Christina and Andrew’s Palais Royale wedding was the kind of day that feels like a movie, but with the best real-life details. They described their wedding in three words: first, fairytale, tradition, and honestly, that nails it.
From a classic Catholic ceremony at St. Anthony de Padua to a formal reception in one of South Bend’s most iconic historic spaces, their day was equal parts elegant and deeply personal, especially with their traditional Vietnamese outfits woven into the celebration.
Getting Ready At The DoubleTree
The day started at the DoubleTree in downtown South Bend. Christina was surrounded by her people, talking about vacations and trips, which is exactly the energy you want while getting glammed up. Calm, excited, and already dreaming about what’s next.
Andrew and the guys were also at the DoubleTree later on, and their fun topic list was iconic. Football, Pokémon, and Yu-Gi-Oh. So yes, the vibes were a mix of hype and nostalgia, and we were here for it.
A Classic Catholic Ceremony At St. Anthony de Padua
Christina and Andrew tied the knot at St. Anthony de Padua in South Bend, with Father Martin Nguyen and Father Arthur Ssembajja officiating their Catholic wedding ceremony.
One thing we loved is that their day was built around tradition, but it still felt very them. They also wanted a photo with the priests, which is always a great idea, especially in a ceremony space that means a lot to your family and faith.
And a quick note for couples planning a similar ceremony: if you are debating a receiving line right after the ceremony, it can be a sweet moment, but it also eats into portrait time fast. If your guest count is large (and theirs was), we usually recommend saving that “hug everyone” energy for the reception so you still get breathing room for portraits.
Portraits At Battell Park
After the ceremony, we headed to Battell Park in Mishawaka for portraits. If you want variety without feeling like you’re spending your whole wedding day in transit, Battell is such a solid choice.
The park gives you greenery, open space, and that relaxed, romantic feel that photographs beautifully. Christina and Andrew also told us straight up they wanted direction for photos, and we love that. You do not need to show up knowing what to do. We’ll guide you into poses that feel natural, keep it moving, and make sure you still get time with your people.
A Palais Royale Reception With Serious Old-World Charm
Their reception took place at the Palais Royale, and this venue always delivers if you want historical architecture and a grand, formal vibe.
Christina and Andrew’s palette was lavender with accents of navy and baby pink, paired with formal attire for guests, which fit the space perfectly. And one of the coolest parts of the day was how they incorporated tradition with their outfits. The bride, groom, and wedding party wearing traditional Vietnamese attire added so much meaning, plus it looked incredible against the elegant backdrop of the venue.
They planned for a first dance to “Dressed Up in White” by CAL, parent dances, cake cutting, and a bouquet and garter toss. Basically: classic reception moments, with a stylish, modern feel.
A Quick Planning Tip For Palais Royale Weddings
If you’re planning a Palais Royale wedding with a Catholic ceremony earlier in the day, build in a portrait buffer.
Between church timelines, family formals, travel, and guest movement, time can disappear fast. Even adding 15 minutes of cushion before you need to arrive for cocktail hour can be the difference between feeling rushed and feeling like you actually got to enjoy it.
Christina & Andrew’s Wedding Day Vendors
Ceremony: St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church // Reception Venue: Palais Royale // Officiants: Father Martin Nguyen & Father Arthur Ssembajja // Rings: Brilliant Earth // Attire: Custom made from Vietnam (Bride, Groom, and Bridal Party) // Florals: Costco // Cake: The Flour Shop // Invitations/Stationery: Canva // Catering: Navarre Catering // DJ: Alomar Entertainment (Matty)
Getting Married? Check out our work and contact us!
See More Like This:
You must be logged in to post a comment.