A Timeless Wedding at the Palladium: Sara and Aaron’s Love Story

Sara and Aaron’s wedding at the Palladium was a celebration years in the making. They reached out to us more than a year before the proposal (yes, before they were even officially engaged!). With plans to get engaged at the Paris Olympics, they didn’t want to risk missing out on the venue or creative partners they had their hearts set on. So, they secured the Palladium, their DJ, and photographer early, then paused planning to focus on the engagement itself (we love a couple who knows what they want!). When Aaron finally proposed on a footbridge in Monet’s Garden in Giverny, it was every bit as romantic as they imagined.

With a Parisian engagement behind them and a grand theater wedding ahead, it was time to bring their vision to life.

Getting Ready Moments

We kicked off the day with getting ready photos in a hotel suite. Sara stepped into her first dress, a stunning white creation with ruffled layers that flowed like soft waves. The dress featured three-dimensional flowers the size of dinner plates, adding a touch of elegance. 

Meanwhile, Aaron and his groomsmen gathered across the way in timeless black tuxedos, fastening cufflinks and steadying their nerves. There was a beautiful contrast in the calm excitement between the two rooms. Every moment carried the quiet joy of a day long awaited.

First Looks, Real Emotion

Sara shared three first looks, each one heartfelt in its own way. Her mom was first, and their quiet moment together was full of pride and tenderness (the kind only mothers and daughters understand). Then came her father, who lit up the moment he saw her, wrapping her in the kind of hug that only years of love can create. 

And finally, Aaron. When he saw her, the weight of the day softened in his eyes. Their first look was private, sacred, and full of calm assurance. From that moment on, their connection grounded everything else.

Capturing the Heart of the Day

Following the first looks, Sara and Aaron moved into portraits, and the elegance of this couple unfolded frame by frame. Against the classic architecture of Carmel and the grandeur of the Palladium, Sara and Aaron looked as though they belonged on the cover of a European fashion editorial. Their wedding party, a striking palette of black tuxedos and formal gowns, surrounded them with energy and warmth. Every image captured not just style, but sincerity.

Ketubah and Ceremony

Next came the ketubah signing and ceremony at the temple. Sara and Aaron sat at a table with white roses, signing the contract as her father’s artwork hung nearby. We added soft greenery to honor their Jewish traditions.

The ceremony followed, with Sara walking down the aisle in her ethereal gown. The asymmetrical chuppah, built around her father’s surprise easel, bloomed with white flowers for the seven circles ritual. Their vows mixed humor and heart, sealing their union beautifully.

And while the ceremony itself was deeply moving, what also touched us was the spirit of those who surrounded them. Many of Aaron’s groomsmen had never attended a Jewish wedding before, yet they embraced every tradition with care and enthusiasm. They learned the difference between a yarmulke and a kippah, helped older guests with coverings, and even made sure they knew how to lift the chairs safely for the Hora later that night. 

Just before the processional, they gathered around Aaron, offering quick hugs and quiet encouragement. You could tell just how much they cared for Aaron. When Sara entered with her long veil, they collectively gasped — and it was pure, unfiltered awe. Their respect and willingness to engage so wholeheartedly proved these were not just groomsmen; they were witnesses, advocates, and true friends. We’ll never forget it.

Reception Details at the Palladium

And then, the reveal.

The Palladium was completely transformed. Think: 1920s Moulin Rouge supper club. The space was saturated in deep reds: linens, florals, candles—every element echoing warmth and drama. We covered the stage and orchestra pit, creating an entirely new floor plan that brought every guest into the heart of the space. Lucite chairs softened the heaviness of the red velvet linens, while a sea of candlelight (and we mean hundreds of glowing tapers and votives) brought romance to every corner.

Her father’s artwork lined the photo wall, and at the center of it all, a surprise painting of the Palladium I had made just for them. We lit it behind the DJ booth, making it a stunning focal point.

The floral story carried the design further—deep red and blush roses, sleek arrangements, and scattered cherries (yes, cherries!). Personalized menus, place cards, and custom typography (designed by Sara and her father) gave every guest a moment to feel considered. It was bold, artistic, and unmistakably theirs.

Golden Light Portraits

As golden hour arrived, Sara and Aaron stepped outside for bride and groom portraits. By then, Sara had changed into her second dress. This new white gown featured feathered layers with a fitted bodice, its shorter train perfect for dancing. 

Aaron also changed into a new white dinner jacket. The light bathed them in a warm hue, highlighting her gown’s details against the Palladium’s backdrop. These images glowed. And more importantly, so did they.

Dancing, Toasts, and Everything in Between

Guests were invited into the transformed Palladium, where the celebration kicked off right away. With everyone gathered on the main floor we flowed seamlessly from the couple’s first dance. Immediately following, Sara shared a dance with her father, and Aaron with his mother. Then came the Hora, and the energy soared. Lifting chairs, clapping in circles, and celebrating tradition. It was high energy from the start (exactly how we like it), and the joy in the room was unmistakable.

After the dancing, we moved into toasts. Family and friends spoke with love, humor, and so much warmth. Each one adding a layer to the story of the day. Dinner followed, giving guests a moment to savor the beautiful atmosphere, enjoy incredible food, and connect with one another.

It was a reception built on rhythm and heart, thoughtfully paced, beautifully styled, and filled with the kind of love that lingers long after the last song.

Looking Back

Looking back on Sara and Aaron’s wedding at the Palladium, what stays with us most isn’t just the beauty (though there was so much of it). It’s the way every moment felt intentional. Rooted in meaning, art, and the people they love. From honoring their traditions to reimagining the reception space with bold color and personal design, they invited guests into a celebration that was entirely and authentically theirs. 

It was a joy to plan, an honor to witness, and a day we’ll hold close for a long time to come.

Sara’s recent reflection in her WedSociety interview truly touched my heart. She shared:

“Our wedding planner, Monica Richard, was the most helpful. We engaged her two years before our wedding in September 2023. She provided guidance every step of the way and truly brought everything together. There were so many details that she came up with that made a large impact day of (for example, doing red lighting in our reception space). She recommended fantastic vendors who all did a great job.” – Sara & Aaron

This story is yours Sara and Aaron, a memory to treasure. As your Indianapolis wedding planners, we’re honored to have helped shape it.

Professional Team

Planner & Designer: Mon Amie Events

Temple: Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation

Photography: Conforti Photo

Film: Indy Visual

Venue & Catering: The Palladium & A Cut Above Catering

Floral: Pomp And Bloom

Entertainment: Jim Cerone The Perfect Host & TLW Entertainment

Rentals: A Classic Party Rentals, Ace Party And Tents, BBJ La Tavola & LGI Linens

Hair / Makeup: Something Blue Stylists

Transportation: Antique Limo Indy

Rehearsal & Accommodations: Hotel Carmichael & Sheraton Keystone