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Caitlin and Ryan’s Woodsy Backyard Wedding

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Caitlin and Ryan’s Woodsy Backyard Wedding

Posted on May 17, 2021 by Allison Dupree

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How did you meet?
We went to high school together; Ryan was 1 year ahead of me in school. We had a flirtation in high school that never amounted to anything. But luckily, we reconnected almost 7 years later at our hometown bar after we both moved back after grad school. Ryan asked me out for drinks shortly after and we’ve been together ever since!

How did you get engaged?
Ryan made us brunch (our favorite meal) in our backyard; just us two. In the middle of brunch, Ryan nervously walked around the table and got down on one knee. He tells me I said “yes” before he even got the question out. It was perfectly romantic and intimate. Just us and the dog (our german shepherd Bear). We later facetimed our family and friends to tell them all and surprised Ryan’s family at dinner that night!

Details of the day!
We were married in my cousin’s backyard in the woods. It was the perfect backdrop for our ceremony; rustic, intimate, moody. The woods were complemented by our beautiful florals of burgundy, mauve and gorgeous greenery, hints of gold throughout the decor, the twinkling lights strung by our families, the firepit for s’mores, chocolate covered pretzels as favors in bags adorned with our german shepherd’s cute little face. The details perfectly matched our re-envisioned Covid wedding; intimate and romantic. The Jess Press provided custom acrylic signs throughout our reception including our welcome sign, bar sign with painting of our dog, and seating chart!

Why did you choose your venue?
My cousin’s home is tucked back in the woods, plenty of space, surrounded by gorgeous trees, and no neighbors for a mile or two. It was the perfect alternative to a traditional venue during such an unpredictable year. We were so lucky my cousin and her husband were agreeable and just as excited as us to host our wedding at their home. They helped plan everything in just under two months!

What was on your menu?
Our menu was one of the most fun parts to plan since deciding to switch locations. We started the cocktail hour with appetizers from a local vendor, Cathy’s Catering. Including sesame grilled chicken strips, stuffed mushrooms, spanakopita, pepperoni Stromboli and spicy meatballs. It was delicious and the perfect start to the evening. For the main course, we hired two food trucks; The Munchy Machine and Happy Hour Dive Cart. It was the perfect way to add even more of our personalities into the day. Our cake was delicious and simple, topped with gorgeous flowers and gold drip paint. The vanilla and buttercream icing was simple and perfect.

All about your gown!
This dress was definitely not what I thought I would be wearing on my wedding day. The layers of tulle, subtle sparkle throughout the bodice, champagne underlay, and lace appliques totally surprised me! I put it on and realized I never wanted to take it off again! I loved it from the minute I looked at myself in the mirror and knew that I could see myself marrying Ryan wearing this gown. It was fun, romantic and it twirled when I spun on the dance floor which was key!

What was your favorite moment?
Our first dance in front of our family and friends was my favorite moment. It was a perfect moment to spend just us two, dancing to a song we weren’t sure we would be able to dance to this year, just taking in the moment.

One detail you couldn’t live without?
The floral arch above our wedding chupah is definitely one of my favorite details from throughout our day. It was absolutely gorgeous and really made the space more than just a spot we picked in the woods. The florals made it the wedding alter it was.

Did anything go wrong?
Between our family and friends helping to plan and navigate the day everything went pretty smoothly! MJ Bridal Artistry was up and with us early and had everyone looking beautiful in time for photos. Tori and her team of photographers kept us all on schedule. However, I was so nervous before the ceremony that I almost walked down the aisle without my bouquet! Katie of Layers of Lovely was able to sprint back inside and deliver my flowers to me right before the tent doors opened for me to walk down the aisle!

First dance song?
“Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur

Any advice for future brides?
I received really good advice prior to our wedding that was, “Make sure you spend your wedding together.” Which seems pretty obvious, but honestly, I could see how you could get pulled in different directions by your friends and family throughout the night. You want the night to be yours together, to have the same memories and celebrate your love and relationship. Because that is the whole point!

Honeymoon Location?
We went to Charlottesville, VA for a few days to celebrate! It is such a great place to spend time together. The downtown area is super cute filled with shops, restaurants, bars, distilleries (our favorite being Vitae Spirits). We also spent a day exploring the wineries, includes Jefferson Vineyards, Gabriele Rausse, Blenheim Vineyards and ended with Bold Rock on Carter Mountain. We also explored the views of Skyline Drive and did a hike to see a few waterfalls!

the details

Reception Location

"Marziano Estate" Cousin's Home

Photographer

Tori Kelner

Officiant

Kristin Marziano

Bride’s Gown

Essense of Australia

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Caitlin and Ryan’s Woodsy Backyard Wedding

the details

Reception Location

Photographer

Officiant

Bride’s Gown

Bride’s Shoes

Bridesmaid Dresses

Hair

Makeup

Groom’s Attire

Flowers

Cake

Invites

Music

Videographer

Transportation

Brides Jewelry

Brides Accessories