Tuesday, February 24, 2015

heather + gareth - a charlottesville garden wedding

The weather couldn't have been any more beautiful the day of Heather & Gareth's June 14th wedding. It was mild, sunny, and very low humidity - perfect for an outdoor garden wedding! Although Gareth and Heather live in New York City, they choose to get married in Charlottesville, Virginia. And for a very good reason. The wedding was held at Gareth's childhood home, where his father still resides. I lived catty-corner across the street from this beautiful home in the late 80's, but never knew the family then. Eventually I met Gareth's older brother Blaise as he owned {and still does} an architectural wood working shop below the photo lab where I worked at the time.  I haven't seen him in well over 20 years!  Blaise was Gareth's best man in their wedding & it was good  seeing him again & meeting the rest of the family.

Heather looked stunning in her custom designed wedding gown.  Its one of my personal favorites to date! The men wore suits and Heather's sister was matron-of-honor, choosing a complimentary blue dress to wear. The fresh in-season flowers were absolutely gorgeous & lovingly created by Gareth's great aunt who is also master gardener. Their late afternoon ceremony was held under the grapevine arbor in the back garden. I loved how the neighbor's cat showed up for the ceremony and strolled up the aisle like he owned the place.  The family dog was also present. I think he loved the C&O's cuisine just as much as the humans did!  Something about having animals at a wedding makes it more special. 

Cocktails were served in the garden right after the ceremony, while the caterers prepared an amazing meal & I photographed the wedding party, family, and friends of the couple. The reception was held under a big tent in the front of the house - I loved the cheerful blue & white checkered table runners with the crisp white tablecloths. Once the sun started to set, the twinkling lights inside the tent, and the numerous glowing paper lanterns hanging throughout the trees made the setting so festive as did the upbeat live music. The two musicians played during the ceremony & throughout the reception in a style of music which would best described as gypsy jazz. After the meal was served, friends and family offered a series of toasts, then the couple cut the cake. Guests enjoyed their cake with cordials, as this wonderful evening came to a close. What a fun wedding! 


ceremony + reception - private residence 
celebrant - Dave Norris
florals - groom's great aunt 
tent - Sperry Tents
rentals {tables, chairs, linens} - MS Events
decor - DIY {paper lanterns, twinkling lights}

all images © elizabeth larson photography 2014















































































































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