🕊 David & Mamuyan’s National Aviary Wedding

A Story of Love, Laughter, Wildlife… and Unforgettable Moments

I. The Anticipation Builds

When it comes to weddings, there’s always a special kind of electricity in the air before it all begins. That pre-wedding buzz? It was alive on David and Mamuyan’s big day. I first met David at a cozy walk-up on Pittsburgh’s Northside—one of those places where memories live in the walls. He sat there, carefully rewriting the final version of his vows. Every word mattered. Every phrase had to carry weight, because he wasn’t just marrying the love of his life—he was honoring the journey that led them here.

The room soon filled with laughter as his best friends trickled in, teasing, tying ties, and sipping coffee. It wasn’t stiff or formal—it was real, full of warmth. This crew was tight-knit, and their energy was contagious. As a Pittsburgh wedding photographer, it’s in these unscripted moments that the best shots are born.

Then we made our way to the venue—The National Aviary, just a short walk away. A perfect spot for these two nature lovers who wanted something a little different, something with life (literally) fluttering all around.

II. The Heartwarming First Look

While David prepped with his guys, I headed over to the Aviary to meet up with Mamuyan. When I walked in, she was surrounded by love—her mom adjusting the gown, her bridesmaids sharing nervous giggles, and the hum of final preparations in the air. Her eyes told the story. Calm, focused, but with that unmistakable gleam of someone about to step into forever.

As a photographer, I live for these little in-between moments. The quiet hugs. The misty eyes. The reflection in the mirror just before the dress is zipped. Mamuyan was glowing—like, actual glowing—and her walk toward the ceremony site was like something out of a fairytale.

And then came the first look.

David turned around, and it was as if the world paused for a second. His face lit up like sunrise. There wasn’t a dry eye on my side of the lens. This wasn’t just love. This was deep admiration, shared history, and joy—raw and real.

III. The Ceremony: Lush, Emotional, and Surrounded by Nature

The ceremony took place beneath the greenery and glass of the Aviary’s lush venue space. The light filtering through the branches created a soft, romantic glow—perfect for candid wedding photography. Surrounded by chirping birds and tropical flora, David and Mamuyan stood hand in hand.

David went first. His voice cracked, but he didn’t hold back. Every word hit like a warm breeze. His vows were heartfelt, with just enough humor to keep everyone smiling. Then came Mamuyan—graceful, strong, and deeply expressive. She locked eyes with David and poured out her heart with quiet intensity. Her words spoke of respect, resilience, and finding home in another person.

As a Pittsburgh wedding photographer, I’ve seen many vow exchanges—but this one will stay with me. There was power in their stillness, in their words, and in the silence between them.

IV. A Reception Full of Heart… and Wildlife

Let’s talk about the party. It started with a penguin.

Yes, you read that right.

As guests moved into the reception space, they were greeted by one of the Aviary’s very dapper residents—an African penguin named Disco. People laughed, snapped selfies, and bonded over this once-in-a-lifetime moment. And just when we thought it couldn’t get more unique, in swooped an owl. Curious, calm, and photogenic.

Then came the dancing.

David and Mamuyan honored their roots with African cultural dances that lit up the floor. Drumbeats, twirls, and vibrant outfits set the tone for a celebration that felt alive. Guests jumped in without hesitation, clapping and moving to the rhythm. It wasn’t just dancing—it was connection, storytelling, and joy turned up to eleven.

This is the kind of wedding reception every Pittsburgh wedding photographer dreams of. Emotional. Playful. Full of color and movement and laughter.

V. The Moments That Make It Magic

My goal on every wedding day is to make the photographs feel like you’re there. And with David and Mamuyan, the magic was everywhere. Every click of the shutter was filled with something: love, energy, intimacy.

There was David whispering something that made Mamuyan laugh so hard she had to lean on him for balance. There was a stolen glance during dinner, quiet and full of meaning. There were guests from every part of their lives celebrating like they’d known each other forever. Every frame was bursting with story.

The National Aviary turned out to be the perfect venue—lush, alive, and full of personality. Its natural beauty enhanced the romantic vibe without overshadowing the stars of the show. And the light? Chef’s kiss for wedding photography.

VI. One Wild, Beautiful Beginning

As the night wrapped up, the celebration didn’t fade—it glowed. Under the soft twilight, David and Mamuyan made their grand exit through a tunnel of sparklers. The sparks mirrored the energy between them: bright, bold, and unstoppable.

This wasn’t just a wedding. It was a tapestry of love, family, culture, and yes—a few unforgettable animal cameos.

David and Mamuyan, thank you for trusting me to tell your story. Your National Aviary wedding was unlike anything I’ve photographed before—full of real emotion, fun, and those once-in-a-lifetime moments that make this work so fulfilling.

Here’s to a future just as wild and wonderful as the day it all began.