Melanie & Matt: Elizabeth Manor Golf & Country Club

Wedding Recaps

We discovered Melanie & Matt complement each other in various ways but there were a few things that stood out to us. They both deeply value relationships. They are both very laid back and remained that way through the various phases of planning and execution. And they are both avid hockey fans, so it made perfect sense for Matt to propose at an Admirals hockey game on their one-year anniversary! Matt made sure to have Melanie’s dad hiding in the stands across the rink so he could witness the whole thing. He set it up so he was able to pop the question on the kiss cam and they even made it on the local news that night! It was so sweet and fun that he would think to include their love of the sport with their love for each other making it mean so much more! Now they make it a point to attend a hockey game for their anniversary every year!

Their wedding was full of unique touches, which made it even more exciting to us as we’re the ones who get the challenge of bringing it to life for them. Our bride and groom knew they wanted a venue that included a water view. So, they chose the Elizabeth Manor Golf & Country Club in Portsmouth, Virginia. They agreed it was the perfect venue for them.

The big day arrived and as the bridesmaids enjoyed their time with Melanie they snacked on Chick-fil-a, laughed and talked about memories made and those yet to come. While the girls were preparing for the ceremony Matt and his groomsmen were on the golf course playing a few rounds. Our sweet couple started their special day just the way they wanted, spending time with their closest friends.

Melanie chose a romantic gown with cap sleeves and beading on the bodice. Her bridesmaids were dressed in floor-length, blush tone dresses in a variety of different styles. Matt’s blue suit matched his groomsmen but to set him apart he wore a burgundy bowtie, while the groomsmen had blush pink ties.

There’s something else that our bride and groom share. They are both dog lovers and wanted their pups to be a part of their special day. They chose Tails & Tulle to provide their precious pups with appropriate wedding attire. Their black lab, Ellie, was wearing a cute red and blush corsage and Ragnar, their Norwegian Elkhound Mix was wearing a gold bowtie.

Melanie’s first look with her dad revealed his tender heart for her. At seeing his beautiful daughter in all her elegance, he could not hold back the tears. Here at TSE, we never get enough of those precious moments between a father and his daughter.

The ceremony was ready and waiting for the couple to enter. At the end of the aisle where the couple would become one, was an arch that the groom had built with his own hands. The couple would stand at this arch and pledge their love and commitment. In addition to this very personal representation there was also an elegant vintage gold mirror and the aisle was lined with roses.

With much excitement for our precious couple we made sure that this hand-built piece and elegant décor transformed the space into their beautiful wedding venue.

Among the seats reserved for the family of the bride and groom was a special seat reserved for the bride’s grandmother. While her passing kept them physically apart on this special day, they certainly felt her absence. The day would not be complete unless they included her, so they reserved her special seat, added her sweet picture and a fragrant flower.

Relationship continued as a theme throughout. For their officiant, who is a pastor, they chose one of Matt’s closest friends, Matt Michel. They grew up playing soccer together and went to the same school. What a special moment for Matt’s childhood buddy to perform the portion of the ceremony that would unite Matt and Melanie as one.

After the ceremony the guests were led to the deck for the cocktail hour. The deck was on the water side of the property enabling their family and friends to enjoy their cocktails while the Mr. and Mrs. took in the beautiful water view. The evening seemed to naturally flow both in joy and relationship.

Thank you so much Melanie and Matt for allowing us to be a part of your big day! We loved getting to know you both and wish you nothing but happiness! <3

Xoxo,

TSE Team