Grace and Alex’s Wedding at Severance Music Center

There are very few places in Cleveland as historic and ornate as Severance Music Center. Home to the world-renowned Cleveland Orchestra, Severance is not only a cultural landmark but also an extraordinary venue for a wedding.

If I had to describe Grace and Alex’s wedding in one word, it would be classy. Every detail reflected timeless elegance. Grace and Alex looked as though they had stepped straight out of the Victorian era, an aesthetic that could not have been a better match for the grandeur of Severance.

I began the day with preparation photos of Grace and Alex, which led into their first look in the Rankin Board Room. This elegant space features late 19th century style and décor, with walls adorned by oil paintings of past MAA board chairs. Having started my creative career as a portrait painter, I especially enjoyed studying the different techniques and styles used in each painting.

After the first look, we photographed the wedding party on the main staircase in the Grand Foyer. For portraits of Grace and Alex, we moved throughout the Grand Foyer, which offers an incredible variety of stunning photo locations within a single space. We were also able to step into Mandel Concert Hall for a few portraits. The hall was uplit in blue, creating a really cool atmosphere. I have two photos below taken in the Mandel Hall; one of which silhouettes Grace and and Alex against the bright stage lighting, and the other has them lit with an off-camera flash and a slightly underexposed background.

The ceremony took place on the staircase landing in the Grand Foyer, the main gathering area of Severance Music Center. It is a breathtaking space, rich with Italian marble, bronze, and brass, and framed by grand staircases at either end. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktail hour in The Lounge before returning to the Grand Foyer for the reception.

One of the highlights of the evening was Grace and Alex’s first dance. In the center of the Grand Foyer, they performed a beautifully choreographed waltz that felt reminiscent of a bygone era, an unforgettable moment that perfectly matched the tone of the day.

As the sun set, we stepped outside for a few final portraits in front of Severance Music Center, closing the night with some awesome photos that was a perfect ending for their gallery.

There were a lot of really great wedding professionals that made this an unforgettable day for Grace and Alex. Whitney from Magnolia Event Planning was really extraordinary. ValCinima Weddings was also a pleasure to work with. 12th Street Florist created the beautiful bouquets and centerpieces, and Michaelangelo’s Bakery made the cake. Finally, Beach Boyz Entertainment provided the music and MC.

Enjoy some of the photos from Grace and Alex’s timeless and classy wedding.