By Brittany Tilley
This real wedding is featured in the spring 2020 issue of Virginia Bride.
The Scoop:
Bride: Claudia , 28, Wine Sales, Owner of Destra Designs
Groom: Boomer , 40, President/Co-Founder at West Creek Financial
Date: October 20, 2018
Location: The Historic John Marshall Ballrooms
Number of Guests: 165
On October 20, 2018, Claudia and Boomer said, “I do,” in front of friends and family in the ballroom at the Historic John Marshall Hotel in Richmond, Virginia.
The couple wanted to create an atmosphere inside the ballroom that made guests feel as though they were enjoying an evening at a winery. Wine barrels covered in greenery and flowers, plenty of twinkling lights, and a neutral color palette helped achieve their vision.
Claudia’s Madison James lace halter-neck, fit and flare gown were classic with a modern twist. She chose a simple white tulle veil to tie the look together. The bridesmaid’s black fit and flare gowns were a perfect complement to the groom and groomsmen’s classic black tuxedos.
Claudia knew she wanted her bouquet to feel loose and natural, so she chose a mixture of white flowers and a variety of eucalyptus to accomplish the relaxed look.
The aisle was lined in white petals and lanterns, creating a romantic ambiance as the processional began.
Claudia walked down the aisle and met Boomer under a circular wooden arch adorned in greenery and white flowers. The couple exchanged meaningful handwritten vows as a family friend officiated the ceremony. U2’s “Beautiful Day” played in the background as they made their way back down the aisle as man and wife!
During cocktail hour, a live band played music while guests enjoyed “ Muth Mules”, the couple’s signature cocktail, and delicious appetizers.
After Claudia and Boomer shared their first dance to Bon Iver’s “8 Circle,” guests enjoyed the ravioli bar where they could choose from three different types of ravioli and a variety of sauces. The newlyweds favorite: the butternut squash and ricotta ravioli in a butter cream sauce! Yum!
Their three-tiered cake was truly a modern take on the classic white cake. A combination of marble fondant, white icing, and gold foil made the cake feel elegant yet fun. The surrounding flowers and greenery softened the presentation.
Playing off their love for wine, the couple sent their guests away with cheese knives that had cork shaped handles.
As Claudia and Boomer exited the reception, guests showered them with fresh lavender buds. They headed off to their Italian honeymoon in a Rolls Royce Silver Cloud; a classic choice!
CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SITE: The John Marshall Ballrooms, Richmond, VA, 804.775.2323
PHOTOGRAPHY: Peter Beliaev Photography, Richmond, VA, 804.357.3748
CONSULTANT: John Marshall, Amy Loving, 804.775.2355
DAY OF PLANNER: Teresa Starkey, Richmond, VA, 804.350.3161
OFFICIANT: Michael Ford, Richmond, VA, 804.363.2237
GOWN: Madison James, Klienfelds, New York, NY, 646.633.4300
VEIL: JJs House
SHOES: Badgley Mishka
HAIR: Elle Style Studio, Welsey Mourino, 804.716.4327
MAKEUP: Elle Style Studio, LaCretia Baskfield, 804.385.4072
BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Bridal Elegance, Wtoo, Richmond, VA, 804.747.5070
FORMALWEAR: Mens Warehouse Rental, Vera Wang tux, 804.346.0604; Groom- Custom made tux by Joseph Abboud
INVITATIONS: Minted.com
FLOWERS: Starry Night Events, Tanya Caldwell, Richmond, VA, 804.513.2347
RENTAL EQUIPMENT: Leap Light + Sound, Richmond, VA, 804.908.5327
CATERING: Suzanne, Richmond, VA, 804.775.2323
MUSIC: Dance Candy, Sam Hill Entertainment, Richmond, VA, 434.977.6665
CAKE: River City Sweets, Richmond, VA, 540.748.8597
FAVORS: Myweddingfavors.com
TRANSPORTATION: First Class Limo, Richmond, VA, 804.422.5466
HONEYMOON: Italy
If you are planning a wedding in Roanoke Virginia, Richmond Virginia, Fredericksburg/Northern Virginia, The Shenandoah Valley, Coastal Virginia or in Charlottesville/ Lynchburg Va, we can help with your wedding planning and ideas.
