Location: Manakin-Sabot, Virginia, USA
Setting: Estate
Wedding season: Fall
The number of guests: 150
How long did the couple plan the event: 20 months
Wedding theme/style: A night under the stars: moody, glam, bold.
Emily’s selflessness and Vishal’s romantic nature created a perfect recipe for success. No matter how far they traveled – Peru or Thailand- Vishal always found his home in Emily. Their love story led them to the beautiful backdrop of Dover Hall Estate in Manakin-Sabot, Virginia, where they celebrated their union under a breathtaking fall sky in October.
The theme for Emily and Vishal’s wedding was “A Night Under the Stars,” the entire event exuded an air of moody glamour and bold elegance. This celestial-inspired vision came from their travels and their shared love for stargazing. It was a day and then night to remember.
On her special day, Emily spent her morning surrounded by her closest friends. Their carefree laughter and pleasant company helped her not to worry on this special day.
The bride looked stunning in her lace dress and shoes by Louis Vuitton. Its classic cut and long train created a lovely look as if the dress was made just for her. The makeup and hairstyling by Ave 42 studio accentuated her natural beauty. Emily left her hair down, styled in loose waves cascading over her shoulders, creating a soft and light look.
A touching and unforgettable moment was the first look between the bride and her father. When he saw his daughter in her wedding dress, he couldn’t hide his emotions. Overwhelmed with feelings, Emily’s father even shed tears of joy.
Vishal’s look was incredibly stylish, with a classic black suit and a bowtie that added to his elegance on this special day.
Dover Hall served as a perfect backdrop for a two-tiered garden ceremony, adorned with three magnificent flower arches that added a touch of romance and elegance to the day. Thanks to the thoughtful arrangements by Photosynthesis Florals, the estate’s lush gardens were transformed into a vibrant tapestry of reds, pinks, yellows, and oranges. The venue was a star of the celebration, and Alex Tenser Photography captured its beauty stunningly.
A ceremony in a beautiful, flower-filled garden at Dover Hall – what could be more enchanting? Emily walked towards her beloved, arm in arm with her father, creating an incredibly heartfelt moment. Vishal looked at Emily with love and happiness in his eyes as she made her way down the aisle. Finally, the moment arrived when they took each other’s hands and exchanged their vows of eternal love.
Vishal’s Indian heritage played a significant role in the wedding’s design. Bright traditional Indian colors were incorporated into the decor, adding a touch of cultural richness to the event.
The uniqueness of Emily and Vishal’s wedding was evident from the start. The ceremony featured acapella singers, creating a harmonious atmosphere filled with romance.
It was wonderful that Vishal and Emily had their closest friends by their side, sharing in the joy of this beautiful ceremony and being there for them throughout the entire day.
After the ceremony, the guests go to an interactive passport cocktail hour game. Each guest was given a passport and had to explore every room in Dover Hall Estate to collect passport stamps. It was a fun and engaging way to kick off the festivities and ensure that guests mingled and enjoyed themselves.
Emily and Vishal also added personal touches to their wedding through signature cocktails. Emily’s Cucumber Gimlet and Vishal’s Chocolate Walnut Old Fashioned were perfectly crafted, allowing guests to enjoy bespoke cocktails tailored to the couple’s taste.
Before the reception, the couple shared an intimate moment in the venue’s wine cellar, savoring the significance of their union in a private setting. It was a beautiful interlude that added depth to the day’s festivities.
Swoon Soiree masterfully handled the seamless planning and execution of the wedding. Every detail was carefully curated to perfection, ensuring that Emily and Vishal’s wedding day unfolded just as they had imagined.
The tables at the wedding reception were adorned with dark blue tablecloths sprinkled with shimmering sequins, resembling a night sky scattered with stars. On the tables, there were floral arrangements in autumn hues and blue candles, creating an incredibly stylish atmosphere. Above the dance floor, the ceiling was adorned with hundreds of garlands, much like a starry carpet illuminating the heads of the dancers, creating a unique and enchanting ambiance.
The wedding was a culinary delight, featuring a sumptuous spread that delighted every palate. Braised lamb leg, perfectly pan-seared sea bass, and comforting asparagus risotto were just a few of the delectable dishes served, leaving everyone’s taste buds in awe.
The wedding reception unfolded in an atmosphere of love. Congratulations and toasts filled the air, and a palpable sense of happiness enveloped everyone present.
The first dance of the newlyweds was beautiful. They twirled beneath the “starry” ceiling, their faces radiating endless happiness and love for each other. After their dance, they shared a dance with their parents: Emily danced with her father, and Vishal with his mother. It was a moment filled with love and heartfelt emotion.
As the evening continued, the celebration took on a life of its own. Espresso martinis, feathered accents adding a touch of whimsy, sabered champagne creating a sense of grandeur, and twinkling lights setting a magical ambiance enticed everyone to the packed dance floor. The night was filled with love, laughter, and dancing under the stars.
To conclude their wedding, Vishal and Emily walked through a tunnel formed by their guests, who held sparklers in their hands. It was a magical and enchanting way to end their special day.
VENUE Dover Hall Estate | PLANNING Swoon Soiree | PHOTOGRAPHY Alex C Tenser | FLORAL Photosynthesis | VIDEOGRAPHY 87 Smith | MUAH Ave 42 | CEREMONY MUSICIANS Ninja Strings | BRIDAL DRESS Louis Vuitton | TRANSPORTATION James River Transportation | LIGHTING Lighting Professors | RENTALS Paisley & Jade, Rent-E-Quip, Nuage Design, BBJ Linen
