The day was unseasonably warm for October, but Melissa kept her cool as she got ready in her room at the Ritz Carlton. That is, until she read the card Mike had written. When it became difficult for her to read the rest, Anna, her maid of honor, read it to her. Tears welled up in Melissa’s eyes, and I couldn’t help but notice that she’s a beautiful crier. And as Toni finished helping her daughter get ready, she also teared up, and I saw where that beauty came from. Not just on the outside, but on the inside as well. Their kind hearts radiated a warmth unmatched by that sunny day. I always adore my couples, but on this day I was struck by how much I adored their families as well.
Melissa and Mike were all about enjoying their day with those closest to them. It was a celebration filled with sweet smiles, love, laughter, and happy tears. Their day was uniquely them, and couldn’t have been so without the help of Jennifer from Something Fabulous. She designed their wedding to tell their story, personalized by a Hope Floats fair theme, as their first date was at the Arlington County Fair. I had been looking forward to this wedding all year! And the details didn’t disappoint. Check out the images below and you’ll see exactly what I’m talking about!
I absolutely love lace wedding gowns, and this Romona Keveza was classically gorgeous.
Who doesn’t love a beautiful pair of Kate Spade heels?? And flowers by Something Fabulous themselves!
One of my favorite mother-daughter moments ever…
Mike and the guys getting ready and celebrating in another room at the Ritz…
A little Veuve Clicquot and jumping on the bed…….why not?
The BEST place card display I’ve ever seen! Vintage suitcases, pinwheels, flowers, hay bales, balloons and layers and layers of style.
The cocktail hour was designed with vintage bicycles, ribbon-clad lanterns, and “fair” games like ring toss and corn hole.
Their signature drinks were Spiced Apple Cider served in mason jars and Apple Martinis.
Westwood provided a beautiful backdrop for portraits…
You two…. <3 !!!
I was in awe of this beautiful reception design. The cafe lights strung across the ceiling were the perfect finishing touch for their wedding theme.
How ADORABLE are these bride and groom chair covers??
A jar of pickles on every table – SO fun!
I loved the mix of different style chairs, and the custom flower chair back at the head of the farm tables, along with the pink velvet chair cushions!
I about died when I saw their table cards – each and every one custom designed and illustrated for a meaningful part of their lives. If you remember their story from their engagement session, they met on Facebook. And they watched the pig races on their first date at the fair.
Invitations and paper products designed by Something Fabulous. In love with that gold envelope liner!
Melissa’s dad gave a speech filled with laughter and heartfelt stories.
You know it’s good when BOTH the bride and groom shed a tear! (Thank you to Shelby for capturing this perfect moment!)
A dessert display unlike anything I’ve ever seen…
Melissa and Mike’s dog Lola is a huge part of their lives, and since she couldn’t be at the wedding herself, she sent a little treat for the guests.
And a hand rolled cigar bar was the perfect way to cap off the night…
Melissa and Mike – thank you for being the sweetest, kindest couple in the world. I’ve loved every minute of getting to know you – from our first meeting, to your engagement session, and finally to your wedding day (and everything in between!). In a way I’m sad it’s over, but I’m so thankful for the honor and pleasure of documenting the start of the rest of your lives as husband and wife! I hope you enjoyed your honeymoon in Hawaii, and I hope this little sneak peek brings you back to relive your incredible wedding day. Much love…
Event Designer: Jennifer Charles of Something Fabulous
Accommodations: Ritz Carlton Tysons Corner
Ceremony: Our Lady of Good Counsel Church
Reception: Westwood Country Club
Hair: Diane of Diane T. Hair Salon
Makeup Artist: Shaune Hayes
Flowers: Something Fabulous
Cake: Sweet City Desserts
Lighting: Frost Lighting
Invitations and all paper products: Something Fabulous
Cocktail hour band: Mixed Business
Reception DJ: Aaron of Chris Laich Music
Bride’s dress: Romona Keveza
Shoes: Kate Spade
Bridesmaid dresses: J Crew
Suits: Ralph Lauren
megan beth - Laurie, these are absolutely over the top beautiful. Definitely my favorite wedding to date! You nailed all the GORGEOUS details, and the photographs of the couple are stunning. Love that last one of them embracing on the walkway! And hello boys jumping on the bed…so awesome!