Location: Charlottesville, Virginia
Setting: Ceremony – croquet lawn; Reception – tent
Season: Fall
How long did the couple plan the event: 20 months
The number of guests: 68
Wedding theme/style: Classic, traditional and timeless.
Jenna and Matthew’s love story began in the professional world. Eight years ago, a friend’s husband introduced Jenna, a mortgage lender, to Matt, a real estate agent. Initially, Jenna sought a business referral, but their connection quickly blossomed into a deep friendship. Despite the professional boundaries they had set for themselves, Matt’s consistent invitations to industry events and drinks hinted at something more profound. “We got to know each other, and I was attracted to his work ethic, energy, and motivation, but most of all, he was kind and genuine,” Jenna recalls. “Being friends for so long, I could really be myself with him.”
After years of being close friends, Jenna’s gentle reminders about business referrals became an endearing joke, especially as she hoped their friendship would evolve into something more. Eventually, Matt caved, and within six months of their first proper date, they were practically living together.
Their love story culminated in a beautiful, intimate wedding in Charlottesville, Virginia. Under the golden hues of fall, the couple exchanged vows on the croquet lawn of The Clifton Inn, followed by a poolside reception under a tent. The event, meticulously planned over 20 months, welcomed 68 guests, creating an intimate atmosphere that reflected Jenna and Matt’s classic, traditional, and timeless style.
Jenna’s vision for their wedding was inspired by her favorite movie, “Father of the Bride.” From a young age, she dreamt of a wedding like Annie’s, complete with a grand gown and timeless elegance. “Even watching the movie after being engaged, it was still my dream wedding all of those years later,” Jenna shared. It also reflected the couple’s personal styles and the aesthetic of their home. They aimed for an elegant and classic look that would remain timeless.
The bride’s quest for the perfect gown led her to collaborate with Sareh Nouri to customize a dress that embodied her vision. She chose a gown made of taffeta and French lace with a high neck, exuding timeless elegance. Jenna complemented her gown with a chapel-length veil and Jimmy Choo Bing-style lace heels she had bought before finding her dress.
Jenna’s makeup artist, whom she brought from home, flawlessly executed her natural makeup look. At the same time, her hair was styled in a traditional low bun to showcase the lace bolero’s intricate buttons. In a delightful personal touch, She crafted her headband on the wedding morning using extra lace applique to ensure it was just right. The bride let down her hair for the reception, and her gown was transformed by removing the bolero and adding contoured straps, making it perfect for dancing.
The bridesmaids wore classic black gowns of their choice, with a mix of tulle, velvet, and satin fabrics that added texture and elegance to the wedding photos.
When Jenna walked down the stairs, her father felt very happy and proud, with tears in his eyes. He hugged her when he saw his daughter become a lovely bride.
Matt looked every bit the classic groom in his ivory tux jacket, a last-minute decision that added a touch of sophistication to his ensemble. The jacket, paired with a black bow tie and polished black shoes, perfectly complemented the wedding’s taupe, white, and beige tones.
As Jenna approached Matt for their first look, he was emotionally overcome and couldn’t hold back his tears. Bent over, he took a moment to gather himself. They embraced tightly when he finally looked up and saw Jenna in her stunning lace gown. This heartfelt hug captured the depth of their love and the joy of their special day.
I wanted a petite bouquet to offset my giant dress. Petite to the point that the floral designer called me to double-check how small I wanted it the day before. I assured him that I wanted it smaller than the bridesmaid's bouquets. It was the perfect size and didn’t distract from my gown.
A significant part of the couple’s wedding vision included their beloved dog, Sully. Sully was not just a ring bearer but also the inspiration behind their wedding crest, signature drink, seating chart, and place cards.
The ceremony took place on the picturesque croquet lawn in a serene and intimate setting that perfectly matched Jenna and Matt’s vision. The decor featured elegant floral arrangements of white and green, beautifully complementing the natural surroundings.
Guests were greeted with a custom monogrammed welcome sign, setting the tone for the personalized details throughout the day. Live music added a touch of sophistication and romance, creating an enchanting atmosphere as Jenna walked down the aisle. The heartfelt vows exchanged under the golden fall sunlight made the ceremony unforgettable.
The reception was held under a stunning tent adorned with flowing drapery and elegant string lights, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The long tables were set with crisp white linens, tall candelabras, and abundant greenery, providing a timeless and romantic atmosphere.
A custom bar adorned with the couple’s monogram and their beloved dog, Sully, became a focal point, highlighting the personal and unique touches Jenna and Matt incorporated into their special day. The dinner setup was immaculate, with pearl-edged charger plates, taupe napkins, and meticulously arranged silverware, adding a layer of elegance to the overall ambience.
The evening continued with heartfelt toasts, delicious cuisine, and dancing, making it a memorable celebration for Jenna, Matt, and their guests. The combination of the intimate setting, exquisite decor, and personal touches created a reception that was both classic and uniquely theirs.
Our cake was very important to me. As a baker, I have a very specific vision. I wanted to include our monogram, the bow from the back of my dress, and the lace applique. Matt's only request was chocolate and peanut butter, and our cake artist, Commonwealth Cake Co., made the most beautiful, classic cake incorporating all of these things.
The wedding cake, crafted by Commonwealth Cake Co., was a masterpiece of elegance and personalization. Adorned with intricate lace appliqués, it was a stunning focal point at the reception. Guests were charmed by the delightful details, including the cutest champagne flutes adorned with tiny bows, which added a whimsical and romantic touch to the celebration.
The sincere and warm conclusion to their special day perfectly encapsulated their love story—filled with genuine affection, cherished memories, and a future brimming with promise.
Jenna’s custom cookie business added a sweet personal touch to the celebration. Cookies featuring their dog and monogram were served on the rims of espresso martini glasses after the cake cutting. The couple also enjoyed a private last dance in the tent, a moment Jenna cherished as one of the highlights of their special day.
I will never forget being alone with my new husband in that tent, with napkins on the floor, cake plates on the tables, dancing under the string lights and talking about how perfect our day was.
Advice from the bride:
• Stick to your style. It was hard not to get caught up in TikTok trends, outside influences and opinions on style and having so many options. I had such a hard time finding the right venue and dress that I almost settled in. Looking back, I am happy I held out and found what was perfect for me and our day. Also, we kept our guest count on the smaller side, and it was so nice to feel like we got to spend time with each other and our guests without feeling overwhelmed or guilty that we didn’t spend enough time with people.
CAKE Commonwealth Cake Co. | VENUE The Clifton Inn | PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEOGRAPHER Ashley Boyan | FLORALS Gregory Britt | MUSIC Melodious String Quartet | DJ Anthony Bryant | LINENS BBJ La Tavola | CALLIGRAPHY LD Design | OYSTER BAR & BOAT Steamboat Wharf Oyster Co. | DRESS Sareh Nouri | MUAH Into Cosmetics | BRIDE’S SHOES Jimmy Choo | RINGS Forever Diamonds NY | SEATING CHART Dana D Designs
