Lauren & Harrison

On a radiant September 9th, 2023, love blossomed amidst a picturesque landscape of sprawling vineyards and majestic mountains, setting the stage for an extraordinary celebration uniting Lauren and Harrison. Their special day was graced by beloved guests, all invited to partake in the enchantment of this momentous occasion.

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The talented Aaron Watson, a beloved photographer from Charlottesville, was there to capture every cherished moment, ensuring that the memories of this day would be cherished for years to come. The story of their union began with a heartwarming first look by the fountain, setting the tone for the beautiful ceremony that lay ahead.

First Look

Every facet of this remarkable day was meticulously planned to create a seamless and enchanting experience for all in attendance. From the exquisite floral arrangements expertly crafted by Gregory Britt to the meticulously crafted signature cocktails, every detail served as a testament to the deep love and unwavering commitment shared by Lauren and Harrison.

Head Table

Keswick Vineyards, a charming winery nestled in the heart of Virginia's breathtaking countryside, provided a naturally stunning backdrop for the festivities. The theme of their fairy tale wedding was inspired by Italy, exuding timeless elegance and romantic allure. The color palette, featuring crystal blue, soft pink, champagne, silver, and pristine white, bathed the surroundings in a soft, ethereal glow.

Fountain

Their celebration continued with a sumptuous family-style dinner by the renowned L'etoile Catering, followed by a reception that promised to keep the dance floor alive well into the night, enticing all the enthusiastic dancers in the crowd. Shenandoah Sweets curated a delectable dessert table that embraced the sweetest of dilemmas, offering an array of flavors, from mouth watering cakes to delightful cupcakes, inviting everyone to savor every tantalizing bite. The night was filled with laughter and dance, thanks to the fun props and lively music that beckoned everyone to celebrate on the dance floor.

No detail was left unattended, and the air was filled with an abundance of love. It was a truly beautiful celebration that showcased the deep connection between Lauren and Harrison, a testament to their belief that they are "Better Together."

Better Together

Lily & Rivers

 This never changed….Lily and Rivers would be married on this special date despite any government order or change in headcount. Each time we met, I could see in their eyes that being married was what they wanted most. It was very important to share this time with their loving family and friends, but some celebrations would have to wait.

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With a beautiful forecast, the ceremony was set on the Berry Lawn at the Market at Grelen. Guests enjoyed the unique seating and gorgeous décor by Gregory Britt Floral and Event Design, while taking in the breathtaking mountain views.

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The bridal party’s masks gave way to huge smiles as they walked the aisle to support Rivers and Lily in their new beginning. Rivers’ Dad, Jamie had the honor of being their officiant, delivering a touching message of their love story. Though many could not remain for the dinner hour, all were simply happy to share these moments of joy with this adorable couple. Final photos were staged with Lilly Magnolia Photography LLC. In a perfect sunset.

 

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It was then time to celebrate while Exchange Events & Catering created an exceptional and fun dining experience. T.D. Layman with Sound Enforcement DJ Service announced the new Mr. & Mrs. and they lovingly shared their first dance “Dance With Me” by Morgan Evans. Grelen’s reception tent was especially beautiful displaying their Christmas tree with added décor by MS Events. A beautiful display of cake and desserts by Cakes by Rachel topped off the evening.

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The family and bridal party took advantage of a full weekend of fun and festivities while renting the beautiful homes offered by Market at Grelen. These memories will never fade.

 

Barb Wired LLC

Market at Grelen

Exchange Events & Catering

MS Events

Gregory Britt Floral and Event Design

Cakes by Rachel

Lilly Magnolia Photography LLC

 

You Can Still Have Your Dream Wedding In Our COVID World

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Our lives have changed in 2020 and perhaps the most important day of your life has been impacted. The good news is that our event professionals continue to do a great job to create your best day ever. Events and weddings have changed and will continue to do so for a while. For the most part, headcounts have decreased for a number of reasons albeit health restrictions, travel limitations, etc. We see our couples planning their celebrations in numerous ways.

Though Elopements, including the couple, officiant and possibly another friend or two are not a new concept, we are creating more elaborate experiences. From hot air balloon rides to horse-drawn carriages, there is so much to share throughout the Virginia landscape. Adding a picnic lunch with a tiny cake and a few of your favorite flowers will make for a lovely and romantic day. Any number of components can be added such as music, photography…let’s make this day yours!

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The Minimony includes a small group of loved ones on your original date, followed later by a Sequel wedding with all of the full planning aspects. The sequel wedding term might also be used for those couples planning celebrations in two locations or of varying cultures.

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The Micro wedding might include all or most of the aspects of your original plans, only with a smaller headcount. Couples might splurge to upgrade their rentals and/or menu choices when serving fewer guests; turning the micro into a macro experience.

 

The Shift wedding might include all of your guests, but not all at once. For instance, the immediate family and closest friends attend the ceremony; another age group, perhaps extended family is added for an extended cocktail hour; then the party group is added and/or stay for dancing.

 

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Super cute favors are a big part of making the experience fun with personalized masks, pretty hand sanitizers, as well as inventive messages and/or menus stenciled on the required plexiglass shields at bars or catering stations.

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OR let’s have a Virtual Wedding now and a big party later, perhaps on your anniversary. We are here for you with any resources you need and we encourage our clients to keep their vendor shopping local. It’s all here in Central Virginia. 

 

Key questions might be:

                  What is the vision for our wedding and is that realistic in the near future?

                  Who are the key loved ones we want present? Are we putting anyone at risk?

                  What flexibility do we have in our budget and are there creative ways to extend our funds?

                  What life events are we delaying by postponing our plans?

                  Would an anniversary celebration be the answer for us?

 

If you ultimately decide to celebrate in Central Virginia, we can report that our local industry has done everything in their power to create a fun and memorable experiences while being safe and dependable. Our top professionals have worked closely together and strategized with the CDC as well as the local health departments to understand their due diligence. To date, there have been few reports or complaints on our industry.

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In any case, take this extra time to remember you are getting married. The wedding is not the marriage so this is extra time to work on the rest of your life being the best of your life.

 Barbara Lundgren

Owner, Barb Wired LLC/C-Venue

Host, Virginia Weddings & Events Showcase/I Love CVille Network

 

 Photo Courtesy of C&O

Déjà Vu

Alyssa & Tylor

 

When I heard from Tylor I couldn’t have been more excited. Years prior I had planned his twin brother Skylor’s wedding and had fond memories of these families. I immediately told Alyssa that she was a very lucky gal!

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Tylor grew up in Charlottesville and graduated from UVA, while Alyssa is from Texas where they were living near her parents. They were apprehensive about planning from that distance but we put them at ease…this is what we do. Together we chose all of the team members for a perfect wedding day.

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But the first priority was the dress from Serendipity Bridal. Her “yes” was from designer Provonios in a princess design with a full flared skirt, illusion bodice and back in Chantilly, tulle and appliques of thread embroidery with incredible gemstone accents. First seeing Alyssa in this dreamy romantic creation put Tylor in tears.

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They chose beautiful Delfosse Vineyards as their venue and for good reason. The views (and the wine) are spectacular! The hillside ceremony was the perfect setting for the October afternoon ceremony where loving friends and family gathered. Perfect Harmony Trio accompanied the bridal party as they prepared for the Tylor to meet Alyssa at the aisle. Immaculate florals by M. Henry Design accented the beauty of the day.

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The guests enjoyed a picturesque and relaxed cocktail hour at the foot of the same hillside while Alyssa and Tylor enjoyed some final photos in the sunset. After introducing this entertaining bridal party and the bride and groom to the dance floor for their First Dance, Eric Stamer Catering served a scrumptious family style meal. Commonwealth Cake Company presented an elegant dessert table including a 3-tier cutting cake and darling cake shooters…yummy! The biggest treat was a surprise performance by the Virginia Gentleman, of which Tylor was a member when he was at UVA. The rest of the night was celebrated in dancing with the Knock on Wood Band from Great Party Bands. Others took time to for more fun at the Photo Booth of Charlottesville. A fun conga line led by Barb took us out to the sparkler departure and A&A Limo buses to take us home. We will enjoy these memories for years to come thanks to William Walker Photography.

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