Oh, do I have a treat for your eyes today. This wedding, it is simply breathtakingly gorgeous.
When Emily told us her wedding theme would be ‘Jane Austen with a Gothic, Corpse Bride twist’ we were beside ourselves with excitement to share it with you! I had so much trouble whittling down the amazing images by Leslie Lockhart Photography for this real bride feature. Emily & Matt’s beautiful wedding brought the English charm of Jane Austen to the stunning Martha Washington Inn in Virginia and each thoughtful, handcrafted detail encapsulates the romance and heritage of her novel’s perfectly.
Emily chose to wear an incredible gown by Essence of Australia which was just dripping with lace and styled it with a pair of our vintage collection ‘Lottie Elliot’ ivory lace ankle boots. We also love how Emily & Matt’s proposal story is just as romantic, unique and beautiful as their big day.
Huge congratulations to this wonderful couple and I hope you enjoy reading about their special day as much as I have!
Wedding wishes & love as always,
Nicole xxx
So how did you meet your husband and how did he propose?
My husband and I met our first year of law school. A few mutual friends set us up, and I will forever be grateful! Matt and I got engaged on February 29, 2016- Leap Day. Tradition has it that if a woman proposes to a man on Leap Day, then he is obliged to say yes. (And if he says no, he has to buy the woman gloves to conceal the embarrassment of having a ring-less hand). I teased Matt all day long and told him that if he did not beat me to it, then I was going to propose to him. Later that afternoon, he took me on a walk, sat me on a bench, and said, “Hey, weren’t you going to propose to me today?” And I said, “Oh, yeah!” Jokingly, I got on one knee and asked him to be my husband. He told me I was doing it all wrong, smoothly switched places with me, and pulled out a beautiful ring!
Where did you get married and who did you invite?
We got married at the historic Martha Washington Inn in my hometown of Abingdon, Virginia. It’s located in the centre of downtown and has long been one of my favourite places. We invited many family and friends and had a fairly big wedding. It was so special to be surrounded by so many people we love on such an important day.
What was the main inspiration for your wedding?
Our main inspiration was an elegant Jane Austen feel with a Gothic, Corpse Bride twist. We primarily used shades of poppy and coral.
Tell us about your wedding look
I wore a fitted lace gown with a long, dramatic train. I went with lacey, long sleeves that tapered onto my wrists. I wore a simple veil, and my House of Elliot boots were the inspiration for the whole ensemble! And for my something blue, I wore the House of Elliot Ivory and Blue Lace Wedding Garter. I wanted a simple and elegant look such that I might look like I belonged in a Jane Austen novel. And I wore dark, dramatic lipstick to capture a bit of a Gothic feel.
What made you choose a pair of House of Elliot boots for your wedding day?
I chose the vintage Lotti Elliot Ivory Lace Ankle Boot after searching online for something unique, yet comfortable. I did not want super high heels, yet I was not happy with going for simple flats as an alternative. Happening upon the House of Elliot website was the most wonderful thing that happened in my wedding shoe search. I knew immediately that I needed a pair of these boots!
What did you love the most about your wedding day?
Seeing my husband-to-be for the first time was my favourite moment of the day. And I loved spending time with my closest family and friends. Matt and I felt so much love and support, and my wedding was one of the most marvelous days of my life to date.
What pearls of wisdom would you share with future brides who are planning their wedding?
My photographer suggested a bridal portraits session, and I am so thankful I decided to do it! It was a great way to make sure my wedding ensemble came together the way I envisioned, and it was an excellent opportunity to do a trial run with make-up and hair. Also, the whole thing made me feel so special and bridal. It was a wonderful time to slow-down during the busy planning time and simply be excited that I would soon marry my best friend.
Anything else you would like to add?
I am so thankful to Nicole with House of Elliot! She has been kind, gracious, and incredibly helpful. I had no idea which boots to order, and she helped me determine the perfect size and style for me! (Thank you so much Emily!! These words are just so lovely to here, Nicole xx)
Emily & Matt would like to thank the following amazing vendors who made their day so special!
Venue: Martha Washington Inn / Dress: White Lace and Promises / Dress Designer: Essence of Australia / Bride’s Shoes: House of Elliot / Veil: Erica Elizabeth Designs / Wedding Flowers: Laura Michel at Rainbow’s End Floral / Groom’s Attire: Kegley & Co. / Cake: Blackbird Bakery / Desserts: Anthony’s Desserts / Hair: Martha Washington Inn and Spa / Makeup: Ulta / Videography: Lavender & Grace Videography
