This December wedding was so fun and so memorable. To start, we had never met the couple in person prior to the wedding, which we thought was so crazy. I think because I had talked to Rachel so many times over the phone and via email, when we met in person that morning, it just felt so normal and so right and so fun. The whole day was a day full of surprises and anticipation. There were details woven in that were subtle but intentional. A rosary around Rachel’s bouquet that her mom identified as her grandfathers the morning of. Plaid pashminas that made this day feel wintery and like Christmas was upon us. Their reception venue was their families home and a backyard of memories turned to wedding ones.

The day finally came for these guys after so many hurdles, venue changes, plan changes and more. It was a really cold day, but in their photos, you would never know. The smiles of all and the joy and anticipation for this wedding was real. Rachel and Matt were going to get married and nothing could stand in their way. Matt and Rachel have been planning this day and faced each challenge together while apart. Matt is stationed in FL and was able to get leave and get home to marry her… even that was up in the air as he waited on approval for leave.  Matt is military personnel and was trying to get leave for weeks. Fingers were crossed that he would even be able to get back for the wedding. After a full mass shared both in person and via Zoom by family and friends, the family shared a meal with the newlyweds at the beautiful Restaurant 2941. Speeches were shared that were honoring and sweet to the couple…. And the food was amazing. Part 2 of the reception was spent at her parents home in Fall Church where their back yard and barn was converted to a cozy Christmas cottage full of holiday cheer and goodness… and by goodness I mean taco bar, stoogies for the family, and a DIY bar! We watched these guys share their first dance, and Rachel’s dance with her dad actually had my shed some tears too… that was very special and reminded me of the dance I had with my own dad. 

Matt and Rachel, thank you so much for allowing us to be alongside you all for the whole day. Even with the hurdles, if there’s one thing you guys did do, it was to stay faithful to the plan, be super flexible and honestly your demeanor and attitude was unparalleled. I personally felt like it was a winter wedding, full of a red and plaid color palette and even Santa showing up!! Yes, and Mrs clause! The kids were in awe and our couple too… haha! From venue changes, to guest count changes left and right, to even creating a beautiful reception at their home , built a deck and renovated a shed into a winter wonderland, they did it. You are the definition of flexible and spontaneous… hearing that you would drive and move to Florida the day after your wedding and live out of a suitcase for a week because the military moved you 5 days before your wedding?!? Holy moly! You guys are incredible! We are excited for what’s to come for you guys!

VENDORS

Venue: Restaurant 2941

Hair: The Stylist Abroad

Florist: Royalty Flowers

Makeup: Stephanie Buccol