The Wedding Story of Jessica and Patrick O'Neill

After meeting in Madison, Wisconsin through mutual friends, Jessica and Patrick were engaged on the beach at sunset in Sanibel Island with a photographer on standby to capture the event!

With the first step of choosing the venue in order, the two planned a trip to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where Jessica grew up. Jessica says, “We wanted a venue that was unique. After looking at a handful of ballrooms, hotels and convention centers, we realized that wasn’t really our style. We picked the Goei Center, which is a converted warehouse with more of a chic and rustic feel. We liked that the venue had enough room for a cocktail hour and sit down dinner.”

Jessica says, “Pinterest was my main inspiration throughout the wedding process. We were also taking mental notes at all of the weddings we attended. Our friends have planned some incredible weddings, so we were lucky to get many ideas from them!”

The two also chose all of their vendors based on reviews. “We scoured the Internet and read countless comments from couples who had previously used the vendors,” says Jessica. “Hearing from brides and grooms helped inform many of our decisions.”

Jessica says. “I knew I wanted a lace dress, but that was about it. I visited three different boutiques, but as soon as I walked into White Dress Bridal Boutique in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, I knew I would find my dress there. The dresses there were simple, classy and elegant. I chose a lace, ivory Maggie Sottero 'Shayla' dress. I loved the lace pattern, the cut and the detailing on the back, but I wasn’t eager to wear a sheath dress. I envisioned adding some volume and making the dress more A-line. I took a leap of faith, bought the dress and found a highly rated seamstress in town. After many trips to the alterations place, I had finally created my perfect gown.”

The couple created most of their paper products for their navy, blush, ivory and green wedding themselves. They also brought in a lot of their own decor (vases, candles, votives, frames, pictures, guest book, gifts, cake stand and gold chiavari chairs), while Patrick’s dad made the wooden box for their cards.

Just some of the gorgeous florals consisted of white peonies, garden roses, white and blush miniature roses, hydrangeas and eucalyptus foliages.



 

Advice from the Bride

This #SignedSealedONeilled bride says, “Elope. (Kidding). Our advice would be to not overanalyze every little detail. You can drive yourself crazy debating about how the napkins should be folded. Prioritize and know when to throw in the towel."

 

What We Love

Never underestimate the importance of good music. Jessica says, “Even over a year later, our guests still tell us that we had the best wedding band of all time."

 

 

 

 

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