This Laurel Court wedding was more than just a celebration, it was a full weekend filled with love, intention, and personal touches. From a meaningful Catholic ceremony at St. Susanna’s to a joyful garden celebration the next day, every moment reflected the couple’s story in a beautiful way. With a historic venue, vintage details, and one very sweet golden retriever named Potato, this wedding had all the heart (and charm) you could ask for.
Hi, we’re Maggie and Amber, the best friend duo behind Kindred Light Studios. We believe the most meaningful weddings are the ones filled with heart, personality, and intentional details. If that sounds like your kind of day, we’d love to help you capture it all, beautifully and honestly. Take a look at our galleries to see more of our work, and explore the experience we offer to couples who want their story told with care.
A Catholic Ceremony Full of Meaning
The couple chose to begin their wedding weekend at St. Susanna’s Catholic Church. It was a quiet, sacred moment shared with close family and friends. Many of the guests came to both the church ceremony and the larger celebration the next day, which made the weekend feel extra special.
After the ceremony, everyone headed to Rhinegeist Brewery for a welcome dinner. It was the perfect spot to relax and have fun. Guests laughed, toasted, and got to know each other before the big day ahead. This casual evening set the tone for a weekend full of connection and joy.
Wonder what happens behind the scenes on a wedding day? Read “The Moments You Won’t See on Your Wedding Day” to see how we capture the moments that matter most.
Getting Ready at Laurel Court
The next morning, the excitement picked up again at Laurel Court, a beautiful and historic venue. The space has so much charm, from its ornate architecture to the peaceful gardens tucked around every corner. It was the perfect setting for the rest of this Laurel Court wedding , elegant, romantic, and full of character.
The guys spent the morning in the game room, playing pool, laughing, and helping each other with their tuxes. The groom got ready alongside his dad and two brothers, a tight-knit trio (he’s a triplet!), which made the morning especially meaningful.
Meanwhile, the girls were tucked upstairs in the bridal suite, in matching pajamas and soaking up the quiet moments before the day began. The bride shared emotional time with her mom while getting into her dress, surrounded by soft window light and vintage decor. Every detail, from the heirloom cufflinks to the delicate lace on the bride’s veil, felt personal and intentional, setting the tone for the beautiful day ahead.
A Sweet First Look (With a Special Guest)
Before the ceremony, the couple shared a first look outside under the pergola at Laurel Court. The moment was quiet, emotional, and filled with anticipation as they saw each other for the first time that day. Surrounded by ivy-covered columns and dappled sunlight, the setting felt like something out of a dream, the perfect romantic prelude to their Laurel Court wedding.
But the best part? Their golden retriever, Potato, joined in! Dressed in a custom tuxedo harness, he proudly took on his role as ring bearer, complete with a tiny pillow holding the rings. He trotted beside them for portraits, posed like a pro, and even witnessed their vow exchange during the ceremony. It was clear he was just as much a part of the day as anyone else. Having Potato there added so much warmth, personality, and heart, a detail no one will forget.
Looking for ways to make your wedding feel more personal? Read “Designing Guest Experience” for ideas to create a day your guests won’t forget.
Couple and Bridal Party Portraits
After the first look, we explored the grounds for couple portraits. This Laurel Court wedding had no shortage of beautiful backdrops, from the stately stone staircases to lush garden pathways and ivy-draped columns. The setting created a timeless, European-inspired feel that perfectly reflected the couple’s style. They looked completely at ease, soaking in the moment together. And of course, Potato was never far behind. He proudly posed for photos, adding a sweet and personal touch to their portraits.
Next came bridal party photos, and the energy instantly picked up. The group was full of laughter, support, and so much genuine excitement for the couple. Their connection was effortless, and you could tell this was a tight-knit crew. The classic black attire and calla lily bouquets brought an elevated, cohesive look to the group, and Laurel Court’s interiors added a dramatic, regal vibe to the portraits. The love and joy in these photos made the entire day feel even more special.
A Garden Ceremony at Laurel Court
The outdoor garden ceremony at Laurel Court was peaceful, emotional, and full of heartfelt moments. The couple exchanged vows beneath towering trees and blooming hydrangeas, with the mansion’s grand architecture providing a timeless backdrop. The bride’s aunt officiated the ceremony, adding a meaningful, personal touch.
One of the most memorable moments was when Potato, the couple’s beloved dog, proudly walked down the aisle in a custom tux, earning smiles from every guest. The bride and groom looked at each other with so much love, and as they held hands, there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. Framed by florals in deep reds and soft greens, the ceremony felt intimate and romantic, like something out of a storybook. Guests watched with full hearts as the couple shared their vows, this time in front of everyone they love.
Cocktail Hour in the Mansion and Gardens
After the ceremony, guests moved into cocktail hour, mingling through the grand halls of the mansion and strolling the garden paths. Signature drinks were served in personalized cups, along with a creative selection of appetizers like colorful mini tacos and sliders on silver trays. A string quartet played on the lawn, adding a timeless atmosphere. Guests snapped Polaroids for a photo guestbook while others explored the elegant interiors or relaxed on the patio.
Looking for wedding inspiration with a city feel? Read “City Lights & Sweet Moments” for a downtown celebration full of charm and emotion.
A Tent Reception with Vintage Touches
The reception was set beneath a glowing sailcloth tent, with chandeliers, twinkle lights, and a black-and-white dance floor creating a warm, celebratory atmosphere. Long tables were styled with rich red florals, fresh grapes, and flickering candlelight, blending elegance with a natural, garden-inspired feel. Lounge areas and a circular bar added a relaxed, inviting vibe for guests to mingle. One of the sweetest details? A vintage-style cake topped with cherries and a figurine of the couple’s dog, Potato, playful, personal, and perfectly them.
A Dance Floor to Remember
The couple kicked off the reception with their first dance, actually, two dances! First, they surprised everyone with a choreographed dance full of lifts and spins. Then, as a nod to where they live now, the next song was “I’m Shipping Up to Boston.” The dance floor exploded with energy as guests cheered and joined in. The rest of the night was full of dancing, laughing, and celebrating. Everyone found their way to the dance floor at some point. It was clear this couple is deeply loved by their people.
Looking for wedding venues that feel like a European getaway, without leaving Ohio? Read “Top 5 Cincinnati Wedding Venues That Transport You to Europe” for our favorite spots full of charm and old-world beauty.
Your Laurel Court Wedding Could Be Just as Magical
This Laurel Court wedding was filled with heart, joy, and thoughtful details from start to finish. The mix of a meaningful church ceremony, a stunning garden celebration, and a golden retriever ring bearer made it truly one-of-a-kind.
If you’re planning your own Laurel Court wedding, we can’t recommend this venue enough. It offers charm, beauty, and space for both quiet moments and big celebrations. And if you’re thinking about including your dog? We say go for it, Potato would definitely approve. Reach out to connect with us!
Vendors:
Venue: Laurel Court
Panning: Blush and Bowtie
Photo: Kindred Light Studios
Video: Gaby Kiehl Media
Florals: Thistle and Bloom
Hair/Makeup: Brideface
Cake: Tres Belle
Dress: Carrie Karibo Bridal
Ceremony Music: Viva la String
DJ: Party Pleasers
Rentals: Primetime | All Occasions | Advantage Tent Company
Specialty Rentals: Dahlia Vintage Rentals
Catering: Delightmore
