We thought everyone could use a taste of summer lovin' on this chilly day, and this is the perfect couple to make you feel warm and cozy!
Melissa and Umut were married this year on June 17th on a perfect summer day in downtown Indianapolis. The college sweethearts wed in the gorgeous Indiana State House before moving the celebration to the Dolphin Gallery at the Indianapolis Zoo. The day began with photos around the brand new JW Marriott with Heather Doyle of Markus Rae Photography. Jason and Leah of AMS Entertainment provided the music for both ceremony and reception while Centerplate created some tasty and unique food options for their guests.
Since Umut and his family are from Turkey, Melissa wanted to incorporate as much Turkish touches as possible. The tulip bouquets made by her mother are a nod to the flower prominently grown in Turkey. Melissa also incorporated the color turquoise (Turkish stone) in several details throughout the day as well as Turkish "evil eye" beads to keep the haters away from their special day. =) Umut's mother provided stunning, intricately beaded overlays from Turkey for the tables (and she let me take one home at the end of the night!). Bosphurus Cafe opened up their doors and treated us all to fantastic Turkish cuisine for the rehearsal dinner. I highly recommend making a visit to their downtown Indianapolis restaurant.
This groom is such a romantic that he kept their honeymoon plans a secret from everyone, even his bride! I love this gesture of a man whisking his new wife away to a secret location where no one knows where to find them. And despite Umut jokingly insisting they were headed to the Vatican City, Melissa got her dream tropical honeymoon.
With a couple as international as Umut and Melissa, the luggage tag placecards made by Four Leaf Events were very fitting. And when AMS Entertainment cranked up the Turkish music, all of the cultures in the room were able to enjoy and appreciate the groom's home country!
To Umut and Melissa and the Barbs and the Tugsals, thank you for being such gracious, joyful, and all around lovely clients. I had so much fun working with you all!
Congratulations to Melissa and Umut!!! I wish you both a lifetime of adventures and happiness together...
Jen
