Fall Virginia Estate Wedding: Julie + Kevin

Fall Virginia Wedding

With Thanksgiving being just mere days away, we thought Julie + Kevin’s gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountain wedding would be the perfect way to get into the right frame of mind with its gorgeous fall foliage, seasonal cuisine and relaxed, autumn vibe. J + K tied the knot at Julie’s parents’ stunning estate in Castleton + Kruse and Vieira Events used foliage and greenery foraged from the property (and dahlias from Wollam Gardens, a farm 15 minutes away) for the florals. Talk about keeping it meaningful, purposeful + totally local.

On their inspiration Julie says, We both have large lively families who mean the world to us and it was very important for us to create a relaxed welcoming vibe for all. Instead of having a specific theme, we really just wanted to incorporate personal touches, our heritage, and our family in every aspect of the wedding. When we started planning, there was no question where we wanted to have it. We both wanted to be able to share the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and specifically my parents’ house, where I have so many fond memories of running around the fields and exploring the woods, with our guests. We also knew it had to be in the fall because the foliage and clear, crisp views of the Blue Ridge in the fall have no equal. With that in mind, we welcomed our guests with hot cider and Virginia peanuts and directed them towards the ceremony, which was intentionally set up in the field facing the mountains.

Thanks so much to Kate Ann Photography for the beautiful photos + congrats to Julie + Kevin on a perfect day!

Fall Leaf Bouquet

kraft paper invitation

ring

gift basket

LOVE the welcome baskets Julie + Kevin gifted their guests, filled with local treats like Virginia peanuts.

champagne

BHLDN Wedding Dress

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

BHLDN Wedding Dress

Julie wore a gorgeous, sparkly BHLDN dress (paired with practical, comfortable Tom’s).

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

chalkboard

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

Our Musical Choices

Processional: Bridesmaids: New Slang – The Shins; Bride: Where is My Mind – Maxence Cyrin (piano adaptation of Where is My Mind by the Pixies)

Recessional: Dreams – The Cranberries

First Dance: Crazy Love – Van Morrison

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

Our Favorite Memory From The Wedding

My favorite moment from the day was when Kevin began to say his vows because he had inadvertently used the same card to write them on as I did and also began his vows with practically the same sentences as I did for mine, despite having written them separately. This wedding was special for us because not only did the wedding day involve our families, but also because it was an estate wedding we got to work closely with our families to prepare the land and plan the wedding. Even now, every time we visit my parent’s we are able to walk the land where we said our vows and dance on what was the dance floor. That day and this land will always have a special place in our hearts!

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

neutral bridesmaids

The bridesmaids looked lovely in neutral-hued frocks from J.Crew! Shop their look – with a few additional favorites added – below!

neutral bridesmaids

gray groomsmen

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

firewood escort display

How gorgeous is this wood log escort card display? So creative + perfect for a fall wedding!

firewood escort display

cheese board

cocktails

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

Fall Virginia Wedding

Our Advice To Those Planning Now

(1) Ignore the trends. Focus on what represents you and speaks to you as a couple. You want to be able to look back at pictures 20 years from now and reminisce about the memories of the day, not the crazy trends that were popular at the time. (2) As much as your wedding is about you two, remember the comfort of your guests and focus on their ambiance and experience. Some of the best ways to do this are to ensure your guests are well fed, giving a transportation option if the venue is difficult to get to or if your ceremony and reception are in different places, and acknowledging your loved ones and guests throughout the evening. Even a simple thank you on the back of the menu can mean a lot! Finally, (3) above all remember that your wedding is just the first day of your marriage and your marriage really is the main event. As you come across planning hurdles, remind yourself of that fact and the love you share.

photography: Kate Ann Photography // venue name: Bride's Parents' home in Castleton, Virginia // event design: Kruse and Vieira Events // planning: Kruse and Vieira Events // florals: Kruse and Vieira Events // wedding dress: BHLDN // bride's shoes: Tom's // bridesmaid dresses: J.Crew // hair stylist: Main Street Studio // makeup artist: Main Street Studio // groom attire: J.Crew // paper goods: Kruse and Vieira Events // catering: A La Carte // cake: Soffa Sweets // music: The MIND of Ace // officiant: Bride's uncle // rentals: Gibson Rental // transportation: Lake Manassas Limo

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