Big Basilica Energy, Docs At The Aisle, And “Oh My God We’re Doing This” | Reghan & Michael

Reghan and Michael’s day had that exact energy, but with a twist. It was elevated and iconic, and also very “we’re in Doc Martens and we’re doing this our way.”

Getting Ready, With The Right People Close

Reghan started her day surrounded by the people who keep her grounded, including the one request she made crystal clear. Photos with her mom. That kind of detail always matters, because it is never “just a photo,” it’s the way you want to remember the day and who you wanted beside you.

Michael’s side was equally ready to roll, and you could tell this day meant a lot. There was excitement, but there was also that quiet weight that shows up when you’re carrying a few emotional layers into a wedding day.

The First Look That Calmed The Chaos

Reghan and Michael chose to do a first look, and it was the perfect move for them. Notre Dame can feel big and grand and overwhelming in the best way, so having a private moment to breathe before stepping into that space is huge.

It gave them a chance to lock in, laugh a little, and remember that none of this is a performance. It’s just them, showing up for each other.

A Notre Dame Basilica Wedding That Hits Every Time

The Basilica is unreal. The light, the architecture, the scale of it all, it makes everything feel significant without needing anything extra.

They also opted for an unplugged ceremony, which we love, because it keeps everyone present. Less phones in the air, more actual eye contact and real reactions. That’s the good stuff.

Their ceremony felt classic and meaningful, with that unmistakable Notre Dame presence. It was reverent without feeling stiff, and emotional without being overly serious.

Portraits That Let The Basilica Do Its Thing

For portraits, we kept things simple and intentional. You do not need to overcomplicate a location like this. The Basilica carries the visuals. All Reghan and Michael had to do was show up as themselves, and the photos did the rest.

Reghan also wanted the same level of direction as their engagement session, which is honestly our favorite. You get the comfort of being guided, but the result still feels natural and real.

Reception Vibes, Family Moments, And A Real Celebration

After the ceremony, the day shifted into celebration mode at The Hall at St Peter’s. Dinner, toasts, and the classic parent dances were all on deck, with a cake cutting to round it out.

What we always pay attention to in these moments is the balance. Making sure the couple gets their party time, while also making space for the family moments that matter.

It’s why we’re intentional about the little in-between moments. The squeeze of a hand. A deep breath. A look that says, “I’m good. You good?” Those pieces matter just as much as the big ones.

Quick Planning Tip For A Notre Dame Basilica Wedding

If you’re getting married somewhere as iconic as the Basilica, build in a little breathing room around portraits and transitions. Not for “more photos,” but so you’re not sprinting through a day that deserves to be felt.

Also, unplugged ceremonies in spaces like this are next level. The room feels different when people are actually present.

Reghan and Michael’s Wedding Day Vendors

Photography: Westley Leon Studios // Videography: Westley Leon Studios // Ceremony Venue: Notre Dame Basilica // Reception Venue: Hall at St. Peter’s // Planner: Jenny Peterson (Basilica Coordinator) // Officiant: Fr. Bill Quigley // Rings: James Allan // Attire: Marie Gabriel Couture (Rosa Clara dress) // Groom Attire: Men’s Wearhouse // Hair: Taylor Edwards // Florals: Sam’s Club // Cake: Ada Mae Sweets // Invitations: The Knot / Eco Owl // Catering: Martin’s // Hotel (getting ready): Inn at St Mary’s

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