Italian-Inspired Wedding at The Basilica of the Sacred Heart and Morris Park Country Club | Gabriella & Michael

January 22, 2026
A bride and groom embrace at their Italian-inspired wedding at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart.
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Gabriella and Michael celebrated their marriage in a gorgeous Italian-inspired wedding at The Basilica of the Sacred Heart last summer. The couple radiated joy, love, and devotion during their ceremony and then danced the night away with their loved ones at Morris Park Country Club. With family ties going back to before Gabriella or Michael were even born, this couple’s story seems to have been written in the stars!

The Love Story

Gabriella and Michael’s love story proves that nobody can escape fate! Michael’s dad stood as best man to Gabriella’s father on his wedding day back in 1988. Michael’s parents went on to have three sons while Gabriella’s were blessed with three daughters. Growing up in each other’s orbit, the two resisted family pressures until the timing was right. From their first adult conversation, they clicked in the way that only those who have grown up together can. Between their easy conversation and constant laughter, Gabriella and Michael knew fairly quickly that they had something special.

Details of their Italian-Inspired Wedding at The Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Gabriella and Michael’s wedding celebration was one of tradition, speckled with personal touches throughout. From their adorable pup, Vito, stealing hearts while the girls got ready to dancing the Tarantella at their reception, every detail was carefully thought out. Gabriella and her bridesmaids wore matching pajamas while they toasted the bride on the morning of her wedding. Michael and his groomsmen raised a glass to the start of their friend’s long and joyful marriage. At the reception, soft florals nestled in fresh greenery and peeked out from between the tiers of the wedding cake. The newlyweds embraced under the setting sun, contemplating their bright future together.

Vendors

Photographer: Cat Alkire | Ceremony Venue: Basilica of the Sacred Heart | Reception Venue & Catering: Morris Park Country Club | Florist: Poppies | Stationery: Minted | Rentals: Burns | DJ/Band & Lighting: Pro Show | Videographer: Vibrant Video Productions | Hair: The Beehive Salon | Makeup: Ashley Urban Artistry | Hair (Groom’s): De Nolf’s | Cake/Bakery: Macri’s | Wedding Dress Designer: Randy Fenoli | Wedding Dress Purchased At: Greta’s Bridal | Tux: Louie’s Tux Shop | Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey | Rings: Rare Carat & Fox Jeweler’s

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Wife, mom, and the calm, joyful presence behind the camera. When I’m not chasing fireflies with my kids, I’m documenting love stories with a light and airy style that feels timeless, emotional, and true to you.

Hi, I’m Cat!