
Some weddings feel like a perfect mix of two worlds. Fiona and Garrett’s day was exactly that. They pulled in meaningful Chinese elements, kept the energy light and playful, and then cranked the party vibes all the way up at The Brick in South Bend.
If you are planning a The Brick wedding and want something that feels stylish but still like you, this one is a solid blueprint.
Fiona got ready at her mother-in-law’s home with the kind of vibe you want at the start of a wedding day. The conversations were all the best stuff, food, jewelry, fashion, and the kind of excitement that has everyone bouncing around the room.
One of the coolest parts of this day is that Fiona’s wedding looks were found overseas. She went shopping in China for both dresses, tried on a bunch, and landed on pieces that felt right for the day and the cultural touches they wanted to bring in. It made everything feel personal right from the jump.
Meanwhile, Garrett’s crew brought the nerd culture and travel talk, plus plenty of that “let’s do this” energy.
Fiona and Garrett chose to see each other before the ceremony, which gave them breathing room for portraits and let the rest of the day flow without feeling rushed.
They wanted guidance and direction, so we did what we do. We kept things un-stiff, gave them simple prompts, and let their personalities do the heavy lifting. Cozy, romantic, playful, and a little silly, with just enough creative lighting to make it feel cinematic.
Their ceremony was held at St. Pius X Church in Granger, and it was simple and heartfelt, with the kind of calm energy that sets the tone before the celebration kicks off.
From there, everyone headed to the reception at The Brick, which is one of those spaces that looks good the second you walk in. Exposed brick, big open feel, and that warm industrial vibe that works with just about any style.
This reception was a full-on blend of cultures in the best way.
Fiona and Garrett incorporated Chinese-inspired design details throughout the space, and they even planned to hand out Chinese fans to guests, which is both practical and a cool keepsake. The centerpieces leaned into Asian-style floral design, and later in the night Fiona changed into a red Chinese dress for the reception, which was a huge moment and made the room light up.
Color-wise, they leaned into deep burgundy and gold tones, which paired perfectly with the venue’s brick and the overall warm lighting.
Instead of a traditional cake, they went with a full dessert and confection spread, and it was the right call.
More options, easier for guests, and honestly just more fun. The only problem is it disappeared fast. Like, surprisingly fast. Fiona and Garrett’s one true regret was not hitting the dessert table earlier, which is hilarious and also very real.
Fiona and Garrett were most excited for the food, the dancing, and seeing everyone who traveled in. That is exactly what the night became.
Their first dance song was “Only For You” by Tommee Profitt & Fleurie, and it set the tone for the rest of the night. The toasts brought the emotions, the parent dances landed, and then the party took over.
Also, side note, we did a paparazzi-style car shot and it ruled.
They said it best. Having everyone together in one room, later-night dancing, and the feeling of “we actually did it.”
That is the win.
If you are doing a dessert table instead of cake, make it a scheduled moment.
Have the DJ announce it, or tie it to another event, so it does not get quietly demolished while you are greeting people. Bonus tip, order more than you think you need. People will absolutely go feral for a good dessert spread.
Photography: Westley Leon Studios // Reception Venue: The Brick // Ceremony: St. Pius X Church // Catering: Cafe Navarre // DJ: 27 Entertainment // Dessert: Mini Snack Confection // Hair: Wild Rose Hair Artistry // Makeup: Masterful Design Makeup Artistry // Florals: Julie Tirotta
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We’re Westley Leon Studios, a team of wedding photographers in South Bend, Indiana with an unwavering commitment to authentic imagery and a personal experience. For the couples who choose a damn good time over stuffy propriety every time.
Studio Address: 218 Front St Niles, MI 49120
Mailing Address: 1606 Oak St Niles MI 49120
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