One Classic “Potter” Couple, One Very Charming Story

by · February 20, 2016

Paige and Skyler experienced that classic period of constantly running into each other (at high school, the grocery store, and even a driving course) before finally deciding to take fate into their own hands. As two movie buffs who sometimes skipped classes to catch a film, they quickly discovered their obsession with the Harry Potter series. Paige attributes her introduction to the series to her grandmother Ellie, who first checked out the novels to gauge their appropriateness for her grandchildren. Paige and Skyler would routinely sit around for hours at a time discussing the franchise and their appreciation for Snape, all the while attempting to binge watch the seven films in a single go. Fast-forward two and a half years later to the Brooklyn Bridge where Skyler posed the big question to an ecstatic Paige.

   

They immediately began brainstorming potential wedding themes. However, it wasn’t until they arrived at one full of magic, whimsy, and personal history that the real work of planning started. Thrift stores would prove vital to the sourcing of candelabras, eyewear, and potion bottles for the ripped-from-the-movies décor. Further re-watching of the films inspired Paige to try her hand at DIY projects, including a Monster Book of Monsters that readily ate cards fed by the guests along with a Marauder’s Map detailed with banners and foot prints for guests to sign. Even old-fashioned keys hung from the ceiling as a personal nod to a memorable scene from Sorcerer’s Stone.

   

 

 

At the wedding (which coincided with Hermione’s birthday), the groomsmen sported their unique Hogwarts Houses colors, with Skyler in particular featuring hints of red and gold. The bridesmaids meanwhile wore matching Ravenclaw diadems fashioned around their necks. Even grandmother Ellie triumphantly pulled off Hermione’s Yule Ball look. Not to be outdone, Paige upped the ante with her personal Time-Turner necklace and naturally opted for a splash of pink highlights in tribute to Tonks’s ever-changing coiffures.

   

 

To top it all off in what is now a staple element of Potter weddings, the two headed off to Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Reveling in the exuberance of the Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes and the thrill of selecting a wand at Ollivanders, Paige and Skyler fulfilled the romantic fantasy that many Potterheads crave.

   

Charming! That concludes another edition of “Muggle Matrimony.” If you have a wedding worth featuring, be sure to get in touch with us. Plus, check out Paige and Skyler’s Q&A below to get further insight into their big day.

 

Paige and Skyler's Q&A

Q. What other wedding themes did you consider before selecting this one?

Paige: We considered a country picnic theme, a fall theme, and a Halloween theme. The fall colors and Halloween thoughts ultimately led to the brilliant Harry Potter theme.

Q. How did you go about crafting your Book of Monsters?

Paige: To make the Monster Book of Monsters I purchased fur fabric and a box with hinges from the craft store. I removed the extra decorative pieces form the box and attached the fur all around. I also lined the inside of the box with red felt. Then I created details such as the mouth-bookmark tongue and eyes out of clay. Finally I gave them a glossy coat of paint to look more life-like.

Q.Was it more fun or stressful having to DIY many of your decor pieces?

Paige: At first, making most of the decorations was loads of fun. I spent hours creating each piece. As the day approached it definitely became more stressful. In the end though I was very happy with how everything turned out. We also saved money. Most of the items I bought at thrift stores or made myself. Nothing looked generic and it all came together in the end.

Q. What magical item from the series would make the best wedding present?

Paige: I would love to have a Pygmy Puff! From the moment I read about them I wished to have one. I would prefer a pink Pygmy Puff but purple is fine too! Skyler my husband said "let's say the Marauders Map? Or maybe the invisibility cloak or an acceptance letter to Hogwarts!" He just couldn't decide.

Q. Do you have any tips for visitors to the Wizarding World?

Paige: When visiting the Wizarding World I recommend going during the off season. The two of us went in September. We road each ride multiple times with a short wait. Also we went for a full week so we could spend as much time in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade as possible. We were really able to submerge ourselves in the magical aura of the place. Also if you are there for a special occasion wear the silly button they give you. It really is a conversation starter with other guests and the staff. It's a good way to meet other Harry Potter fans. Also try the Butter Beer. It's delicious!