Las Vegas Wedding Planner Andrea Eppolito. Images by Brian Leahy.

Nothing says romance quite like the color red. Deep, dark, and dramatic, red weddings are reserved for couples who dare to be different. I’m not talking about a pop of red here and there, I am talking about full color immersion. Red from top to bottom, and all around.

That is exactly what Catherine and Paul asked for during our initial consultation. Having originally decided to host a small, intimate wedding in California, the re-opening of Las Vegas inspired them to throw a big bash that would allow them to celebrate with their family and friends.

Both the bride and groom spent many years working in nightlife and hospitality. Having spent years going to the hottest openings and events, they really wanted to create an experience for their guests. We began with the venue. NOMAD Las Vegas is a boutique property attached to PARK MGM. The space feels like an upscale library, complete with massive built in bars, overstuffed furniture, and gothic chandeliers.

A VIP entrance complete with a costumed doorman gave way to a red carpet arrival. Paparazzi were staged to take photos of guests against a 24 foot flower wall. Upon entering the foyer, guests found a baby grand piano floating in a sea of long stem red roses. I wanted this to feel magical and unexpected - like something out of a dream. Guests were then lead into the bar where they enjoyed hand crafted cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. The bride and groom greeted their family and friends, later inviting them to The Library. Set against the back wall beyond the food stations and searing was Stratosphere, a 12 piece band that I was introduced to by Jordan Kahn. Stratosphere played for 4 continuous hours with absolutely no breaks - including when the groom surprised the bride with a contortionist and a flash mob that reenacted the Thrilled dance from one of the bride’s favorite films, 13 Going on 30.

After a feast featuring seafood towers, carving stations, and the most delicious rigatoni all a vodka, much of the family returned to their rooms while the couple’s friends joined them for an after party in a private room. Paul loosened his tie and Catherine changed into a swinging little mini-dress with long sleeves. With progressive DJs, late night bites, and a cute little cake for cutting, my newlyweds really made the most of every moment as they danced the night away.

Our night (early morning?) came to a close just after 2 AM, with the remaining guests heading into the casino to squeeze out the last little bit of Las Vegas nightlife before the sun came up.

This jet-setting couple has practically lived on the road since their nuptials, having taken trip to Arizon, Santa Barbara, Italy, Turkey, and more. But they always return to Las Vegas, which for them truly is the wedding capital and the city of love.

Please leave your well wishes for Catherine and Paul below!

Always…a