Our Wedding Blog

Keswick 8/16/24 Keswick 8/16/24

Jaw Dropping Moment

After hosting over 650 weddings at Keswick Vineyards, it's rare to encounter something truly extraordinary. However, on Friday, August 16th, 2024, I was absolutely awe-struck!

On this remarkable day, Maddie and Michael exchanged vows, culminating a love story that began way back in 9th grade. With nearly all their guests traveling from afar, it was particularly special to see so many loved ones gather in one place.

But let's dive into the highlight that really caught my eye—their seating chart display! It's breathtaking how they coordinated the wallpaper used for this display with the inserts of the circular bar during cocktail hour. The elegant wooden framing and the meticulously spaced wax seals attaching each table's list were a sight to behold. Many of you might be wondering where they rented such a unique piece. Well, you'll be surprised to know that the bride and groom, with help from family members, crafted it themselves! This DIY masterpiece was possibly the most stunning table assignment display I've ever seen, whether rented or handmade. The board and bar's matching elements truly made a statement—a testament to the couple's attention to detail.

Moreover, Maddie and Michael introduced another novel idea to Keswick Vineyards—a custom touch on the matchboxes. They had a picture of 'Edgewood Estate' printed on one side and a monogram on the other, creating a charming keepsake for their guests.

From the eye-catching circular bar and its coordinating large table assignment board to the extensive selection of spirits, scrumptious cuisine, a photobooth, dance floor thrills, and an ice cream truck capping off the night, Maddie and Michael's wedding had all the elements to stand out memorably. Add to that the breathtaking backdrop of our venue's scenic vistas, and it’s clear this wedding was a cut above the rest.

Thank you to the following vendors for a flawless event: Wedding Planner Erin Cleveland Events, Lexington Catering Company, Smiley’s Ice Cream truck, Uncommon Cakes, DJ Fit, Nathan May, for photobooth and music, Photographer Karina Lee Studio, Videographer Ben Vestal Productions, Foothills Flower Farm, Hair by Boho Braids by Ivy, Makeup by Captivating Complexion, Transportation by Easy Riders Buses and Rentals by Eventide.

Keswick 8/10/24 Keswick 8/10/24

Emily and Heyward's Classically Beautiful Wedding at Keswick Vineyards

On Saturday, August 10, 2024, Emily and Heyward tied the knot at the stunning Keswick Vineyards, with the historic 1911 Edgewood Estate serving as the perfect backdrop for their special day. Leading up to the wedding, Hurricane Debbie threatened to crash the party, but thanks to the couple's clever precaution of burying a bottle of bourbon, the storm steered clear, leaving them with a day of beautiful sunshine.

The wedding ceremony was a timeless affair, with Emily and Heyward opting for a black-and-white theme that complemented the classic architecture of the Edgewood Estate. The estate's white paint and black shutters perfectly matched the bride and groom's attire, creating an elegantly refined look. The bridesmaids added a pop of color with their pink dresses, each selecting a style that suited them best, adding a personalized touch to the bridal party.

As Emily gracefully walked down the aisle to the soothing melodies of the musicians, she was a vision of beauty, captivating everyone present. Following the ceremony, guests were invited to a delightful cocktail hour beneath a majestic oak tree, which provided much-needed shade. A large circular bar in the center became the focal point, offering a variety of refreshing beverages to the guests.

As attendees entered the tented reception area, they were greeted by gold bookshelves adorned with glasses of sparkling wine—a sophisticated and welcoming touch. Delighting their tastebuds were food stations with such delicious entrees of beef, shrimp & grits, just to name a couple. Emily and Heyward also designed custom t-shirts as unique keepsakes for their guests to remember the joyous occasion.

Emily and Heyward's wedding was a celebration of love, elegance, and personal touches, making it a day their friends and family will cherish forever.

Thanks to the following vendors: Wedding Planner-Keswick Vineyards, Catering-The Catering Outfit, DJ-TD Layman of Sound Enforcement, Photographer Rachel Yearick (blog linked here https://rachelyearick.com/emily-heyward-dreamy-summer-wedding-at-keswick-vineyards-a-floral-garden-party-celebration-in-charlottesville-va/), Videographer Andrew of Film & Flourish, Cake Bloom, Florals done by the brides Aunt Alison Mayhugh, Officiant Brian Purcell, Musicians Bloom Trio, Transportation by Easy Riders and Rentals provided by MS Events.

Keswick 8/4/24 Keswick 8/4/24

A Beautiful Vow Renewal Celebration for Ciara & Jerome at Keswick Vineyards

On Sunday, August 4, 2024, Keswick Vineyards was graced with the love and joy of Ciara and Jerome as they renewed their vows. This special occasion marked a blessed year for the couple, with their friends and family gathered to celebrate their enduring love. The day was made even more special with a blessing for their 8-month-old son, Shilo. The Godparents of Shilo joined the couple with a heartfelt blessing during the ceremony, creating a moment that will be cherished forever.

Unlike traditional weddings, Ciara and Jerome opted for a unique brunch event. One of the many advantages of hosting an event at Keswick Vineyards is the flexibility in start times. Unlike most winery venues, which typically begin events after their tasting rooms close around 6:00 PM, Keswick Vineyards offers a separate, private location for weddings. This allowed Ciara and Jerome to change their rental time from noon-midnight to 8:00 AM-8:00 PM. This schedule was perfect for their brunch-themed celebration, ending earlier and allowing the couple to enjoy their evening or get some rest before their honeymoon.

The brunch menu was simply delightful, featuring personalized omelets, French toast, salmon, bacon, sausage, eggs, and the best fried chicken. Guests indulged in the delicious spread, and the DJ kept the energy high with music to dance off those extra calories.

A unique photobooth experience added a special touch to the event. Instead of the usual setup, a photographer with a backdrop took photos that instantly appeared on his computer, edited and ready for guests to scan a QR code for their copy. This innovative approach ensured everyone had high-quality photos to remember the day.

For those looking for a unique way to celebrate their wedding or vow renewal, Ciara and Jerome’s brunch event at Keswick Vineyards is a fantastic inspiration. Imagine the charm of such an event in the fall – the possibilities are endless!

Congratulations to Ciara, Jerome, and little Shilo on a beautiful day of love and blessings!

Thanks to the following vendors: Wedding Planner Yolanda from By Love Events, Uncle Reggie’s Catering, DJ Randall “DJ Hop” Hopkins, Musician Listeso Music Group, Photographer and Videographer Sarah Doge Photography, Photo Booth by Will Hawkins, Virginia Floral Design, Hair & Make-up by Tiffany Lumpkin and rentals by Rent-E-Quip.

Keswick 8/3/24 Keswick 8/3/24

Embracing the Rain: Yancey & Matthew’s Beautiful Indoor Wedding

When planning an outdoor wedding in Virginia, it's always wise to be prepared for unexpected weather changes. Yancey and Matthew's wedding on Saturday, August 3, 2024, is a perfect example of how a rain plan can turn out just as special and beautiful as the original outdoor ceremony.

If you read the previous blog about the wedding on August 2nd, you read how they flipped their ceremony and cocktail hour to deal with rain. Because they had done a first look, that option was available to them. Yancey and Matthew did not do a first look, so moving the ceremony under Keswick Vineyards Aurora tent was the plan. This tent is designed to let natural light shine through, creating a bright and beautiful setting, even in the rain. The couple wanted to retain the vineyard and mountain views, so tables were moved aside, and chairs were arranged to create a long, elegant aisle for Yancey's walk.

In the photos, you can see their original ceremony location and the charming setup under the tent. The Aurora tent's ability to let in natural light ensured the space remained stunning and filled with the beauty of the outdoors.

One unique and artistic touch at Yancey and Matthew's wedding was a live painter. In just four hours, a beautiful watercolor painting of the ceremony was created, serving as a cherished heirloom of their special day.

Another heartfelt element of this wedding was the inclusion of special dances with parents. Yancey and her father shared their first dance with a slideshow of photos playing above them, bringing back wonderful memories. Matthew and his mom also enjoyed their dance with a similar slideshow, adding a deeply personal touch to their celebration.

Little details like a live painter and personalized slideshows truly made Yancey and Matthew's wedding day unique and memorable, showcasing how a rain plan can be just as magical as the original outdoor ceremony.

Special thanks to the following vendors: Wedding Planner Alex Bailey of Two Peas in a Pod, Eric Stamer Catering, DJ Dwight Ellis, Photographer Molly Litchen, Videographer Ryan Fiester Films, Gregory Britt Florals, Hair & Makeup by House of Beauty, Transportation provided by Albemarle Limousine, rentals by MS Events and Live Painter Nicole Daniels.