal Gown Designer: Allure Bridal
Bridal Gown Store: One Enchanted Evening
Bridal Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Bridal Veil/Headpiece: Parisxox
Bridesmaid Dress Designer + Store: J.Crew
Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Tommy Hilfiger
Groom’s Shoes: Converse
Cake Designer: The Cute Little Cake Shop
Cake Topper: Simply Silhouette Weddings
Bridal Party Flowers: Brookfield Gardens
Reception Flowers: Neil Leeson Decor Floral
Hair Stylist: Rachel Studer-Tarr
Invitation Designer: Bride
DJ: Steve Vuich
Band: The River Saints
Dinner Music: Steve Fazzini
Officiant: Deacon Robert Friedman
All images by Studio Elle Photography
Submitted via Two Bright Lights

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