A Playlist-Perfect DIY Wedding at Tinker House in Indianapolis
When two music therapists fall in love, you know the wedding playlists are going to be next level. Emma (she/her) and Sarina (she/her) met as music therapy interns and bonded over snowy walks, movies, and a mutual love of caring for others through music. Fast forward a few years, a long-distance chapter, and a move to their dream city of Chicago, and these two threw a DIY celebration at Tinker House in Indianapolis that felt like one big jam session with their favorite people. Think taco bars, musical bingo, and a dance floor full of queens twirling to Dancing Queen.
How did you two meet, and what led you to this point?
We met as music therapy interns in Minneapolis back in 2020. What started as snowy walks and movie nights turned into something deeper, and when our internships ended, we navigated long-distance life between Wisconsin and Indiana. Eventually, we both landed in Indianapolis, built a home together, wrangled our cats into friendship, and knew this was it for us. By June 2024, we were saying “I do” at Tinker House surrounded by our closest friends and family.
What made you choose Tinker House in Indianapolis as your venue?
We wanted a space that felt open and warm but still had personality. Tinker House checked every box. The industrial vibe mixed with cozy details gave us the perfect backdrop for a colorful, music-inspired day. It was close to our families, easy for out-of-towners, and we could really make it our own without it feeling too formal.
You mentioned DIYing a lot of your wedding. What did that include?
Pretty much everything except photography! We designed and printed our invites, crafted our signage, and even arranged our own flowers. For catering, we worked with Indy Fresh Catering to keep things fun and casual with a taco bar. Our playlists became a centerpiece of the night, and musical bingo during cocktail hour was a hit with sound support from Indy Sound Rentals.
How did your music backgrounds influence the wedding?
It showed up everywhere. We curated an “incredibly cultivated” playlist for every moment of the day, from pre-ceremony to the last dance. Music bingo during cocktail hour was a highlight, and we loved seeing friends dancing under the perfect lighting setup by Indy Sound Rentals. Even our vows had a musical rhythm to them, since so much of our relationship has been built around music and creativity.
What was your approach to the ceremony and vows?
We actually wrote two sets of vows: one to share privately at home that morning and another to read during the ceremony. Our officiant, Jenna Voris, crafted a deeply personal ceremony, and we included a candle lighting ritual to symbolize joining our lives. One of our favorite moments was standing in front of everyone, pouring our hearts out, and feeling so supported.
Tell us about the fashion choices!
Sarina found her dream look at Bridal Rack Indy, and Emma wore sentimental jewelry including custom engagement rings from Jewelry Lady. The couple worked with Bridal By E Marie for both hair and makeup, ensuring everything stayed true to their relaxed, colorful vibe.
Any favorite moments that still stand out?
Honestly, all of it. From the first look to the speeches that made us cry-laugh, and Sarina’s little brother surprising us with a butterfly cake. Our first dance flowed into an epic “ladies dance” set to Dancing Queen, and we loved seeing everyone on the floor together. Also, having signature cocktails named after our cats, Willow’s Old Fashioned and Flower’s Strawberry Margarita, was a fun touch.
Which vendors or people went above and beyond?
Our photographer, Jasmine Tafoya, was an absolute dream. She created such a safe, calm space for us and captured candid moments beautifully. She and her partner Brit felt like part of the family by the end of the day. Having Sarina’s brother Beck MC and a close friend run our dance-floor timeline also kept things smooth and fun.
What advice would you give to other couples planning a wedding?
Know your strengths and divide tasks early. It saved us so many headaches. Keep your guest list focused on people who really know and love you. And don’t underestimate how much happiness comes from DIY details if you love being creative, but also give yourself grace when something doesn’t turn out perfect. Finally, lock in vendors who genuinely support you. It makes a huge difference in how the day feels.
Photography by Jasmine Tafoya
Catering Indy Fresh Catering
Celebrant Jenna Voris
Dress Boutique Bridal Rack Indy
Engagement Rings Jewelry Lady
Hair & Makeup Bridal By E Marie
Speakers and Lighting Indy Sound Rentals
Venue Tinker House
