Virginia Bride features weddings weekly on the blog. Being featured on the blog does not necessarily mean being featured in the print magazine.
Bride: Loren Schmidt, 31, Senior Manager, Nonprofit
Groom: Walter Bottlick, 34, Web Developer
Date: October 5, 2024
Venue: Potomac Point Winery, Stafford, Virginia
Guests: 84
LOVE STORY
Walter and Loren’s love story is a testament to the power of fate. It began on a warm summer night in 2021 in Silver Spring, Maryland, when they met through mutual friends. Loren felt an instant connection with Walter and began creating a group chat to share her number with him.
On December 13, 2022, Walter proposed with a beautiful oval white opal surrounded by diamonds on a white gold band. He asked Loren to marry him and she joyfully said, “Yes!”
VENUE
Walter and Loren’s choice of Potomac Point Winery as their wedding venue was not random. They were drawn to the winery’s enchanting backdrop, which perfectly matched their dream of an unforgettable day unfolding in an outdoor paradise surrounded by nature—a world all its own. Their love for wine made this beautiful winery a perfect blend of ambiance and personal meaning, creating a cherished place they could return to for years.
Their rustic chic wedding theme harmonized beautifully with the Tuscan aesthetic of the winery, enveloping guests in a warm and inviting atmosphere. With a color palette of olive green, gold, and black, the couple crafted an elegant look that spoke to their personalities. The olive green represented their favorite color, while the gold and black added a touch of sophistication that elevated the entire celebration.
To bring their vision to life, they enlisted the expert help of wedding planner Abigail Kasinski. From the beginning, Abigail was instrumental in mapping out timelines and coordinating essential details to ensure a seamless experience. On the big day, Taylor Switters, who managed the venue’s day-of coordination, worked tirelessly alongside Abigail to set the stage for their dream wedding.
ATTIRE
Loren’s wedding dress, a stunning ball gown epitomizing elegance, was a labor of love that began at the charming Demure Bridal Boutique in Philadelphia’s picturesque old town. This small boutique gem, known for crafting each dress from scratch, was the perfect fit for Loren. With a devoted team of two talented women who poured their hearts into personalizing her experience, Loren knew she was in great hands.
The gown featured a corseted top with a daring deep V neckline, complemented by enchanting off-the-shoulder peplum sleeves.And that daring slit up the left side? It added just the right flair, letting her show off her legs and those fabulous shoes! Adorned with delicate sequins and charming fabric flowers, the dress bodice was an actual work of art.
Loren’s accessories were not just a complement to her dress but a reflection of her journey. Her beautiful dangling white porcelain flower earrings and stunning gold chain necklace featuring a gold leaf and pearl pendant were more than just elegant additions to her look. They were a nod to tradition, with the necklace being a borrowed piece from her mother, embodying the timeless tradition of ‘something borrowed.’ To crown her fairytale look, she topped it off with a beaded white and silver ‘laurel’ crown, fit for a queen.
As for footwear, Loren chose stylish square-toed gold wrap sandal heels from Aldo—perfect for dancing the night away!
The bridesmaids added a beautiful golden hue to the celebration. Each wore stunning champagne-colored satin gowns in selected styles, adding flair to the day.
Walter looked dapper in his olive-green tuxedo, complemented by a sleek black vest and an eye-catching black paisley bow tie. His black pocket square and Batman cufflinks added a playful twist, rounded off with classic black dress shoes and matching socks.
The groomsmen, ever sharp in their black tuxedos, contrasted perfectly with gold vests, gold bow ties, and coordinating pocket squares. Their black socks and shoes completed a timeless look that complemented the entire wedding party.
CEREMONY
Nestled at the foot of a picturesque hill adorned with lush vineyards, the couple’s enchanting ceremony unfolded beneath a charming pergola, setting the scene for a day filled with love and cherished moments.
Loren’s dad beamed with pride as he walked her down the aisle, a sentimental journey that grew even more touching when Mom joined them, creating a beautiful display of family unity as they escorted the bride together toward her future.
A close friend of the couple took on the unique role of officiant, guiding the ceremony with warmth and sincerity. As a heartfelt touch, they shared a sacred Celtic blessing, enveloping everyone in a sense of timeless devotion. Adding to the emotional atmosphere, a childhood friend of the bride read a reading of Anne Morrow Lindbergh’s “Gift From The Sea.”
In a poignant tribute, a delicate flower arrangement graced the reserved seat in honor of her twin brother. This flat lay of blooms served as a beautiful and heartfelt reminder of his presence, even in spirit.
The couple exchanged vows they lovingly penned, each word a promise and a dream fulfilled. As the ceremony turned to celebration, the air was filled with melodies that matched the couple’s radiant joy. The processional was a serene start with “Butterflies” by Abe Parker, leading into the bridal entrance, where “Bloom (Cover)” by SOLOMON created an unforgettable moment. Finally, as they began their new life together, “I Do” by Drew Schuler echoed through the vineyard.
The couple celebrated their unity by participating in an old German tradition called Baumstamm Sägen, or “sawing a log.” This activity symbolizes teamwork, patience and the effort needed for a strong marriage. Both partners must take turns keeping the saw moving smoothly, highlighting the importance of communication and balance in a relationship.
After the log sawing, the couple continued the celebration with some grape stomping at their winery wedding venue!
Cocktail Hour
The cocktail hour on the picturesque patio just outside the ballroom was an enchanting experience. Guests mingled as lively music floated through the air, accompanied by mouthwatering hors d’oeuvres. They also took in the stunning view of the vineyard sprawling below.
The culinary offerings were a treat for the senses, featuring a vibrant selection of vegetarian delights. Guests savored crispy veggie spring rolls bursting with flavor, savory BBQ tofu that was a crowd favorite, delicate veggie sushi that made for elegant bites, and a colorful assortment of cheese and veggie platters that added a gourmet touch to the event.
To wash it all down, guests were treated to Loren’s signature creation, the Pimm’s Cup, playfully dubbed the “Pimm’s Cuptials. ” This refreshing blend perfectly complemented the lively atmosphere. Meanwhile, Walter’s drink of choice, the Dark Knightcap, offered a sophisticated twist on the classic old-fashioned.
RECEPTION
The atmosphere at the winery’s ballroom was simply enchanting. Guests were greeted with elegant tables draped in sleek black tablecloths, accented by deep olive green napkins and gleaming gold chargers. Each table came alive with stunning centerpieces composed of dried flowers thoughtfully arranged in crystal vases and charming wine carafes, all tied together with delicate gold bows. Above the bride and groom’s table hung a beautifully crafted decorative saw, personalized with their names—a creative and heartfelt homage to their union.
As guests mingled, they admired the gift table, which featured photos capturing precious moments of the couple’s journey together. A trivia crossword puzzle about the bride and groom was available at the bar.
The moment everyone had been waiting for arrived as the newlyweds entered the upbeat tune of “I Like Me Better” by Lauv, radiating joy and excitement. They glided straight into their first dance without missing a beat.
The couple shared an intimate moment under the soft glow of the lights, dancing to “Teenage Dirtbag” (Acoustic Cover) by Phoebe Bridgers while heartfelt melodies filled the air. The atmosphere turned even more magical as father and daughter danced to Frank Sinatra’s timeless classic “The Way You Look Tonight.” This was followed by a touching moment between mother and son with “Una Cancion Para Mama” by Boyz II Men.
MENU
The first course of the dinner meal was an autumn spinach salad with apples, pecans, feta cheese, and a creamy vinaigrette. Guests could choose between mushroom ravioli or stuffed peppers as the main course.
CAKE
The bride’s mother created a one-tier flourless chocolate cake for the bride and groom to cut. It was decorated with two golden walruses, the groom’s favorite animal.
EXIT
The DJ set the scene for their grand exit by playing “Home” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros. The couple stepped out, hand in hand, to a breathtaking sight: their friends and family formed a glowing tunnel of jubilant love, each holding sparkling sparklers. The atmosphere filled with laughter and joy as they went to their getaway car, beaming happily.
HONEYMOON
The couple is planning a spring honeymoon.
VENDORS
VENUE/CATERING/COORDINATION:
Potomac Point Winery
https://www.instagram.com/potomacpointwinery
ENGAGEMENT VENUE:
Longwood Gardens
https://www.instagram.com/longwoodgardens
PHOTOGRAPHER:
Janelle Putrich
https://www.instagram.com/janelleputrich
PLANNER:
Abigail Kasinski
White Dress Black Tie Events
https://www.instagram.com/whitedressblacktie
RINGS:
CustomMade
https://www.instagram.com/custommadejewelry
Groom: Colorado Bands
https://www.etsy.com/shop/ColoradoBands
GOWN:
Boutique:
Demure Bridal
https://www.instagram.com/demure_bridal
Brand: Rara Avis
https://www.instagram.com/raraavis_group
SHOES:
Aldo
https://www.instagram.com/aldo_shoes
HAIR/MAKEUP:
Absolute Beauty by Wendy
https://www.instagram.com/absolutebeautybywendy
BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES:
Revelry
https://www.instagram.com/shoprevelry
FORMALWEAR:
The Rising Sun
https://www.etsy.com/shop/TherisingsunStore
Men’s Warehouse
https://www.instagram.com/MensWearhouse
FLOWERS:
Hidden Botanics
https://www.instagram.com/hiddenbotanics
DJ: DJ Tezrah Productions
https://www.instagram.com/djtezrah
DESSERT: Golden Plum Bakery
https://www.instagram.com/the_goldenplumbakery
ACCOMMODATIONS
Courtyard Stafford Quantico by Marriot
https://www.instagram.com/marriottbonvoy
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.
