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Bride: Rebecca Noto, 35, Research Administrator
Groom: Dwight Gray, 35, Investment Manager
Date: 9/2/2023
Venue: Linden Row Inn, Richmond, Virginia
Guests: 70
LOVE STORY
In August 2021, a beautiful love story began to unfold. Dwight and Rebecca, two souls destined to meet, were matched on the online dating app Bumble. What started 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.
In the summer of 2022, Dwight proposed to Rebecca in the beautiful surroundings of Mallorca, Spain. In that magical moment, he knelt on one knee. He presented a stunning 2.3-carat round diamond ring set in a platinum pave band, asking Rebecca to marry him.
VENUE
Dwight and Rebecca found the perfect backdrop for their unforgettable day at the charming Lindon Row Inn, a historic boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Richmond. Rebecca had envisioned an enchanting outdoor wedding, and they were drawn to the Inn’s beautifully secluded courtyard. Towering trees frame a serene space that feels like a hidden oasis in the city.
The couple’s wedding theme, a delightful garden party, was set to burst with vibrant colors and life. Picture this: a kaleidoscope of pinks, yellows, oranges, and blues dancing in the sunlight as lush floral arrangements elegantly contrasted against the rich brick and greenery of the courtyard. The theme was all about creating a joyful, lively atmosphere where guests could revel in the beauty of nature without stepping too far from the urban landscape. Rebecca’s love for nature and Dwight’s vibrant personality inspired the theme.
ATTIRE/FLOWERS
Rebecca and her bridesmaids gathered in the elegant suite at the Linden Row Inn, the air buzzing with anticipation and excitement. As Rebecca slipped into her breathtaking ivory gown, which she had discovered at Tiffany’s Bridal in Henrico, Virginia, the intricate lace detailing glimmered, catching the soft light filtering through the windows. She completed her look with delicate jewelry, a stunning blend of gold and white pearls perfectly highlighting her natural beauty.
The bridesmaids radiated charm in their lovely blue dresses, which offered the perfect mix of mid-length and thigh-length options. Each one looked like a vision, beautifully complementing Rebecca’s stunning ensemble.
Rebecca had handmade all the bouquets with an intimate and personal touch, lovingly selecting blooms from two local Virginia flower farms: Wollam Gardens and Foothills Flower Farm. Her bouquet was a vibrant array of dahlias, sunflowers, zinnias, and other cheerful summer flowers, blending shades of white, pink, yellow, and peach. Each flower was chosen for its unique beauty and significance to the couple. The bridesmaids’ bouquets mirrored this joyful palette but in smaller sizes. At the same time, the boutonnieres added a touch of whimsy with their bright pink, yellow and white blossoms.
Meanwhile, Dwight and the groomsmen prepped just a stone’s throw away in their suite at the Linden Row Inn, adding to the day’s magic. Dwight looked dapper in a custom-fitted blue three-piece suit from Alton Lane, with their wedding date stitched into the lining. This sweet detail had everyone’s hearts fluttering. His outfit was perfectly complemented by custom shoes from Becket Simmon and a Fossil watch, a meaningful gift from Rebecca on their first Christmas together.
FIRST LOOK
In the enchanting courtyard of the Inn, just moments before their ceremony, Dwight and Rebecca shared their unforgettable first look. Eager to ease any pre-wedding jitters, Rebecca had the brilliant idea to capture this intimate moment, allowing them to complete all their photos ahead of time. With a twinkle in her eye, she knew that Dwight’s playful and genuine facial expressions were the perfect highlight of this special occasion. As they laid eyes on each other, the moment’s magic unfolded, filled with laughter and warmth, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
CEREMONY
The ceremony unfolded like a dream scene in the Inn’s enchanting courtyard, where vibrant flowers transformed the space into a breathtaking oasis. With her artistic flair, Rebecca crafted a stunning ground arch for the altar, draped in soft hues of pink, orange, yellow and peach that seemed to dance with the gentle breeze.
As guests arrived, they were greeted with flutes of champagne and the smooth sounds of jazz, a heartfelt nod to Rebecca’s New Orleans roots. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and warmth, setting the perfect backdrop for the couple’s special moment.
When Rebecca entered, she emerged like a vision. Dwight couldn’t resist stepping halfway down the aisle to meet her, their eyes sparkling with love and anticipation. A close friend officiated the ceremony, infusing it with personal touches and sharing laughter as the couple exchanged heartfelt vows.
The air was alive with emotion as Valerie June’s “Little Love Song” filled the space during the Processional, creating a beautiful soundtrack for their love story. Then, as they sealed their promises with a kiss, the Recessional brought joy to everyone present with the sweet strains of Sixpence None the Richer’s “Kiss Me.”
COCKTAIL HOUR
As the sun set, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, casting a warm golden glow over the courtyard. Guests mingled in the charming courtyard wings, where the air was filled with laughter and the delightful aromas of delectable hors d’oeuvres wafting from elegant platters. A beautifully arranged cheese tray beckoned, featuring an assortment of artisanal cheeses that made taste buds dance.
At the heart of it all, the bar was alive with energy, offering a selection of handcrafted cocktails that sparkled in the fading light. Whether guests chose a classic cocktail or tried something new, the evening promised to be memorable. Conversations flowed as freely as the drinks, creating a vibrant backdrop for the celebrations to unfold.
RECEPTION
The sun dipped low in the sky, casting a warm, enchanting glow over the Inn’s courtyard, where Dwight and Rebecca’s reception was set to unfold like a beautiful dream. Guests were greeted by elegantly decorated tables draped in cream linen, accented by delicate light blue napkins and stunning arrangements of flowers in charming bubble vases. Tea candles flickered in soft pink holders.
As anticipation filled the air, the entire bridal party made a grand entrance, radiating joy and excitement. And then came the moment everyone had been waiting for: Dwight and Rebecca stepped onto the scene, united in love, to the pulsating beat of Jay-Z’s electrifying “Public Service Announcements.”
Dinner was a delightful buffet-style feast, offering a selection that left everyone craving more. Guests indulged in perfectly cooked steak and succulent salmon, fresh vegetables, and comforting gouda mashed potatoes that melted in their mouths.
The night’s highlight was their first dance, where the newlyweds took center stage. The world around them faded as they swayed to the tender melody of “How Long Will I Love You” by Ellie Goulding. At that moment, Dwight and Rebecca were surrounded by love, warmth, and the promise of a beautiful future together.
CAKE
Sugar and Salt baked an almond wedding cake with strawberry filling, topped it with white buttercream icing, and adorned it with colorful floral designs.
EXIT
As the last notes of “Love Tonight” by Shouse echoed through the air, the newlyweds exited the Inn, surrounded by a cascade of colorful streamers tossed joyfully by their guests.
The bride and groom, beaming with happiness, led their wedding party aboard a charming trolley, excitement buzzing in the atmosphere as they made their way to the next destination: the renowned Tobacco Company Club.
In the early hours of the next day, the group returned to the Linden Row Inn. As they prepared to retire for the night, they felt content. The Linden Row Inn was more than just a place to stay; it was a sanctuary where memories were made and friendships deepened, making this night one to remember.
The newlyweds honeymooned in France.
Bride IG: @bekknoto
Groom IG:dwightgray5
VENDORS
WEDDING VENUE: Linden Row Inn
AFTER-PARTY VENUE: Tobacco Company Club
https://www.thetobaccocompany.com
Joanna Hartsook
VIDEOGRAPHER: MV Wedding Films
INVITATIONS: Minted
https://www.minted.com/wedding
FLOWERS:
Foothills Flower Farm
https://www.foothillsflower.com
RENTAL EQUIPMENT: Party Perfect
LIGHTING: Wedding Lighting Co.
https://www.weddinglightingco.com
CATERING: Groovin’ Gourmets
https://www.trolleyhouseva.com/groovin-gourmets
DJ: Signature DJs
CAKE: Sugar and Salt
TRANSPORTATION: RVA On Wheels
https://rvaonwheels.com/trolley
HONEYMOON: Chateau St. martin
https://www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/chateau-saint-martin
ACCOMMODATIONS
RINGS: James Allen
GOWN: Tiffany’s Bridal
HAIR/MAKEUP: Dena LeAnn Artistry
GROOM’S ATTIRE:
Alton Lane
Men’s Wearhouse
RESTAURANT
Tazza Kitchen, Scott’s Addition
https://www.instagram.com/tazzakitchen
https://www.instagram.com/tobaccococlub
DATING APP
https://www.instagram.com/bumble
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.
