top of page

Beautiful Winter Wedding | Amy Ann Photography | Via Vecchia Winery | Prodigy Video | Renaissance



Winter weddings are so beautiful! They bring a sense of fresh, bright and renewed beginnings. This is a look back at a previous winter wedding. 2020 brought about a much different year with the Corona Virus. Couples have struggled to plan weddings and the ability to follow through with their plans really brought about a sense of uncertainty.

2021 is almost here and we couldn't be more excited to have a new start!


Leigh and Matt are a match made in heaven. The symbiotic nature between them is captivating.



"ABOUT THIS VENUE  Work with our talented event planners to design the wedding of your dreams in downtown Columbus LEARN MORE Host a sophisticated reception for up to 850 seated guests in our Hayes Grand Ballroom Treat your guests to a delightful customizable meal prepared by our talented culinary specialists LEARN MORE Our smaller event venues are ideal for an intimate wedding, bridal shower or rehearsal dinner Impress your guests with hand-crafted cocktails on our rooftop terrace overlooking downtown Columbus Guests will appreciate our hotel's close proximity to downtown Columbus and exciting attractions LEARN MORE PLAN AN INSPIRED EVENT Attendee Booking Tools  Image Attendee Booking Tools We can provide you with a unique complimentary Reservation Link that makes it easy for your guests to reserve their rooms. Shared in an email Embed in a website Personalized with your group name, event dates, hotel, and special rates Displayed in multiple languages on Marriott domains worldwide MANAGE YOUR EVENT WITH EASE  Image Manage Your Event with Ease Keep Your Event in Hand. Manage event details, make real-time requests and connect with our staff - from the palm of your hand.  Group Lists If you have a list of your guests, we can make reservations for all of them.  Rooming Lists We can send you a report showing which of your guests have reserved rooms and when they plan to arrive.  Mobile Check-In Guests can check in before their stay, receive instant alerts when their room is ready and check out by skipping the front desk."
Renaissance Hotel, Downtown Columbus, Ohio | Rooftop | There’s no better place to begin your happily ever after than the Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel


Information about Renaissance Hotel, downtown Columbus Weddings "Wedding Certification Dream weddings don't just happen, they're planned. Marriott Certified Wedding Planners are trained to help. After completing demanding coursework, each Marriott Certified Wedding Planner is qualified to coordinate weddings of all types, including ethnic and military weddings. Relying on experience, training, tradition and old-fashioned intuition, Marriott Certified Wedding Planners can help you determine an overall vision for your wedding and help you execute each detail. That includes setting an event budget; deciding on a menu; arranging table settings; and finding florists, photographers, a band and other entertainment for the big day."
Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel Weddings There’s no better place to begin your happily ever after than the Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel.




Amy Ann Photography captured every little moment with an artful eye.

Amy's website says it best:

"Pretty things are fun to photograph; laughter, motion and tears inspire me. I want you to relive your memories in the pictures we make, and even discover moments you didn't know happened! My style is true-to-life, vibrant and in-the-moment. I aim to capture moments and connections that tell the story of a day, and are authentic to you as a couple or family.

If you can look at a collection of images I’ve taken of a total stranger and get a feeling for who they are and what they felt, then I’ve done my job! My clients are fun, fearless and diverse, and they’re not just in Columbus! I shoot weddings all over Ohio and beyond.

As an inclusive photographer, my mission from day one has been to capture and represent the love of ALL couples and families! Now in my 10th year of business, and hundreds of weddings later, I am as passionate as ever about the work I do, and why I do it."


You can also check out her beautifully written blog about Leigh and Matt's wedding here:


The staging of the first look was on the rooftop of the Renaissance in downtown Columbus. This early December wedding may have been cold and windy but the view was totally worth it! This sneak peak of Leigh and Matt gives all the feels. I am a sucker for a first look. It is such a cool time to just enjoy each other in a private and special way. This time is like no other time in your life! Taking every moment in and consciously thinking about it and making it last as long as possible is priceless.


Prodigy Weddings (videography/cinematography) was right there at every beautiful moment as well. Nathan from Prodigy Weddings is one of the best we have ever experienced. They are a must-have for your wedding.

Prodigy Wedding's website says it best and we couldn't say it better.

"We want to tell your wedding story. We want to showcase your love while capturing the memories and preserving them for years to come. We want to capture the unique nature of your relationship and craft a film that will stand the test of time and bring the joy of your special day back to you time after time.

The wedding film has evolved and has become much more than a camcorder in the back of the room. It takes an experienced filmmaker to capture all the angles needed to tell an entrancing story while also respecting the sanctity of the event and not turning it into a movie set. Our goal is to become a natural part of the wedding day and be an enhancement to the event rather than a distraction.

We have designed our films to provide a complete story of the day and allow you to relive those emotions again and again. Our Short Films provide a way to share the special day with anyone in just a few minutes while our Full Length films provide an in depth look inside your wedding story. Your memories of the day will fade but your wedding film will keep those images, sounds, and emotions fresh and vibrant for years to come. "




Check out Amy Ann Photography's Blog Post About This Wedding.  Here is a little clip: "Leigh and Matt’s winter wedding at Via Vecchia was no exception. It was the first weekend of December, and though we narrowly escaped the rain, it was definitely cold and windy out. Luckily Leigh had her fur, her girls had their shawls, and we embraced the cold – and the beautiful light – for gorgeous outdoor pictures!  With the early sunset in December, Leigh and Matt opted to see each other beforehand, to take advantage of daylight for portraits. After getting dressed and exchanging letters, I staged their first look on the rooftop of the Renaissance Columbus Hotel. Nathan from Prodigy Video was also on hand to capture the magic! As you can imagine, we had the rooftop all to ourselves in this winter day. From there, we explored the nearby alleys for wedding party portraits, jumped in the bus and headed to Arch Park for more! That’s when the light came out and made for some gorgeous portraits. I loved Leigh’s classic look, complimented by fabulous flowers by Madison House Designs, hair by Shannon Goode and makeup by State of Face Makeup Artistry!"
Amy Ann Photography | Columbus, Ohio | Downtown Columbus Weddings Photography



The Renaissance, downtown Columbus, is a popular venue for weddings, getting ready on the morning of your wedding and for rooftop photography locations.

"Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel Weddings"

"There’s no better place to begin your happily ever after than the Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel."


THE HISTORIC ARCH AT MCFERSON COMMONS The central point of the park is an arch salvaged from the old Columbus Union Train Station, demolished in 1979 to make way for the Greater Columbus Convention Center. The arch was designed by the legendary Daniel H. Burnham of Chicago in the Beaux-Arts Classicism style in 1893. It came from the third and final Columbus Union Station, which was located at High Street and what is now Nationwide Boulevard; the first such station dated back to the dawn of railroad travel in Columbus in 1850.  McFerson Commons looks out onto North Bank Park to the south and Nationwide Arena to the north. A significant part of the Arena District as well as the Scioto Mile, the park is host to a long list of events and outdoor activities, from kickball in the summer to ice skating in the winter.
VIBRANT PARK WITH BEAUX-ARTS CLASSIC ARCH This park at 218 West Street in the Arena District, also referred to as “Arch Park” was developed by Nationwide Insurance after the demolition of the Ohio State Penitentiary, which occupied the site from 1834-1998. The park is dedicated to honor Dimon R. McFerson, Chairman and CEO of Nationwide Insurance from 1992-2000.


RECREATION AT THE COMMONS McFerson Commons is a popular spot for one-time special events, casual sports leagues and annual festivals. Among the things taking place on any given day at the park are:  Games played by the Arena District Kickball League, weekday evenings beginning in August Columbus Blue Jackets Winter Park, an NHL-sized ice rink open for a month in the winter The opening ceremonies and race start for Pelotonia, an annual bike ride benefiting cancer research at The Ohio State University Viewing of the Red, White & Boom! fireworks display A variety of 5Ks and other races, including the PetPromise Rescue Run, Columbus Breakthrough for Brain Tumors 5K and Bull Run Flag football games Weddings
THE HISTORIC ARCH AT MCFERSON COMMONS The central point of the park is an arch salvaged from the old Columbus Union Train Station, demolished in 1979 to make way for the Greater Columbus Convention Center. The arch was designed by the legendary Daniel H. Burnham of Chicago in the Beaux-Arts Classicism style in 1893. It came from the third and final Columbus Union Station, which was located at High Street and what is now Nationwide Boulevard; the first such station dated back to the dawn of railroad travel in Columbus in 1850.

Events at Arch Park : "AN EVENING OF DANCE WITH BALLETMET In the interest of the health and safety of the community, artists, volunteers and staff, an Evening of Dance with BalletMet."
Scioto Mile | Arch Park | Downtown Columbus Weddings

Looking to enjoy some beautiful outdoor lights during the holiday season? Don’t miss the Scioto Mile holiday lights! Thanks to support from the Scioto Mile Endowment Fund, the holiday lights will return to the downtown riverfront from Wednesday, Nov. 25, through Sunday, Jan. 3, and will be visible every day from dusk until dawn.  For the most up-to-date information about the status of all Columbus Recreation & Parks Department parks, programs and facilities, please visit www.columbus.gov/RecParksCOVID19
Scioto Mile Holiday Lights | Winterfest

Arch Park was a location for capturing beautiful photos of Leigh, Matt and their wedding party. Here is a little more information about the park.

"VIBRANT PARK WITH BEAUX-ARTS CLASSIC ARCH"

"This park at 218 West Street in the Arena District, also referred to as “Arch Park” was developed by Nationwide Insurance after the demolition of the Ohio State Penitentiary, which occupied the site from 1834-1998. The park is dedicated to honor Dimon R. McFerson, Chairman and CEO of Nationwide Insurance from 1992-2000."

The Scioto Mile is always an amazing place to visit. "McFerson Commons looks out onto North Bank Park to the south and Nationwide Arena to the north. A significant part of the Arena District as well as the Scioto Mile, the park is host to a long list of events and outdoor activities, from kickball in the summer to ice skating in the winter."


Madison House Designs is a favorite of Columbus Brides. We get to see their beautiful work regularly! The floral arrangements created by Madison House Designs are hands-down amazing!!

Once again their website says it best.

"A BOTANICALLY-INSPIRED WEDDING & EVENTS FLORIST ALSO OFFERING LOCAL FLOWER DELIVERY

Situated on an old apple orchard in Marysville's countryside, Madison House Designs is a young, family-owned florist with a unique and natural style and a passion for design. Lush, garden-grown blooms such as dahlias and garden roses paired with spilling vines and greenery depict our favored style. Weddings and events are at the heart of what we do, and we would love to offer our services to beautify your event."



Here is a beautiful review left by a bride about Madison House Designs.  "Lynette was so great to work with; she was very flexible and responded quickly. Her floral designs are amazing and her prices are very affordable. We were pretty clueless when it came to flowers and she really helped us and explained what flowers would be in season (to keep costs lower) and how to arrange the flowers. I would recommend Madison House Designs to anyone that needs flowers for an event.  Madison House Designs did a fantastic job with our wedding ceremony and reception floral arrangements. When I look back at our pictures, I smile every time I see our flowers – they were STUNNING!  Many guests described our wedding as “Pinterest worthy” and all of the credit goes to Lynette! To top everything off, Madison House Designs is super accommodating and reasonably priced. I couldn’t have asked for better service, quality, style or value!"
Madison House Designs | Columbus, Ohio Floral Arrangements | Weddings + Special Events

Couples Love Via Vecchia.  Here is a little more information. "EVENT SPACE INDOOR The industrial block walls and neutral flooring is the perfect blank canvas for creative lighting and décor. Paired with crystal cadences, Via Vecchia Winery provides an industrial-chic atmosphere for any event.  The open concept provides flexibility to accommodate any vision you can imagine.   The expansive space features a mezzanine level with comfort seating, catering prep-kichen, lactaction room and a generous sized dressing room to prep for your wedding day or be used as a "green-room" for a corporate event.   The handcrafted bar made of original oak barrels and stainless steel offer ample space for guests to enjoy cocktails or a glass of Via Vecchia’s award winning wine.     Oversized industrial windows providing natural light, high ceilings, and on-site parking, paired with excellent catering options, Via Vecchia’s event space is a blank canvas awaiting your vision for any occasion.  VVStyle_WM_010 VVStyle_WM_010 1/20 OUTDOOR Looking for a private outdoor space?  The covered veranda combined with a 3,000 square foot terrace provides the perfect secluded setting for any type of event.     Lovely landscaping surrounded by an additional 11,000 square feet of green space offers a park-like setting in an urban environment, providing the perfect setting for yard games, socializing, dining, wedding ceremonies and more.  "
Via Vecchia Winery | Event Space | Downtown Columbus Weddings and Special Events

Via Vecchia Winery was the final destination and venue for the wedding on this cold December day.

Here is a little history on Via Vecchia. You will find more on their website.

"HISTORY OF VIA VECCHIA WINERY

Paolo Rosi always made wine with his father, using traditional Tuscan techniques passed down through family. When Paolo moved to the US, he brought basic equipment with him in the shipping container and began making wine as a hobby with friends. As the wine making hobby turned into a business and became more serious, it moved from the basement of Paolo’s suburban home into a historic warehouse in the Brewery District. Paolo and his business partner, Michael Elmer turned their Brewery District winery into a hip spot to host to a multitude of events and wine tastings that stirred lots of buzz. After discovering the winery location was highly sought after by local and out-of-state brides, Michael and Paolo launched the perfect union, Weddings & Wine!

The former Front Street location was sold out nearly every weekend of the year. Together with a professional group of trusted vendors, Via Vecchia Winery hosted hundreds of weddings. In 2018, Michael and Paolo decided it was time to grow again. More space would allow for larger sized weddings and for increased production facilities for their all-natural wine. Michael and Paolo began scouting Columbus for the next home of their winery while creating another highly desirable event venue. Upon their search, they discovered the urban industrial area slated for a host of redevelopment plans, including breweries and entertainment. Wanting to be at the forefront of the new venture, Paolo and Michael decided to make S. High Street the home of their family owned winery.


Via Vecchia Winery’s new Event Space is located just minutes south of Downtown Columbus among a growing hub of businesses at The Fort, a former fire engine manufacturing plant. Offering an urban industrial-chic aesthetic, the 6,000 square feet event space is a versatile indoor and outdoor space that can be shaped and styled to fit any occasion. Currently, the winery is housed in the adjacent building allowing ample space to produce their all-natural, hand-crafted, red wines made from whole grapes imported from California. Future plans will include a winery that will connect to the patio allowing guests additional options for events. "














9 views0 comments
bottom of page