Christina Albert and Michael Rapella’s OKC Wedding at The Skirvin Hilton
Christina and Michael met in December 2013 at Belle Isle Brewery when Michael invited her to trivia night with some of his friends. They clearly were meant for each other as a stranger that night asked them how long they had been married! After a year and a half of dating, Michael decided to make it official with a surprise proposal at the Myriad Botanical Gardens. He then surprised her with dinner with their families at Red PrimeSteak – where they had their first official date – to celebrate followed by a surprise engagement party with all of their friends at O Bar.
Christina and Michael envisioned a classic and elegant wedding with a neutral color scheme. Between the hard work of their parents, their wedding planner, Judy Lehmbeck, and all of their wonderful vendors, the wedding weekend came together perfectly. They said “I do” on April 9, 2016, at St. Joseph Old Cathedral in Oklahoma City in the presence of God, their families and friends. The bride wore a double-laced ivory Maggie Sottero gown. Christina’s bridesmaids wore blush, and Michael and his groomsmen wore midnight blue tuxes.
Following the ceremony was a cocktail reception and formal dinner and dancing at the beautiful Skirvin Hilton. The venue was absolutely perfect for the occasion. The bride’s parents surprised the bride and groom by inviting Rumble the Bison of the Oklahoma City Thunder to the party! This was very fitting with the groom’s Rumble cake. Rumble made an exciting entrance by playing the band’s drums, dancing with the guests, and giving the bride and groom a signed Thunder basketball that said “Best Swishes.”
The newlyweds were thrilled by how many people were still out on the dance floor at midnight; Dave and the Wavetones did a great job of keeping the party going! The couple made their exit down the beautiful Skirvin staircase beneath a shower of white rose petals. They then spent their wedding night in the Honeymoon Suite at the Skirvin.
The couple spent a relaxing and romantic week honeymooning at Couples Swept Away resort in Negril, Jamaica.
FEATURED VENDORS
accommodations, catering, venue / THE SKIRVIN HILTON
bridal gown & bridesmaids’ attire / MOLIERE BRIDAL HOUSE
cakes / MISHELLE HANDY CAKES
entertainment / BOX TALENT AGENCY – DAVE AND THE WAVETONES
hair & makeup / NATASHA RAE – MALORIE AVALINE – BEAUTY UNVEILED
rings / BC CLARK JEWELERS
videography / ATRIA CREATIVE
wedding planner / JUDY LEHMBECK BRIDAL + PARTY
Other Local Vendors:
Judy Lehmbeck Bridal & Party, The Fleuriste, Atria Creative, Malorie Avaline - Beauty Unveiled
