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Bride: Janice Virginia Clifton, Owner of the Virginia Cliffe Inn
Groom: Cris Foster, Staffing Recruiter
Wedding Date: 9/20/24
Venue Name: The Virginia Cliffe Inn, a place that holds a special place in their hearts, Glen Allen, Virginia
Guests: 60
LOVE STORY
Cris and Janice’s love story began in a place that held deep significance for both: Glen Allen Baptist Church in Virginia. They had known each other casually for years, as Janice was the Sunday school teacher for Cris’s daughters, Kristen and Regan. Little did they realize that a serendipitous moment was approaching, one that would change everything and fill their lives with magic.
The spark ignited when Cris joined the church choir. As Janice listened to his voice for the first time, it was as if the air around them shimmered with unspoken possibility. It was a moment charged with emotion, setting the stage for something extraordinary.
In 2017, fueled by that enchanting spark, Cris mustered the courage to invite Janice on a date. They chose the charming Little Angela’s Ristorante and Pizzeria in Glen Allen, Virginia, a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable beginning.
Janice recalled that evening: “When Cris asked me out, it felt thrilling! I’d been so busy with work that going to dinner felt like a distant memory. The ambiance was intimate, the food was divine, and we were lost in conversation—sharing stories about our interests, life experiences, and dreams. Snuggling up at my place to watch a movie afterward felt like the perfect ending to a magical night.”
As their relationship blossomed, Janice found herself enveloped not just by Cris’s love but also by the warm embrace of his daughters. Together, they created a tapestry of laughter and cherished moments that felt as natural as breathing, nurturing their bond like flowers blooming in spring.
PROPOSAL
Fast-forward to December 9, 2022. Cris was ready to take a heartfelt leap forward. He whisked Janice away to Little Angela’s, a place brimming with their shared history, to relive the magic that had sparked their journey.
But in the evening, she had another surprise in store. Janice felt excited as they entered the Virginia Cliffe Inn, a venue steeped in warmth and love. The glow of the parlor illuminated a gathering of her loved ones—Cris’s daughters and Janice’s son, Andrew Melton. Laughter echoed in the air, infusing the room with a sense of belonging that warmed her heart. In this intimate setting, Cris knelt before her and asked the question that would change their lives forever.
Then, in an almost cinematic moment, Cris knelt before her, his gaze unwavering and filled with sincere affection. “Will you be my wife forever?” he asked, the words hanging sweetly in the air. Time seemed to pause, and Janice’s heart swelled with emotion.
With a gentle smile, Cris slipped a stunning rose gold, ½-carat diamond engagement ring onto her finger, mere metal transforming into a symbol of their unwavering commitment.
VENUE
Cris and Janice’s wedding occurred at the enchanting Virginia Cliffe Inn on a delightful fall day in 2024. The air was crisp, and the atmosphere exuded a unique blend of warmth and elegance. Embracing a theme of simplicity, they chose a beautiful color palette of sage green, which perfectly complemented the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Thanks to the dedicated staff at the Virginia Cliffe Inn, every detail was meticulously planned and executed, creating a mesmerizing celebration of love and laughter. Guests enjoyed the serene setting, surrounded by stunning fall foliage, as Cris and Janice embarked on their beautiful journey together.
ATTIRE
On the day of the ceremony, the atmosphere was filled with excitement as Janice prepared in the Inn’s stunning bridal suite. She chose an exquisite ivory satin gown with a corset back that hugged her figure perfectly, radiating elegance and grace. Adorning her neck were delicate pearls, a heartfelt gift from her daughter, Rebecca Hertzler, representing Janice’s “Something Borrowed.” Sewn into the fabric of her dress was a treasured piece of her past—her father’s wedding ring, embodying her “Something Old.” For “Something Blue,” she carried a lovely handkerchief, each stitch carrying sentiments of love and nostalgia. As a final flourish, Janice spritzed herself with Obsession perfume and slipped into ivory boots that sparkled with every step.
Her friend, the talented Rachel Robinson, had crafted a breathtaking bouquet for her, a stunning mix of purple, dark rose, and light pink flowers that seemed to dance in the gentle breeze, perfectly complementing the day’s warm glow.
Meanwhile, Cris prepared at the couple’s home next to the Inn, exuding charm in his classic black tuxedo paired with a crisp white shirt and a sage green bow tie. Adding a sentimental twist, he wore Janice’s dad’s pocket watch, symbolizing timeless love. He completed his look with a simple white boutonnière that radiated elegance.
And in keeping with the color scheme, Cris’ daughters twirled in their lovely sage green dresses, while Janice’s son looked dapper in a suit with a matching sage green tie.
CEREMONY
As the sun dipped low on the horizon, guests began to arrive at the Inn, their laughter mingling with the soft melodies of a cello wafting through the air. Directed toward the welcoming station at the back, they were greeted with refreshing Sangridas, the perfect accompaniment to the anticipation building for the heartfelt ceremony ahead.
The scene shifted to the front porch, which was transformed into a picturesque ceremony space adorned with lush greenery draped elegantly from the balcony. White chairs sparkled on the front lawn, each waiting to witness a beautiful union. As guests took their seats, their eyes were drawn to charming lanterns perched atop rustic wine barrels lining the brick walkway.
When the moment arrived, Cris’s daughters gracefully escorted him down the aisle, their smiles beaming with pride. Janice’s son walked alongside her, ensuring she felt cherished as they approached the altar.
Standing before them was Pastor William Crowder, their trusted officiant, ready to guide them through a heartfelt ceremony filled with faith and love. With every word, the couple exchanged traditional vows prepared by their pastor, their promise resonating deeply with everyone present.
PHOTOGRAPHY
The couple eagerly entrusted their cherished memories to Michelle Kuzmick, a talented family friend and gifted photographer. With her artistic eye, she skillfully captured the magic of their wedding day, immortalizing every special moment.
COCKTAIL HOUR
The cocktail party unfolded in a charming setting, with guests mingling on the picturesque deck and lawn of the Inn. The atmosphere filled with laughter and clinking glasses as the sun began to set. Butler’s Catering delighted everyone with an exquisite spread featuring chilled jumbo tail shrimp and zesty cocktail sauce.
Guests were treated to a stunning charcuterie and cheese tray, artfully arranged with cured meats, hard cheeses, fresh fruits, and olives. The basket of warm baguettes and crunchy crackers added the perfect touch.
The couple’s signature drink, a refreshing sangria bursting with vibrant flavors, set the tone. Of course, an enticing selection of beer, wine and mixed beverages suited all tastes, ensuring no one was left thirsty.
RECEPTION
The couple’s reception was magical under the enchanting Inn reception tent. With beautiful white tulle draping elegantly, the atmosphere was illuminated by the warm glow of bistro lights that hung above, ensuring a cozy setting. Heaters scattered throughout kept guests warm.
Guests were warmly welcomed by the delightful setup arranged by Riverwood Catering and Events in collaboration with The Virginia Cliffe Inn staff and Butler’s Unique Catering. They transformed the space with long wooden tables and chairs. Each table featured clear chargers with a gold bead trim along the edges, white dinner plates with gold accents, sage green napkins, clear colored stem glassware and matching gold accented silverware.
As the couple entered, the Master of Ceremonies joyously announced them as newlyweds, filling the air with love and excitement. Their first dance was heartwarming, with the enchanting song “I Found You” by Stephen Sanchez playing softly in the background. Jance and Andrew shared a tender moment to Michael Bublé’s “Forever Now.” At the same time, Cris and Kristen swayed to the soulful “You Are So Beautiful” by Joe Cocker. The air was filled with emotion as Cris danced to the timeless lyrics of “Songbird” by Fleetwood Mac, enveloping the tent in romance.
As the evening unfolded, the caterer delighted everyone’s taste buds with a delicious dinner. Guests began with a refreshing spinach and arugula salad featuring pickled beets, mandarin oranges and pecans, drizzled with a poppy seed dressing that tantalized the palate. The entrées included a succulent pork tenderloin in cream sauce, perfectly baked chicken paired with southern green beans, buttered carrots and creamy potatoes.
FAVORS
As a delightful token of appreciation for celebrating their special day, guests were gifted charming Virginia Cliffe Inn ornaments and vibrant wildflower seeds.
CAKE
This stunning three-tier wedding cake amazed everyone! The bottom tier was rich chocolate, the middle tier was filled with fresh strawberries, and the top tier had a classic vanilla flavor.
EXIT
As the festivities peaked, friends and family gathered to bid farewell to the newlyweds with a dazzling sparkler exit. The air was filled with laughter and joy as Cris and Janice made their way through the shimmering lights, a perfect send-off for their new journey together.
VENDORS
VENUE/FAVORS: The Virginia Cliffe Inn
https://www.instagram.com/virginiacliffeinn
PHOTOGRAPHER: Michelle Kuzmick
https://www.instagram.com/michellekuzmick
INVITATIONS: Royal Printing, Glen Allen, VA
CAKE: Stressed Desserts
https://www.instagram.com/stresseddesserts__
FLOWERS: Trader Joe’s
https://www.instagram.com/traderjoes
CATERING: Butler’s Unique Catering
https://www.instagram.com/butlersunique
MUSIC / DJ / MASTER OF CEREMONIES:
Event Cello
https://www.instagram.com/event.cello
RINGS: Kay Jewelry
https://www.instagram.com/kayjewelers
FORMALWEAR: Men’s Warehouse
https://www.instagram.com/MensWearhouse
RENTALS & MASTER OF CEREMONIES
Riverwood Catering and Events
https://www.instagram.com/riverwoodeventsandcatering
OFFICIANT: William Crowder, Glen Allen, VA
If you are planning a wedding in Roanoke, Richmond, Fredericksburg/Northern Virginia, The Shenandoah Valley, Coastal Virginia, or Charlottesville/ Lynchburg, Virginia, we can help with your wedding planning and ideas.
