You know it’s a special love story when the bride and groom have known each other since middle school…AND were middle school sweethearts. And in this case, it’s certainly no exception. Although they weren’t together initially as adults, they came back together again. And this time they tied the knot at Early Mountain Vineyards! So how did this love story begin?
As I mentioned, Chris and Beth met and fell in love in middle school. Life took different turns for them, but in 2011 they reconnected and picked up right where they left off. After dating long distance for 3 years, Chris asked Beth to move to Virginia and she said yes. The move was all set for January 2015. Unbeknownst to Beth, Chris had a surprise up his sleeve. On December 24, 2014, they were at Beth’s house getting ready to go to a family Christmas feast. Chris was insistent that they each open one gift before leaving. Beth was feeling a bit funny so she gave him his soup thermos gift. He then gave her a Louis Vuitton wallet with a little something inside. When she pulled out the ring he immediately got down on one knee and asked her to be his forever! The sweetest part of the story was that he secretly set up his phone to video the entire proposal. Seriously, is he thoughtful, or what?! And aren’t you glad she said, “yes”?!!
So here we are a couple years later and Beth and Chris had a wonderful wedding day. The week began with a forecast of pouring down rain for Saturday but that changed to a light, windy mist. And while mist can be an irritation, it certainly didn’t put a damper on the day. There may not have been an abundance of sunshine outside, but there certainly was a harvest of beauty, love, romance and candlelight right at the foothills of the Blue Ridge.
The day began with Beth and Chris prepping in different locations at the venue and then it evolved into their first look. Beth had a wonderful time getting ready with her women and then was more than ready for that special first look with Chris. Beth, Chris and their planning team made the call to move the ceremony inside that morning and what a great “plan B” it was! You couldn’t have asked for a more romantic setting! So while the design team and staff worked tirelessly to transform the ballroom into a place of candlelit beauty, Beth and Chris shared their first look.
It was nothing short of sweet perfection…full of joy and tears…of sharing in that long awaited moment. It was such a sweet, intimate moment to ease nerves, share morning stories and of course, watch as Chris saw his beautiful bride for the first time on their wedding day. Afterwards, they had time to stroll around the property as we photographed some romantic and joyful moments.
After some group photos, it was time for the ceremony to begin. The site was filled with florals, greenery, candlelight and joy! They also had special details to honor those who couldn’t be with them and to honor all those who have traveled to be there. I loved their underlying travel theme as Beth’s job takes her all over the globe.
The Posey Detail, Main Street Weddings and the Early Mountain Vineyard staff did a remarkable job with the decor…it just amplified the mood set for the ceremony. Most importantly, it showcased the warmth, friendship and romance between the bride and groom. As they exchanged their vows, it was obvious that they were ready to begin this new journey of marriage. And later in the evening, the best man and maid of honor confirmed this and also spoke of how everything Chris does is done in thinking of Beth…and the same for Beth. Beth glows with happiness when she is with Chris and everyone echoed the sentiment.
The reception was amazing as well. Preceded by a fun and friendly cocktail hour, the reception featured details for each guest to enjoy…mini champaign bottles, exquisite table settings and donuts from Carpe Donut! The Early Mountain Vineyards ballroom was truly transformed into a remarkable reception site and Roadside Chive laid out an incredible meal for the guests as well.
The reception was really fun! All of the kids were dancing and the adults joined in too! And to top everything off, the cake cutting meant cutting a champaign flavored cake from Gateau, which I hear is simply the best! Another nice surprise tucked into the day was a gorgeous giant floral hoop outside the reception area in the courtyard. Alyssa of the Posey Detail had it set up for some photos in the evening as well as after dark.
The floral hoop really does symbolize the love these two share…they clearly value their friends and family and it was evident to all how much they love each other and are excited to start this new journey together.
Congratulations Beth and Chris! What an honor it was to serve you on your wedding day!
Venue: Early Mountain Vineyards
Planning/Rentals: Main Street Weddings & Events
Florals/Rentals: The Posey Detail
Catering: Roadside Chive catering + events
DJ/Live Music: Matt Waller Music
Invitations/Stationery: Mayla Studios
Hair/Make Up: Salon Emage Day Spa
Cake: Gâteau
Donuts: carpe donut
Wedding Gown: Allure Bridals from Sorelle Bridal Salon
Groom’s Attire: Calvin Klein
Michelle Lieb with Lieb Photographic is a Charlottesville Wedding Photographer, Culpeper Wedding Photographer, Fredericksburg Wedding Photographer, Alexandria Wedding Photographer, Washington DC Wedding Photographer, Phoenix Wedding Photographer, Williamsburg Wedding Photographer, High Country Wedding Photographer and a wedding photographer in the surrounding areas.
