Adam & Marissa // Five Pines Barn Wedding in Irwin, PA

Last summer, Adam & Marissa rented a house on Deep Creek Lake for a weekend away with a group of friends. At least, that’s the story they all told Marissa. Completely unknown to her, there was a secret plan in the works to make it one of the most memorable weekends ever!

Adam wanted to propose to Marissa that weekend. And he really wanted to propose down in front of one of the waterfalls at Swallow Falls State Park. He had it all planned out & all of the friends who were with them on the trip were on board: they were going to go hiking on Saturday, Adam would lead Marissa down to the base of a waterfall, and there he’d pop the question.

There was just one tiny problem: the weather. From the time they pulled into the driveway of their rental house until the moment they left, it poured down rain. It literally never stopped. Hiking is fun and all, but hiking in a downpour is simply miserable. So, Adam knew his big plans had to be scrapped. A little frantic, he gathered his friends around & asked them to help him come up with a Plan B.

Since they were all stuck inside anyway – someone suggested they break out some games. Speak Out was suggested & everyone agreed to play. You’ve probably seen some pretty hilarious videos on Facebook of people playing Speak Out – you put this awkward plastic piece in your mouth and then attempt to say a phrase (which never comes out sounding anything like it’s supposed to). Your teammates then have to guess what you’re trying to say (similar to MadGab).

Strategically, Adam was placed opposite Marissa so that she would have to guess what he was trying to say. And of course, instead of reading off of his card, he said, “Will you marry me?” Of course, it came out sounding nothing like the words should & everyone collapsed in fits of laughter. After a few minutes of trying, Marissa suddenly realized what Adam was trying to say. He pulled out a stunning ring & amid cheers from their friends & champagne popping, she said, “Yes!”

They got married this past Saturday at Five Pines Barn in Irwin, PA. Once again, the weather attempted to put a wrench in their day – the forecast was for 50%-60% rain all afternoon. Thunder rumbled away as everyone was getting ready & setting up for their outdoor ceremony. Completely undeterred by the threat of rain, Adam & Marissa said they were going to get married outside – no matter what! Thankfully, it never ended up raining – not even one drop! And the whole day went off without a single hitch.

Adam & Marrisa – it was so wonderful to be a part of celebrating your happiness on Saturday! It might have been hot & humid and storms might have been threatening, but nothing could dim your smiles. The things that might have driven another couple to anxiety & stress, hardly even phased you guys & it was an absolute joy to witness! Best wishes for a long & happy marriage that can weather any storm that might come your way.

It was hot. Temperature wise, it was only in the low-80’s, but the humidity was thick as butter with all of the storms popping up around us. The girls were up for just about anything to keep cool!

Adam was holding it together so well – he seemed so calm & collected – right up until the moment Marissa & her Dad rounded the corner to walk down the aisle. And then, he very quietly became overcome – which in turn meant that everyone else lost it as well!

I love this shot that Derrick got!

I would be remiss if I didn’t give a huge shout-out to Marissa’s Mom! She played the roll of coordinator for the day – but was also in charge of making the reception set up absolutely amazing! All of the thought & detail that went into every single table-setting, centerpiece, and decoration was simply stunning!

Huge shout-out and thank you to the amazing team of vendors, as well as friends & family, who helped make Adam & Marissa’s wedding day absolutely perfect!

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Five Pines Barn in Irwin, PA
Catering: Jaden’s Catering in Monroeville, PA
Bridal Gown Retailer: David’s Bridal
Bridesmaids Gown Retailer: David’s Bridal
Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Florist: Sam’s Club in Greensburg, PA
Bakery: Tasty Bakery in Pittsburgh, PA
Ring Designer: Kay Jewelers in Greensburg, PA
Photobooth: Pittsburgh Camper Booth in Pittsburgh, PA
DJ: Premium Soundz – DJ Stephanie Crooks in Pittsburgh, PA
Photographer: Kara Abbey Photography in Irwin, PA