by: Casual yet so elegant is the perfect way to describe Vanessa and Anthony's waterfront wedding in Virginia Beach. With breathtaking intimate waterfront views, the Lesner Inn played host for their beautiful autumn wedding day. And besides Vanessa's stunning, beaded mermaid-style dress ... what we love the most is that their intimate ceremony took place overlooking the water! Talk about dreamy.
Chic Waterfront Wedding In Virginia Beach
Vanessa described their waterfront wedding as not really having a specific theme, but the couple was focused on a wedding that was classy, chic, and simple. With their wedding party donning burgundy and grey and the reception decorated in gold and white—they definitely nailed their wedding theme goals! Red and white roses, white hydrangeas, stargaze lilies, and red calla lilies made for the final touches of their stunning waterfront wedding and casually elegant reception. Ooh, and naturally we love their wedding invite choice that also featured the pretty burgundies and golds of their big day.
Here's how Vanessa and Anthony met ...
"Anthony and I met online, October 2017 on the dating site Zoosk. After a few weeks of exchanging messages, we went on our first date. Anthony chose a brewery but unfortunately it was closed, then I suggested a local eatery named Bad Habits! We spent a few hours talking and I couldn't believe how we connected and that we only lived one mile away from each other. Coincidence or destiny? Well we have been together since that first date!"
Finding the perfect dress [with the most amazing beading and lace!]
"I visited two bridal studios together with my youngest daughter. I tried about 15 gowns, and when I tried my dress I knew it was the dress! My dress was not the traditional white gown. I choose a beaded, mermaid style, champagne color gown. My only mistake was not trying the dress in heels, so I had to find flats to match the dress. And thank God for the internet ... I found the perfect flats!"
Something borrowed, blue, old, and new
"My earrings and bracelet were new, and I ordered a small photo pendant that carried my father's picture. The pendant had a blue bead and it was wrapped around my bouquet. This way my father walked me down the aisle in spirit. I also wore a lace gather with a blue stone."
True Celebration wedding invites on Luxe Satin paper with Gold Foil [from MagnetStreet]
"In the past we received invites, and they were all from MagnetStreet. I went online to check it out ... we liked the selection of invites, and I was really impressed on how easy it was to order the invitations!"
Ceremony at sunset, sans rain
"It was a rainy Saturday, and I prayed that everything would run smoothly. The rain didn't cease until 4pm, and at 6pm the ceremony started with the most beautiful sunset. The clouds dissipated and the sunshine poured on our faces. We were blessed!"
Of course, the sweet details
"Our cake was all white buttercream with red roses and white stargaze lilies. It had three layers: red velvet, almond vanilla, and raspberry chocolate. We also had Italian pastries, cannolis and Italian cookies."
The best advice to other couples
"I recommend that brides have a list on their fridge, counter or cell, so when anything pops up they can write it down. Let the photographer know all the must have pictures. Finally, set a time during the week to talk to your groom about the wedding planning, and have a drink while doing this ... and don't stress!"
The talented vendors of Vanessa and Anthony's perfect waterfront wedding day: Photographer: Ch & Sh Fredericks Photography / Venue: Lesner Inn / Planning: The Happy Hour Hostess / DJ: Astro Entertainment / Florist: Kathy Forrest Design / Bakery: Sweet Kream Bakery / Hair: Blondies Hair Studio (Chelsea) / Makeup: SB Makeup Artistry (Sydney) / Dress: Here and Now Bridal
