When Moyra and James set out to find a wedding venue, they didn’t have to look too far. As it turned out, a town just miles from UVA, James’ alma mater, offered a picturesque backdrop.
“We realized [Staunton] would be a perfect fit, since it is the quintessential small historic Virginia town, with everything centrally located,” Moyra said.
Location was a big factor when planning. The couple wanted to make sure their guests would easily be able to enjoy what the small-town feel had to offer—places to dine and shop and really make their time at the wedding more of a weekend getaway.
“It afforded so many serendipitous encounters with guests, like running into them getting lunch or coffee on Main Street,” Moyra said.
But, of course, the big day was all about the couple, and they left no detail undone. James concocted a signature apple martini cocktail for the reception, Moyra created a wand for the flower girl and pillows for the ring bearers, and friends and family contributed lots of little touches to their nuptials.
Even the rain couldn’t stand in the way of a perfect day. In fact, it made for some very romantic photos.
“It created some soft lighting and nice reflections in puddles that I wouldn’t trade.”
Moyra and James
September 21, 2013
Photography: Dominique Attaway
Event planner: Beverly Wakefield of A Grand Affair Events
Ceremony: St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church
Reception: The American Hotel & Banquet Room
Officiant: Deacon Jim Kledzik
Catering: Weddings and Things Caterer
Flowers: Honey Bee’s Florist
Bulk florist for centerpieces: Irvington Spring Farm
Cupcakes: Queen City Cupcakes
Groom’s cake: A Little Something Sweet
Music: Daniel Kirkland (ceremony); DJ Rick Haggard (reception)
Linen rental: Festive Fare
Extra table rental: MS Events
Accomodations: Stonewall Jackson Hotel
Bridal party suite: Frederick House
Dress: Jacqueline Byrne from Luella’s Boudoir in Wimbledon Village, London
Shoes: Kate Spade Karolina
Hair and makeup: High Tech Design and Day Spa
Come here often?
Moyra and James met for the first time nine years ago in a bar. Then, six years later, they met again in another bar, next door to where they’d first met. James remembered her right away. Said Moyra, “He came right up to me and said, ‘Hi Moyra,’ as if we’d never missed a beat.”
