Austin + Blanton- A New Year’s Eve Celebration at Oakdale in Ashland, VA

A love triangle with Austin, Blanton, and pizza on New Year’s Eve at Oakdale in Ashland, VA. Dean Martin sang it best: “When the moon hits the eye, like a big pizza pie, that’s amore.” 

The Story

It all started with a little app called Tinder. Then Austin vetted Blanton through her two roommates. One of her roommates went to high school with Blanton is a distant relative. What a small world!

The Proposal

We went on a fun winery day in Charlottesville with another couple. At the final stop, Pippin Hill, Blanton got down on one knee and proposed in front of a gorgeous sunset. The people enjoying wine on the patio cheered for us! Then we went for pizza where Blanton surprised Austin by inviting the family for a celebration. It was a great day!

 

The Dress

I found it at Studio I Do in Virginia Beach. I tried on dresses at two other places prior to going to there. I liked another dress but didn’t have that joyous feeling. When I tried on the one at Studio I Do, I got that feeling that this is THE ONE! Even with my mask on, you could see my excitement!

First Look

We opted to not have a first look.  I wouldn’t have changed anything! It was so special to wait for the moment coming down the aisle to see each other. We were both crying!

Covid-19 altered the wedding plans

Our plans changed about 5 times – including the night before the wedding when we found out my sister/bridesmaid tested positive for COVID! Our new motto – “if we can make it through this, we can make it through anything!”

Advice for future couples planning their wedding

Try not to get too caught up in the ceremony and remain focused on the marriage. At the end of the day, it is about two people wanting to get married and spend their lives together. Planning a wedding is a lot like life – you gotta roll with the punches!

VENDOR CREDITS

Photography | Awesomesauce Photography

Ceremony Venue | Oakdale

Reception Venue | Private Residence

Caterer | Maggiano’s Little Italy and Domino’s Pizza

Dress Store | Studio I Do

Groom’s Attire | Men’s Warehouse

Bridesmaid Dresses | Birdy Grey

Florist | Fruits and Flowers

Dessert | Mixing Bowl Bakery

Awesomesauce Photography offers colorful, fun, and emotional storytelling wedding photography at an affordable price. Based in Richmond, VA available for travel worldwide.