We were married at the Church of the Covenant in Boston, Massachusetts on March 25, 2010. We were joined by several close friends and family members and enjoyed a Mediterranean luncheon following the ceremony at Vlora in Boston’s Back Bay.
Because our ceremony was small, we decided to plan a reception in Raleigh, North Carolina to celebrate with a wider circle of friends and family members. The reception took place on October 8, 2010 at the Chatham Hill Winery with 50 of our favorite people.
We met with our officiant, Enid Watson, prior to the big day and shared with her our story and the meaning of our commitment to one another. She helped us to plan a simple ceremony that included scriptural passages and vows that reflected our love and the significance of our relationship. We invited a pianist to play some of our favorite music before and after the ceremony. The church was quite grand – and far too large for the eleven people in attendance – so we had everyone join us at the front of the church as we said our vows.
An important aspect of the celebration of our marriage was that it didn’t transpire in just one day! After our ceremony in March we enjoyed seven months of planning our reception. The process itself was the highlight of 2010 for us.
Our favorite part of our ceremony day was spending time with our family and friends and the feeling of recognition from the state of Massachusetts. It was wonderful to feel like any other couple as we received our marriage license.
The Catering Works florist created beautiful floral displays for the tables and wine bar. Our colors were deep purple and sage green. The winery is a beautiful place as well with barrels, wine bottles, and local art on display.
Enjoy the process! We had such fun doing food tastings with Catering Works and wine tastings with the wonderful folks at Chatham Hill Winery. We are grateful to our caterer and the winery staff for collaborating with us and making the reception planning a true pleasure.
During our reception our favorite moment was the toast given by friends, Laura and Audrey, and family members Ashley (Alyssa’s sister) and Ron (Alyssa’s dad). The food and wine were incredible and enjoyed by all. An instrumental jazz trio (Lori Spencer Music) was a classy addition to the evening.
Be realistic about your budget. The money goes quickly, but it is well worth it for a day you’ll always remember!
If you are trying to limit your guest list, invite the people closest to you. Ask yourself: Who would I enjoy spending a vacation with? You know the answer! Invite those people.
All images by Graham Terhune
Photographer: Graham Terhune
Venue: Chatham Hill Winery
Florist: Catering Works
Caterer: Catering Works
Musicians: Lori Spencer Music
Dress/Suit/Accessories: David’s Bridal (dress)/Belk (suit)
So lovely! Congrats!!
Beautiful!
Congratulations! What a beautiful day… what a beautiful 2010.
Lovely! I like the intimate table settings.
Gorgeous……
Congrats!! Looks like it was a great time!