Alexsys and Jon Take the Plunge with a Phipps Conservatory Wedding

There is a saying that your first love is the sweetest love. That is certainly the case for Jon Conklin and Alexsys Carlson, high school sweethearts who recently said “I do” in a Phipps Conservatory wedding in Pittsburgh. Jon and Alexsys met in their high school robotics club. The couple bonded at a reception for a competition their team was entered in. After chatting together all night, Alexsys knew she wanted to be more than just friends and teammates with Jon. She made the first move and they have been together ever since.

Wedding rings placed on top of handwritten vows

The Proposal

Alexsys was the first to pop the question. On November 21, 2017, after seven years of dating, she decided she had waited long enough! She kept the proposal low-key and intimate, asking Jon to marry her while in the comfort of their home. They both agreed it was time to take the next step in their journey together.

The Phipps Conservatory Wedding

Bridal portraits and the first look took place at the Cathedral of Learning at the University of Pittsburgh. It is a beautifully dramatic room full of detailed stone pillars and rich wood. Jon’s reaction to seeing Alexsys in her gown has got to be one of my favorite moments from this year. It was such an amazing and emotional moment, and one I am so glad I got to be there for and capture!

Bride and her mom getting ready before Phipps Conservatory wedding

A black and white image of bride and groom kissing under her veil at the Cathedral of Learning

Bride and groom laughing under her veil at the Cathedral of Learning

Groom's reaction to bride during their first look in the Cathedral of Learning at Pitt

a black and white image of Jon's reaction to Alexsys during their first look in the cathedral of learning at Pitt

A black and white image of Alexsys and her bridesmaids outside of the cathedral of learning on Pitt's campus

Alexsys solo portrait inside of the cathedral of learning on Pitt's campus.

Jon and his groomsman outside of the cathedral of learning on Pitt's campus

Jon and Alexsys held their ceremony at the Phipps Conservatory in the stunning Broderie Room. This ceremony space is nothing short of breathtaking. Floor to ceiling windows surround gorgeous hedge sculptures and elegant flowers allowing for ample natural light to shine through. Modeled after the gardens of the decadent French King Louis XIV, the Broderie Room was the perfect backdrop for this couple to say “I do.” Their intimate ceremony was filled with family and loved ones, with three of their siblings serving as Maid of Honor, Best Man, and Flower Girl. Their closest friends served as the rest of the bridal party. Having a close friend as the officiant made it even more special and personal. There was clearly a lot of love and admiration for this wonderful couple.

color image of Alexsys and Jon reading their vows in Phipps conservatory on their wedding day