Lauren and Ryan are college sweethearts, first meeting not long before Ryan was set to graduate from James Madison University in Virginia. Lauren still had another year at school, and their future seemed uncertain, at first. But it didn’t take long for these two to realize that their love was made to last. Ryan proposed on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, as a distracted Lauren struggled to pack, in anticipation of meeting up with Ryan’s large family. He caught her off-guard with a bottle of champagne and a ring. We met up with them a few months later at Barrel Oak Winery for a romantic engagement session.
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The next time we met, it was time to get married! Lauren and Ryan chose the beautiful Whitehall Manor, in Bluemont, Virginia, to say their vows.
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Lauren purchased her stunning gown at Ava Laurénne Bride.
Michelle at Twinbrook Floral Design created these lovelies.
Lauren and the bridesmaids tried really hard to enjoy this swirly purple celebratory concoction, but ultimately, couldn’t stomach it.
Lauren was excited to share a special “first look” moment with her dad.
Meanwhile, upstairs at the mansion, Ryan and his groomsmen were getting ready with a little help from Maker’s Mark.
Soon, it was time for the first look between the bride and groom…
At first, it was all smiles…
… and then, there were lots of happy tears.
Next, we tackled family portraits! Here’s all the happy parents.
Lauren kept sneaking a peek inside, checking out how all the details were coming together.
What a gorgeous group of girls! We had so much fun with them.
Here, Lauren finally gets a quick look at all the décor.
And then, the officiant, a close friend, admired the bride.
Soon, it was time to say “we do!”
Though it had stopped raining, the grounds were a bit too soggy for an outdoor ceremony. Luckily, Whitehall Manor is gorgeous inside and out!
More tears during the ceremony!
We loved Lauren’s reaction to finally being married! Yay!
The guys were really good sports, crawling around in a barn to get this fun shot!
Lauren’s long veil was just perfect for an image like this!
We had some onlookers during bride-and-groom portrait time!
These laser-cut butterflies were delicately placed on glasses, and guided guests to their seats.
Lauren took such attention to detail with everything. From the favors (yummy homemade jam) to the table numbers and all the decor… so lovely!
These guys know how to make an entrance!
A toast to their alma mater, JMU!
After a great meal, dancing got off to a great start, thanks to DJ Craig Wood.
We brought along our Silly Station photo booth, and soon, crazy props were appearing on the dance floor!
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After working up a sweat, guests were treated to some truly amazing treats — doughnut holes from Naughty Girls Donut Shop! Wow, they were incredibly delicious.
Beth Moyer of Sweet Dreems Cakes brought this beauty.
Then it was time for more snacks! Tater tots and mini burgers? Yes, please!
As the light faded, and the reception came to an end, we snuck outside for another few romantic portraits.
And then it was sparkler send-off time!
Hooray! Ryan and Lauren, to say we were honored to be a part of your day would be an understatement. You two are such beautiful people, inside and out, and we wish you many, many years of happiness together!
