This Piazza Messina wedding was the coming together of two highschool sweethearts, joining in marriage. It may be hard to believe, but Makenzie and Justin met all the way back in highschool! And while they both admit that it wasn’t exactly ‘love at first sight’, there was an unshakable connection that existed between them from the very beginning. In fact, their very first conversation happened on a bus when they were heading to a high school band competition. Over the next eight months their friendship grew and evolved. They even attended prom together ‘as friends’. But, as you might’ve guessed, it wasn’t long before their ‘just friendship’ turned into a high school romance. 

From prom to high school graduation, long-distance love, and college graduation, Makenzie and Justin found home in each others arms. Seven years later and an ocean of shared memories between them, Makenzie and Justin made it official with a Piazza Messina wedding. They both loved the venue for the sweeping views from the onsite ceremony location. The wedding arbor at Plaza Messina sits lakeside, encircled by the lush sprawling landscape. It was here that Makenzie and Justin would become husband and wife.

A Piazza Messina Wedding Day

Their wedding day coverage began during the getting ready process. When I arrived Makenzie and her bridal party were having the finishing touches put on their hair as they prepared to slip into their gowns. Makenzie’s bridal gown was classic and traditional with a long row of buttons down the back of her train. As her Mom fastened her gown, Makenzie gathered her bouquet to meet Justin for their first look.

Once they were both dressed for the day Makenzie and Justin met one another at the same arbor where their ceremony later took place. In addition to their first look, they also used this time to recite personal vows. On a wedding day, there is often such a flood of emotions. Many couples like to take the opportunity to express intimate vows before their guests arrive when it’s just the two of them, and they can freely share what is written on their hearts.

With their first look and private vows complete, Makenzie and Justin met with their bridal party for some portraits on the lawn. The sun sparkled across the lake that day and reflected the most beautiful golden warmth in the landscape around us. With their bridal party dressed in emerald and black, it was the perfect opportunity to capture those once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Their al fresco wedding ceremony at Piazza Messina was incredibly heartfelt with a ring exchange and the reciting of vows. Sealed with a kiss, Makenzie and Justin were officially announced in marriage. Their indoor celebration awaited with all-white florals and a towering four-tier wedding cake. But they had one small surprise in store for their guests. A small break-out celebration to honor the wedding anniversary of Justin’s grandparents!

During their reception, Makenzie and Justin took to the mic to honor their grandparents and have a personal wedding cake sent over to their table, just for them. It was a beautifully symbolic way to lead the celebration into the night. Guests then spent the evening hitting the dance floor in honor of the love that Makenzie and Justin share. You can see some of my favorite moments from their Piazza Messina wedding when you scroll through the photos below.

XOXO – Brianna