The week leading up to Angela and Brian’s Upper Shirley Vineyards wedding was filled with anticipation and uncertainty over what the impending hurricane was going to bring. The couple had previously decided to “bury the bourbon,” and if you’re familiar with the southern tradition, it seemed to have done the trick. We were fortunate enough to avoid the brunt of Hurricane Florence’s damage, only dealing with a bit of rain in the morning and overcast skies for the remainder of the day.
On the day of the wedding I arrived to find the girls hanging out upstairs in the bridal suite. They were dressed in matching robes, and sipping champagne from fun personalized glasses. Gifts and toasts were exchanged, along with lots of excitement and a few happy tears. Meanwhile, the guys got ready in the groom’s quarters, then shared a drink and some laughs at the bar before the ceremony.
Angela’s mother walked her down the aisle to meet Brian at the altar. It was a beautiful ceremony, surrounded by 200 guests on the spacious front porch of the venue. Since Angela’s father was deceased, the couple decided to honor him by choosing the same wedding date as Angela’s parents. Angela was also given a bouquet charm with her father’s photo, so she could have a piece of him there with her when she said her vows. Needless to say, there was not a dry eye to be seen.
After the ceremony, the guests enjoyed cocktail hour on the back deck while the remainder of portraits were taken. Then it was time to celebrate! After introductions, first dances, dinner and toasts, everyone enjoyed an evening dancing the night away with the happy couple.
I hope you enjoy some of my favorites from this beautiful wedding. Thanks to everyone who helped make Angela and Brian’s wedding day such a success!
Photographer | Emily Bartell Photography
Venue | Upper Shirley Vineyards
Gown | Mira Couture
Florist | The Flower Guy Born
Signage | Letterally Crafts
Caterer | Upper Shirley Vineyards
Planner | Elevated Events of Virginia