Fall Wedding at the Lodge at Mount Ida Farm
November 7, 2019
Although each wedding toast is unique, Hunter and I are at least familiar with the typical flow of events. Typically, as guests are finishing up their meals, the DJ will hand off the microphone to the maid of honor, who gives a beautiful toast, praising the many wonderful qualities of the bride. Then, the best man will stand up and gently roast the groom, then bring it around at the end with a happy touch. And then toasts are usually over. That’s why we were so surprised when Greg — the groom himself — took the microphone and stood up in the center of the Lodge at Mount Ida. Standing just a few feet from Ashley his bride, he began to speak.
At first we thought that Greg was just going to thank everyone for coming, but we soon realized we were wrong. He began by telling the story of how he and Ashley’s families had moved to the same street when they were both in elementary school. Greg told of how he had immediately been – and still was – entranced by the “cute girl with the curly hair” who lived next door. He told of how they had grown as friends, and only as young adults did they realize they loved each other. And in front of all their guests, as though he had forgotten there was anyone in the room but he and Ashley, he looked her in the eye and told her how lucky he felt to be able to spend the rest of his life with her, and he pledged to love and care for her for the rest of their life. Then, in Greg fashion, he humbly handed off the microphone and sat back down at his seat. To a standing ovation.
Ashley + Greg,
That episode was such a perfect reflection of who Hunter and I have come to know you two as. You’re both such genuine and honest people, who love nothing more in life than the simple pleasures of good friends and family and faith. You’re as in love as can be – everyone at the wedding knew that – but also made each one of your guests feel so special as you visited one table after another and hugged each and every person. And from the way you two lit up with excitement and disbelief when we mentioned that photos from your engagement session made the cover of the newest edition of the Engagement Session Style Guide, we know that your humility – towards yourselves and each other – will serve you well in marriage.
With love,
Sarah + Hunter
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A huge thank you to the incredible creative team!
Photographers: Hunter and Sarah Photography
Getting Ready Venue: Mount Pleasant Manor at Mount Ida Farm
Officiant + Ceremony Venue: The Rev. Dr. David Forney of First Presbyterian Church
Reception Venue: The Lodge at Mount Ida
Bride’s Dress: Melissa Sweet via David’s Bridal
Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Rings: Jared
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Azazie
Groom + Groomsmen’s Attire: Jos. A Bank
Floral Design: Country Rose Florist
Stationery: Basic Invite
Catering/Planning: Cristelle Koerper – C&O Restaurant
Cake: Paradox Pastry
DJ / Band: Beats by Goodman
Makeup: Autumn Rogers of Sorellina Beauty
Hair: Jordan Shoemaker
Coordinator: Lesley Forloines
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