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Described the proposal!
Scott proposed to me on top of a volcano in Maui. We share a love for the outdoors, so it was fitting he proposed in such a rugged, jaw-dropping environment. I wasn't expecting it and he caught me by surprise. He actually had to start his proposal twice! The first time, a hiker walked by and decided to stop right where we were when Scott was preparing to propose. Without missing a beat, he guided me over to a new spot and finally asked. We had been dating for four years and knew we didn't want a long engagement. The wedding date was set for seven months later – September 21, 2013.
How did you choose the location for your wedding? What type of venue were you looking for?
We envisioned a wedding that was romantic, meaningful, and most importantly, represented us. We decided on a unique venue in the mountains of North Carolina. The Mountain Magnolia Inn is a restored Victorian estate in a beautiful outdoor setting, nestled in Hot Springs – a quaint little mountain town that offers premium access to the Appalachian Trail, mineral hot springs, whitewater rafting and countless other adventures. We knew this was the spot. A gorgeous mountain getaway that was close to cosmopolitan Asheville, yet small enough our guests were all within arms reach.
Our reception was held under a tent with strings of cafe lights swooping down. I had a vision of dark, wooden farm-style tables. We wanted our guests to walk into the tent and feel like they were a attending a big family dinner. I rented mismatched china from East West Vintage rentals in Asheville. The two sisters dressed the tables brilliantly, a tasteful array of china, flatware and two crystal goblets with gold rims for Scott and me.
How did you decide on your bridesmaids dresses? Tell us about your experience at Bella!
I looked for months for my bridesmaid dresses. I knew I wanted a coral color, but there are so many variations of coral! I just hadn't found the exact coral I wanted. I made an appointment at Bella and met two of my bridesmaids there. From the second we arrived, we were warmly welcomed. Lauren in the Raleigh, NC location listened to my vision and pulled dresses within the price range I wanted to stay in. Thankfully, I found the dress in the most gorgeous warm deep coral color and it flattered my tallest and shortest bridesmaid equally. I thought the quality and price of the dress along with timely ordering and shipping was wonderful. [Dresses by Bella Bridesmaids exclusive designer, Love Lane].
Who designed your bridal gown? Where did you purchase it?
I purchased my wedding dress at Victorian Rose Bridal in Raleigh, NC and designed by Tara Keely.
What inspired you when planning your wedding?
I wanted the day to represent Scott and I and our love of the outdoors. My colors were inspired from a card received from a friend that were a mix of coral, peach, and greens. Our venue, the Mountain Magnolia Inn is a romantic setting and I wanted that feeling to wash over our guests from the moment they arrived. I achieved this with dark wood tables, lace runners, colorful flowers, candles, and hanging pendant lights casting a warm glow from the walnut tree where we were married under.
What was your most memorable moment about your wedding day?
Seeing Scott for the first time! We stole a few minutes together before the wedding and had pictures taken. He was guided into the room with his eyes closed. The look on his face when he opened his eyes to see me and how he had to look away because he was getting choked up, caught my breath. I loved seeing his pure emotions.
Advise for future brides?
Get the big decisions out of the way first and once you find your dress, shoes, veil stop looking! There will always be beautiful options out there and you don't want to waste time continuing to look after you've made your decision. Ask for help if you need it, people want to help. Enjoy the process because it's over in a flash and you want to look back on those sweet engagement months lovingly. Have fun and don't be afraid to show personality with your choices. We did a log cutting to start the bonfire to represent a German tradition of a couple overcoming an obstacle together. It was unexpected and memorable.
Photo credit: D'Arcy Benincosa Photography
