Jess and Mike met during Spanish class their junior year of high school. They were nothing more than friends until Jess surprised Mike by asking him to prom over a box of Chick-fil-A—a pretty epic promposal considering it predated the coveted fast food chain’s arrival in Buffalo.
After nearly a decade together, the pair celebrated their love with an intimate ceremony in the courtyard behind Thin Man Brewery on Chandler Street.
Their reception followed in the brewery’s loft, which the couple fell in love with before they were even engaged.
“I knew we wanted something different and a really fun and casual vibe,” Jess says.
Everything from the venue to a vibrant pink-and-orange color scheme helped the pair achieve that vibe. But it was a few special DIY touches that brought their vision to life.
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Day-of details
Jess and Mike shared their vows in front of a striking ceremony installation positioned in front of the courtyard’s towering smokestack.
“I think we would both agree that one of our favorite details of the day was our vows that we wrote to each other,” Jess says. “They were really a hilarious balance of emotion and humor.”
Mike’s cuff links were a special gift from Jess and featured their two cats, Moseby and Girl.
In addition to a full-time gig at Ingram Micro, Jess is the creative behind Jess Writes on Things. She put her calligraphy skills to the test for the wedding and designed everything from save the dates and invitations to the table numbers.
The seating chart, also beautifully lettered by Jess, was an ode to both the couple’s love story and one of Jess’ favorite songs.
“I’m a huge Swiftie, so our seating chart said, ‘At every table, I’ll save you a seat.’”
Both Jess’ parents walked her down the aisle, and Mike’s dad officiated the ceremony. When it came time to kick off the party, Jess shared her first dance with her whole family.
The flowers, which added hues of blue and purple to the color palette, were designed by Mike’s aunt.
An antique telephone took the place of a guestbook and invited guests to leave voice messages for the couple to listen back on.
At the end of the night, friends and family were surprised with yet another Jess and Mike creation—Mike’s homemade wine, with a label beautifully designed by Jess, of course.
The dream team
Who helped the couple make it happen
Planning & design / Social Maven Buffalo
Photography / Jenn Ayres
Venue / The Loft at Thin Man Brewery
Dress / Lovely Bride Rochester by Alyssa Kristin
Gloves / The Glove Girl
Veil / Lovely Bride Rochester by Untamed Petals
Nails / Polished Nail Bar
Hair / Elle Aire
Stationery, backdrops & signage / Jess Writes On Things
Neon sign / Custom, Etsy
Cake / Cakes by Katya
