The Real Wedding of Alyssia and Dana Wilcox

It’s those extra special details that make a memorable day even more sentimental for a couple. Alyssia and Dana–a pair that met as early as high school–didn’t want just #anotherwilcoxwedding, they wanted their day to be their own! And like many brides-to-be, Alyssia had dreamt of her wedding day ever since she was a little girl. Needless to say, she put a lot of thought into each and every aspect of her wedding planning. From the memory table that honored loved ones who had passed away to the hand-made centerpieces she completed on her own, Alyssia tried to incorporate all the things she and Dana cherished. The result was the romantic and rustic wedding of their dreams.

The couple began the planning process by carefully choosing vendors based on reviews and recommendations from local friends and family. Alyssia also collected color splotches, photos, notes–anything that would match her theme–into a beloved wedding binder! When it came to the venue, South Bend’s The Brick had the rustic look covered–with beautiful chandeliers, exposed lighting, an industrial vibe, elegant bar, fireplace and large windows to take in the gorgeous fall views and riverside setting!

Incorporating lace, burlap, wood, Dana's favorite candy and even EcoFlowers, Alyssia stuck to a neutral color palette as to not take away from all the pretty fall hues. Alyssia says,”I loved the biscotti with the navy as it really worked well with all the different colors of the fall and with the industrial look of the venue.” For the cake and cupcakes, Alyssia enlisted the help of her cousin and aunt, a bakery owner.

The bride-to-be knew exactly what she wanted in her dress: An "old school" lace pattern, tulle, bridal buttons and “a little bling.” Her Greta’s Bridal pick happened to be the one! “I tried on others afterward but went back to it,” Alyssia recalls. “The staff there was amazing. Greta worked with me and listened to everything I wanted and made sure that I felt beautiful on my big day.” Her perfect accessories included Dana’s grandmother’s wedding band (she was married to his grandfather for 51 years) and a pearl necklace that was Dana’s great grandmother’s (they were a gift from her husband of 48 years). Alyssia also used a small, silver container to hold the rings in during the ceremony that was gifted by her grandmother.

As many brides know, wedding day perfection is usually met with at least a few challenges, and Alyssia sure had her share. She was faced with finding a new photographer just three months before the wedding! We think you'll agree the photos are fantastic and Alyssia has no regrets. “I hope that my guests remember that it was elegant and fun,” Alyssia says. “I tried to speak with everyone and really make sure that they felt special, also and knew that I appreciated all of them coming.”

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A smart bride that chooses WeddingDay Magazine and WeddingDay Online for inspiration! Alyssia says: “I had looked at WeddingDay Magazine for ideas on weddings and I also looked at their blog for inspiration.” (Insert a huge smiley face here!)
 

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