Minaicis & Jeffrey’s Romantic Black-Tie Wedding at The Westin Great Southern Columbus
Set against the timeless architecture of The Westin Great Southern Columbus, Minaicis Mata and Jeffrey Leachman’s Columbus wedding blended classic elegance with meaningful personal touches. Their September celebration felt both refined and heartfelt—an evening where historic grandeur and candlelit romance came together inside one of the most iconic Columbus wedding venues.
The couple envisioned a black-tie formal celebration, allowing the venue’s historic ballroom to shine while layering in soft, romantic elements throughout the design. Long reception tables were illuminated by towering glass candle installations, casting a warm glow across lush floral arrangements by Botanica Flowers Columbus. The effect was breathtaking—an atmosphere that felt intimate, sophisticated, and timeless.
Earlier in the day, Minaicis prepared for the celebration surrounded by her closest friends and family, many of whom traveled from the Dominican Republic to witness the occasion. While the bridal party got ready, music, videos, and images from her homeland played throughout the room, creating a joyful and deeply personal atmosphere. The cultural influence continued into the evening celebration as well, bringing vibrant energy to the dance floor and honoring the bride’s heritage in a meaningful way.
Minaicis looked radiant in her elegant gown from Nearly Newlywed, paired with classic pearl jewelry and a bouquet of soft ivory and blush blooms. As she and Jeffrey stepped outside for portraits in downtown Columbus, the stately columns and historic architecture surrounding the venue created the perfect backdrop for their timeless wedding style.
Thoughtful Planning with Vowed Weddings
Behind the seamless flow of the day was thoughtful planning and coordination led by Paula Leachman of Vowed Weddings, who also happens to be the groom’s mother. Working with experienced Columbus wedding planners like Paula allows couples to fully enjoy their wedding day while every detail unfolds effortlessly behind the scenes.
With both professional expertise and a deeply personal connection to the celebration, Paula curated a day that balanced refined elegance with heartfelt family moments. From the ceremony to the reception, each transition felt natural and intentional, allowing Minaicis and Jeffrey to remain present with their loved ones throughout the day.
A Candlelit Reception Design
The reception design transformed the ballroom into a romantic candlelit setting. Long banquet tables were layered with lush greenery and soft florals while Sage Hill Rentals provided the dramatic glass candle installations that defined the reception space.
The tall glass candle columns created a striking visual moment, drawing the eye upward while casting a soft glow across the tables. Additional rentals from Aiden & Grace and Serendipity Designs complemented the overall aesthetic, while lighting by Encore enhanced the warm ambiance of the historic ballroom. Together, the layered design elements created a reception space that felt both elevated and inviting.
Capturing the Day with Sam & Grace Photography
Every meaningful moment of the celebration was beautifully documented by Sam & Grace Photography, whose imagery captured both the elegance and emotion of the day. Talented Columbus wedding photographers play a vital role in preserving the story of a wedding—from quiet moments during the morning preparations to the joy and energy of the evening celebration.
Sam & Grace Photography captured the full scope of Minaicis and Jeffrey’s day, highlighting everything from the delicate details of the couple’s styling to portraits framed by the grand architecture of downtown Columbus. Their images reflect the warmth, sophistication, and genuine emotion that defined the entire celebration.
A Joyful Celebration
As the evening progressed, the celebration took on a vibrant energy. Live music and entertainment provided by Columbus Musicians LLC filled the ballroom while guests gathered on the dance floor to celebrate the newlyweds. Dominican music and traditions woven into the evening added a joyful cultural dimension, bringing together family and friends who had traveled from near and far.
Surrounded by loved ones from both Columbus and abroad, Minaicis and Jeffrey’s wedding felt like a beautiful reflection of their story—one rooted in family, culture, and timeless elegance.
The Westin Great Southern Wedding Venue in Columbus
Located in the heart of downtown, The Westin Great Southern Columbus is one of the most recognizable historic wedding venues in the city. Known for its grand architecture, soaring ceilings, and elegant ballroom spaces, the venue provides a stunning setting for couples planning classic or black-tie celebrations.
For Minaicis and Jeffrey, the venue offered the perfect blend of historic character and modern sophistication. The dramatic ballroom created an ideal backdrop for their candlelit reception design, while the downtown location allowed guests to experience the charm of Columbus throughout the entire wedding weekend.
Couples planning their own celebration often work with experienced Columbus wedding planners, talented Columbus wedding photographers, and other trusted Columbus wedding vendors to bring their vision to life in spaces like this.
Columbus Black-Tie Wedding Vendors
Venue & Catering: The Westin Great Southern
Planning & Coordination: Vowed Weddings
Photography & Videography: Sam & Grace Photography
Florals: Botanica Flowers Columbus
Rentals: Sage Hill Rentals, Aiden & Grace, Serendipity Designs
Lighting: Encore
Entertainment: Columbus Musicians LLC
Cake: Smallcakes Megan
Desserts: One Hail of a Cookie
Bridal Gown: Nearly Newlywed
Bridal Hair: Evan Joseph Salon
Bridal Makeup: Fanta Soso
Transportation: Xtreme Limo
