Emerald and Shades of Burgundy: Classic Fall Wedding for Jayme & Matthew

Carnegie Science Center | Pittsburgh, PA

Friends- this post is going to look a little different than it would have if it had gone out as planned. Jayme and Matt’s beautiful wedding had been on our timeline for a few weeks now to coordinate with our takeover with Point View Hall at the Carnegie Science Center. Which is now postponed.

I would have talked about Jayme’s vision of emerald green and deep reds and how she requested fruit in her centerpieces (one of our favorite touches!). I would have talked about how photographer Ryan Zarichnak worked the autumn light like the pro he is and how the Nancy of Big Day Little Details flawlessly executed day of coordination. Most assuredly I would have gushed over how absolutely kind and wonderful these two people are. And I would have told you that I met Jayme and Matt several years ago through mutual friend, Lauren McMillen, of PointBreeze Way. Actually, Jayme and I went to the same high school but she graduated a year after me- which we discovered later. I was so thrilled when they got in touch with me to do their wedding flowers!

And then last week we were met with protests and rightful outrage over the murder of another black man at the hands of a white police officer. Our hearts are broken.

And here is where the curser blinks and blinks and blinks and I find it so hard to find words to share. Mostly because I know words are inadequate. And that my words may very well come off as inaccurate. I questioned, do I post these wonderful people just the same as I had planned? Should I wait to post? How could I share these two people in love and make a positive impact?

So, as I was speaking with Lauren in general about sharing content on social media, I confessed my fear to her. She, having known Matt for a long time, encouraged me to reach out to them. Which, admittedly, was totally logical and I should have done it already.

Of course Jayme and Matt responded graciously. Encouraging me to share their wedding photos if it felt right. “It would bring some love and light to this dark and solemn time” Jayme said in their email.

So before I share anything further, I ask that you will slowly scroll through these images. See the love. See the beauty. Because truly, that is what is here- love and beauty. Let’s celebrate that!

There has been much written in the last few days (and decades) on racism. What can a white girl from the suburbs say that that could change hearts and mend souls? Nothing. Words without action are useless. Actions speak louder than words. From where I stand, the best action I can take is to try my hardest (though it will be imperfect) to love every soul and show kindness and love to all humanity and to teach my children to do the same. The world needs actions of love of all kinds. Large and small, loud and quiet, seen and unseen. As human beings we must always be striving to love more and hate less. There is no excuse to do anything else. My hope is to lead by example as best I can. And to educate myself in how to do so.

So many of you are graced with the gifts to create change with your voices and your grand actions! To those of you speaking and acting in love- I support you! And to those who have been victims of hatred- I can only say that I love you. And I will be here- inadequately, imperfectly, but trying my hardest, to scatter seeds of love for now and the future. 

Jayme and Matt were meant to grace the pages of our blog and the squares on our Instagram regardless of the events that took place over the last two weeks. But now their presence here may somehow hold more weight. Inclusivity. Solidarity. And most of all, love.

Thank you to Jayme and Matt for letting The Blue Daisy Floral Designs share in your love last October, and for your kindness in response and encouragement to share it. I know that your smiles will bring some much needed love and light to the world, as you certainly do each day!

Vendor Team

Ceremony Venue: St. Benedict the Moor Church | Reception Venue: Carnegie Science Center | Photography: Ryan Zarichnak | Day-of Coordination: Big Day Little Details| Floral Design: The Blue Daisy Floral Designs | Dress Boutique: Babette’s Gowns | Dress Designer: Enzoani | Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Azazie | Men’s Attire: Jos.A.Bank Make Up: Izzy Heyl | Hair: Emily Phyllis, stylist at Cardamone’s Salon | Cake: Bella Christie | Linens: Lendable Linens | DJ: Ryan Mitchell | Stationery: Minted | Table Numbers: Preetha George