A Classic Wedding at the Old Courthouse in Cleveland

Micaela & Nicholas

Micaela and Nicholas planned a wedding that was as meaningful as it was elegant. Set against the timeless backdrop of the Old Courthouse in downtown Cleveland, their celebration blended history, love, and personal touches that made the day truly their own. Micaela, an Emmy and AP award-winning journalist, infused the experience with thoughtful storytelling. One standout detail? A custom wedding newspaper filled with stories, timelines, and wedding weekend highlights, placed in each guest’s hotel room. It was a heartfelt nod to her career and a warm welcome for every attendee.

From that first welcome to the final dance, every moment reflected the couple’s classic, romantic style. The entire celebration was filled with meaningful gestures, personal elements, and a deep love for both their guests and each other.

Getting Ready at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown

The day began just across the street from the courthouse at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown. Micaela and Nicholas got ready in separate suites, surrounded by family and friends.

Micaela wore a fit-and-flare bridal gown with a chapel-length train, beaded floral appliqués, and a sweetheart neckline. Her cathedral veil, adorned with crystal and pearl beading, added even more romance. To complete the look, she chose white kitten heels with delicate pearl accents and soft, flowing waves accented with crystal floral pins.

Nicholas wore a classic black tuxedo with a bow tie — the perfect choice for their black-tie optional celebration.

Before seeing each other at the altar, the couple exchanged personal letters. Micaela also shared quiet, emotional moments with her parents. She gave her mom a custom purse lined with a photo of the two of them from childhood. For her dad, she had cufflinks engraved with a special message and a childhood photo hidden on the back of his tie.

A Breathtaking Ceremony at the Old Courthouse

The Old Courthouse offered a stunning blend of history and architectural beauty. Guests entered through arched doorways into a towering rotunda, where light poured through stained glass and onto the marble floors below.

The sweeping staircase was lined with glass hurricanes holding flickering candles. Flower petals were scattered along the steps, and the railing overflowed with cascading roses, ivory blooms, and lush greenery. It felt like a dream.

Micaela walked down the glowing staircase to meet Nicholas at its base, surrounded by marble columns and golden light. Her aunt, Tammy, officiated the ceremony — having become ordained just for their wedding. Together, they sealed a wine time capsule during the ceremony and promised to open it on a future anniversary.

As they exited up the aisle as newlyweds, Nicholas couldn’t contain his joy. He dipped Micaela back for a kiss, prompting cheers from their guests and wedding party outside. Afterward, we stepped outside for portraits on the steps and along the balustrade, where the courthouse’s architecture paired perfectly with the soft evening light.

Cocktail Hour and Reception with Personal Touches

While the room was flipped for dinner, guests enjoyed cocktail hour on the upper floor, which overlooked the ballroom below. A live caricature artist entertained guests with hand-drawn portraits, and the couple’s monogram — “M & N” — glowed softly on the floor beneath.

Reception tables were a stunning mix of tall and low centerpieces. Long captain’s tables featured lush white hydrangeas that spilled into gentle puddles at either end, accented with candlelight. Round tables held either tall crystal vases with white and pink roses or clusters of glowing candles for an intimate feel.

Instead of a traditional seating chart, guests found their names on monogrammed cookies. Designed and baked by Nicholas’s brother and his mother-in-law, these sweet place cards also doubled as favors.

In lieu of a guest book, the couple created a custom puzzle and a deck of cards printed with one of their engagement photos. As avid board game lovers, it was a perfect personal touch they’ll enjoy for years to come.

A First Dance to Remember

Dinner was served under sparkling chandeliers as heartfelt toasts began with champagne from a beautifully styled four-tier display. Later, Micaela and Nicholas shared their semi-choreographed first dance to “Gravity” by John Mayer — a song that had been part of their love story from the beginning.

As the evening continued, we slipped away for a few quiet portraits on the grand staircase. The soft candlelight reflected off the marble as the flowers still glowed gently around them. It was the perfect way to end a night that was both joyful and deeply personal.

A Wedding Full of Heart

Micaela and Nicholas planned their celebration with purpose and care. From the custom newspaper and monogrammed cookies to the wine time capsule and personalized details, every element told a piece of their story. The Old Courthouse served not only as a beautiful backdrop but also as a symbol of their lasting commitment and connection to Cleveland.

It was a day full of laughter, love, and meaning — a timeless celebration built on intention, emotion, and elegance.