An intimate gathering at a fly-fishing lodge in Virginia
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Paige and Michael
The night before their Christmas-themed wedding, Paige Sandbrook and Michael Handza, their bridal party and close family members joined together at Howard's Creek Lodge. The fly-fishing camp, located on the property of the pair's Virginia wedding venue, The Greenbrier, boasts a white oak log structure, where the rehearsal dinner took place.
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The Location
Originally a barn, built in 1840, the building was a great spot for the elegant and intimate event.
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Reindeer Games
Escort cards calligraphed by Arney Walker were glued to reindeer figurines (originally made to be cupcake toppers) that had been spray painted gold and set out with pinecones.
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The Music
A guitarist played a mixture of acoustic renditions of Christmas tunes, classic rock, and country songs.
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The Drinks
The Greenbrier's signature stir sticks were added to the beverages.
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The Dinner
Round tables were set with plaid linens, rustic wood chairs, and sage green napkins. Roaring fires gave the room a warm glow.
Guests dined on a family-style feast of cornbread, buttermilk biscuits with apple butter, Caesar salad with smoked shrimp; slow-smoked barbecued beef brisket, macaroni and cheese, cast-iron fried chicken, country-style green beans, Portobello mushrooms and bell peppers with creamy stone-ground grits, and finally bread pudding with vanilla sauce.
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The Centerpieces
Lanterns, antlers, pheasant feathers, berries, pinecones, and greenery came together for the centerpieces. A woodland-themed Christmas tree added to the rustic scene.
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Sources
Photography: Kate Headley
Location and Catering: Howard's Creek Lodge at The Greenbrier
Event Planning: Pineapple Productions
Flowers: Gillespies Flowers
Stationery: Cheree Berry Paper
Calligraphy: Arney Walker Calligraphy
Music: Robbie Dummitt
Hair and Makeup: Lou Stevens
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