Published: I Do!

Venue and Catering: The Venue

Florist: Brown's Floral Designs

Cake/Deserts: The Well- Bred Bakery

Make Up: Jenn Vangiller

Hair: Cody Lagotte

Photobooth: Shutterbooth

DJ: Devin

Programs: Wiregrass Weddings

Invitations: Soiree Custom Paper Co.

Bride's Dress: Designer- Watters from J Majors Boutique

Rings: Benjamin Private Jewelers

Bracelet: Magpie Vintage Jewelry

Tux Rental: Paul Simon

Published in the Fall/ Winter 2015 issue of I Do! *pages 24-25

From the bride:

"Jordan and I met in Charlotte, NC 5 years ago. There was an immediate connection that humors me now how stubborn we both were at expressing our love for one another. Looking back, it was so obvious! Sooner, rather than later, we received the news a baby was on the way. So not only was our relationship still forming, we were now moving in together and planning to raise a child together. Terrifying. We remained dedicated to growing our love stronger in this hectic time, and Asheville was (and still is) our favorite short little getaway to spend some QT together. We love this magical city, and knew that no matter the size of the wedding, this is where it would be held.

I have never been attracted to the idea of planning my wedding. I had never put much thought into it. Why would i? I needed to meet my future husband so we could plan OUR wedding…not him just showing up to MY wedding as a groom. After a little research, we visited The Venue in Asheville and immediately knew this was it! My creative juices started flowing and I could finally envision it all! The team at The Venue are wedding scientists with a cure for any wedding day disaster. They make planning such an effortless art. Everything fell into place so organically, I still am looking back thinking…how did this happen so perfectly?? The Venue referred me to Brown’s Floral Design for a florist. After a meeting there, I went across the street for coffee at Well Bred Bakery and shortly after, hired them for our cake/dessert display. Their amazing catering manager, Laura, connected me with her friend that’s an LA photographer, that coincidentially would be in town for our wedding. This path was so clear and the most amazing, talented vendors were falling in our lap. Wedding planning was becoming a blast!

When thinking of the theme/details/tone of the evening, there is no one term I can use to describe what I was invisioning. Complete romance, touches of old Hollywood glam and class, elegance, but with bit of contrasting southern charm (but no burlap!)…not one detail taking away from the other, just a complete balance. The tiny details that some may never notice, is what I’m always drawn to. A few of my favorite details are the random votives I collected during our engagement. Especially the small touch of blue on the feasting table. Also the champagne glitter sprayed on tops of the spiral branches on table. The lanterns and vases lining the aisle was so romantic. The Venue’s use of the original building’s windows turned into tables filled with votives throughout every room. I wanted one votive away from breaking fire code, and they delivered! Even the details in the food were perfect for Jordan and I. Chef at The Venue sat down and we pretty much took items off their menu and redesigned the delivery. BBQ stuffed hushpuppies and a creation of chicken and waffles were passed for cocktail hour. Instead of shrimp and grits station, we did Lobster Mac and Cheese. The desserts from Well-Bred are out of this world, and that display was wiped out in minutes! To continue our southern menu, we had Krispy Kreme doughnuts for favors/late night snacks. I didn’t even get one and we ordered double the amount of guests! I love photobooths but had no idea how big of a hit it would be. Shutterbooth even designed panels with our logo and this put a touch of elegance on the booth. (They can sometimes be an eyesore.) Our photobooth guest book is looked at daily and brings smiles to EVERYONE’S face. Our DJ was Devin  Dzioba from Get Vocal Entertainment. He had the dance floor PACKED the whole night. I literally would take moments and stand to the side looking around the whole room just to take it all in. So much love and joy happening in one room, all in honor of Jordan and I.

Being introduced to Aurelia so randomly was such a blessing. For geographic reasons, we weren’t able to meet face to face until the day before. Jordan and I loved her instantly! She showed up to the hotel rooms the next day and was snapping pictures right after entering. She eats standing up so she is ready for any opportunity. She is like a ninja! I would see flashes here and there, but I couldn’t believe the volume of memories she captured…not to mention the quality! Aurelia is so kind, so passionate, and beyond talented. We are so lucky to have her because so many precious moments Jordan and I missed, she captured with so much beauty. We will always cherish them and be forever grateful."