Soft summer breezes, the glow of candles and the sounds of laughter filling the evening air – it seems like yesterday that we were celebrating Marina and Eric’s June wedding. Clifton Estate in Berryville, Virginia is the only remaining example of Early Classical Revival architecture in the area and the perfect romantic spot for a summer weekend celebration filled with family and friends.
Photos: Brittany Custer Photography
From the very beginning Marina’s vision was clear – an elegant black, gold and white affair, held in the evening on the terraces and grounds surrounding Clifton.
The bride hand-lettered the table numbers and seating chart, and collected the candlesticks, lanterns and other decor that was used throughout the reception area. Greenery accented the tables and white rose peonies echoed those used in the bride’s bouquet.
The ladies got ready in the magnificent bedrooms upstairs, while the guys had the study downstairs all to themselves. We love that each bridesmaid put her own spin on the classic black ballgown. The groomsmen all wore classic black tuxes.
In the midst of all the preparations, Eric and Marina took the time to exchange private notes and gifts – so sweet!
Everyone met outside for the first look, bridal party and family pictures before the ceremony so that when the “I do’s” were said the party could begin!
At the stroke of 6, beautiful strains of violin music from Jason Labrador began and the wedding party took their places on the back lawn overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The reception began with Marina showing off her sabrage skills – well done!
With a nod to the bride’s Southern roots, the Downtown Catering Company served a wedding supper that included Chicken and Waffle bites, Exceedingly Cheesy Mac and Cheese, and Shrimp with Gouda Grits (the ginger cat that lives at Clifton was very fond of those!)
After dinner, toasts and their First Dance, Eric and Marina cut their delicious Almond and Red Velvet wedding cake – so good that there wasn’t a slice left at the end of the night.
A toast to you, Marina and Eric! Here’s to a Happy First Anniversary, and many, many more!
