Jenny & Wyatt
“Cowboy Take Me Away”
The Blue Ridge Mountains alone provides a breathtaking backdrop for any late summer wedding here in Virginia. And although weather in the mountains in September can be quite fickle - hot and sunny, cool and breezy, thunderstorms, or even subtle signs of impending Autumn foliage - the sapphire hues of our towering, yet gentle, mountain range always take center stage. Jenny and Wyatt’s wedding day at Blue Ridge Vineyards in Buchanan, Virginia was no exception. Atop a hilly pasture with those picturesque mountains in the distance, there is a weathered barn where Jenny and Wyatt exchanged their vows in front of God and their loved ones in a beautiful ceremony last month. It was a day that not only taught us a lot about ourselves as coordinators, but most importantly served as a reminder of what weddings should truly be about.
Remember that unpredictable weather I mentioned? In the week leading up to the wedding (and admittedly right up until ceremony start) we paid close attention to the ever-changing forecast - possibly, just maybe, we could escape the impending rain. You NEVER practice for rain, but as a coordinating team, you always prepare. With an hour to go, dark clouds began to roll over the mountain ridge and the decision was made to move the ceremony under the cover of the barn. With the aide of Jenny and Wyatt’s family and friends and their “all hands on deck” mentality- the reception site became the host of the ceremony as rainy-weary guests began to arrive.
Although we were entangled in the hectic moments behind the scenes, our thoughts were wholly centered on Wyatt and Jenny. How are they handling the pre-wedding jitters? What are the emotions surrounding the weather? Would they approve of last minute changes? Undoubtedly, every wedding begins with an inspiration, then a vision, and finally a plan. When that expectation goes awry, the stress it may bring to a couple that has spent months (or even years) preparing for this day could be overwhelming to say the least. We hurried back to check in on Jenny’s state. We found her ready, still smiling. Her response to our worries was simple, yet grounding - “At the end of the day, as long as I’m married to Wyatt, that’s all I want.” Wyatt, stoic as ever, echoed her sentiment. It was a clear their wedding day was founded on what is most important - not the curated decor, abundant flowers, fancy food or place settings, music choices, or even a sunny day to capture the perfect pictures. Rather, and most appropriately, a focus on the lifetime commitment of love and dedication to one another. May we all use Jenny and Wyatt’s graceful example of how to respond when life throws a curveball - remembering what is important to us at the end of the day.
As the ceremony began, Jenny’s gown sparkled as she was escorted down the aisle by her doting Father. A tearfully awestruck Wyatt, in a sharp cowboy hat and his best denim, took her hand. A perfectly tailored sermon followed - even touching on the weather, reminding the couple that this day is evidence that their love can weather any storm. Though they were soon down the aisle and the lighthearted festivities ensued, it was my wish in that moment that they would hold dear to those words spoken. To continue to handle the hardships with grace and love at the center of their marriage.
All in all, as we reflected on our time at Blue Ridge Vineyards, we learned quite a lot. Sometimes, you have to make a decision with the information you have and trust it. You prepare, but never plan for weather. Lean on those around you who can help. And finally, always remember the true reason for weddings. Thank you Jenny and Wyatt for allowing us to be part of your day. We wish you a lifetime of happiness.
Cheers!