In a year filled with “weddings of the year,” Ragan & Gary’s wedding and reception at the Scottish Rite Cathedral was definitely right up there, with a deeply spiritual ceremony, mind-blowing decor and an amazing couple who were sweet, humble, funny and charismatic all at the same time.  Coverage started at the rehearsal, where Gary surprised Ragan with a gift that had to be seen to be believed, followed by dinner with a view at the Skyline Club.

After preparations on the big day, everyone reconvened at the Scottish Rite, where the couple enjoyed a rare quiet moment together before some photo time with Andrew Scalini.  The gorgeous, intimate ceremony that followed in the theater probably did not prepare their guests for the extravagance that was to come, as Circle City Planners (who referred us – thanks, Darcie!), McNamara Florist, Evans Audio Visual, Thomas Catering and Heavenly Sweets all collaborated to transform the ballroom into a truly spectacular world never before seen in that elegant space.

Ragan & Gary had a memorable introduction to the reception along with the rest of their party, but saved their best entrance for after the early formalities, when they re-emerged with umbrellas and handkerchiefs to lead the guests in a French Quarter style “second line” parade.  There was one more surprise remaining for the guests, a stunning “hidden” lounge area featuring mouthwatering desserts and Indy Photo Booths‘ new “flipbook” setup, which Ragan & Gary used to hilarious effect.

Photo by Andrew Scalini

My friends at Circle City Planners had been anticipating this weekend with excitement and some nervousness all year with good reason – six weddings, with FIVE on June 26! I spent a couple of hours running around guerrilla-style to each of their reception venues (Crowne Plaza at Historic Union Station twice, Laurel Hall, Scottish Rite Cathedral and two residences) to capture some of the preparations and decor behind the scenes. It was a little crazy, but Team CCP pulled it all off with style to spare.