Alexis, who works in government contracting from Texas, and Matt, a middle school teacher and DJ from Pittsburgh, met on OK Cupid. She thought he was original, passionate, and fun—down to hang out and experience new and random things. Similarly, he says, he knew he’d met someone willing to go out and do things, which he says sounds simple, but was refreshing.
Their first date was a Cate LeBon concert at Black Cat, and around three years later, they got engaged at home, in the living room of their first apartment, with their dog Remy carrying the ring. They decided on a long engagement, and over two years planned what their photographer called a “Mariachi Disco”-themed wedding. “And that pretty much nails it,” says Alexis.
The couple opted to rent the venue for the entire weekend, making the celebration a destination wedding for everyone, Alexis says, even the few guests who lived nearby. “Having a place to spend time with people outside of scheduled event hours was so special,” she says. “Matt and I loved being able to gather, host, and wake up every day surrounded by family and friends.”
The wedding was decorated in disco balls and bright spring colors including pink, lavender, citron, and sky blue.
Among the highlights were Matt’s suit, which Alexis’s maternal grandmother customized with appliqué florals that mimicked Pennsylvania mountain laurels, Matt’s home state’s flower, for a little extra “razzle dazzle;” a large heart marquee built and painted by the husband of their beloved florist; and a mariachi band that played during cocktail hour as a surprise to guests and a nod to the tradition of big family parties Alexis’s family hosts. Other special details included late-night tacos and a surprise ramen bar served toward the end of the reception; a dessert table that served as an homage to the Pittsburgh cookie table tradition—and featured a purple, ube-flavored wedding cake—and signature cocktails that included spicy margaritas and ranch water for the tequila-loving couple.
Following their big day, the newlyweds honeymooned in Mexico, including five days in Puerto Vallarta and 10 days in Mexico City.
The Details
Photographer: Rachel V King
Venue: Little Oatlands
Planning and design: Cassidy Dawn, Dusk to Dawn Events
Florals: Wagner Atelier
Invitations: Alexis Vitiello (the bride)
Cake: Edibles Incredibles
Hairstylist: Gabrielle Downie, Best Face Forward
Makeup artist: Stephanie Mejia
Bride’s attire: Made With Love from Luxe Redux Bridal (gown); Shein (cape, veil)
Bridesmaids’ attire: ASOS, Dillard’s, Marshalls, Amazon, Club L London
Groom’s attire: Men’s Wearhouse (with custom embellishment by the bride’s grandmother)
Groomsmen’s attire: Generation Tux
Music: Alex Stevens, Baltimore Sound Entertainment
Rentals: A Grand Event (tent, dance floor, disco balls); Jefferson Rentals (tables, chairs, linens, bathrooms)
Officiant: Randy Lioz
Amy leads Washingtonian Weddings and writes Style Setters for Washingtonian. Prior to joining Washingtonian in March 2016, she was the editor of Capitol File magazine in DC and before that, editor of What’s Up? Weddings in Annapolis.
