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FIANCÉE: Loren Schmidt, 3, Senior Manager – Non-Profit
FIANCÉ: Walter Bottlick, 34, Web Developer
RESIDENCE: Lorton, Virginia
PROPOSAL
The London School of Economics
London, England
December 13, 2022
ENGAGEMENT PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION
Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
October 8, 2023
LOVE STORY
Walter and Loren’s unique love story began on a warm summer night in 2021, amidst laughter and lively chatter in Silver Spring, Maryland. They met through mutual friends, and from that moment, Loren knew she felt a spark with Walter. As she left the gathering, she cleverly tapped into technology to ensure her connection with him lasted, launching a group chat to ensure Walter had her number.
A week later, the universe conspired to bring them together again at Topgolf Swing Suite in North Bethesda, Maryland, where fun and friendly competition filled the air. Walter, ever the gentleman, offered to drive Loren home. During the drive, he boldly expressed his wish to know her better, and Loren couldn’t help but chuckle. She had just received a full scholarship to pursue a master’s degree at the prestigious London School of Economics, with plans to leave in a few weeks. Unfazed by the impending distance, Walter’s response was simple yet earnest: they would have to speed up their timeline!
Their chemistry blossomed rapidly, and three days later, they embarked on their first official date. Loren came to Walter’s cozy apartment with enthusiasm and ingredients for a delicious culinary adventure. Together, they whipped up a delightful array of tapas, like crispy patatas bravas and zesty pan con tomate, all while sharing heartfelt laughter and deep conversations that seemed to weave their souls closer together.
It didn’t take long before feelings bubbled to the surface. With courage that surprised Loren, Walter was the first to utter, “I love you.” Loren, typically reserved with her emotions, felt an overwhelming warmth in her heart. They had both been dancing around the idea, nearly letting it slip from their lips repeatedly, replacing it with phrases like “I love spending time with you.” Yet, in a moment of vulnerability, the walls came crashing down.
“Did we just say that a week into our relationship?” they both mused. It felt like a whirlwind, a beautiful rush that defied conventional timelines. But deep down, they both knew the truth: when you know, you know. Their shared understanding of their feelings reassured them about the strength of their relationship.
As Loren prepared to board her flight to London, excitement and bittersweet sadness washed over her. She felt a strong sense that not only had she met someone special, but she had also met the love of her life. Deep in her heart, she knew this was just the beginning of something extraordinary, a journey they were both excited to embark on.
PROPOSAL
On a chilly December 13, 2022, beneath the iconic statue ‘The World Turned Upside Down’ at the London School of Economics, a moment blossomed that would change two lives forever. The vibrant atmosphere of London was electrified as Loren celebrated her master’s degree graduation ceremony, a testament to her hard work and determination.
As the reception wound down, Walter, ever the romantic, suggested they take a memorable photograph in front of the beloved campus sculpture. Loren, filled with the joy of her accomplishment, happily obliged. Little did she know this photograph would capture a cherished memory and the beginning of an entirely new chapter.
Just as the camera clicked, Walter dropped to one knee. His heart racing, he pulled out a stunning oval white opal elegantly surrounded by a halo of shimmering diamonds set in a simple yet beautiful white gold band. His voice was steady but full of emotion, and he asked Loren the question that would forever intertwine their lives. With her heart full of love and happiness, Loren exclaimed, “Yes!”
That day, surrounded by the energy of London’s historic charm, Loren celebrated not only her hard-earned master’s degree but also the joy of a new engagement, marking the start of a beautiful journey together.
ENGAGEMENT SESSION
Walter and Loren’s engagement photos were magical. Janelle Putrich Photography beautifully captured them at the breathtaking Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania. With over 1,100 acres of stunning gardens, woodlands, and meadows as their backdrop, it was the perfect setting for their love story to unfold.
Loren stepped into the scene like a vision in her chic black wrap dress from Reformation, which hugged her figure perfectly and showcased her unique style. To complement her look, she wore a bespoke tartan cloak made by her mother, weaving a rich tapestry of personal history and love into the moment—an enchanting detail highlighting her heritage most elegantly.
But Loren’s elegance truly shone through with the exquisite opal necklace and matching earrings that Walter gifted her. He thoughtfully chose these pieces to complement her engagement ring, demonstrating his deep understanding of her style even before they embarked on this beautiful journey together.
Her ensemble was completed with sleek black pointed-toe pumps that radiated sophistication and confidence, making her glow with an undeniable charm.
And let’s not forget Walter, who looked equally sharp in a fresh green button-down shirt paired with sleek gray slacks and polished black dress shoes. His look harmoniously complemented Loren’s radiant ensemble, making them an unforgettable pair.
ENGAGEMENT PARTY
Loren and Walter celebrated their love with a delightful joint wedding shower and engagement party in a charming private residence in Woodbridge, Virginia, in the spring of 2024. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a casual attire theme that encouraged guests to relax and enjoy the day.
As laughter filled the air, friends and family gathered around an enticing buffet brimming with delicious food. From savory bites to sweet treats, there was something for everyone to enjoy. The excitement didn’t stop there; engaging games brought out the playful spirits in guests, adding a touch of friendly competition to the festivities.
As the day unfolded, heartfelt moments were shared as guests presented beautiful gifts, showering Loren and Walter with love and well wishes for their journey ahead. It was a day filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories as they celebrated their upcoming nuptials surrounded by their closest loved ones.
BACHELOR AND BACHELORETTE PARTIES
Walter’s bachelor party was an adventure to remember, thanks to the meticulous planning of his groomsmen. They kicked off the festivities by renting a fishing boat from Annapolis Fishing Charters, setting sail on the sparkling waters of the Chesapeake Bay. It was a perfect blend of camaraderie and relaxation, with laughter echoing over the waves as they cast their lines and shared stories. After a long day of fishing, the crew settled into a charming Airbnb in Annapolis, where they enjoyed a night filled with good food, drinks and plenty of unforgettable moments.
Meanwhile, Loren’s bachelorette party was just as exciting, set against the picturesque backdrop of Fox Haven Farm in Jefferson, Maryland. She and her closest friends spent a magical weekend together, soaking up the beauty of the countryside. Their weekend was packed with adventure, including a thrilling ropes course at Harpers Ferry Adventure Center that tested their teamwork and courage. They also embraced their adventurous spirit on a kayaking excursion with River and Trail Outfitters in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, maneuvering through gentle rapids and soaking in the breathtaking scenery—the laughter and joy woven through every experience made for an unforgettable celebration of friendship.
WEDDING
Walter and Loren married at Potomac Point Winery in Stafford, Virginia on October 5, 2024. Eighty guests attended their celebration.
Bride: @furcifer07
Groom: @bottlick
VENDORS
VENUE:
Proposal
London School of Economics, London, England
https://www.instagram.com/londonschoolofeconomics
Engagement Session
Longwood Gardens
https://www.instagram.com/longwoodgardens
Golf
Topgolf Swing Suite
North Bethesda, MD
Wedding
Potomac Point Winery
https://www.instagram.com/potomacpointwinery
ENGAGEMENT PARTY:
Private Residence
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Janelle Putrich Photography
https://www.instagram.com/janelleputrich
https://janelleputrichphotography.com
BACHELOR PARTY VENUE:
Annapolis Fishing Charters
Annapolis, MD
BACHELORETTE PARTY VENUES:
Fox Haven Farm
https://www.instagram.com/foxhavenfarmretreatcenter
Harpers Ferry Adventure Center
https://www.instagram.com/harpersferryadventurecenter
https://harpersferryadventurecenter.com
River & Trail Outfitters
https://www.instagram.com/riverandtrailoutfitters
ENGAGEMENT RING: CustomMade
https://www.instagram.com/custommadejewelry/
ATTIRE:
Dress: Reformation
https://www.instagram.com/reformation/
https://www.thereformation.com
JEWELRY: Michael’s Fine Jewelry, a branch of Diamond Concepts
https://www.instagram.com/mydiamondconcepts/
https://www.mydiamondconcepts.com
SHOES: Jessica Simpson
https://www.instagram.com/jessicasimpsonstyle/
GROOM ATTIRE:
Shirt: Express
https://www.instagram.com/express
Pants: Express
https://www.instagram.com/express
Belt: Express
https://www.instagram.com/express
SHOES: Vince Camuto
https://www.instagram.com/vincecamuto/
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.
