We’re starting the week off with a chock full of bright colors and a wedding theme we’ve never quite heard of. As the couple explained, it had a “vintage Mexican fiesta” aesthetic with a “running” presence. See, Stephanie + John are both professional runners, met at a track meet, and wanted to make sure to incorporate their passion for running in a fun but subtle way. Save the Dates were actual race bibs, designed to look like a number you’d wear on your chest during a race, and because theirs was the perfect theme to do bunting, there was in no way a shortage of bunting flags used as decor.
One of my younger brothers played “First Day of My Life” by Brighteyes on the guitar as I walked down the aisle | Our first dance was to “Everlasting Light” by The Black Keys.
We knew we wanted a barn to figure in our wedding location, but finding the right one took some time. We really liked one venue, and then a dear friend offered her property for us to use; but then, our planner and photographer found Belle Haven, a private estate outside of Charlottesville that was contemplating becoming an event venue. I went to visit the property and fell head over heels in love with the grand space, beautiful views, and old red barn (from the 1800s!). It was perfectly Southern, magical, and completely unique because it was so new on the wedding scene. We were the very first wedding at Belle Haven and it’s become a very, very special place for us!
They even ran through a “finish line” at the end of their ceremony!
After our portrait session during cocktail hour, we went up to the bridal suite in Belle Haven so I could change into my red dress and flower crown for the reception. Having a moment alone together, in that grand old house, with all our favorite people in the world outside celebrating us, was so powerful. It allowed us to step back, take a look at each other, and soak in what we had just experienced during our ceremony. We shared a drink with Belle Haven’s owner, the wise and magical Jan, and talked about love and Ayn Rand, and philosophy and it was a nice escape from the rush of the day.
Our photographer, Jen Fariello, is one of my best friends. I was a fan of her work for years before I met her, then we began to work in the Charlottesville wedding scene together in 2010. She is unrivaled when it comes to photographic talent and there is no one in the world I would have wanted to be there for us on our special day than her! I would have changed our date a dozen times to accomodate her schedule, but thankfully she was free for our day!
Photographer: Jen Fariello / Videographer: Tom Daly / Ceremony Venue & Reception Venue: Belle Haven / Event Coordination: Shindig / Hair: Lucas Shaffer / Makeup: Jeanne Cusick / Florist: Southern Blooms / Cake: Maliha Creations Cake Toppers: Skunkboy Creatures / Catering: The Rock Barn / Invitation Designer: If So Inklined / Rentals: Festive Fare, Stonegate Event Rentals / Dessert Bar Goodies: Paradox Pastry, One Creative Cookie / Ceremony Music: Wes Swing / Cocktail Hour Musician: Olivarez Trio / Reception DJ: Adam Smith / Tent & Lighting: Skyline Tent Company / Transportation: Camryn Limo / Ditty Bags: Just a Little Ditty / Bride’s Dress: Elaya Vaughn / Reception Dress: Halston Heritage from Rent the Runway / Shoes: Kate Spade / Veil: Twigs & Honey “Unicorn Tail” veil / Reception Flower Crown: Southern Blooms / Necklace & Monogram Ring: Erin McDermott Jewelry / Pearl Bracelet & Earrings: Meg Hannan Designs / Engagement Ring: Sarah Graham / Groom’s Suit: Indochino, Express / Shoes: Kenneth Cole / Tie: J.Crew / Wedding Band: Sarah Graham / Bridesmaids: all their own dresses / Accessories: ban.do
