Leah believed she and Stephen were flying to Naples, Florida for a quick weekend getaway to meet the newest addition to their family—a sweet baby niece. But amidst the soft ocean breeze and golden light of a serene beach, Stephen had something even more unforgettable planned. With the waves gently crashing behind them, he knelt down and asked Leah to spend forever with him. Completely surprised, she said yes to a stunning emerald-cut diamond ring set on a delicate gold band—classic, elegant, and the perfect something something something.

After such a tenderhearted beachside proposal, the two couldn’t wait to bring the celebration home and toast their engagement with the people they love most in their home city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with a celebration at the Dusquene Club, planned by Emily Capitano of FlySpace Productions.

Timeless design met intentional storytelling, brought to life by the incomparable Emily Capitano. With a vision rooted in classic tones and refined beauty, every detail was curated to elevate the space while letting the architecture transport guests to another place, away from the bustling Downtown Pittsburgh streets. At the heart of the design: a striking fountain centerpiece, wrapped in white and green florals arranged with roses, anemone, and hydrangea, and a glow of warm, flickering candlelight. Dozens of candles in varying heights and vessels created layers of texture and quiet drama, matched by the bud vases on each table cocktail table.

Echoing the vertical elegance of the florals, a champagne tower was placed prominently at the front of the room to welcome guests into the celebratory mood, and call back to Leah and Stephen’s invitations. One of my favorite details? Plenty of thoughtfully placed cocktail table vignettes and lounge seating for gathering groups around and and intimate conversations alike. If you know me, you know that one of my favorite things about gathering is getting to really spend time to catch up with friends and family you’ve been apart from – and this set up really encouraged conversation and connection! The string quartet filled the air with Bridgeton inspired covers of Taylor Swift, Arianna Grande, and other favorite hum-able tunes without overpowering conversation. And in a sweet, personal touch, Goose— Leah and Stephen’s VERY good boy — made his appearance on custom napkins, adding a dash of whimsy and personality to their design (you know signature drinks and signage are my favorite way to include our sweet babies on wedding days without overwhelming them or yourself!)

My favorite things about the space and design: I know this is such a photographer answer, but…aside from the stunning appearance giving you that “private alleyway in Tuscany feeling” despite being right on Sixth Avenue, was the vast access from above. I know, it’s a such a logistical answer. You can walk the entire way around the space on the floor above, and there are balconies on every side allowing access to the space. Why do I love this? Two reasons: 1. For me, it let’s me hide my mechanics (boring but important!). All of these photos were taken with flash, but being able to put my stands on the balconies meant they were far out of guest’s vision- keeping the design more immersive, and technically my equipment more protected (and I just love high light!). 2. For couples, it allows you the rare ability to step away for just a moment and take in all the happenings around you and see all the people you love mingling, at a beautiful bird’s eye view.

Thank you to our incredible team:

Design | Emily Capitano of FlySpace Productions
Floral Design, Planning, and Production | FlySpace Productions in house-team
Invitations | Minted
Rentals | All Occasions
Photography | Anne Troxel Photography
Venue, Catering, and Bar | Dusquene Club

Planning your own wedding or event in Pittsburgh?

I’d love to hear your story and help you capture it in a timeless, romantic way. Reach out today!