Date: September 13, 2025
Photographer: A Rose’s Touch Photography
Location: Avalon at Squaw Creek & Salvatore’s Italian Grill

The sweetest surprise — Ally’s birthday gallery delivery 💛

Hello, sunshine! I just delivered Ally and Sal’s wedding gallery, and I could not wait another second to share this one with you. Ally had texted me earlier in the week with the most subtle “wink-wink” reminder that her birthday was coming up… and while I didn’t promise anything, I happened to be this close to finishing their gallery. So yes, she got the best birthday surprise ever — reliving her wedding day at Avalon at Squaw Creek in all its sunshine-filled glory.

Normally, my turnaround time is 4–6 weeks (8–10 during busy season), but when the stars align, I love giving my couples that little extra moment of magic. And this day? Pure joy from start to finish.

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Getting ready with laughter, puppy kisses, and sentimental details

Ally began her morning at her parents’ home — a space filled with warmth, love, and their adorable goldendoodle, Millie, who truly believed she was part of the bridal party. 🐾 Between cuddles and laughter, Makeup Artist Ellie Dundics (@glam_byellie) created Ally’s timeless, natural look that perfectly complemented her Anthropologie wedding gown.

Every detail had meaning — from the dress design to the map of the Grand Tetons where Sal proposed. It’s the kind of thoughtfulness I adore capturing. Ally shared with Mariah and I the story behind the gem in her dress and it was absolutely beautiful.

We also had a content creator, Mariah, documenting the behind-the-scenes moments, and it was such a fun addition! While videography captures cinematic storytelling, a content creator gives couples instant snippets to relive the day right on their phone and share with friends. I find content creators to add just that extra layer of something. During our getting ready time we prompted Ally with questions of how she met Sal and what their proposal story was. Can you say adorable!?

Sal got ready down the street at his and Ally’s home surrounded by his closest guy friends. Once they were ready and the game came to a good stopping point they were off! Or so we thought. Ally had a motion alert from a camera that the limo had to turn around for something (oops!)

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A ceremony full of emotion (and one very important guest!)

The ceremony at Avalon at Squaw Creek was nothing short of breathtaking. The weather was perfect — golden sunshine, no rain, and a gentle September breeze. As Ally walked down the aisle with her dad, Sal’s emotions overflowed. His brother handed him a tissue just as everyone realized someone special was missing…

Cue Millie, running down the aisle in her custom bandana to greet her parents! 🐶 It was one of the sweetest moments I’ve ever seen — a reminder that yes, your dog can absolutely be part of your wedding day.

Their officiant included a unique unity moment with a personalized water bottle sticker — a symbolic twist that reflected their personality beautifully.

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Portraits on the greens of Avalon Golf Course

After their heartfelt “I do’s,” we explored Avalon’s stunning golf course for portraits. The light was perfect — soft and golden, my favorite kind of glow — and we had so much fun capturing their just-married joy. Golfers passed by cheering and honking, celebrating right along with us.

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A reception close to their hearts at Salvatore’s Italian Grill

Their reception took place at Salvatore’s Italian Grill in Howland, Ohio — a place with deep roots for the Coppola family. It’s where Ally and Sal first met, and where they now gathered with everyone they love to celebrate the start of their forever.

Inside, the décor was elegant and cozy, with floral arrangements by Flower Moxie and touches of Italian charm. Guests signed postcards instead of a traditional guestbook, each representing a place meaningful to the couple — such a creative touch! Among the decor was of course nodes to not only Ally and & Sal’s life together but also Millie, from the cocktail napkins to the cake pops!

During dinner, a guest serenaded Ally and Sal in Italian, filling the room with so much love it practically shimmered. Then came heartfelt speeches, teary parent dances (yes, I teared up too), and an adorable cake-cutting moment featuring icing on both their noses! Their cake, crafted by Whipped by Aubrey, was as delicious as it was beautiful.

Of course, the night wouldn’t be complete without a cookie table that deserves its own spotlight — truly next level. And the sweetest surprise? A custom sheet of tiramisu that read “Congratulations Ally & Sal.” Perfection.

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Closing thoughts

From beginning to end, Ally and Sal’s wedding day was the perfect mix of elegant, emotional, and joy-filled. A reflection of their love story and their roots in the Youngstown area.

I’m endlessly grateful to have been trusted to capture every detail. It is truly an honor I cherish deeply.

If you’re planning a Northeast Ohio wedding, I’d love to help you document it with heart, sunshine, and a touch of sparkle. ✨

Inquire here

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Ally & Sal’s Wedding Vendors

• Photographer: A Rose’s Touch Photography
• Dress: Anthropologie
• Hair Stylist: Marissa Rowland @Salon One
• Makeup Artist: Ellie Dundics @glam_byellie
• Florist: Flower Moxie
• Ceremony Venue: Avalon @ Squaw Creek
• Reception Venue: Salvatore’s Italian Grill (Niles, Ohio)
• DJ/Entertainment: Jay Byrd
• Cake: Whipped by Aubrey