WW real weddings The couple loved the architecture and design of Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh.
Annika Mancini Lee Tenace BY MAGGIE MCCAULEY PHOTOGRAPHS FROM CAITLIN THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY
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hen family friends Annika Mancini and Lee Tenace reconnected one night in the South Side, she knew they would be married someday. “I whispered in his ear, ‘Meet me at the altar, Tenace,’” Annika recalls. Eighteen months later, he did just that. While on a trip in Hawaii, he took Annika to a chapel near their resort, walked her up to the altar, and proposed. On their wedding day, Annika made her way to the altar on the rooftop of Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh in a strapless Monique Lhuillier gown, while violinist Roddy Chong of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra played “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri. After the classic ceremony, Annika and Lee were ready to celebrate! Lee surprised his bride and their nearly 200 guests with his own dance to Justin Timberlake’s “Can’t Stop the Feeling.” Annika says, “Justin is his man crush, so he busted a move [to him], while I sat with the biggest smile on my face.” Other sweet moments of the big day included an almond-flavored cake with a raspberry filling and buttercream frosting, topped with “Better Together,” and goodies from the traditional Pittsburgh cookie table. The couple also made their own version of the Stanley Cup to collect cards and honor the Pittsburgh Penguins’ victorious season. It was a winning weekend for all! W
Annika’s chic bouquet of white roses complemented her gorgeous, French lace gown. “They are my favorite, and Lee always buys me roses for every occasion,” says Annika.
“You will have so many opinions and people will try to guide you along the way, but this is one of the biggest days of your life,” says Annika. She advises other couples to do things exactly the way they want! Annika and Lee made bottles of wine for their guests, which served as favors and place cards. Lee’s father bought the grapes from California before the ninemonth wine-making process.
Accommodations, Catering, Ceremony, Decorations, Planner, & Reception Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh Bride’s Gown Anne Gregory for the Bride • Bridesmaids’ Dresses Lulus • Cake Giant Eagle Market District Entertainment & Lighting Wenning Entertainment • Florals Jim Ludwig’s Blumengarten • Hair & Makeup Glam to Go Honeymoon Grand Cayman Islands • Rehearsal Dinner Heinz Hall Garden Cafe • Stationery Wedding Paper Divas Tuxedos Tom James Company • Videographer Jado Media
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