wedding, DIY and travel blog for brides

Richmond Island E-session – Jake & Kayce

Richmond Island E-session as seen on Hill City Bride Wedding Blog

What a super cool couple Kayce and Jake make. I love their tattoos, their dogs and just their overall vibe – so fun! Their Richmond island e-session was photographed by Heather of Cardinal Rose Photography, and here is what she had to say about this couple.

Kayce and Jake are downtowners, so when we were picking a spot for their engagement session we knew that it needed to take place in Downtown Richmond. We decided on Brown’s Island. Its the perfect mix of urban, nature, and has amazing views of the James River, which is definitely iconic Richmond.

I knew this session was going to be near and dear to my heart because these two are actually friends of mine. Jake became friends with my husband, Chris, a couple years ago when they started working together. Because of their friendship I had the honor of meeting Kayce, and soon the two of them became some of our closest friends. When my friends ask me to be a part of such a big event in their life I can’t help but get excited!

These two share a lot of favorites but I’d have to say one of their biggest loves is their dogs, Newmann and Morticia, so of course we needed to include them in their engagement shoot. They were great sports, even in the heat, and Kayce’s mom was nice to come along as our dog whisperer! One of the other things that makes them unique is their love of tattoos. They both have some absolutely gorgeous artwork. They each have one done uniquely for each other so we made sure to work those into our pictures as well.

I hope you enjoy this Richmond engagement session at Brown’s Island today!

Richmond Island E-session as seen on Hill City Bride Wedding Blog_0001

Mountainside Vow Renewal

Vow Renewal Session as seen on Hill City Bride Wedding Blog

Couples spend so much time planning and preparing for the wedding day, yet a lifetime occurs afterwards. It’s so special to see a husband and wife progress and grow as their life together continues. This 10 year vow renewal is both beautiful and meaningful, and we adore what the wife, Cami, had to say about her journey.

I met Ryan the night before Easter 2003. We were volunteers in a ministry that performed character building assembly programs in elementary schools during the week and sang in churches on the weekend. He was a staff member visiting my team traveling across the west coast. I remember the moment he walked in the door. My team was in the middle of singing “Your Grace Still Amazes Me,” and I lost my breath for a second. We got to know each other over the weekend, and though our memory differs on who asked who for their number, (he totally asked for mine) we kept in touch over the remaining months of my tour. We were smitten.

Vow Renewal as seen on Hill City Bride Wedding Blog_0001

By July we had talked almost every day on the phone for the past four months. Ryan asked if he could fly me to visit him in Arizona so we could spend some time together in person, away from our crazy schedules. I had family near his home town and stayed with them during my visit where we had our first date. It was more like a week of spending time together, finally in person.

We dated mostly long distance for the next two years and during a visit with my family in New Jersey, Ryan proposed on June 15, 2005 on the beach in Cape May. He buried a treasure box partially in the sand with his Bible inside holding my ring marking Philippians 4:6-8.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let our requests be made known to God: and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Vow Renewal as seen on Hill City Bride Wedding Blog_0006

We were married a year later July 22, and two weeks later moved to Virginia to start school and begin our lives together. We celebrated our 10-year anniversary in 2016, the same year we moved our little family of four into our first house – the BEST anniversary present ever.

10 years of marriage has changed us a lot, and taught us a lot. We both began our marriage with a lot of unspoken expectations and not a lot of counsel. Being long distance we were together for the first time all the time, and it was a little overwhelming.

Vow Renewal as seen on Hill City Bride Wedding Blog_0013 View More: http://carlajanephoto.pass.us/hohp

The best decision we ever made was to trust God with our marriage. Sometimes it was Ryan and sometimes it was me, but one of us had to make the conscious decision to point the other to God. A family member told us before we were married that it was better to be kind than to be right. That, along with lots, and lots, and LOTS of grace has made our marriage stronger over time.

For couples who are engaged or newly married, choose each other. You will not always be on the same page or want the same things, and you will not always feel blissfully happy. But, choose to forgive and extend grace to each other. Choose to give your time and patience to each other. Choose to consider situations from each other perspectives. But mostly, choose to point each other to God by pursuing Him yourself. When each of you decide to choose these, regardless of whether the other does or not, marriage can be pretty spectacular.

Vow Renewal as seen on Hill City Bride Wedding Blog_0020 View More: http://carlajanephoto.pass.us/hohp

Vendors:

Planning & Coordination – Tina Lane Events
Design & Styling – Max & Dexter Event Design
Venue – Heart of High Peak
Rentals & Props – Happily Ever After Event Rental
Florals – Fox Grape Designs
Pottery – Jillian Pottery
Food – Suzy Q, etc.
Stationery – Craft Couture Wedding
Bridal Dresses – Church Street Bridal
Wedding Favors – Novella Tea
Wooden Props – Against the Grain Laser
Natural Fruit – Morris Orchard
Picnic Table – Amanda Mae
Ties & Accessories – Elegant and Royal
Pillows – Davy and Company
Vow Renewal Makeup – Cami Smith
Family – The Smith Family

Photography Team

Nicki Ahrens Photography
Mackenzie Leigh Photography
Lindsey Hinkley Photography
Carla Jane Photography
Rachel Noel Photography

This event was also featured in our wedding publication. Click here to see!

Engagement Ring Inspiration

Are you ready for some engagement ring inspiration?? Ah! When your guy pops the question, it’s oh so exciting!! And what’s even more exciting is that you get to wear a lovely symbol of your love for all of the world to see. I remember polishing and staring at my ring all the time – and being overly willing to show it off. So fun!

Whether you like round, princess cut, oval or something different, there is a lot of inspiration out there. And then there is the choice of metal – gold, white gold, rose gold or platinum? The possibilities are endless when it comes to wedding rings!

It’s fun to dream and look at lots of different rings (even if you already have one, ha ha!). I rounded up some of my favorites from previous postings I’ve done – I have to admit that I am a sucker for a sparkly ring closeup! I hope you have fun looking at this diamond engagement ring inspiration today. Enjoy!

Engagement Ring Inspiration as seen on Hill City Bride Wedding Blog

Photo: Visions by Heather Photography
Photo: Visions by Heather Photography
Photo: Ashley Glasco Photography
Photo: Luke & Ashley Photography
Photo: Lauren Paige Photography

Craving more? Check out one local jeweler’s process – from start to finish – on ordering a custom engagement ring. It’s so interesting – there really are some creative people out there who can design and make lovely rings for family heirlooms.

Beautiful Farm Wedding – Erik & Kendall

Farm Wedding as seen on Hill City Bride

This beautiful wedding took place on a day where thunderstorms loomed around, yet they didn’t damper the spirits of this couple or the beauty of this Virginia farm wedding. From lovely details to special moments, here are some of my favorites.

The darker-than-mint hue in the bridesmaids’ dresses is both striking and beautiful – and the lacy gowns are a gorgeous choice!
The soft tones of the flowers compliment the day beautifully – golds, pinks and ivories peppered the bouquets and wedding decor.
Ah – that almost first look!! Be sure to notice a super sentimental moment before the ceremony between the couple.
I ADORE how the barn is set up for the ceremony – perfectly placed rows that center around open barn doors to set off the couple. So pretty and unique! And then inside the barn – so lovely. Be sure to take a peek!
Their candy bar is so full, fun and colorful – it has something for everyone (including personalized M&Ms).

I hope you are inspired by this farm wedding today. Enjoy!

Virginia Farm Wedding as seen on Hill City Bride_0001

Vendors:

Photographer – Leigh Skaggs Photography
DJ – Celebrity Radio DJ
Event Venue – Fairview Farm
Caterer – IK Catering
Event Planner and Floral Designer – Kim Moody Design
Hair Stylist: Lou Stevens Glam Squad

Gothic Glam {Styled Shoot}

Gothic Glam Shoot as seen on Hill City Bride Wedding Blog

Often used as a term in architecture or to describe dark dressing in the late 20th century, the word “gothic” now means all things glam and dreamy when it comes to weddings. If this trend appeals to you, it can be incorporated in a beautiful way for your own gothic glam wedding. Here’s how! Oh, and we featured this lovely styled shoot in our recent wedding issue – see here.

Wear lace.
A dark, bold lip color is key!
Don statement jewelry.
Lace up shoes finish a look.
Choose deep, rich colors.
Utilize marbled pieces (note the cufflinks, invitations, table accessories, bride’s skirt and patina of the location).
Think words like “flowy” and “drippy” (such as loose florals, iced cakes, draped centerpieces and already used candles).
Choose a location that looks glamorous and ornate, yet stately.

Gothic Glam Wedding as seen on Hill City Bride_0001

Vendors:

Photography – Gaudium Photography
Styling – Max & Dexter Event Design
Rentals – Happily Ever After Rentals
Florals – The Arrangement Company
Dress – Sweet Caroline Styles
Tuxedo – Tuxedo by Sarno
Jewelry – Fink’s Jewelers
Appetizers – RA Bistro
Hair – Hair Designs by Jessica
Makeup – Makeup by Ashley
Cake/Desserts – Molly Reeder
Stationery – A Paper Wedding LLC
Venue – Swannanoa

Dog Wedding Wreath Inspiration

Ok, animals are so cute – and enduring, too. Truly! It’s not exactly natural for a dog to wear a flowered collar, but they are so compliant and adorable. If you are considering incorporating your pup into your big day, be sure to have something crafted especially for them. They’ll look super sweet! Enjoy this dog wedding wreath inspiration today. Warning: cuteness overload!

Dog Wedding Wreath Inspiration as seen on Hill City Bride

Tiny pink roses are set off by this dog’s black fur. Look at how adored its master is. So sweet!! This is the perfect size collar for your dog as it’s not too large. Photo: Atelier Pictures
A flower crown?? Ok, to be honest, the maker of this floral crown had a little fun and decided to do a photoshoot with her dog, but how cute?? Good doggie! Image via Wear Wag Repeat
Want to make your own wreath? Perfect! Here is a DIY project just for you. These two pups are all ready to go after theirs were made for them. DIY Project via Green Wedding Shoes
Kisses for mommy on her wedding day? Absolutely! If you are looking for some dog wedding wreath inspiration, this just might be the one! Plus, it incorporates greenery, which is so lovely and natural! Photo: Kurt Boomer
Last but not least is something super simple – just a spray of flowers added onto the pup’s collar adds just the right amount of accent for the day. And how sweet is this photo?? Photo: Sophie Kaye Photography

Whew! So much cuteness in one post. Dogs are so fun and loyal, too. They are a big part of your life, so be sure to treat them special on your wedding day. They’ll be glad you did!

Equestrian E-session – Reid & Lindsey

Equestrian E-session as seen on Hill City Bride Wedding Blog

Horses are awe inspiring as you will see in this equestrian e-session today! Lindsey and Reid adore horses – so much so that they incorporated Lindsey’s horse, Graham, into their session (he will even be a part of their wedding day!) with Leib Photographic. How fun!

Here is their love story penned by Lindsey and Reid.

Reid and Lindsey met while salsa dancing in Ann Arbor, Michigan in the spring of 2013. They attended a Cinco de Mayo block party for their first date, and the two ended up spending more time talking and laughing with each other than actually dancing. They forged a deep connection with one another, discovering they had so much in common, including realizing that their families each vacationed to the same island chain in coastal Georgia. They grew close quickly through their common interests, and the two became inseparable in a matter of days.

Lindsey’s job in Michigan ended late the next year and she moved back to Virginia, where she is from, for promising occupational opportunities. Although eager to follow, Reid stayed in Michigan to finish out the school year for his students. Following the adventures of long distance, Reid came through on his promise and moved to Alexandria, Virginia in August 2015 with Lindsey, where they have lived happily since.

Lindsey’s great-grandmother had left Lindsey her wedding rings, so Reid and Lindsey only needed to select a setting in which to place “Nano’s” diamond. On Labor Day weekend, some of Reid’s out of town friends came to visit. Lindsey thought it was a “last-hurrah” of summer before Reid went back to teaching high school the next week. After a full day of touristy activities on Saturday, Reid told Lindsey they were meeting the guys at the Georgetown Waterfront for dinner.

When they arrived, it took them a few minutes to find their friends – and Reid spotted them first. He made Lindsey stop, and he pointed; Lindsey looked over to see both sets of their parents and more than 10 of their best friends. As soon as Lindsey saw her mom, she knew what must be happening and she started crying. Reid got down on one knee and told her he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her – and then pulled the ring box out of his sock! He had been afraid it was too conspicuous in one of his pockets. As their friends and families (and an awful lot of bystanders!) cheered and applauded, Lindsey said yes.

What a lovely story. I hope you enjoy their equestrian e-session today!

Horse Equestrian Engagement as seen on Hill City Bride Wedding Blog_0001

James River Wedding – Drew & Melissa

A James River Wedding as seen on Hill City Bride

This couple’s James River wedding story actually starts at their alma mater, Clemson University. At college, Melissa became a proud member of the mellophone section in marching band. She spent a great deal of time with her fellow mellophone players, including the section leader, Drew, which would eventually become the man she would pledge her life to on a warm July day. How fun! Here are a few things that we adore about their day.

I adore that this is a church wedding – there is just something special about chapel-esque nuptials that makes a wedding day so sweet.
Melissa opted for scoop necked tanks on the wedding day for herself and her bridesmaids. They look loose and comfortable for a hot day, plus the wider neck allows for easy removal to keep hair and makeup mess free.
The soft colors of mint, white, light gray and pink make for such a refreshing combination. They look so lovely together!
Melissa’s look is so lovely – her wedding updo along with her earrings, veil and strapless wedding gown all create a beautiful bridal look.
Ha! Be sure to notice the groomsmen’s socks. Superheros unite! So fun.
Bubbles are always a good choice for a sendoff, which this couple decided to do in between the wedding and ceremony. They are easy on the environment and also make for fun wedding photos! They chose a sparkler exit for their final nighttime exit after the reception.
I love it when a wedding has a menu! I am all for eating, and it’s fun to see what exactly you are getting – plus, a wedding menu adds a bit of panache to the reception tables.

Well, I think it’s time for you to see this beautiful James River wedding. Enjoy!

James River Wedding as seen on Hill City Bride_0001

Vendors:

Photographer – Chelsea Anderson Photography
Band – Bachelor Boys Band
Cake Designer – Becki Gibbs
Ceremony Venue – Chestnut Memorial United Methodist Church
Bridesmaid Dresses – Bill Levkoff
Groomsman Attire – Combatant Gentlemen
Bridesmaid Store – GaBree’s Boutique
Reception Venue – James River Country Club
Apparel – Lake Norman Bridal
Dress Designer – Maggie Sottero
Floral Designer – Sheri Norcini

How to Have the Perfect Wedding in Portland Maine

My time in Maine was sponsored by Visit Portland and Marry in Maine. I had a wonderful time, and all of my opinions are my own and genuine.

Destination Maine Weddings as seen on Hill City Bride Wedding Blog

photos: Casey Durgin Photography and Leah Fisher Photography

When I think of Maine, thoughts turn to quaint towns on the coast and lobster. My impression of this New England state came from the fact that my parents loved the area, and we spent many summers renting lake homes for vacationing. The landscape is stunning and perfect for a destination Maine wedding!

For the couple who is thinking of going to a destination for their own wedding – or honeymoon – consider heading north to The Pine Tree State, which offers an experience all it’s own. I had the pleasure of perusing wedding venues, eating delectable cuisine and taking a few tours on a recent press trip to the state.

PORTLAND

This ocean side city is full of history, a lovely shopping district and beautiful homes. It also offers options for couples that want either an urban feel or a private, picturesque ceremony.

Being a writer, The Press Hotel was especially intriguing. Offering interesting and well thought out touches such as a typewriter art display and wallpaper made out of rolled newspaper, this Maine hotel is housed in the former Gannett newspaper building. It offers many options for event spaces and overnight accommodations.

Destination Maine Weddings as seen on Hill City Bride The Press Hotel by Leah Fisher_0001

photos: Leah Fisher Photography at The Press Hotel

Their in-house UNION restaurant offers unique, delicious fare and creative dessert options in addition to catering. My favorite spot of all was the rooftop view off of the penthouse suite, which is perfect for an intimate wedding with high impact overlooking the bustling city of Portland.

A little off of the metropolitan area sits The Danforth. With its luxurious accommodations, each room offers a different feel in this historic home turned inn. The space is lovely with its cascading natural light, and one of my favorite spaces was a hidden widow’s walk with a view of the ocean on the roof of the building.

Destination Maine Weddings as seen on Hill City Bride Danforth Inn by Greta Tucker with Officiant Maria Northcott_0001

photos: Greta Tucker Photography at The Danforth with Maria Northcott, Officiant

Tempo Dulu offers a variety of cuisine, and I would suggest the tasting menu, which offers a sampling of their culinary delights. Plus, their drinks arrive in style, each having its own creative twist. As Portland’s only luxury boutique hotel, it is perfect for an overnight stay, elopement, rehearsal dinner, or vow renewal.

For those couples looking for a seaside experience, two locations come to mind. The first is the aptly named Inn by the Sea. Upon entering the hotel, the view goes straight to the ocean before you head up to your room, which includes a fireplace. So cozy! The inn itself has a lovely lawn, yet a secluded boardwalk takes you to the ocean, which houses a mile of unspoiled Maine beach.

Destination Maine Weddings as seen on Hill City Bride Inn by the Sea by Casey Dutgin_0001

photos: Casey Durgin Photography at Inn by the Sea

In addition, the Black Point Inn offers a sprawling lawn with an ocean view that makes for stunning photos! The inn is full of charm and tradition, and The Point Restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience along with tempting cocktail and dessert selections.

Destination Maine Weddings as seen on Hill City Bride Black Point Inn by Alexandra Daley Clark_0001

photos: Alexandra Daley-Clark Photography at Black Point Inn

For those who truly can’t decide if they want an urban or a seaside event, the perfect option just may be a rehearsal dinner and accommodations at the Portland Harbor Hotel. With luxury rooms in the heart of downtown, a picturesque ferry ride takes you to Great Diamond Island, which houses their coastal sister property – the lovely Inn at Diamond Cove. The island is full of history and views and also boasts accommodations and a restaurant for convenience.

Destination Maine Weddings as seen on Hill City Bride Diamond Cove by Emilie Inc_0001

photos: Emilie Inc. at Diamond Cove

MILLINOCKET

Dubbed “The Magic City,” Millinocket is a destination for couples that want a romantic retreat for either their honeymoon or wedding. Rustic, quaint cabins overlooking Millinocket Lake are available in several sizes at the New England Outdoor Center, which also offers outdoorsy types of activities such as hiking, kayaking, fishing, moose tours, and whitewater rafting. For those wanting to brave the colder weather, the center offers snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing.

Destination Maine Weddings as seen on Hill City Bride New England Outdoor Center by T Dow_0001

photos: T Dow Photography at New England Outdoor Center

Whether you choose to rent out the property in whole or part, a wedding overlooking Mount Katahdin is both rustic and picturesque. The on-site restaurant, River Drivers, is also ready to cater your event with finesse. A 3.5-hour drive also takes you to Portland if you would like to incorporate a jaunt to the city in your adventures.

WHILE IN PORTLAND

Portland is rich in history and beauty – both with coastal views and lovely buildings. Besides the restaurant recommendations in Portland, there are a plethora of other activities for you and your guests to peruse during your stay in Maine.

Easy Day – If you love bowling – or even if you don’t – a trip to this local upscale bowling alley and restaurant is a must. What a fun place for your attendants to gather or to hold a rehearsal dinner! The restaurant offers delectable delights such as lobster rolls and fun drink options. Think of this more as a great restaurant that happens to have quality bowling lanes.
The Maine Brew Bus – This is exactly what you think it is. A brilliant idea. Bright green buses take you from stop to stop to experience local craft breweries and wineries. Their guides are also knowledgeable about the local scene, so you are able to ask questions and get a flair for the area.
Portland Discovery Tour – Whether you choose to tour by land or sea, this 90-minute introduction into the history of the city lets you relax and soak it in, and they have a variety of tours available.
Portland Head Light and Fort Williams Park – First lit in 1791, this beautiful lighthouse and park offer stunning views. With its history and scenery, it makes the perfect stop for visitors – and you can even get married there!
Sea Bags – If you are doing a welcome bag for out-of-towners or looking for a fun bridesmaids’ gift, head to Portland’s downtown shopping district at the Sea Bags headquarters. These sturdy bags are made from recycled sails, and while you are there, be sure to peruse the other nearby stores.

PS. To read my personal journey on my trip to Maine, just click here.

Greenery Wedding Inspiration

When Pantone announced that the color “greenery” was the 2017 color of the year it’s no wonder! We’ve been seeing the color (and actual plant greens) utilized in weddings for a while. If you adore this natural hue, I hope that you enjoy this greenery wedding inspiration today! With spring coming and it being March (and St. Patrick’s Day coming), I thought it was the perfect time to share.

Greenery Wedding Inspiration as seen on Hill City Bride

Sometimes incorporating the color greenery is as simple as adding… real greenery. Down the center of a table, natural leaves and stems add a pop of this popular hue. Photo: Arina B Photography
What a fun idea! This arbor is gorgeous for a wedding backdrop, and the additional wreaths add an element of whimsy as greenery wedding inspiration. Photo: Onelove Photography; Design: Jesi Haack Design
Carefully placed greenery is so beautiful as it adorns the aisle. Natural texture is added for a high impact feel. Photo: Coco Tran
This stack of white rounds is accented by free flowing fondant leaves. So gorgeous! The natural effect is so lovely. Photo: Jag Studios; Cake: Ann Parzych Cakes
It’s the best of both worlds! A geometric dome is filled with greenery and serves as a table number. What a fun way to mix two trends. Photo: Michelle and Logan

Isn’t it so lovely? If you are utilizing real florals in your wedding, there is bound to be a bit of greenery in your wedding, but if you love it, why not commit full force. So gorgeous! What a fun grouping of greenery wedding inspiration.