Welcome back to the second part of Megan and Joe’s classic country club wedding in Virginia. I am loving all the meaningful and sweet celebrations that are swinging by my desk lately! Weddings like this one where you can practically feel the warmth and laughter from a truly fun celebration all captured by Photography by Marirosa! (Make sure to check out their traditional Catholic wedding ceremony, too!) These two former Virginia Tech Hokies even paid tribute to their alma mater with a specialty cocktails and an appearance from a certain mascot!

From Megan: We made our own place cards, votive candles, painted welcome sign, dinner menus, invitation calligraphy, welcome bags for our hotel guests, and ceremony programs. One of my bridesmaid’s took our save-the-date photograph the day after we got engaged, and I built and designed our wedding website. The rehearsal dinner decor was all done by family.

Our signature drink was a remake of “The Rail,” served in authentic cups from Top of the Stairs in Blacksburg.

Megan’s wedding planning advice for other DC-area couples:

Plan early! Our day could not have happened without being proactive, creative, prompt, flexible, and supportive. We really worked hard for what seemed like forever, but we had six weeks leading up to the wedding with nothing to do! Being able to enjoy that special time relaxed and reflecting was very soothing and well deserved.

With that in mind, make sure not to plan too fast or rush through the motions. You’ll only have one engagement party, one wedding registry, one bridal shower. Take the time to enjoy being someone’s fiancee, explaining what font you want on your wedding invitation, and struggling with forming an opinion over something that seems silly. The whole process comes and goes quickly! Ask for help from family as they will have just as much fun as you!

Thank you so much Megan and Joe for sharing your wedding reception with us! The following Washington DC area wedding professionals contributed to their wedding:

Ceremony Venue: Saint John Neumann Catholic Church
Reception: International Country Club
Photography: Photography by Marirosa
Videography: SkipperFilms
Floral Design: Rick’s Flowers
Stationery: The Dandelion Patch
Bridal Attire: Justin Alexander
Veil: Heirloom
Garter: The Garter Girl
Bridesmaids’ Attire: Bill Levkoff
Hair and Makeup: Hair Studio 54
Grooms and Groomsmens’ Attire: Vera Wang
Catering: International Country Club
Cake: Sweets By E
Music, Photo Booth + Lighting: Black Tie Entertainment

For more vendors, please visit our Washington DC area wedding vendor guide and for even more local ideas visit our wedding inspiration galleries or check out our other Washington DC area real wedding features.

Photo Credits: Photography by Marirosa