Dana + Connor

 

This incredible mother-daughter team, hired us to design and plan Dana and Connor’s wedding day this past May at Upper Shirley Vineyards. It was such fun getting to know them over the last 15 months working through all the fun details that made their day so special. 

While the couple recently became new residents in NYC, these two have strong Richmond roots. Their families grew up in the same neighborhood, but Dana and Connor didn't start dating until junior year of high school.  They love the outdoors, scuba diving, charcuterie, and are self-proclaimed foodies (p.s. Dana has an awesome food blog)! Connor surprised Dana on her 25th birthday with a ring at her favorite Charlottesville vineyard, Pippin Hill.  Upper Shirley in Charles City, VA came closest to that vibe they love, and they booked it quickly thereafter.

We designed a look that matched Dana and Connor’s taste and put a modern spin on a more rustic setting. A neutral color palette tied in cool, earthy tones, allowing the scenic landscape of the stunning vineyard estate to take the lead.  Even though it rained like crazy, forcing the ceremony inside, this group was all smiles AND the skies cleared for a beautiful evening of dancing under the gorgeous sailcloth tent. We Are The Mitchell’s captured some of the sweetest emotions and moments between father/daughter and bride/groom in a first look - we even tear up a bit reliving it through the photos below! 

With so many memorable details, it’s hard to choose just one or two favorites from this riverside reception. Sophisticated blooms and elegant greenery laid beneath a canopy of string lights made for a beautiful backdrop for 300 guests to dance the night away. An oyster boat, custom bourbon bar, and personalized stemless wine glass favors gave a nod to some of Dana and Connor’s favorite things and set the mood for a festive celebration in their honor. Congrats to the #NewlyWoods!

Planning + Design: Belles & Whistles; Venue/ Catering: Upper Shirley Vineyard; Duo: Terra Vocce & Sam Hill Entertainment; Cake + Cupcakes: Pearl's Bake Shoppe; Florist: Petals + Twigs; Lighting: Lighting Professors; Band: The Black & Blue Experience; Photographer + Video: We Are the Mitchells; Rentals: Rent-E-Quip & Paisley & Jade; Firework send off: Imperial Pyro; Hair & Make Up: Elle Style Studio; Signage: Susan Adkins - SA Style + Design & Keith Fabry