A Classic Oakmont Country Club Wedding | Hallie + Ryan

May 25, 2024

Photography by Margaret James Weddings

Venue: Oakmont Country Club, Pittsburgh, PA

 

Where Classic Elegance Meets Personal Meaning

Some wedding days just feel like home from the very beginning—and Hallie and Ryan’s celebration at Oakmont Country Club was exactly that. Nestled just outside Pittsburgh, this historic venue set the scene for a day that was both timeless and deeply personal, full of laughter, sentiment, and the kind of joy you can feel even in the photos.

A Laid-Back Morning with Sweet Surprises

Hallie spent the morning getting ready at a nearby hotel surrounded by her closest girls. The energy was light and easy—her mom sipping a beer instead of champagne was all I needed to know I was in good company. One of the most emotional moments came when Hallie was gifted a photo book with letters from each of her bridesmaids. It was thoughtful, emotional, and the perfect start to the day.

Just down the road, Ryan and his groomsmen got ready in the men’s locker room at Oakmont, where he added a personal detail to his look—a custom Oakmont Country Club hat embroidered with their wedding date. It was one of many subtle nods to their love story woven throughout the day.

A Quiet First Look Before the Forecast Took a Turn

Before the ceremony, Hallie and Ryan shared a private first look on the grounds and exchanged handwritten vows. These kinds of moments—the unposed, unscripted ones—are the heart of what I love to document. Just after portraits with their bridal party, the skies opened up and the rain rolled in.

Hallie had dreamed of an outdoor ceremony, and despite the pressure to pivot indoors, she held onto hope. While guests waited, Hallie and her bridesmaids danced and sang in the reception space, doing everything they could to will the rain away. And, incredibly—it worked.

A Ceremony Worth Waiting For

The sun broke through just in time. Guests gathered outside, the chairs were wiped down, and Hallie walked down the aisle into the light she had been waiting for. Her ceremony look included a pearl veil borrowed from her sister, and a necklace made from the diamond in her mother’s original engagement ring—an heirloom that had also been worn by her sister on her own wedding day. It was legacy, love, and tradition wrapped in one.

Portraits, a Beautiful Space, and an Emotional Welcome

After the ceremony, we moved quickly into family and couple portraits before the next round of rain arrived. Inside, the reception space was glowing. Holly Hanna Floral brought Hallie’s classic vision to life with white florals and lush greenery that felt fresh, romantic, and welcoming.

As the reception began, Ryan’s welcome speech had everyone tearing up. He spoke about gratitude, family, and how meaningful it was to have Hallie’s dad present after some health scares earlier in the year. It was one of those quiet, powerful moments that reminded everyone what the day was truly about.

A Packed Dance Floor and a Joy-Filled Exit

From there, it was pure celebration. Loyalty Entertainment kept the dance floor packed all night. Hallie and Ryan barely left it—dancing with each other, their guests, and anyone who came close.

Later in the evening, we stepped out for a quick round of golden hour portraits, and then it was straight back to the party. Late-night pizza made the rounds (a crowd favorite), and I left that night smiling ear to ear.

The Kind of Day That Stays With You

Weddings like Hallie and Ryan’s are why I do this work. Not just because of the beauty or the venue (though Oakmont Country Club is always a favorite), but because of the way it felt. The emotion. The ease. The legacy.

Vendor Team

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Oakmont Country Club

Wedding Coordinator: Amanda Davis with Oakmont Country Club

Photographer: Margaret James

Videographer: Whale Tale Media

Dress Designer & Boutique: Antonio Gaul – One White Lane Boutique

Makeup: See Jane Blush

Hair: JLstudio

Florist: Holly Hanna Floral

DJ/Entertainment & Photobooth: Loyalty Entertainment

Cake: Oakmont Bakery

Catering: Oakmont Country Club

Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Warehouse

Invitations: Minted

Rings: Henne Jewelers