Virginia Bride features weddings weekly on the blog. Being featured on the blog does not necessarily mean being featured in the print magazine.
Bride: Leandra Olson, 33, Health Policy
Groom: Matt Spitler, 34, Sales
Date: October 6, 2023
Venue: Veritas Winery and Vineyards, Afton, Virginia
Current Residence: Alexandria, Virginia
Guests:
Ceremony: 20
Reception: 85
LOVE STORY
In 2017, a vibrant spark ignited between Matt and Leandra when mutual friends introduced them. Their connection was undeniable, but life had other plans, and they only dated a few times before parting ways—yet a thread of communication kept them intertwined. Over the next two years, fate seemed to conspire in their favor, as they frequently ran into each other around the Washington area, each encounter weaving their story tighter.
It was in May 2019 that their paths crossed again, and this time, they officially rekindled their romance. Fast-forward to November 4, 2022: Matt turned a beautiful chapter in their story under the serene backdrop of the Wintergreen Resort near Charlottesville, Virginia. With the scenery providing a breathtaking canvas, he proposed, presenting Leandra with a stunning gold Waterfall Cambria engagement ring designed by the talented Heidi Gibson. The unique oval diamond shape featured a classic round center diamond surrounded by dazzling round baguettes.
FACTS
Matt and Leandra’s wedding at Veritas Vineyard and Winery in Afton, Virginia, was a celebration filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Partnering with Amore Events, Co., their talented wedding planner, they effortlessly coordinated every detail—from the venue to vendors, ensuring a seamless and magical experience.
Matt and Leandra envisioned their big day as an intimate affair brimming with fun. They infused the celebration with a whimsical, vintage charm that perfectly captured their personalities and made their wedding day unique.
The chosen color palette was a stunning mix of deep greens, autumn pinks, rich maroons, and elegant tan/gold, harmonizing beautifully with the breathtaking fall scenery of the vineyard. As the leaves turned and the sunset, their wedding radiated joy, creating a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable memories.
ATTIRE
Leandra’s wedding day was a stunning blend of elegance and personal touches that made her shine. Walking down the aisle in her breathtaking Rue de Seine Jade gown, adorned with delicate pearl sleeves, she perfectly captured a timeless yet fashion-forward look with a hint of vintage charm. The intricate lace details brought the gown to life, elevating her bridal style to something truly exceptional.
For the reception, Leandra transformed into a vision of fun and glamour in her Ronny Kobo Martine Dress. “This dress was so fun!” she exclaimed, loving how its iridescent fabric caught the light, casting a dazzling glow under the romantic wedding ambiance.
To complement her ensembles, she chose vintage pearl earrings that added a classic touch and a gold infinity bracelet—a heartfelt wedding gift from her parents, symbolizing the coming together of two families. On her feet, she sported stylish Everlane Day Twist heels during the ceremony and chic Guilhermina Heart Mule heels for the festivities.
In keeping with tradition, Leandra incorporated heartfelt family heirlooms as her “Something Old”—a beautiful wedding robe crafted from her mother’s gown—while her “Something Borrowed” was a stunning veil that added an air of grace to her look.
Her bridal bouquet, designed by Steelcut Flower, was a stunning arrangement filled with fragrant fall colors of pink, maroon and gold. After the big day, she entrusted Wren and Olivia with preserving it. Now, it elegantly hangs framed at the top of the stairs in their home.
Matt looked dashing in a rich dark green suit from Indochino, complete with custom floral lining and their initials stitched inside. He finished the look with a blush and tan tie from Beholden and custom dress shoes from Beckett Simonon, making quite the stylish statement.
CEREMONY
The ceremony was a beautiful celebration filled with love and special touches that made the day unforgettable. Nestled in the heart of Veritas Farmhouse, the couple exchanged vows in a charming gazebo that offered breathtaking views of lush gardens and distant mountains. They were surrounded by twenty of their closest family and friends.
Their beloved dog, Tater, proudly served as the ringbearer, adding a playful yet heartfelt element to the day. It was a special moment to see Matt’s dad officiate the ceremony. At the same time, Leandra’s parents walked her down the aisle, capturing the essence of togetherness.
Both grandmothers, one from North Dakota and the other from Arizona, joined via FaceTime to bridge the distance, proving that love knows no bounds. The couple opted for simplicity in decor, allowing the stunning natural surroundings to shine, with a grounded floral arch adorned with elegant flowers similar to the bridal bouquet’s fall colors.
As emotions filled the air, the Bloom Trio, a talented string quartet, set the tone with enchanting melodies. The processional began with John Legend’s heartfelt “All of Me/All of You,” leading Leandra down the aisle to the soulful tunes of “Latch” by Sam Smith. The ceremony concluded with an uplifting recessional featuring “Wildest Dreams” (Bridgerton) by Taylor Swift, leaving everyone in high spirits.
The ceremony’s highlight was a beautifully crafted group vow to emphasize that true love flourishes in community and connection. Matt and Leandra exchanged their vows in a profoundly personal moment.
COCKTAIL HOUR
The newlyweds created an unforgettable experience by hosting an exclusive cocktail hour for their cherished guests right after the ceremony. They enjoyed light hors d’oeuvres and posed for photos by the talented Marquel Patton. Nestled on the stunning outdoor patio and sprawling lawn of the vineyard, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and joy.
As the clock struck 6 p.m., the atmosphere transformed into a vibrant celebration. The private events wrapped up and guests began to flock to the cocktail hour and reception. Bloom Trio serenaded everyone with a delightful mix of pop hits played on strings, filling the air with enchanting melodies.
As new guests arrived, the venue tantalized their taste buds with a refreshing array of hors d’oeuvres. The venue’s bartender kept the drinks flowing, serving up two signature concoctions: the refreshing Tater Boi Bubble, a delightful Hugo Spritz and the classic Tater Boi Bourbon, an expertly crafted Old Fashioned.
RECEPTION
The reception unfurled in the enchanting ballroom of the winery, a space transformed into a vibrant tapestry of rich autumn hues, where whimsy and vintage charm danced together. Imagine long tables elegantly adorned with stunning floral arrangements that drew the eye. In contrast, round tables showcased delightful centerpieces that whispered tales of romance.
The vintage furniture lounge area was a unique highlight, where guests could unwind and share stories amidst charming decor. Instead of a traditional guestbook, Matt and Leandra thought outside the box, offering a vintage telephone for guests to leave their heartfelt messages—a playful nod to nostalgia.
The venue presented an exquisite menu that delighted every palate, beautifully detailed in the decorative table menu that set the stage for a feast worthy of the occasion.
ENTERTAINMENT
Matt and Leandra’s entertainment plan took an exciting twist when they invited a standup comedian, their good friend, to join the festivities. The moment she stepped onto the stage, the atmosphere shifted—laughter bubbled up like a fizzy drink, with everyone eagerly leaning in to hear her hilarious anecdotes.
DESSERT
The newlyweds chose to delight their guests with a fresh twist: warm, sugary cinnamon doughnuts that filled the air with a mouthwatering aroma, complemented by indulgent cheesecake bites that were simply irresistible.
EXIT
After savoring a moment together during a private last dance to the music “Across the Room” by Odesza and Leon Bridges, the couple made a magical exit amidst twinkling sparkler lights illuminating the night. They honeymooned in St. Lucia.
IG: @leandra__jo
IG: @mjspitler
VENDORS
VENUE & CATERING: Veritas Winery & Vineyards
ENGAGEMENT VENUE: Wintergreen Resort
https://www.wintergreenresort.com/
PHOTOGRAPHER: Marquel Patton http://yourgirlmark
WEDDING PLANNER: Amore Events Co.
https://www.amoreeventsco.com/
ENGAGEMENT RING: Heidi Gibson
WEDDING BANDS: Alexandria & Company
https://www.alxandcompany.com/
GOWN: Rue de Seine http://ruedeseinebridal
HAIR/MAKEUP: Avenue 42
FORMAWEAR: Indochino
INVITATIONS: Truly Engaging – @truly.engaging
FLOWERS: Steelcut Flower – @steelcutflowerco
http://www.steelcutflowerco.com/
BOUQUET PRESS: Wren & Olivia
DOG HANDLER: Furever & Fur Always
https://fureverandfuralways.com/virginia/
RENTAL EQUIPMENT:
MS Events
https://www.mseventscville.com
Valley Heirlooms http://valleyheirlooms
MUSIC:
Bloom Trio
Rhythm of Love
COFFEE: Trager Brother Coffee
TRANSPORTATION: Albemarle Limousine – https://www.albemarlelimousine.com/
HONEYMOON: Viceroy Sugar Beach, St. Lucia
https://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/sugar-beach
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.
