Sophia & Stephen’s Musical Romance at The Armour House
On October 29, 2023, Sophia and Stephen hosted a dreamy, music-filled wedding at the stately Armour House at Lake Forest Academy. Envisioning an intimate affair focused on romance and timeless elegance, they chose a palette of cream and dusty blue, perfectly complementing the historic beauty of the venue and creating a serene, European estate ambiance.
Both professional musicians, Sophia and Stephen met while performing with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. As the orchestra season kicked off, their brief conversations blossomed into a deeper connection, strengthened by shared passions, from music to faith and future aspirations. A year later, during a trip to San Diego, Stephen proposed, and Sophia’s joyful “yes” set the stage for their beautiful wedding.
The Armour House provided the perfect backdrop for their elegant wedding. Its timeless charm and versatile spaces, from the grand indoor ceremony room to the beautiful gardens, were oh-so dreamy. The couple prioritized creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for their guests, ensuring everyone felt comfortable whether dancing or enjoying quieter moments in separate rooms.
As musicians, they incorporated musical elements throughout the festivities. Sophia, a long time Swiftie, included some Taylor Swift renditions into the day. The wedding party made a grand entrance to a string quartet arrangement of “Lover,” followed by Sophia’s walk down the aisle to Swift’s “You Are In Love.” The string quartet, comprised of the couple’s close friends, added to the special ambiance.
Post-ceremony, guests were welcomed to the cocktail hour with a glass of champagne and a stunning display of fresh sushi and maki rolls. Hors d’oeuvres were passed around, and signature cocktails named after Sophia and Stephen’s cats (“Simba Spritz” and “Peppomint Martini”) were offered at the bar.
The musical theme continued with a particularly special moment following dinner. Stephen performed an arrangement of “All I Ask of You” from Phantom of the Opera on the cello. This moving performance, highlighting their shared musical talents, brought tears to many guests’ eyes.
Vendors
PHOTOGRAPHER Danielle Heinson Photography
VIDEOGRAPHER Allan L. Niño
VENUE The Armour House at Lake Forest Academy
FLORAL May Floral
HAIR Amanda Kosiek with L + A Salon
MAKEUP Windy City Glam
BRIDE’S GOWN Watters from Luxe Redux Bridal
BRIDE’S RECEPTION DRESS Anthropologie
GROOM’S FORMALWEAR The Black Tux
CAKE Deerfields Bakery
ENTERTAINMENT DJ Jennefa