Vows That Wow: Ellie + Christian

Vows That Wow is our monthly spotlight on weddings that leave a lasting impression, and Ellie and Christian’s celebration is exactly that. With a blend of timeless elegance, retro glam, and disco energy, their wedding was a perfect reflection of their personalities and the joy they bring to every room they enter.

The Wedding Day

The day unfolded entirely within the Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel, giving the celebration a natural sense of flow and intimacy as each part of the property offered a distinct backdrop for the story of the day.

The ceremony was held in the Schimmel Ballroom, where all-white florals and a simple design approach allowed the architecture to remain the focal point. After cocktail hour, the space was transformed into a bold reception environment layered with disco balls, black and orange accents, vinyl-inspired retro details, and a dance floor that stayed full well into the night.

“I learned that your ceremony and reception (even if they’re in the exact same room) can have a totally different vibe!! Our ceremony was simple, elegant, and timeless with white florals, and when people came back after cocktail hour, it was a transformed space. Disco balls, bright orange roses, a disco wall backdrop behind a b&w checkered dance floor. I wanted a true elegant wedding, but I also wanted to create a fun party environment, and I think we successfully did both of those things.” – Ellie

Beyond the celebration itself, beautiful hallways, a grand winding marble staircase, the Cottonwood Room, and The Committee Chophouse served as striking settings for editorial-style portraits, adding depth and contrast through their design-forward interiors. These spaces brought an elevated, cinematic quality to the couple’s portrait time while still feeling natural within the rhythm of the day.

The Gathering Co. played an essential role in shaping both the design and experience of the day, thoughtfully curating every detail from concept to execution. They created Ellie’s bridal bouquet, designed with texture and movement to complement her modern-meets-retro aesthetic, and carried that same level of care through the entire event. Their planning ensured each transition felt seamless, each space felt purposeful, and the overall design vision came together in a way that allowed the couple to stay fully present in every moment.

“I was always concerned that the vision only lived in my brain. Taylor and Grace, with the Gathering Co., ran the tightest ship. They absolutely understood the vision, and I had the most fun, present, stress-free day imaginable because of them.” – Ellie

Ellie & Christian’s Favorite Moment

“Christian and I frequently talk about our wedding and how we felt we “nailed it” in terms of what we were going for. It’s hard to pick a favorite moment when the day in general was just my favorite day ever… here are a few favs:

• First look with Christian (pre-ceremony), where it felt like our nerves washed away. We make each other comfortable.
• First look at our room flip for the reception! I was absolutely blown away to see what was once only ideas in my brain and random notes in my notes app, actually in front of me and better than I could have ever imagined.
• Sitting with our families for dinner and listening to both of our dads give speeches.
• Surprising everyone on the last hour of the dance floor with a saxophone player!”

Ellie and Christian’s day was a perfect balance of thoughtful design and effortless celebration, brought to life through intention, personality, and so much joy.

Congratulations, Ellie & Christian!