bride and groom walking outside in a greenery area

Reilly + Samuel’s Real Wedding | Sheraton Suites

Photographer: John Paul Studios

From a first date in Kent to a romantic proposal at Stan Hywet, Reilly and Sam’s love story feels straight out of a movie. Their June summer wedding combined timeless elegance with soft romantic details, creating a beautiful garden-inspired celebration in the heart of Northeast Ohio. Featuring a blue, gold, and ivory color palette, lush florals, candlelit décor, and meaningful moments surrounded by family and friends, their wedding day at St. Bernard’s Church and Sheraton Suites in Cuyahoga Falls was equal parts classic and heartfelt.

A Love Story Meant to Be

Reilly and Sam first met in October of 2018 during a date in Kent, Ohio. Reilly, originally from outside Pittsburgh, and Sam, from Akron, instantly connected over tacos and hours of conversation. What started as nervous first-date energy quickly turned into something much deeper.

The couple shared that despite life’s ups and downs over the years, they both knew from that very first night that there was something special between them. Reilly loved Sam’s caring nature, while Sam admired how easily Reilly made him feel comfortable and understood. Their connection only grew stronger as the years went on.

Their Journey to “I Do”

With Reilly finishing school to become an Audiologist and Sam completing his studies to become a teacher, the timing finally felt right for the next chapter of their story. On July 21, 2024, Sam brought Reilly to Stan Hywet for what she believed was simply an evening enjoying the historic estate and gardens. But tucked away in the historic gardens, Sam got down on one knee and asked Reilly to marry him. Of course, she said yes.

The couple described the moment as magical—a feeling of happiness, destiny, and excitement for everything still ahead of them.

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A Garden Elegance Wedding Theme

Reilly and Sam planned a wedding day filled with timeless elegance and romantic garden-inspired details. Their wedding palette featured soft blue, gold, and ivory tones that beautifully complemented the sophisticated ballroom setting at Sheraton Suites in Cuyahoga Falls.

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Tall candlelit centerpieces, delicate floral arrangements, and elegant gold accents created a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests. The reception design balanced classic wedding style with soft romantic touches, while lush ivory florals added a timeless feel throughout the day. One of the standout details of the celebration was the elegant candlelight paired with soft blue linens, giving the ballroom a refined yet cozy ambiance perfect for an evening celebration.

Bride and groom first dance at Sheraton Suites wedding in Cuyahoga Falls Ohio

From Kent, Ohio to “I Do”

The couple exchanged vows at St. Bernard’s Church before celebrating with family and friends at Sheraton Suites in Cuyahoga Falls on Front Street. One of the their favorite parts of the wedding was seeing all the people they love come together in one room, something they encourage every engaged couple to truly appreciate during their own wedding.

bride and groom kissing at the alter
bride and groom portraits inside wedding ceremony in a church
reserved seating signs at wedding ceremony
wedding ceremony inside a church
bride and groom outside of church

Advice for Other Engaged Couples

“Take the time to enjoy the process of planning your wedding together. There are not many times in your life that all the people you love will be in one room together.” – Reilly

Other Vendors

Alterations & Gown PreservationMinka’s Tailoring
Bridal Attire & AccessoriesFormality Bridal
Cakes & DessertsRiley Cakes
Ceremony Sites & OfficiantsSt. Bernard Catholic Church
Flower PreservationPressed Floral
Beauty & HealthCarol Martin Salon Spa

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