5 Wedding Venues in Virginia You’ll Love

Let’s be real: picking the perfect wedding venue is huge. It sets the vibe, creates the backdrop for your photos, and determines whether your guests will rave about your big day for years to come. Lucky for us, Virginia is packed with stunning wedding venues that are basically Pinterest boards brought to life

If you’re planning your dream wedding in Virginia, here are the Top 5 wedding venues in Virginia you seriously need to check out. From cozy mountain views to chic city vibes, these spots are so magical. The venues are in no particular order.

1. The Seclusion – Lexington, Virginia

Imagine standing hand-in-hand with your partner, surrounded by rolling mountains and a soft breeze. That’s the magic of The Seclusion, a private 72-acre property in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. This venue offers the perfect balance of rustic charm and modern elegance.

Why Choose The Seclusion?

• Rustic Meets Modern: The grand hall reception space is full-on rustic charm but with modern touches, so you get the best of both worlds.

• The Views: The mountain backdrop is totally Instagram-worthy. Your wedding pictures?! Perfection!

• On-Site Lodging: The Seclusion provides accommodations for you and your family, including a beautiful private suite for the newlyweds with a private entrance making it convenient and stress-free, with space for up to 10 guests.

If you want those cozy, romantic mountain vibes, The Seclusion is calling your name.

2. Taubman Museum of Art, Roanoke, Virginia

If “traditional” isn’t your vibe, the Taubman Museum of Art is perfect for you. Modern, artsy, and just beautiful, this venue is perfect for couples who want something unique.

What Makes Taubman Museum Special?

• Architectural Beauty: The museum’s iconic design serves as a stunning backdrop for wedding photos and an unforgettable guest experience.

• Endless Possibilities: Whether you’re hosting a grand reception or an intimate ceremony, the museum offers spaces to suit your vision.

• Cultural Appeal: Celebrate surrounded by world-class art exhibitions, adding a touch of culture and creativity to your wedding.

For couples who want a wedding that stands out from the crowd, Taubman Museum of Art is going to be perfect for you.

3. Cedar Oaks Farm– Bedford, Virginia

For couples looking for a romantic and flexible wedding venue, Cedar Oaks Farm combines rustic elegance with natural beauty. This picturesque location offers a variety of spaces to suit any wedding style, all set against a stunning backdrop.

Highlights of Cedar Oaks Farm:

• Flexible & Stylish: Cedar Oaks Farm offers a stunning backdrop for your big day. The large stone fireplace adds warmth and ambiance during colder months, creating a cozy yet elegant atmosphere for your reception.

• Beautiful Photo Opportunities: The picturesque landscapes provide endless spots for gorgeous wedding photos.

• On-Site Suites: The bridal suite and groom’s suites are designed to make your wedding day stress-free and comfortable for the wedding party.

With its beautiful setting and attention to detail, Cedar Oaks Farm is the perfect place for a memorable wedding.

4. The Virginian Hotel – Lynchburg, Virginia

Located in historic downtown Lynchburg, The Virginian is a luxurious venue that combines classic charm with modern amenities. This hotel and event space is perfect for couples looking for an upscale and timeless wedding venue.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Historic Charm: Built in 1913, this place has vintage vibes—but with all the modern amenities you need.

• Everything in One Place: From catering to everything in between, they’ve got it all handled. Oh, and there’s a rooftop terrace. Enough said.

• Accommodations: Since it’s a hotel, your guests can stay right on-site, making it super convenient and allowing them to keep the party going all night long without worrying about transportation. Plus, the staff is incredibly friendly, ensuring everyone feels welcome and taken care of.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s luxe, romantic, and stress-free, The Virginian is where you should be looking.

5. Atkinson Farms – Danville, Virginia

If you’re envisioning a rustic wedding with a touch of countryside charm, Atkinson Farms is literally a dream come true. This family-owned venue provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere that perfectly complements its scenic surroundings.

Why Atkinson Farms Stands Out:

• The Barn: The barn is spacious, inviting, and filled with natural light, making it perfect for both ceremonies and receptions.

• Stunning Outdoor Options: Couples can exchange vows by the pond or in the lush, green fields that surround the property.

• Totally Customizable: From décor to the schedule, Atkinson Farms lets you do your thing and make it your own.

For a laid-back yet elegant celebration, Atkinson Farms is truly one of the Top 5 wedding venues.

So, How Do You Pick?

Now that you know about the Top 5 wedding venues in Virginia, it’s time to start narrowing it down.

• Love the outdoors? Go for The Seclusion or Atkinson Farms.

• Wanting a Dreamy venue?  Cedar Oaks or The Virginian won’t disappoint.

• Want something unique? The Taubman Museum is calling your name.

• Pro Tip: Visit as many as you can! You’ll know when it feels right. Bring your partner, a notebook, and maybe a friend for moral support!

Final Thoughts

Virginia has so many incredible wedding venues, but these five are absolute standouts. Whether you’re wanting mountain views, rustic barns, or modern art galleries, there’s a spot here that’s perfect for your big day.

So, grab your planner, schedule those venue tours, and start dreaming about the best day of your life. And remember, wherever you choose, it’s going to be magical because it’s all about celebrating your love. 

Planning a wedding means juggling a million little details—like finding the perfect venue—and having someone in your corner who gets it can make all the difference. If you’re ready for expert guidance to bring your vision to life and ensure everything runs smoothly, we’d love to be part of your journey. 

Book a consultation today, and let’s create a celebration that’s perfectly and uniquely you.

Photo Credit: The Hancocks , Kaitlin Ahrens Photography

How to Politely Say No Plus Ones To Your Wedding

Every couple wants their wedding to feel special and intimate. But what happens when your guest list starts spiraling out of control? Suddenly, you’ve got a venue bursting at the seams, a budget stretched thin, and a lot more faces than you anticipated—many of whom you don’t even know! While you may feel obligated to say yes to everyone bringing a guest, setting boundaries is perfectly okay. 

But how do you do that without sounding rude or mean? Saying no plus ones can feel a bit awkward, but don’t sweat it too much. Let’s walk through some helpful ways to handle this delicate situation with grace.

Be Clear on Your Reasoning

First things first: you need to be clear with yourself and your partner about why you’re limiting plus ones. Maybe it’s budget constraints or maybe your venue only holds a certain number of people. Or, you might just want a smaller, more intimate wedding with close friends and family. Whatever the reason, it’s important to have a clear rationale so you can explain it calmly and confidently when the time comes.

For example, if you’re working with a smaller venue, simply saying, “Our venue has a strict capacity, and we’re only able to invite those closest to us” will usually be enough. If your budget is the driving force, you can explain, “We’ve decided to stick with a smaller guest list to ensure we can create the day we’ve envisioned.” It’s all about communicating your decision thoughtfully and making sure people understand where you’re coming from.

Address It Directly in Your Invitations

Once you’ve decided on your guest list policy, the next step is to make sure it’s clearly communicated in your invitations. Instead of leaving things open-ended, address the invitation only to the person or couple invited. 

For example, use their full names and leave out “and guest” to prevent any misunderstandings.

Here’s a gentle way to word it:

“We are thrilled to celebrate with you. Due to limited space, we are unable to accommodate additional guests, but we are so excited to have you join us.”

This sets expectations right from the start, letting your guests know that the invitation is just for them and no plus ones are included. Personalizing the invitation can also help soften the message.

Adding a handwritten note or a little extra flair (like a cute sticker or fun RSVP card) can make the guest feel extra special, despite the plus-one restrictions.

Prepare for Questions

Even after being clear in your invitations, it WILL happen, you will still get questions. Some guests might reach out and ask if they can bring someone along, especially if they’re in a newer relationship or feel uncomfortable attending alone. In these cases, it’s important to stand firm but kind in your response. You can say something like:

“We would love to have more people, but we’ve decided to keep our celebration intimate with just close friends and family.”

Keep your explanation short, sweet, and consistent. If you feel comfortable, you could also offer a little reassurance. For example, if a guest is worried about not knowing anyone, you could say, “Don’t worry, we’ll be seating you with [mutual friend], and it’s going to be a really fun table!”

By staying confident in your decision while also acknowledging their concerns, you can reduce any potential awkwardness and make them feel included, even if they’re coming solo.

Use Your Wedding Website to Reinforce the Message

Another helpful way to reinforce your guest list policy is through your wedding website. Do not sleep on your wedding website! This is especially useful if you want to avoid any confusion or last-minute questions. 

Adding a FAQ section to your website allows you to communicate things clearly without singling anyone out or making them feel awkward. Here’s how you could phrase it:

“We are keeping our celebration intimate, so we are unable to offer plus ones. Thank you for understanding!”

Or:

“To keep our guest list manageable, we are only able to extend invitations to those listed on the invite. We appreciate your understanding as we work to make this day special!”

The tone here is SO important—you want it to be warm, friendly, and appreciative. You don’t want your guests to feel like they’re being left out; instead, you want them to know they are an important part of your special day.

Consider Exceptions Thoughtfully

While it’s great to have a no-plus-ones policy, there are always exceptions to consider. If a guest is in a long-term relationship or traveling from far away, you might want to allow them to bring a plus one. It’s all about balance—making sure you stay true to your vision while also being mindful of specific situations where a plus one could make sense.

For example, if your best friend is in a serious relationship, it’s probably a good idea to extend the invitation to their partner. Similarly, if someone is coming from out of town and doesn’t know anyone else, offering them the option to bring a guest could help them feel more comfortable.

Just make sure that if you do make exceptions, you’re consistent. If one close friend gets a plus one, it may be harder to justify not giving one to another friend in a similar situation. Think it through ahead of time, so you don’t end up in a tough spot down the line.

5 more polite ways to respond to the “Can I bring a plus one?” question:

“We wish we could invite everyone, but we’re keeping things small to make it really special! Thanks for understanding—we can’t wait to celebrate with you!”

“Our venue has a strict guest limit, and we’re doing our best to stay within it. We’re excited to have you join us and hope you understand!”

“We’ve decided to keep our wedding really intimate with just close friends and family. Thank you for understanding—we’re looking forward to celebrating together!”

“We’d love to have more guests, but we’re keeping things within our budget to make sure the day goes smoothly. I hope you can understand, and we’re really excited to have you there!”

“We’re not able to accommodate plus ones, but don’t worry! We’ll make sure you’re seated with some awesome people, and it’s going to be such a fun day!”

Remember, it’s your day! The people who love and support you will understand, and they’ll be excited to celebrate with you, whether they’re coming with a partner or flying solo. After all, the most important thing is that you’re surrounded by people who care about you—and that’s exactly what will make your wedding day so magical.

Planning a wedding is full of details like this, and it helps to have someone by your side who knows the ins and outs. If you’re looking for expert guidance to make sure your day runs smoothly, we’d love to help! Book a consultation today, and let’s start planning a celebration that’s uniquely you. 

Pic Credit: DMV Pix

Elevate Your Wedding Decor with Napkins: Style, Elegance, and Functionality

Are you dreaming of a wedding that exudes style, elegance, and attention to detail? Look no further than the humble napkin. Often overlooked, napkins are essential elements that can truly elevate your wedding decor, place settings, and overall ambiance. From adding a pop of color, to enhancing table arrangements, here's how incorporating the right napkins can transform your special day into a stunning celebration of love.

Color Coordination!

Napkins are a great way to coordinate the colors of your wedding theme with the rest of the venue. Whether you go for muted pastels, bright primary colors, or timeless whites, matching napkins are the perfect way to make it all work. Envision yourself entering an occasion where the tablecloths and floral arrangements are expertly complemented by the napkins. Not only will the visually gorgeous setting be remembered by your visitors, but the unified color palette will also make a lasting impression.

Fabric and Texture!

The fabric and texture of your wedding napkins can greatly impact the overall appearance. Each place setting may be elevated to the next level with the addition of opulent textiles like linen, satin, or silk. Use natural fibers such as burlap or cotton for a warmer feel, if your wedding is going for a boho or rustic theme. Guests' sensory experiences will be elevated by the tactile experience of high-quality napkins, which will also improve the visual attractiveness.

Folded Artistry!

 Napkins are like unfinished art works just waiting to be painted. Table settings can be made more interesting and unique by experimenting with various folding techniques. The options are limitless, whether you're going for a minimalistic, contemporary style or a more whimsical, elaborate one. Your wedding's folded napkins, whether they're swans or flowers, can be a show-stopping focal point that complements your style and theme.

Personalization and Detailing!

Adding a personal and intimate touch to your wedding decor is easy with personalized napkins. You may personalize the napkins by monogramming your initials and those of your partner or by adding phrases or inscriptions that symbolize your love journey. In addition, you may make your visitors feel particularly special by adding accessories like ribbons, charms, or colorful napkin rings to each place setting.

Napkins not only look nice, but they also have a functional purpose at the wedding celebration. Not only do they offer a sanitary surface for guests to clean their hands, but they also look classy as a backdrop for menus, favors, or flatware. Your wedding decor will look more polished and put together with napkins, because of how they combine form and function.

Wedding napkins are not merely practical objects; they are crucial components that can elevate the elegance, atmosphere, and beauty of your big day. The correct napkins, whether you choose them in a combination of bright colors, plush fabrics, elaborate folds, personalized details, or any mix of these, may take your party decor to a whole new level of class and refinement. Don't discount the napkin's influence; instead, let it serve as a chic symbol of your affection and meticulous planning for your big day.

June 10, 2023: Amanda & James

On June 10, 2023, Amanda and James got married in Lexington, Virginia at The Seclusion. It was a sunny and floral-filled day in the mountains, surrounded by friends and family. They have been together for over 8 years and initially met in college when they lived down the hall from each other freshman year. 

Listening to Amanda describe her proposal helped us get to know her and her now husband so well. She said, “He timed it perfectly to be his over a girls weekend (a couple of my college girl friends were visiting us in Morehead). Because they were in town, I had a whole itinerary planned, including a sunset cruise on James’s family’s boat. Since the boat ride had been my idea, I wasn’t at all suspicious until we were heading back to the dock and James, who was driving, asked our other friend to take over for a second. At that moment I was 90% sure it was about to happen but I was trying to act cool in case it didn’t. One of our friend's sons, who was just about to turn one, was holding himself up on the cooler, learning to stand. James said “Hey Charlie, can you grab the champagne out of the cooler? But we can only open it if she says yes…” Well… She said “YES!” so they popped the champagne and the planning began. From the beginning, Amanda told us she wanted a rusty romantic style wedding. 

When we asked Amanda what the most important part of the planning process was, she said “Hiring vendors who I could trust and who knew the venue well was key to being stress free on the wedding day. I also just wanted the overall event to be a big party - we had a live band (so so glad I went with Julie’s rec for the silver bullets), light up tambourines, and the groom’s sister had bought me these fun floral sunglasses the day before from Pumpkin Seeds in Lexington and I never took them off the entire party portion of the night.” We truly wanted their day to represent them well and I think we were able to make that happen!

When we asked Amanda why they chose The Seclusion as their venue, she said, “Since we met each other and so many of our friends in college at W&L, we really wanted to do it in Lexington, Va. We decided to rehearse on campus but wanted a bit more of a scenic option for the actual wedding. I stumbled upon the Seclusion from researching venues around Lexington online (this was in 2019, years before we got engaged haha) and fell in love with it. Once we got engaged, I looked at a couple of other venues in the area but liked how so many things were included with the package (tables, chairs, flatware, etc), how beautiful it is inside, and the views are hard to beat!!”

And the best part of their day? “I really enjoyed eating dinner with James at the sweetheart table. It was the first time that day we got to relax together and talk. I was indifferent before the wedding on sweetheart vs head and glad we went with sweetheart!! Also, the dancing portion of the night- again, Silver Bullets were amazing.” We always loved it when the couple decided to do a sweetheart table with just them two. Getting to watch everyone dance, sing, and celebrate love was so much fun!

Amanda and James chose the partial planning package. When asked what tip they would give other couples, she said, “As I said above, hire vendors you can trust. And to the extent possible, vendors that have worked with your other vendors and at your venue. That helped ease my anxiety because I trusted people would pretty much know what motions to go through etc.” They did select amazing vendors that made their day run smoothly! We loved getting to know Amanda and James and working with them was truly such a blessing!

Bride’s dress: Little White Dress

Bride’s dress designer: Savin London

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Assortment (any tux with bow tie and cummerbund)

Bridesmaid dresses: BHLDN

Invitations: Minted

Favors: Grady cups and koozies from Sip Sip Hooray

Caterer: Lexington Catering Company

Cake: The Baking Mariner

Music: Silver Bullets

Florist: Florals by Kimberly

Makeup: Transformations Artistry

Photographer:  Luke & Ashley Photography

Videographer: Iron and Ivy Films

Ceremony music: Strings Poet

Dog Handler: Brandi

Everything to Know About Planning a Spring Wedding

As the blossoms bloom and the days grow longer, spring unveils itself as a romantic canvas for couples envisioning their dream wedding. However, orchestrating an unforgettable springtime celebration requires careful consideration of the season's unique elements. From unpredictable weather patterns to vibrant floral arrangements and seasonal culinary delights, there are several factors to keep in mind when planning a spring wedding. Here's everything you need to know to ensure your special day unfolds flawlessly:

1. Embrace the Rain: Spring showers are a hallmark of the season, making a rain contingency plan essential for outdoor ceremonies. While it's tempting to hope for sunny skies, preparing for inclement weather demonstrates foresight and ensures that unexpected showers won't dampen your joyous occasion.

2. Time Changes and Sunset Photography: With the transition to daylight saving time, couples must adjust their wedding timelines to accommodate the shifting sunset. Consulting with your photographer and scheduling key moments to coincide with golden hour ensures breathtaking sunset photos that capture the enchantment of your spring wedding day.

3. Seasonal Florals: Springtime heralds an abundance of blooming flowers, offering a myriad of options for stunning floral arrangements. Collaborate with your florist to select seasonal blooms that complement your vision, infusing your wedding decor with the vibrant colors and fragrant blossoms synonymous with spring.

4. Consider Allergies and Pests: For outdoor celebrations, mitigating allergies and pesky pests is paramount to guest comfort. Communicate any potential allergens and inquire about pest control measures with your venue to create a serene outdoor environment where guests can revel in the beauty of nature without discomfort.

5. Mindful Scheduling Around Spring Holidays: Spring is punctuated by various holidays, including Mother's Day, Memorial Day, and Easter, which may impact guest availability. Sending save-the-dates well in advance and strategically planning your wedding date can maximize attendance and ensure that loved ones can join in your celebration.

6. The Palette of Spring: From soft pastels to vibrant hues, spring offers a diverse color palette to suit every couple's aesthetic preferences. Whether you opt for romantic blush tones or bold, saturated shades, embrace the season's versatility to create a visually stunning ambiance that reflects your unique style.

7. Delectable Spring Cuisine: Indulge in the culinary delights of spring with a menu inspired by fresh produce, bright flavors, and seasonal ingredients. From refreshing salads to savory skewers and decadent desserts, springtime fare offers endless possibilities to tantalize your guests' taste buds and elevate the dining experience.

Planning a spring wedding is a delightful journey filled with endless possibilities and seasonal splendor. By embracing the unique characteristics of the season and incorporating thoughtful details into your wedding plans, you can create a magical celebration that embodies the essence of springtime romance.

May 28, 2023: Nell & Dustin

On May 28, 2023, Nell and Dustin got married in Lexington, Virginia at The Seclusion. It was rainy and overcast, but still a stunning day in the mountains, surrounded by friends and family. They have been together over 6 years and initially met in 7th period Biology of Senior year. Dustin asked her to borrow a pencil and the rest was history.

They love the outdoors and taking their dog on walks, but one hike was especially memorable. While they were hiking a favorite trail, Nell was with their dog looking at the view when she turned around to Dustin on one knee. She said “YES!” and the planning began. From the beginning, Nell told us she wanted a romantic and whimsical outdoor wedding and it did not disappoint. 

When we asked Nell what the most important part of the planning process was, she said “That everything felt like us and we weren’t just following the trends. We’re both only 23, so we wanted a youthful, whimsical look and vibe. We love the outdoors and neither of us have a particularly modern or elegant style. Julie understood our vision from the beginning, therefore that look was reflected in the choices we made. I believe we created a wedding that was very personal and unique to Dustin and I.” We truly wanted their day to represent them well and I think we were able to make that happen!

When we asked Nell why they chose The Seclusion as their venue, she said, “We both grew up in Lexington and we love the mountains. You can’t beat the Seclusion’s view, those mountains are home. The Seclusion speaks for itself!” As a couple who loved the outdoors, being deep in the mountains was the perfect spot for them.

And the best part of their day? “The reception. We loved our dj and we love to dance. It was so fun watching everyone (even those we didn’t expect to) tear up the dance floor! That’s when we truly got to soak in the day and make fools of ourselves with our favorite people!” Getting to watch everyone dance, sing, and celebrate love was so much fun!

Nell and Dustin chose the partial planning package. When asked what tip they would give other couples, she said, “I’ve said this to everyone, hire a wedding planner! Julie took 99% of the stress away from the planning process and the wedding day. Because of Julie, the planning process was actually fun and I could fully enjoy our wedding day. Because of Julie, nothing ever became overwhelming. She saved us so much time and worry and also became a friend.” We loved getting to know Nell and Dustin and working with them was truly such a blessing!

Bride’s dress: Ashley Grace Bridal

Groom & Groomsmen attire: The Black Tux

Bridesmaid dresses: BHLDN

Invitations: Momental Designs

Caterer: Chefs Catering

Cake: Sweet Treats

Music: DJ Obehi

Florist: Yonderyear Farm

Makeup: Alissa Joy Makeup Artistry

Photographer: Benjamin McLean Photography

Videographer: Film & Flourish

Details

Gentlemen’s attire

The ladies are ready!

The rain made it even more beautiful

Spring florals

Dress change and electric dance floor

Hannah Malloy Photography

Julie Rupert Events has the opportunity to work with some amazing vendors that make the bride and groom’s dream wedding day possible. One photographer that we love is Hannah from Hannah Malloy Photography. Hannah offers wedding photography coverage that incorporates an artistic approach and in depth, logistical knowledge of wedding photography from her 13 years experience. Hannah Malloy Photography takes pride in the relationships she builds with couples and how it extends beyond the wedding day. Hannah is honored to document and join my couples as they mark milestones (engagement, wedding, maternity, newborn, graduations) and is proud of the strong relationships she’s been able to build with clients over the years.

When asked why she loves working in the wedding industry, Hannah said, “There is so much I love about working in the wedding industry. It's a chance for me to combine three of my passions - story telling, people, and art. I'm able to work not only with amazing couples and clients, but also fellow industry professionals who I have forged close bonds with and continuously learn from.” After working with her, we see this to be so true in how she connects with the couples and tells their stories.

Photography is something that so many couples value greatly and the role of capturing moments is not taken lightly by Hannah Malloy Photography. She said “In a way I see my role as a photographer on a wedding day as a preserver of time - documenting the moments that will be passed down from generation to generation. I view this position as a type of historian, creating art that only becomes more and more valuable as time goes on.” We could not agree more and she does such a beautiful job.

When you have a love for weddings, you look forward to them... especially certain moments. We love asking people what their favorite moment is, because there are so many breathtaking and heartfelt moments during a wedding day. Hannah said that her personal favorite is, “the first look between the couple, whether it's before the ceremony or right at the start as the bride is coming down the aisle. This moment is where the joy felt is tangible and the emotions are so raw. Witnessing and documenting this meaningful moment for so many couples is an incredible honor.” 

At JRE, we know working with Hannah Malloy Photography means that she will always do her job well, connect with those around her, communicate well with us, and she will go above and beyond to capture the day and deliver the most beautiful gallery. She truly makes you feel comfortable, loved, and stress-free. When we asked Hannah why she loves working with Julie and her team, she said, “Working with Julie Rupert Events ensures a seamless and stress free day not only for couples, but for vendors like myself. There's never a question of what needs to be done or logistics for the day- they're always one step ahead. I always know that both my clients and myself are in great and capable hands with Julie and her team.”

If you are looking for a photographer, reach out to Hannah Malloy Photography! She offers standard and custom wedding day packages for both traditional sized, destination and also micro sized weddings and elopements. Anything can be tailored to a specific event. A standard wedding package includes 8 hours of coverage, a second shooter, timeline assistance, an online guide, online + shareable gallery of high resolution images and an engagement session. Add-ons are always available, including bridal boudoir, rehearsal dinner coverage, welcome party coverage, additional hourly coverage on a wedding day and the ability to travel to destinations far and wide.

Email: hello@hannahmalloyphoto.com

Instagram: @hannahmalloyphoto

Website: www.hannahmalloyphoto.com

November 2, 2023 Amanda and Stephen

On November 2, 2023, Amanda and Stephen got married in Lexington, Virginia at The Seclusion. It was a crisp and beautiful fall day full of fresh blooms created by Amanda herself. It was in the mountains surrounded by friends and family. They have been together for over 3 years and their love first sparked in the DMs through mutual friends. Their first date was super fancy and a year later on their first-anniversary date he popped the question with a “Will you Marry Me?” cake! She of course said yes, and so the wedding planning began.

When we asked Amanda what the most important part to them was in the planning process. She said “Flowers and having a fun time with everyone.” We loved this answer, and we were so excited to see the florals Amanda would create for her big day, and trust us they did not disappoint! 

When we asked Amanda why she chose The Seclusion as their venue, she said, “As a wedding vendor myself, I've been to many venues throughout Virginia, Maryland, and DC and loved the views, 'secluded’/getaway feel of the venue, the groom suite (which many venues don't even have), the decor of the spaces, and especially the venue owners themselves are so kind!”

And the best part of their day??

“Celebrating our marriage with our children, closest family and friends!”

Amanda and Stephen chose the month of the wedding package. Amanda said, “I had all my vendors chosen and I work in the wedding industry, so it wasn't a stretch for me to do additional planning by myself as it's part of my daily work anyways. However I recommend a full service planner to ease the stress of all the details that are involved!” When asked what the biggest tip for another couple planning their wedding would be, she said, Hire vendors you love and trust, first and foremost and you won’t have anything to worry about on the wedding day but enjoying it!

Bride’s dress: Kleinfield, Pina Tornai

Groom & Groomsmen attire: The Black Tux

Bridesmaid dresses: Assorted places, I let the girls pick a style and color within a palette that suited them best.

Invitations: Minted

Caterer: Chefs Catering

Cake: Blush Baking CO

Music: String Trip & Trumpet

Florist: A Morgan Event Floral

Hair Stylist: Glam By Jeet

Photographer: E Losinio Photography

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue...

We have all heard the little saying… “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” but did you know the original ending was “and a silver sixpence for your shoe?” Many brides consider following this little wedding tradition, so we thought we would address the meaning behind it.

“Something old…”

The purpose of this is to show the importance of the bride’s bond to and love for her family. Many times, a mother, grandmother, or aunt, give the bride a piece of jewelry or a piece of an old wedding dress as a token to her family tree. This allows the bride to continue to pass it down for generations to come.

“Something new…”

This is a look into the future for the bride, eyes on the unknown and exciting new things to come! On the wedding day, the bride is entering a new era and starting her own life full of new traditions. This symbolizes the couple's new union for years to come. This can be represented by many different things: dress, flowers, jewelry, or ring. This is definitely the easiest tradition to follow.

“Something borrowed…”

For something borrowed, the idea is that a friend of the bride who is happily married lends the bride something for her wedding day. This symbolizes that the bride is “borrowing” some of the happily married couples happiness, joy, luck, and blessings. It is also a reminder of that friend on the wedding day.

“Something blue…”

The color blue symbolizes faithfulness, purity, and loyalty- all things you desire for your relationship on your wedding day. In ancient times, brides would wear blue bands on the borders of their attire to symbolize this. Currently, it is more of a tradition to find the hint of blue in little things on their wedding day: shoes, jewelry, nails, garter, or even blue script on the inside of clothing, shoes or handkerchiefs. It is a subtle, but meaningful, touch.

“A silver sixpence for your shoe…”

This is the part of the phrase most people do not say and if they do know of it, they may not know what it means. Right before the bride’s walk down the aisle, her father would place a silver coin in her shoe, wishing her love, prosperity and happiness in her marriage. This is a much harder tradition to follow, because the sixpence has been taken out of circulation. More recently, the Royal Mint has released a vintage silver sixpence for brides to make this tradition part of their day. 

These traditions are heartfelt, thoughtful, and can be very meaningful on your wedding day. It can be a sentimental way to include your family and friends and can be something you can pass on to future generations, as well.

Busting Myths About Wedding Planners

When the planning becomes overwhelming and stressful, every bride’s mind runs to a wedding planner. The “fairy godmothers” of the wedding industry are lifesavers to many couples who at first thought they could do it themselves. Every bride wants the wedding of their dreams, but few want to do all it takes to accomplish this. 

Despite the many testimonies from brides of the “lifesaving planning skills” of their wedding planner… There are still so many myths about what a wedding planner does and “do you really even need to spend the money and hire one?”

“Wedding planners are only for extravagant weddings”

We know you have probably heard about wedding planners that specialize in insanely expensive and over the top weddings. However, most planners, including us at JRE, take on many weddings with a range of budgets. JulieRupertEvents takes on brides in need of planning help in order to create their dream wedding on the budget they have already set. No matter how “normal” or “inexpensive” the wedding is, wedding planners still have their purpose. 

“Hiring a wedding planner means giving up control of what I want”

At JRE we say one thing very often, “Whatever the bride wants” or “ We will do whatever we can do to make you happy!”

Wedding planners LOVE making your vision and dream come to life. We share the same passion you have for your big day! Our goal is for the bride to be overjoyed with how the wedding turns out - all while being stress free on her special day.

A wedding planner's job is to oversee all the vendors, decor, people, budget, and all other details in order for your day to run smoothly. We will make any recommendations and suggestions we can create the experience you want, but it is all still your call! Wedding planners will be by your side, guiding you from the moment you hire them until the party is completely over and packed up. 

At JRE we love going through the planning process with you and getting to know you and your vision. Our job is to take care of any and all issues that arise on the wedding day in order for your day to be all you have dreamed of. At the end of the day, you are the couple and IT IS YOUR DAY!

“Wedding planners will bust my budget”

One of the responsibilities of a wedding planner is to keep you on the budget you have set and oversee what you are spending. Wedding planners will present you with budget friendly options and vendors. The job of wedding planners is to present you with all the options they can for your budget. If the wedding planner has been in the industry long enough, they might even be able to find better deals or negotiate prices.

Wedding coordinators want you to spend money on what matters most to you. If one vendor or thing is more expensive than you were planning, we can help find other areas to save money on things.  If you ever feel like you are spending too much or the price is just not worth it to you, let your planner know. Always speak your mind and share what matters to you and what you want to spend money on.

“Wedding planning is easy and a frivolous job”

On the wedding day alone… wedding coordinators spend 12 hours or more on their feet, running around - while looking calm - taking care of crisis after crisis, setting up the entire event and every detail needed. They also keep track of vendors, making sure they are doing their job and on schedule, helping them with whatever they may need; corralling all your family and friends and wedding party, while trying to keep everyone happy. Wedding coordinators do all of this and more, all while in formal clothes in the heat, the rain, the freezing cold, etc. And this is just the day of the event, not the weeks and months in advance. There are hours of planning, meetings, walk throughs, etc., in order for the day to be as stress free and put together as possible, even for us.

You also have to consider, wedding coordinators have one shot to get it right. Your wedding is only one day - and one of, if not the biggest, day of your life. You have spent years dreaming of it, invested resources, and everyone you care about is watching and experiencing it… talk about PRESSURE!  Our goal is to keep calm and collected, all while taking care of the details - so that all the couple experiences is a magically smoothly run event, with everyone they love! 

There is a lot that goes into planning such a grand event and lots of experience behind planning and coordinating one. We promise that you will notice the difference when hiring a professional wedding planner. 

“Wedding planners are unnecessary: friends and family can handle everything”

This is one of the most common myths we hear all the time. After reading #4 above, you probably began to realize how difficult wedding planning can be… imagine asking and expecting your friends and family to do this for you. Your friends and family are going to want to experience the day with you, not be taking care of all the planning and day of crises. No matter how much planning you do, there are going to be things that go wrong and you do not want your family and friends to have to deal with that. They have not been prepared and trained to deal with these things… and you and your partner DEFINITELY should not have to deal with them.

“All wedding planners are the same”

Just as every human is different, so is every planner. You can hire a planner with little personality that will stay stoic and calm under any circumstance, or you can hire an energetic planner that will never stop smiling. Every planner has strengths and weaknesses, get to know whoever you hire and make sure you mesh well together. Every planner has their own speciality and personality that makes them good at what they do. Planners also all offer different packages, so you will want to pick a package that matches your specific needs. Some prefer grand weddings and some prefer very low key weddings… others may love to manage it all! Some planners know certain venues better than others. 

Here at Julie Rupert Events, we have many package options - all the way from full planning to just “day of” coordination. We love doing grand events, classy events, rustic events, low key events… we love it all! We want you to have the options and the wedding planner that is right for you. We would love to get to know you and see if we are the right fit for you and your partner.

Erica & David June 3, 2023

On June 3, 2023, Erica and David got married in Lexington, Virginia at The Seclusion. It was a warm and beautiful day full of fresh blooms in the mountains surrounded by friends and family. They have been together for over 3 years and initially met in the courtroom. It was Erica’s first day at work as a Commonwealth Attorney. She said “I turned around to the row of defense attorneys and a cute blonde guy caught my eye. We had several cases against each other before he finally asked me out.” She actually turned down the first time… but eventually, she said yes and their love story began.

He proposed at Washington & Lee’s campus during the most beautiful sunset walk. 

When we asked Erica what the most important part to them was in the planning process. She said “Plenty of delicious food and drink, and everyone enjoying themselves and feeling welcome.” We loved this answer, their heart was to create an enjoyable, memorable, and joyful experience for not just them, but everyone!

When we asked Erica & David why they chose The Seclusion as their venue, she said, “The drive up to the Seclusion, even in the winter, took our breath away.  Once we got out of the car to tour, we knew that the Seclusion was the place we wanted to get married. We couldn't believe how beautiful everything was.  The venue's beauty, amenities, well thought areas, and the personal touches of the owners made it a no brainer.  My dad jokes that our wedding had 4 parts - ceremony and cocktail hour enjoying the views, beautiful dinner, back outside to enjoy the sunset views and firepits, and then dancing.  We are so lucky to have gotten married at a place that offered all of these things.”

And the best part of their day??

“Being surrounded by my family and friends - having them all in one spot, genuinely enjoying each other's company was so incredibly special.”

Erica and David chose the partial wedding package. When asked what the biggest tip for another couple planning their wedding would be, she said, “Hire the wedding planner! You don't know what you don't know, and having an objective person to talk to about vendor decisions, when to book, what is a crisis, and weekend schedule flow is invaluable to your mental health. Having someone with connections in the area is also clutch, especially for "out of town" brides.  Also, wedding planning is more stressful than I anticipated - so be prepared and try to be present and enjoy being engaged!” 

Bride’s dress: Urban Set Bride

Bride’s dress designer: Justin Alexander

Groom & Groomsmen attire: Leviner Wood

Bridesmaid dresses: Jenny Yoo

Invitations: The Merrymaker

Caterer: Purple Door Catering

Cake: Blush Baking Co

Music: Silver Bullets & Classic Strings Duo

Florist: Petal and Pup

Makeup: Transformations Artistry

Photographer: Ray Photography

Bartenders: The Coordinated Event

Details and invitations from MerryMaker

Petal & Pup florals with Seclusion dinnerware

Sweetheart table with Petal l and Pup Floral backdrop

Blush Baking Co cake and desserts

Signature drinks named off their Pups

Petal and Pup florals deserved a moment

The back of her dress left us speechless

Beautiful bride

Men’s attire from Leviner Wood

The party of her dreams

Sparkler exit finale

We’re engaged… now what???

AHH it happened, you are engaged! Congratulations! But here it comes… the stress of where to even begin with all of this “wedding planning!” Your mind is full of ideas and you want to scroll Pinterest for hours! There are so many things on the to do list, but what is most important and what is the best way to begin? 

Don't worry, we are here to help, and we have walked through this journey with many brides. We know it can be overwhelming and very intimidating, so let us break down for you what we think the first few “To Do’s' are - post engagement.

Stop and enjoy the moment

It is easy to get bombarded with questions, ideas and planning, but with all of that comes stress and anxiousness. It seems like the second you get engaged, you have to know exactly what you want, when you want it, and how you want it… but you will thank yourself in the future if you take a few days (or even weeks) to enjoy the present moment of being engaged to your best friend! This is a dreamy and joyful season of life, so do not wish it away. Celebrate the moment and take it all in.

Sit down and talk

In the midst of all the celebrating, go find your fiance. Sit down with them and discuss. Communicate with your partner FIRST, before planning anything. You do not want to be frustrated months down the road because you are not on the same page when it comes to the wedding. Yes, you have a wedding to plan, but more importantly, you have a marriage you will be beginning with your partner. Ask all of the questions each of you can think of and answer honestly. Do you want a large wedding? What are your thoughts about location? What have you envisioned this day to be like? Are there things you know you want? What do you not have an opinion on? It all boils down to what YOU TWO want. It is the day to celebrate the relationship you have and the life you are beginning together.

Decide on a budget

Before you make any decisions or even schedule an engagement shoot with a photographer, you will want to sit down with your fiance (or family) and discuss a budget. Finances can cause extra stress, uncertainty, and frustration, so start there. Figure out who will be contributing financially for the wedding, so you will know this at the start. Come to a conclusion on a SET budget and decide how you are going to keep track. Find a clear way to monitor expenses, so that paying for things and keeping an ongoing budget is doable.

Pick a date/venue

The reason these two things are in the same step is simple. They go together… your ideal wedding month or weekend might not be available at the place you desire. Our advice is to narrow down a wedding season or month that you desire to get married in… then search for venues with openings (starting at your top venue choice) in that time frame. Popular venues are often booked sooner than people may realize, so you will want to work on this step soon after getting engaged. There may come a point where you have to compromise on a date to get your dream venue or vice versa… decide what will work best for you in order to make your wedding day vision come true. The biggest thing to consider is what season you’re planning for, as seasons play a large role in what your wedding day will look and feel like.

Some things to consider: seasonal weather (indoor vs outdoor: venues look very different throughout seasons and some venues do not have different weather options), colors (flower colors are seasonal for what is in bloom), day of week (Thursdays and Sundays are cheaper than Friday and Saturdays), and travel (Will close friends and family that are priority on the guestlist able to come or is there another big event going on that weekend?).

Schedule an engagement photoshoot

Engagement pictures are not only enjoyable, but they are so useful when it comes to getting practice with your partner in front of the camera and also capturing those beautiful moments you might want to send out on your ‘Save the Dates.’ Engagement pictures are a great way to get the word out and are also a special memory for you and your partner for years to come. Engagement pictures can be used for: Save the dates, invitations, “Get to know you” with your wedding planner or other vendors, decor for bridal showers/bachelorette parties, etc. You will need to find a professional photographer for your wedding, this could be a good way to secure a well-priced package with a photographer (by including an engagement shoot) and it could also be a way to try out a photographer before deciding on who will capture all of the moments on your wedding day.

Pick a wedding party

Not everyone wants wedding attendants, but if you do… Now is the time to ask them. Think about who has been a part of you and your partner's lives - individually and together in your journey. Think about having an honor attendant - and who you would like that to be. Think about the responsibilities of honor attendees and make sure that whoever you choose can execute them. This is your day, pick who you want standing next to you, getting ready with you, experiencing it all with you. You get to choose! You want this to be a pleasant experience for everyone involved, so make sure you think it through. Bridal parties can make or break the day.

Gather all the wedding inspiration

This is a fun one! Gather all the decor, attire, traditions, experience, floral, and color inspiration.  Make a place for you and your partner to add all of your ideas (vision board, document, file, etc.). In order to plan your perfect day, you will want to show others your vision, so that everyone involved can make your vision come to life!

Create a draft of your guestlist

This is where you will be thankful you have already created a set budget. To a great extent, the guestlist is dependent on the budget. The general rule is that you and your partner split the guestlist, each getting half. If you are having your family pay for the wedding (parents, siblings) it is courteous to ask them if there is anyone they would like to invite. Each guest will add to the number of plates for the caterer to prepare, chairs for rentals, cake to be baked and served, end of night favors, etc. Every venue will have a maximum capacity, your guestlist should be under the max capacity. If you fill up the venue to the max capacity, it will be too tight to be enjoyable. Pick a headcount that will fit into your budget. If there is extra room later on and you can afford it, you can add more invitees later.

Tip: Typically 20% of the guest list will decline to RSVP. Another 5% who did RSVP “YES” might not show up. Plan for about 60-75% of your entire guestlist to attend… then watch the RSVPs closely. 

Hire a wedding photographer

If your engagement photographer was not who you wanted for your special day, now is the time to get a wedding photographer booked. When deciding on a photographer, think of the aesthetic you would like. Every photographer has a different style and look. You want to get one that matches you and your partner. Yes, you will have the memories of your big day, but besides that… the photos will be what you will look back on for years to come. Get one that you know will capture exactly what you want.

Tip: Get a “wedding” photographer! Just because they are a photographer does not mean that they can photograph weddings well. “Wedding photographers” know what they are doing and are worth the money!

Do I need to hire a coordinator?

This is where we come in! If all of this is overwhelming and makes you anxious just thinking about it… hire Julie Rupert Events! While some planners try to fit your vision into their style, we take our cues from you. We customize our planning style to what you need and handle the details to the exact vision that you ask for. Whether it's full scale planning, partial planning, or just event management, let the JRE team handle the details so you can relax and fully enjoy your incredible day. “Julie was truly a life saver when it came to planning my wedding. She went above and beyond to bring my dream to life, and made sure I had fun with the process.”- Alexandra M

5 Moments You Do Not Want to Miss on Your Wedding Day

Weddings are full of special moments… The day in its entirety is special and unforgettable!

However, there are some moments that you do not want to miss.

A moment before the ceremony…

Before the ceremony, it is so special and important to have a moment, either alone or with just your fiance to slow down and remember what the day is all about. The preparation, getting ready, and final details of the day can be stressful and high energy, so take a moment to slow down and think of your fiance before the aisle. 

Best ways to do this: 

• First look: this is a special moment with just the two of you to take each other in, reveal the dress/hair/makeup, say a few words in private, exchange notes/gifts in person, and calm the nerves before the ceremony.

• First touch: if you do not want to see each other before the aisle, a first touch by holding hands around a corner/door is a creative way to still connect physically and get to have those few moments alone to exchange words in private, pray together, exchange private vows, or just talk and calm the nerves without spoiling the ceremony first look.

• Exchanging notes/gifts: if you do not want to have a first look or touch, we still encourage you to do something to get your mind and heart in the right place after the full day of preparation for the ceremony itself. A way to do this is by writing each other a private note to read alone before the aisle. A member of your wedding party can deliver these to each of you when you are ready to have this moment alone. This is a special moment to reminisce on your relationship and get out those final words to your partner before you see them at the altar. 

Reception peek…

It can be hard to stop and appreciate all of your hard work in planning and envisioning your reception space. We encourage all brides to take a moment to peek at the reception area to take it in before it is full of people. A beautiful reception takes months of preparation to become all that you imagined it would be, so do not feel guilty for sneaking in there once it is all prepped, and enjoy it for a moment before the guests arrive. Be sure to communicate with your coordinator, maid of honor, or parents that you want to do this so that they can help you sneak in without being seen and without many other people in there.

First dance….

Even if you are not a dancer… Dance for at least a minute with your spouse. You will not regret it, we promise! First dances can be intimidating, especially if you do not like being the center of attention, or hate dancing… but do it anyway! Practice dancing with your partner before your wedding, even if it is just “swaying slowly” for a minute or two. This is such a special moment that you will remember forever!

Dinner…

In the rush and excitement of the reception, it is easy to forget to eat that yummy catering you spent time and money deciding on. We know you want to talk to everyone, take all the pictures, and enjoy the night fully, but take a moment, sit down, and eat. Even if you feel like you do not have time, keep taking those bites of food. Even if you are not super hungry at the moment, you will be in an hour or two; so eat while you can. Your body, energy levels, and mood will all thank you if you sit down and enjoy your reception dinner for a few moments.

Last dance…

A last dance is becoming a popular trend and for a good reason. We have so many brides who say it is the best part of their night. At the end of the reception, when everyone is getting ready for your exit, take a moment to do one last dance alone on the dance floor with your spouse. This is another special opportunity to slow down and remember what this day was for, take in what the day has held, and bring the attention back to just your partner. Your spouse is the reason you are there, and the reason you just shared the day with all your loved ones, so spend that last moment of your wedding with just them.

Do not forget to put time for these in your “day of” timeline, so that there is plenty of time to enjoy these moments and let your photographer/videographer know what moments you want captured.

How to Request a Child Free Wedding

So, you’re wanting to have a child-free wedding but you’re scared about what your friends and family might say? In addition to that, you’re probably wondering what is the easiest way to tell people they can’t bring their kids without offending them. Look no further! We’ve got some tips here for you!

Julissa Martinez Photography

1. Be specific when addressing your invitations

Make sure you specifically say who is invited. If it is your best friend from high school and his wife, say “Mr. and Mrs. John Doe”. Do not say, “The Doe’s”, this will imply that the whole family is invited. On the inside of the invitation, list their first names just to make it double clear.

2. Make the RSVP clear

“So excited to see you there!

Please RSVP by June, 18th, 2023

We have two (2) spots reserved in your name.”

This way, they (hopefully) get the memo that only the two of them are invited, and not their children. 

3. Straight up tell them

If you’re a very straightforward person, just tell them! Saying things like this make it polite, but still very clear:

“Please join us for an adult-only ceremony and reception!”

“Due to limited space, adults only please, unless specifically stated on your invitation.”

“The couple requests that this is an adults-only reception.”

“To allow everyone a night of relaxation and fun, we ask that no children attend the reception. Have a nice night off!”

“Children of immediate family only, please.”

Courtney Timms Photography

There are so many ways to tell people to leave their kids at home, and it doesn’t have to be awkward! Depending on your crowd, make it funny! Tell them to hire a babysitter and have some fun! You know your crew the best, so say whatever feels the most comfortable for you. 

Have fun at your child-free wedding!

Urban Bay Photography

Like these blogs and need help planning your wedding? Click here to schedule a meeting with us and follow us on Instagram @julierupertevents and Facebook at Julie Rupert Events.

Marriage License Tips

Benjamin McLean Photography

One of the slightly less fun parts of getting married is all the paperwork. The marriage license is arguably the most important part of the wedding…because it's the thing that makes you legally married!!! So if you are about to have your wedding in Virginia, this blog is for you! Keep reading to make sure you have all the correct information regarding obtaining, signing, and submitting your marriage license.

We are pulling information specifically from Henrico County and Loudon County, but most Virginia counties follow these same rules. However, CHECK FOR YOURSELF! 

To start, your officiant must be authorized to perform the rite of marriage within the Commonwealth of Virginia by a Circuit Court for a VA county or city before the ceremony occurs. Just because someone is a minister or Civil Celebrant in another state does not mean they are qualified to perform one in Virginia automatically. 

They must sign BOTH copies of the marriage license and return both copies to that Circuit Court within 5 days after the ceremony. The date must be the actual date of marriage, not the date it was issued or a future date. It must be dated within 60 days of being issued. If for some reason the marriage license is not used within 60 days of being issued, you will still need to return it to the Clerk’s office. 

Here’s some clarification on what some of the sections of the license mean:

OFFICIANT CERTIFICATION - complete each section.

• SIGNATURE OF OFFICIANT - your signature

• TITLE OF OFFICIANT- your officiant title o Example: "Reverend"/ "Priest" / "Civil Celebrant"

Note: "Mr", "Mrs" etc. are not acceptable titles.

• AUTHORIZING CIRCUIT COURT - name of the city or county Circuit Court that authorized you to perform marriages and year of authorization

• NAME OF OFFICIANT - your name

• ADDRESS OF OFFICIANT - your current mailing address

Once you are legally married and your license is returned, there are other steps you will need to handle. Check out our blog on changing your name after getting married! Additionally, check all financial statements, address changes, voter registration, health insurance through employers, and estate planning, to name a few. 

Remember to contact your specific Clerk’s office to ensure you are following all the right steps and not missing anything! Congratulations!

Out of Twig Photography

Blaire + Jeremy | Trump Winery | Charlottesville, VA

Photos by Ray Photography Co

Blaire and Jeremy got married on December 10th, 2022 at the Trump Winery in Charlottesville, VA. They had an elegant winter wedding, surrounded by their friends, family, and some of Jeremy’s colleagues from the Air Force!

They have been together for three years, and they met online! Jeremy popped the question at Blaire’s favorite hotel in San Antonio, Hotel Emma. He totally surprised her, and then they celebrated that night with some of their closest friends. 

We asked Blaire what the most important thing was when she was planning her wedding and she said, “Incorporating pine into every element and making sure the small, personal touches were well-executed”. The personal touches in any wedding are sometimes the hardest part to incorporate. Each table was named after a place Blaire and Jeremy had lived, and each one had a few photos of their time there together. It was the perfect way to showcase their time together traveling through Jeremy’s work. It added the perfect amount of personal touch. 

And the best part of their day? 

“When Jeremy opened the bottle of scotch whisky that he had been saving for 11 years to open on his wedding day. Very sweet moment we were able to share with our guests.”

Blaire and Jeremy had a custom package for 3 months out from their wedding. Blaire said, “I chose this because I already had all of my vendors secured but needed help with bringing everything together.” We are always happy to work with our couples and create a custom package so that they can get what they need! 

When we asked Blaire what tip they would give to another couple planning their wedding, she said, “Hire Julie and don’t look back!!” You flatter us, Blaire! We love you guys!

Blaire’s Dress: Allure, at a dress shop in New Braunfels, Texas

Jeremy’s Suit: Vera Wang, Men’s Warehouse

Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Azazie.com

Groomsmen’s Attire: Their Air Force uniforms or Vera Wang from Men’s Warehouse

Favors: Music boxes for the guests from Kikkerland, Filipino candies in honor of Jeremy’s Filipino heritage, and “Remove Before Flight” keychains with their names and wedding date on them were custom created

Invitations: Minted

We absolutely loved Blaire and Jeremy’s wedding! Their group was so full of life and had so much love for each other. We wish them safe travels and a beautiful future together! 

Need help planning your wedding? Click here to chat with us!

Vendors:

Venue: Trump Winery in Charlottesville, VA

Planner: Julie Rupert Events

Photographer: Ray Photography Co

Videographer: Candeo Films

Catering: Harvest Moon Catering

DJ: Level Up Entertainment

Hair/Makeup: Locks and Lashes VA

Florals: Bonnie Morris and Kyran Belfield Morris

2023's Most Popular: How to Change Your Name After Getting Married

One thing many couples look forward to when they get married is sharing their last name. While more couples are starting to move away from this tradition, it is still a huge part of marriage for a lot of couples. It can also be kind of stressful to figure out how to legally change your name. There are a lot of steps! But don’t stress, because we are going to lay it out for you all in one place!

Step 1: File for your marriage certificate.

This one may seem obvious, but many couples forget this is even something they have to do until the end of their engagement. This document proves that you and your spouse are legally married. This is different than your marriage license! You get this before the wedding and it is signed by your officiant at your wedding (and JRE’s owner, Julie, is licensed to do this). 

Step 2: Get certified copies of the certificate

You’ll need these copies to give to the next few places you need to go. Always keep one official copy at home in safe keeping, and then get a couple to take with you to get everything else updated with your new name.

Step 3: Social security card

This should be your first “stop” once you have your marriage certificate. You can do this online or in person. This process is also free! You’ll just need proof of name change (the marriage certificate), proof of citizenship (driver's license, state-issued I.D., passport, etc), and your current social security card. 

Step 4: Driver’s license or I.D.

Next is your driver’s license, which you’ll need to update credit cards, investment accounts, and bank. This one takes a little more time, as you have to go to the DMV (which always takes forever…) so budget some time for this. You’ll also take a new photo! Bring your new social security card or the receipt if it hasn’t come in yet, proof of address (a bank statement, bills, etc), a copy of your marriage license (you’ll get this back), and multiple payment options in case they do not accept both card or cash. (You don’t want to show up with just your card when they only take cash or check)! 

Step 5: Passport

You can apply for this by mail, as it just counts as a passport correction. You can do this here. 

Step 6: Bank accounts

Every bank is different so reach out to your bank and see if they prefer in-person appointments or if you can do it online. All you need for this is a certified copy of your marriage certificate, your new Social Security card, and your new driver’s license or I.D. 

Step 7: Credit cards

Call the number on the back of your credit card to find out how your credit card company likes to do this. These companies have different processes, as with banks.

Step 8: Insurance

Update all your insurance information (home, auto, life, etc) so that you avoid any confusion or issues with your coverage. Many providers have different processes for doing this, but always assume they will need your marriage license and driver's license. See if you or your spouse can get on each other’s health insurance too, if that is something you are both interested in. 

Step 9: Update Payments

Update your independent payments such as student loans, mortgages, utilities, etc. 

Step 10: Work HR

Make sure they update your name at work on payroll and see what benefits they have for married employees, such as health insurance and 401(k).

Tips:

Our planner, Samantha, suggests not hyphenating your last name. Her family name was Mattox and her married name is Janiak, so she is Samantha Mattox-Janiak, and she gets a lot of confusion surrounding it. She recommends making your family name your middle name (either adding it as a second middle name or replacing it) so that you still have the family name but also the sentiment of your married name.

This list is in this order so that you don’t get turned around at certain steps. Some of these steps require the previous things to be done in order to continue, so doing it in this order will be the most efficient and least time-consuming! 

Whether you choose to change your last name after marriage is an incredibly big decision between you and your partner, but don’t let it be a big hassle! Congratulations!

Click here to chat with us!

2023 Trending Color Palettes

As this wedding season is wrapping up, we love to reminisce on color palettes we have seen and loved! There are so many beautiful colors to include in your wedding… no right or wrong! Enjoy some of our favorites below whether you are reminiscing with us or in need of wedding palette inspo!

PINK, PINK, PINK !!

Luke & Ashley Photography

Greens & lavender

Colleen Megan Photography

Beautiful blues!

Luke & Ashley Photography

A moment for the soft neutrals!

Emily Hancock Photography

Moody greens!

Elosino Photography

10 Questions to Ask Your DJ Before Hiring

DJ’s can make or break or break your reception experience, so it is important to know all of the right questions to ask before hiring the RIGHT ONE! Here are a few questions to make note of from our personal wedding experiences.

What is your style and what music is your specialty?

Every Dj has their own style and you want to make sure that you can get down to their specific style! See what DJing  background/experience they will be bringing into your big day.

Do you take and follow “must play” and “do not play” lists?

Every couple has songs they MUST hear on the dance and on the other hand… every couple has those songs that they DO NOT want to hear! Before signing the contract, make sure the DJ is open working with you on creating the perfect day-of set list.

Do you take song requests from the crowd?

Taking requests from the crowd can get chaotic, but can also be really fun! There is no right or wrong… just make sure expectations are clear, communicated and agreed upon. 

Have you performed at our venue before?

Most wedding DJs, unless they're traveling from out of state, have worked at various wedding venues in their area, but if they have not.. make sure they can get a virtual or in person tour to see what setup and equipment they need. Make sure the Dj has the things he needs to keep the event going, no matter the building, weather, or unexpected circumstances.

Will you encourage the crowd to be involved and get on the dance floor?

If you want the dance floor to stay packed all night long, the DJ’s energy and personality are key. This is a great question to ask your DJ because it can really separate a good DJ from a GREAT one.

Do you emcee and DJ or do I need a separate emcee?

Most wedding DJs will also emcee, but make sure to ask.  If they do not, you will need someone else to emcee the evening. An emcee keeps things flowing smoothly and on your desired time frame.

How many hours are included in the package?

The cost of the DJ will most likely depend on the hours they will be performing, make sure the timeline and pricing is clear.

What happens if you have an emergency on my wedding day? 

Ask the Dj their backup plan! Every great Dj has a backup in case of emergencies.  The unexpected can happen, so make sure they have a plan in case of weather, sickness, things breaking, etc.

Do you have insurance?

Most DJ’s will have liability insurance, but be sure to ask.

Will you coordinate a sound check?

Make sure the DJ will take care of a sound check BEFORE the ceremony begins in order for everything to sound and run smoothly when it is time!

We love DJ’s that get us feeling like this!

Picture captured by Luke & Ashley Photography and Films