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FIANCÉE: Rebecca Noto, 35, Research Administrator
FIANCÉ: Dwight Gray, 35, Investment Manager
RESIDENCE: Richmond, Va
DATE: July & November 2022
VENUE:
Proposal: Mallorca, Spain
Engagement Photography: Scoop, Richmond, Virginia
LOVE STORY
In August 2021, fate took a delightful turn for Dwight and Rebecca when they matched on the online dating app Bumble. What began as a casual chat quickly blossomed into something special. After just a week of messaging, they decided to take the plunge and meet for drinks.
Their first meeting took place at Tazza Kitchen in Scott’s Addition in Richmond, Virginia, where the atmosphere was vibrant and the drinks flowed. From the moment they locked eyes, there was an undeniable connection. They spent the next three hours engrossed in conversation, laughter and shared stories, savoring every moment. As night fell, Rebecca walked Dwight back to his apartment complex, cherishing the sparks that had ignited between them.
Three months later, during a cozy dinner at Laura Lee’s, Dwight took a heartfelt leap and told Rebecca he loved her. As Rebecca returned the sentiment, those words hung in the air, rich with meaning and promise.
Rebecca’s genuine care for those around her and her infectious humor were the first things that attracted Dwight. Her warmth and his love for family and friends formed a strong bond between them. They share a love for adventure, often embarking on spontaneous road trips and exploring new places, reflecting their shared curiosity and passion for life.
On the other hand, Rebecca was charmed by Dwight’s playful wit and kindness. She appreciates his love for family and friends, and she can’t help but notice how his brown, puppy-like eyes sparkle with mischief and joy whenever he smiles. Together, they weave a beautiful tapestry of love, laughter and friendship, each vibrant and unique thread reflecting their special bond.
PROPOSAL
In July 2022, against the stunning backdrop of Mallorca, Spain, Dwight orchestrated one of the most unforgettable moments of their lives—his proposal to Rebecca. They had traveled to this beautiful island, expecting another adventurous getaway, unaware of the romantic surprise that awaited them.
The day began with high hopes and a scheduled boat ride but the choppy seas quickly stole the spotlight, turning their nautical plans into a struggle. Feeling a bit seasick, Rebecca certainly didn’t envision a proposal, especially given their rocky ride.
Fortunately, after a leisurely lunch at Cala Tuent—a picturesque spot surrounded by lovely beaches and quaint restaurants—everything began to turn around. As they sipped refreshing sangria and savored delicious paella, Rebecca’s spirits lifted and she became captivated by the beauty of her surroundings. “This would be a great place to propose,” she remarked, utterly unaware that she was giving Dwight the green light he had been waiting for.
With her words echoing in his mind, Dwight suggested they stroll along the beach after lunch. As they wandered along the shore, the sun glimmered off the waves and a perfect spot for a photo emerged—a secluded nook inviting romance. At that enchanting moment, Dwight knelt on one knee, revealing a breathtaking 2.3-carat round diamond ring set in a platinum pavé band.
Rebecca’s surprise was palpable. Her heart raced as disbelief washed over her. The stunning location and the unexpected proposal prevented her from processing it all! The element of surprise in the proposal added an extra layer of excitement to the moment.
ENGAGEMENT PHOTOGRAPHY
Dwight and Rebecca were thrilled as they prepared for their engagement shoot, hiring the talented Joanna Hartsook Photography to capture their special moments. They chose a whimsical theme that beautifully combined their love for nature with the vibrant hues of autumn and their fond memories at their favorite ice cream shop, Scoop, in Richmond. They enjoyed a lovely walk through the nearby Scuffle Town Park, where golden leaves twirled in the gentle breeze, creating a beautiful scene reminiscent of a storybook.
For the formal photos, Rebecca looked stunning in a deep green velvet dress paired with chic tan heels, exuding elegance and grace. When it was time for a more laid-back vibe, she switched to a cozy white sweater, black jeans and stylish black heels, achieving a perfect balance of comfort and style.
Dwight flawlessly complemented Rebecca’s looks. He wore khaki pants, a classic blue button-up shirt and a sleek grey sports coat. Rebecca had gifted him a Fossil watch. For their fun, casual shots, he opted for a relaxed style with jeans and a cozy black sweater, ready to share smiles and laughter.
Together, they created magic in front of the camera, with each click capturing their love and the joy of their shared experiences. It was a day to remember, full of warmth, beauty and the sweet taste of ice cream.
ENGAGEMENT PARTY
Dwight and Rebecca’s October 29, 2022 engagement party was a night to remember. Held at Postbellum, one of their favorite restaurants in Richmond, it was a bittersweet occasion as they learned the restaurant would close after a decade of excellent service.
On the eve of Halloween, the party featured a spooky theme that excited everyone! Guests arrived dressed as various ghoulish characters, while Dwight and Rebecca embraced the Halloween spirit as glamorous vampires. In a corner, Rebecca’s sister made a striking impression dressed as a chilling deceased maid of honor, adding an eerie twist to the celebrations. The couple spent time with each guest, sharing stories and laughter and expressing their gratitude for the love and support they’ve received.
Laughter filled the air amid the candle-lit tables, and the spirit of Halloween created an atmosphere full of delights and surprises. The couple’s joy was infectious, making it a night overflowing with love, laughter, and just the right amount of spine-tingling fun! Their happiness was a testament to the love and support they’ve received.
Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties
In late summer 2022, an unforgettable celebration occurred in the picturesque Outer Banks of North Carolina as Dwight’s groomsmen and closest friends organized an epic bachelor party. With the sun shining and a gentle breeze at their backs, the group hit the golf course, Nags Head Golf Links, bonding over friendly competition and laughter on the greens. Evenings were spent enjoying the beach atmosphere, with the sound of waves providing the perfect soundtrack for their memorable adventure.
Across the state at Lake Anna, Virginia, Rebecca’s bridesmaids were busy creating special memories during her bachelorette party. They rented a charming cabin for a weekend filled with fun and camaraderie. Days were spent cruising on the sparkling lake, with laughter echoing over the water as they soaked up the sun. To top it all off, they piled into a van to visit nearby wineries, sipping delicious wines and indulging in delightful lunches that celebrated the beauty of their friendship. Every moment was a toast to the upcoming nuptials and the joyful journey ahead!
WEDDING
The couple married on September 2023 at Linden Row Inn in Richmond, Virginia.
Dwight and Rebecca offer the following advice to couples planning their weddings: “Plan your wedding for yourselves, not for anyone else. Stay present and enjoy each moment throughout the day. Set aside time just for the two of you and make a deliberate effort to stay together throughout the night.”
Bride IG: @bekkanoto
Groom IG: @dwightgray5
VENDORS
VENUE:
Restaurant Es Vergeret
Tazza Kitchen
https://www.instagram.com/tazzakitchen/?hl=en
Laura Lee’s
https://www.instagram.com/lauraleesrva/?hl=en
Scoop
https://www.instagram.com/scoop.rva
Scuffle Town Park
https://www.facebook.com/ScuffletownPark
Nags Head Golf Links
https://www.invitedclubs.com/clubs/nags-head-golf-links
King Family Vineyards
https://www.instagram.com/kingfamilyvineyards
Veritas Vineyard & Winery
https://www.instagram.com/veritaswinery
Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
https://www.instagram.com/pippinhillfarm
Linden Row Inn
https://www.instagram.com/lindenrow
Postbellum
Richmond, VA
PHOTOGRAPHY: Joanna Hartsook Photography
https://www.instagram.com/joannahartsookphotography
JEWELRY:
James Allen
https://www.instagram.com/jamesallenrings
Fossil
https://www.instagram.com/fossil
DATING APP: Bumble
https://www.instagram.com/bumble/?hl=en
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.
