Iconic Black-tie Wedding at the Basilica | Notre Dame, Indiana | Emma + Mitchell

“There is nothing more truly artistic than to love people.” — Vincent Van Gogh

In the same way that an artist brings together different patterns and colors to create beauty, we are often blessed to see the beauty that comes from two people coming together, and this past weekend was no different. Emma and Mitchell pulled us from our normal orbit as Detroit Wedding Photographers to join them on their stunning Notre Dame wedding day at the Basilica, and from the first moment of the morning to the last photo we took of them, a deep feeling of thankfulness filled our hearts. To be apart of this day was a true honor, and it is a true honor to share it with you now.

The Morning at Morris Inn

Sunlight barely crested the horizon, its first rays hitting the golden dome in the heart of the historic campus. As Emma and Mitch began to prepare for the day ahead of them, they were not only surrounded by their friends and family, but also by the memories of the years they had spent on this same college campus. The same place where they met each other and eventually fell in love would now become the place where they became husband and wife, the perfect capstone to this chapter of their story. Emma, the image of elegance, strolled down the hallway at the Morris Inn, her iconic Anne Barge gown glowing in the morning light. The day she had dreamed of for so long had finally arrived.

The Ceremony at the Basilica of Notre Dame

A quick stroll across the campus found Mitch and his groomsmen waiting eagerly for the day to begin. While guests took their seats and gazed in wonder at the Basilica’s grandiose character, Emma spent a few last quiet moments taking in the day thus far and dreaming about the moment the doors would open and she would see her love at last. The grand organ filled the Basilica with an emotional crescendo as Emma and her father walked down the aisle. A close friend, Father Matt, led the guests through the traditional Catholic rites of the ceremony, all while Emma and Mitch continually stole little glances and smiles at each other throughout the homily.

Portraits around the Notre Dame Campus

The newest Mr. and Mrs. Koppinger exited the Basilica to the roar of the crowd as everyone had gathered on the steps of the main building for the traditional “post ceremony photo” which displayed each and every one of their guests in attendance. As their guests dispersed to relax a few hours before the evening celebration, Emma and Mitch’s bridal party joined them around the main building for a few photos before leaving as well. Now alone, Emma and Mitch strolled across the grounds in a memory-filled tour of the campus that harkened back to the story they had written over the past years at Notre Dame. The prayers they had shared at the Grotto, the memories of walks they took beside the lake, all culminating in arriving at the very place Mitch had proposed to Emma almost 2 years earlier. With these beautiful memories at the forefront of their minds, Emma and Mitch turned back to the Morris to prepare for the evening ahead.

Cocktail Hour and Reception

As guests arrived, they were greeted by a beautiful combination of the hospitality of the Morris Inn, the design work of Merry Me Events,  and the artful expression of the bride herself. Many elements throughout the day were lovingly designed by Emma herself, from the stunning illustration on the invitation suite, to the iconic emblem that decorated the dance floor. Once the reception began, the excitement was barely containable as the crowd rose in celebration to both the cutting of the cake and a show-stopping first dance by the couple. In honor of Father’s Day, Emma and her dad invited all of the daughters and fathers onto the dance floor for a special moment before the lights dimmed and the music took over the party. As a beautiful crescendo to the evening, Emma and Mitch strolled outside towards the law school for one final portrait session and one last intimate moment together on a day they would talk about for years to come.

The Congratulations 

Emma and Mitch, we began this tribute to your Notre Dame wedding with a quote that marries art and love into a single thought. To know you is to know both love and art, as we have seen such a beauty in the way you not only care for those around you, but most of all for each other. Your spirits shine like the light that filters through the stained glass of the Basilica, filled with radiance and color that brings life to all who see it. We know beyond a shadow of a doubt that you are going to bless the world many times over with the life you create together. Yes, your wedding day was truly stunning, but even more stunning were the two people at the center of it.

All our best!

J + A

All photos are property of Josh and Andrea Photography LLC.

The Vendors

• Photographer: Josh and Andrea Photography
• Venue: Basilica of the Sacred Heart at Notre Dame
• Planner: Merry Me Events
• Wedding Dress: Anne Barge from Stanley Korshak Bridal
• Florals: Merry Me Events
• Hair Artist: Something Blue Stylists
• Makeup Artist: Something Blue Stylists
• The Shoes: Loeffler Randall
• Stationary: Self-Designed / Minted
• Cake Artist: Chef Sinai Vespie
• Live Band/DJ: Amplified Events
• Catering: Three Leaf Catering
• Men’s Suits: State and Liberty
• Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Alfred Sung from Bella Bridesmaids

If you love a sleek black-tie wedding, you can find another classy wedding celebration here.