Real Wedding: Ali & Dave at Keswick Hall

November 1, 2012

When Ali (a dance teacher and a native New Yorker) contacted us she was living in North Carolina as David (her now-husband from New Jersey…an inside joke according to the bride’s sister) finished his Masters at Duke. While most New Yorkers would feel a bit displaced that far south of the mason dixon line, I have to say Ali struck me as the type that could fit in pretty much anywhere (as well as get along with anyone!) She had a certain relaxed and laid back charm about her – which is why I thought their decision to have a destination wedding in horse and wine country at Keswick Hall in Charlottesville, VA was pure perfection.

Ali was referred to us by her childhood friend Sarah, who also happens to be one of our lovely past brides (see her wedding here.) When Ali first contacted me, I found it hard not to believe the two were sisters! The looks, the mannerisms…both super sophisticated with great taste, elegant and classy ladies that hail from NY. At times, it was hard not to have deja-vu during the planning process 🙂

The wedding ceremony was supposed to take place on the patio with the mountains and golf course in the backdrop, but a torrential downpour the day of the wedding meant instead having the ceremony a section of the ballroom – which would have to be quickly turned over during cocktail hour. Though not ideal, Ali was a great sport. We quickly phoned the florist to add about 50 floating candles to embrace and enhance the new ceremony location. We think the candlelight made the ceremony even more intimate and romantic!