Wedding inspiration comes in many forms, and often in the unlikeliest of places. When Erika Mattingly Photography and Heirloom Event Co. came together to dream up an new form of inspiration, they knew they wanted a location that was unexpected and captivating. These cathedral ruins echoed with love stories of the many couples who passed through its altar: once a traditional venue, now, the perfect urban inspiration.

Abby of Heirloom Event Co. shares I wanted to evoke a design that brought out the elegance and beauty of its former glory, but with a modern romantic take. A moody color palette is coupled with soft and romantic details like the feminine Alyssa Kristin gown and a vintage sofa by Strange Lovely to create an elegant but unique urban backdrop.

Four Hats Press created a modern-romantic invitation suite to compliment Erika & Abby's vision.

These moody yet vibrant blooms from Fleur, Inc. offset the old ruins with some fresh, new life!

Erika tells us, Planning in unusual locations can be a challenge and this inspiration was not short on challenges. How to balance the soft and delicate details of a wedding day with an urban location, all while creating the intimate feeling of a wedding.

Can you believe this?! We love, love, love this beauty among ruins!

Rentals from Strange Lovely mixed in a bit of old + new to create this romantic tablescape.

WOW.

With 8 years of marriage under their belts, Morgan + Matthew brought plenty of love to the shoot.

We are so excited to see more brides opting for less-traditional hairstyles - like the pixie cut! Bianca Sansosti Artisty created a sweet, soft look for Morgan's hair and makeup.

Nothing like topping it off with a dessert bar! These sweet treats from Sweet Melissa Desserts compliment the urban elegance of the church ruins.

We're officially fans. What do you think? Would you look into an unexpected venue for your big day?

photography: Erika Mattingly Photography // venue name: City Methodist Church, Gary, Indiana, USA // event design: Heirloom Event Co. // planning: Heirloom Event Co. // florals: Fluer, Inc // wedding dress: Alyssa Kristin + chic-modern/Morgan // bride's ring: Katie Carder Fine Jewelry // hair stylist: Bianca Sansosti Artisty // makeup artist: Bianca Sansosti Artisty // groom attire: Richard's Fabulous Finds + vintage/Matt // groom's ring: Katie Carder Fine Jewelry // videography: Brandon Mattingly // paper goods: Four Hats Press // calligraphy: Four Hats Press // cake: Sweet Melissa Desserts // desserts: Sweet Melissa Desserts // tabletop rentals: Strangelovely Chicago Vintage // furniture rentals: Strangelovely Chicago Vintage // models: Morgan Terlouw and Matthew Terlouw