Jennifer Woods & Joseph Carnicella
By Nicole Barley | Photography by Araujo Photography
These Duquesne Law School sweethearts first met at an after-class happy hour at Shootz Café in the South Side. They didn’t talk that night, but each definitely took notice of the other. After exchanging a few more glances back on campus, they went on a first date to Shadyside’s Girasole.
Four years later, the verdict was in on Joseph and Jennifer’s relationship. Joe wanted to take water-loving Jennifer to a quiet spot on Pittsburgh’s three rivers, where he planned to propose. But halfway through the trip, Jennifer rocked the boat — she was feeling seasick. “So, I abandoned that plan, and waited until we got back to dry land,” laughs Joe, who successfully popped the question on the quiet banks of the North Shore.
The Details: How to Plan a “Modern” Wedding
For their big day, the Carnicellas invited 175 guests. “Jen and I wanted to have our guests almost forget they were at a wedding. It was like a classy, elegant night out,” says Joe. Jennifer agrees, “It just turned out to be a really fun party!”
The Reception: J. Verno Studios
For the reception, “We thought J. Verno Studios was a great atmosphere to have a great party. It has an awe factor about it,” says Jennifer. “The building is pretty modern, so I decorated in a modern way. I used simple decorations — the room didn’t need that much.”
Chocolate Lover
Jennifer incorporated her favorite food into the details — Godiva Chocolate favors, chocolate brown bridesmaids gowns by Bill Levkoff from One Enchanted Evening, and chocolate cake with fudge icing. Cakes by Tammy created the four-tier treat, with gum-paste orchids cascading down the side.
Orchids, Orchids Everywhere!
Keep it simple and stunning by focusing on one flower. Jennifer opted for orchids, arranged by Flowers in the Attic. Phalaenopsis orchids and twigs twirling out of tall hurricane vases make for ultra-modern centerpieces. Other arrangements featured orchids and swirls of wire submerged in cylindrical vases. The bridesmaid’s tall, slim fuchsia bouquets of cattleya orchids achieve a stunning effect.
The Ceremony: Duquesne University Chapel
“One of our favorite things happened to be the ceremony itself,” says Joe. “Our priest, Father Ray French, was excellent. He was engaging, and the ceremony was very personalized for us and for our family and friends.”
Make My Day
Another memorable aspect of the service was the singing. Jennifer’s middle school music teacher performed, along with a string quartet. “The music was awesome. It really made our day,” says Joe.
Have Fun with Your Photos!
Before the ceremony, Tony and Cyndi Araujo of Araujo Photography took the bride and groom to separate locations in Station Square, where spontaneity and creativity combined for gorgeous shots. “We took pictures with my groomsmen on the Smithfield Street Bridge — the Araujos stopped traffic [for us]!” says Joe. After the ceremony, the couple picked a meaningful location, posing around Duquesne University’s campus.
Modern Mermaid
Jennifer’s Marisa gown from Bridal Beginning is gathered at the bust and above the flair of the skirt for a simple and elegant design. Look for something like Jennifer’s — a modern, more relaxed version of the traditional mermaid silhouette.
Let Your Hair Down
Done by Izzazu Salon, Jennifer’s half-up hair is casual, romantic, and carefree.
Light Bright
Select saturated shades. Deep pink and purple lighting are super-popular for this sort of wedding. Working with the event planners at J. Verno Studios, the Carnicellas also chose to use pin-spot lighting on the tables and to display their monogram and wedding date on the wall.
More Details!
- Rehearsal Dinner
Grand Concourse - Caterer
Yes, We Cater! - Linens
Mosaic - Entertainment
Eventures - Videographer
Mark Briski - First Dance
The Way You Look Tonight, by Frank Sinatra. (P.S. The couple took dance lessons!)
