REAL WEDDING:: DAWN + MICHAEL (Under the Candlelight)

She was bartending her way through nursing school at Finn McCool’s Irish Pub. He was a pub regular and close friend to the owners, Stephen and Pauline Patterson. When Michael and Dawn were set up on a date by Pauline, a wick of love was ignited.

After graduating from nursing school, Michael swept Dawn away on a celebratory weekend trip to Annadelle’s Plantation in Covington. By the end of the weekend, Dawn and Michael were engaged.

Choosing a location that is quintessentially New Orleans, the couple tied the knot in the Thoth Market Street Den.

“The Thoth Market Street Den seemed like the perfect venue,” Dawn said. “Michael’s dad is an officer in Thoth and Michael has been riding in Thoth for the past 15 years. Michael was even a page as a child.”

Married by the same friend that set up their fateful first date, Michael and Dawn said “I do” surrounded by friends, family and the romantic glow of candlelight.

Photographer: Lauren Carroll Photography | Cake: Gambino’s | First Look: Magnolia Bridge on Bayou St. John | Ceremony + Reception: Thoth Den | Bridal Gown: Alvina Valenta at Town & Country | Bridesmaids’ Gowns: Bill Levkoff at Pearl’s Place | Groom & Groomsmens’ Attire: Allure Men at John’s Tuxedos | Decor rentals: Yur Event Rentals | Videographer: Studio 225 | Hair: Andrea at Salon Diversions | Make up: Kellie Bode | Florist: Meade Wenzle | Cake pulls: Mignon Faget | Band: NOLA Treblemakers | Decor: Luminous Events | Transportation: American Luxury Limos | Live Painter: Shannon Mullen | Photo booth: Boogie Booth | Catering: Central Catering | Bar: Finn McCool’s Irish Pub | Rehearsal Dinner Location: MoPho | Invitations: Minted | Ceremony Music: Megan Kwiatkowski