THE RIDE OF A LIFETIME

Memorable Details

Enter the Warrior Wedding Giveaway, brainchild of Bonnie Walker of Bonnie Walker Events and Kim Racan of studio-e entertainment. Bonnie and Kim worked with Hotel Monaco, Revolution Events, Troy and Theodora Polamalu’s The Harry Panos Fund for Veterans and many other partners from Pittsburgh and beyond to create an unforgettable day for one lucky local couple. The Warrior Wedding team narrowed down the entries to three finalists, and the hotel’s Facebook community ultimately voted Matthew and Hannah as the winners.

ONE SPECIAL COUPLE, TWO SWEET KIDS, THE KINDNESS OF STRANGERS

"In the elegant Sheffield Ballroom, the Newlyweds felt the love on the dance floor"

Matthew, who was deployed to Camp Habbaniyah in Iraq in 2005, spent a year there. Hotel Monaco General Manager Rob Mallinger was thrilled to recognize Matthew’s service. “Our military willingly puts itself in harm’s way for the greater good, and we are honored to do something to show our gratitude and appreciation.”

Hannah glided down the glittering gold carpet dressed in a strapless, jeweled-lace ballgown by Alyne, donated by Anne Gregory for the Bride. The groom greeted his bride in custom dress blues donated by Sgt. Patrick Sowers of Operation Once in a Lifetime. The ambience was pure elegance, with lofty 24-foot ceilings and dramatic black-and-white flooring. Sheer gold curtains hung as a backdrop for the “I do’s.”

Following a cocktail hour, guests continued the celebration during a three-course dinner from The Commoner in Hotel Monaco’s lovely Sheffield Ballroom. Fabulous cuisine was accented with glamorous gold table linens and deep pink roses and orchids.