Full Mass, Big Energy, And A Notre Dame Dance Floor | Mary & Will

Some wedding days feel “pretty.” Mary and Will’s day felt like a whole universe.

Notre Dame wasn’t just the backdrop, it was the heartbeat of the story. Mary has been going to that stadium since she was a baby, and Will literally played on that field in the ND band. So yeah, this one hit different.

From getting ready at the Morris Inn, to an unplugged full Mass at the Basilica, to a reception that turned Corbett Family Hall into an absolute party, this day was fun, warm, happy, and fully them.

Getting Ready At The Morris Inn

Mary started the day at the Morris Inn with her people, and the vibe was instantly chaotic in the best way. The “fun topic” for her crew was all the pets, plus how much everyone loves Mary. That checks out.

We made sure to grab the meaningful details early, especially the family memorial table items and the ring boxes. Those pieces mattered to Mary, and it was clear from the jump that this day was going to be equal parts celebration and heartfelt.

Will was also getting ready at the Morris Inn, and his crew had a long-running debate that might never end.

Do we call him Joe, or do we call him Will?

Hometown people vs college people. The rivalry was friendly, but the confidence on both sides was loud.

No First Look, All In At The Basilica

Mary and Will chose to wait until the ceremony to see each other, and then they went all-in with a full Mass at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart.

They also opted for an unplugged ceremony, which we love. Guests were present, focused, and actually experiencing the moment instead of watching it through a phone.

They were married by Father Bob Hutmacher, and their priority for photos at the Basilica was clear and smart. They wanted the main photos with immediate family there, then bridal party and groomsmen would head out for portraits afterward.

That approach keeps things organized and keeps the Basilica portion feeling intentional, not rushed.

Portraits With A Notre Dame Feel, Plus Saint Mary’s College

After the ceremony, we moved through portraits with the kind of trust we love to hear.

“As much as you think, we trust you. Just want it to be candid.”

Perfect.

They also planned portraits at Saint Mary’s College immediately after the ceremony, which is such a good move for variety. You get a totally different feel without losing the classic “Notre Dame wedding” look.

A Reception At Corbett Family Hall That Went Full Send

Cocktail hour rolled into the reception at Corbett Family Hall, and the pacing of the night was built for real celebration.

Mary and Will’s first dance was to “Wedding Bell Blues” by The 5th Dimension, which somehow managed to feel romantic and playful at the same time. It set the tone right away.

From there, the night had everything:

• A lineup of speeches spread throughout the reception so it didn’t feel like a marathon

• Parent dances

• Traditional Greek circle dancing that turned into an all-guest experience

• The shoe game with the two chairs, the couple holding each other’s shoes, and the DJ doing what DJs do best, stirring the chaos

   

The Memorial Table And The Moments That Matter

One of the most meaningful parts of the day was how intentionally Mary and Will honored loved ones who weren’t there in person. The memorial table wasn’t just decor, it was a pause. A quiet reminder in the middle of a big celebration that love has history.

We made sure to photograph those pieces with care, because those photos end up meaning even more as time goes on.

Quick Planning Tip For Couples

If you’re doing a full Mass at the Basilica, plan your family photo list like Mary and Will did. Get your immediate family photos done right there, then send your bridal party off for portraits afterward.

It keeps the Basilica portion calm and efficient, and it helps you stay present instead of spending half your day wrangling people.

Also, if you want to actually eat at your wedding, the “quick photo with every table” idea is honestly underrated. Fast, efficient, and you still get that “we saw everyone” feeling without getting stuck in 260 separate conversations.

Mary & Will’s Wedding Day Vendors

Venue: Notre Dame Campus // Ceremony: Basilica of the Sacred Heart // Reception: Corbett Family Hall // Planner: Zach Bombon // Officiant: Father Bob Hutmacher // Rings: Brilliant Earth // Dress: Here Comes the Bride (Glendale Heights, IL) // Shoes: Nike Air Force Ones // Jewelry: Etsy // Florals: Always N Bloom // Invitations: TrulyEngaging.com // Catering: ND 3 Leaf Catering // DJ: James Mastrino // Transportation: Gladwell Limo/Bus

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