Surrounded by funky accents and a retro spirit, Nicole wed John at the picturesque Church Point Manor in Virginia Beach. With “Rock Steady Reggae” as the beat of the day, the bride walked down the aisle carrying a ‘burst of sunshine’ yellow bouquet of carnations, roses, and button mums while listening to John's ska band, Jackmove, join the sound of the trombone, bass, drums, and guitar for their funky rendition of "Here Comes the Bride." Nicole wore a vintage-inspired high-low hemline gown with a sweetheart neckline by Oleg Cassini; a bright red birdcage fascinator from a hip consignment store completed the look. Without knowing what the other had written, their vows flowed perfectly: "The peanut butter to my jelly, the yin to my yang, the yellow and white portions of a lemon meringue". The cake, baked by their family friend Cathy, was four decadent layers of red velvet and white cake with dreamy white butter-cream frosting topped with red, yellow, and green fondant ribbons reflecting their reggae inspiration. Fresh fruits of watermelons, pineapple, oranges, bananas, mangoes, and grapes popped with color as the edible centerpieces, offered to guests at the end of the celebration along with a paper grocery bag. What was John's most memorable moment? "I got really choked up when I saw Nicole walking down the aisle. She took my breath away. I knew I was making the happiest decision of my life."
 
Wedding Wisdom: “Be specific with your budget allocations. It’s ok to splurge on something that is meaningful to you if you can find creative and resourceful ways to complete your other details. It never hurts to ask for ‘sponsorships’ from friends and family. They want to help-you just have to ask!”Reception Site
Church Point Manor Historic Bed & Breakfast
Caterer
The Cellars Restaurant at Church Point Manor
Photographer
 Echard Wheeler
Gown Designer
Oleg Cassini/ David's Bridal
Bridal Shoes
Dollhouse
Bride’s and Bridesmaid Jewelry
 Jen Love Jewelry, www.jenlovejewelry.com
Groom’s Suit
H & M
Hair Design
Dupre's
Makeup
Allison Ercolani
Stationary/Invitations
Handmade
Flowers
Fresh fruit donated by Norfolk Banana Distributors
Rings
Rinehart Brothers, Norfolk
Cake
Cathy Cole
Linens and Rentals
Affordable and Luxury Tent Rentals~Compiled by Ailsa von Dobeneck