REAL WEDDING:: Abby Bender + Patrick Sullivan {A Dream Come True}

::AS SEEN IN THE FALL + WINTER 2024 PRINT ISSUE OF NOW WEDDINGS MAGAZINE::

Photography by Welch Photography & Video

abby + patrick’s story

Abby, “a true NOLA girl, born and raised” and Patrick, a Florida native met in 2022 when both were living in New Orleans. “Our paths crossed at Vals, a cozy Mexican restaurant,” says Abby. “We spent the entire afternoon talking and laughing, knowing we had found something special.”

Patrick proposed on the rooftop of Abby’s parent’s condo complex. Earlier in the day, Patrick slipped out to run errands and returned just as Abby was settling into a lounge chair by the pool.

“As I stood up to greet him, he dropped down to one knee and pulled out a small, blue box,” she shares. “His eyes shining with love, he asked me to be his wife. I was taken aback, but in the best possible way. We’d talked about our future together, but I hadn’t expected him to propose so soon. But as I looked out at the stunning view of the warehouse district, I knew that this was right. We’d found our own little slice of happiness in this city, and I wanted to spend forever with this man. I said, “Yes!” as we hugged and celebrated.”

about the wedding

Before they said their vows at the Hotel Peter and Paul, Abby and Patrick shared a First Look.

“As Abby was walking towards me, I was able to see her through a reflection in a window, so I had a bit of a heads up and started to smile before she touched my shoulder,” shares Patrick. “As soon as I turned around, I was immediately awestruck.”

“I was beyond nervous about our First Look,” shares Abby.” But as I took a deep breath and approached him, my nervousness gave way to excitement. I couldn’t help but think, ‘Wow, he’s looking so handsome in his dress blues.’ The look on his face was like he saw me for the first time all over again.”

“When we exchanged our vows and sealed our love with a kiss a few hours later, I felt like I was floating on air,” shares Abby

“One of the most memorable moments of our wedding was when our 5-month-old daughter, Amelia Mae, was walked down the aisle by her godfather, Jeffery Fingerman,” says Abby. “This touching moment was a beautiful blend of family, friendship, and love, creating a cherished memory for everyone present.”

Abby and Patrick shared their first dance as husband and wife to “Falling Like the Stars” by James Arthur. “It was truly magical,” Abby shares. “We were met with cheers as we glided across the dance floor. It felt like a dream come true, and I’ll always treasure that memory.”

::CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FALL + WINTER 2024 PRINT ISSUE

FEATURING ABBY + PATRICK’S WEDDING::

NOW FEATURED VENDOR:

PHOTOGRAPHER + VIDEOGRAPHER: Welch Photography & Videography

ADDITIONAL VENDOR CREDITS:

GETTING READY LOCATION: Hotel Peter and Paul Grand Loft | CEREMONY LOCATION + RECEPTION LOCATION: Hotel Peter and Paul Chapel | OFFICIANT: Pastor Dave Madden | BRIDAL GOWN: Town & Country Bridal | BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS: Azazie | GROOM ATTIRE: Marine Corps Dress Blues | BAKERY: Mad Batter Bakery | CEREMONY MUSIC: Ashley Toman, Harpist | FLORIST + WEDDING PLANNER/DESIGNER: Beth’s Flowers | RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: Geaux Live DJ & Photography | HAIR + MAKEUP: (Hair) Angelique, UP’Sa Daisy Hair Salon (Makeup) Fernanda, Petal Salon | DECOR RENTALS + CANDLE DECOR/LIGHTING + CATERER: Bacchanal Catering | JEWELER: Tiffany & Co | FAVORS: Leah’s Pralines | INVITATIONS: Zola | DANCE LESSONS: Ballroom Dancing by Janis