Vows that Wow | Kaitlynn and Michael

Welcome to the September edition of Vows That Wow! Each month, our Wed Society Editorial Team has the privilege of reviewing gorgeous weddings from across the Northern Virginia region. We celebrate weddings that beautifully spotlight a couple’s unique love story, their distinct personalities, and the incredible wedding vendors who bring it all to life. Out of so many stunning submissions, we select just one standout wedding that truly exemplifies thoughtful design and breathtaking detail.

This month, we are thrilled to celebrate Kaitlynn & Michael! Their wedding was inspired by the romance of the 90’s and 2000’s rom-coms, the timeless elegance of Pride and Prejudice, and all the guests who shaped their love story.

The Wedding Day Design

Kaitlynn and Michael kept their wedding guest list intimate, limited to close family and friends, so they could be intentional with their time and spend the day with the people who shaped them into who they needed to be to find each other.

Their intentionality was carried throughout their wedding day. From her grandmother officiating the wedding ceremony to a close friend teaching the couple their first dance, and opting to have a bouquet dedication to their mothers.

As a mixed-culture couple, Kaitlynn practiced her Spanish so she could personally thank her new Mother-In-Law for raising Michael to become her husband.

Their cultures shined on the dance floor with a mix of English and Spanish songs where everyone could celebrate!

One of Kaitlynn and Michael’s favorite parts of the day was compiling first dance songs from all the married guests to play during dinner.

“It’s so much fun seeing guests recognize the music playing and getting a moment to recreate their own special day.”

Bringing Classic Romance to Their Wedding Vision

Kaitlynn and Michael’s romantic vision came together with the help of the wedding vendors who brought those visions to life!

Kaitlynn got her dress from Zoya’s Atelier. Her tailored strapless dress with the oversized bow cascading down the skirt and her sheer white opera gloves channeled 1990s high fashion. 

Unveiled Artistry did her hair and makeup. We loved the romantic, soft feel of her updo paired with the neutral tones and rosy accents of Kaitlynn’s makeup.

At the reception, Purple Onion Catering helped create an inviting atmosphere with their catering and bartending. Kaitlynn and Michael’s signature drinks included the Hemingway Daiquiri & Crown Old Fashioned, which paired perfectly with their mini dessert bar of Dulce de Leche Galette, Mini Fruit Tart, S’mores Petite Fours, and Mini Vanilla Cannolis.

The couple also loved working with their florist, who went above and beyond by helping Kaitlynn plan her tables, choosing the right vases, and easing stress with FaceTime calls to make sure the couple felt confident in their choices. Kaitlynn also loved the special gesture of having her bouquet hand-delivered to her and being wished a happy wedding day.

What They Learned

One of the biggest lessons Kaitlynn and Michael learned is to not let social media dictate their expectations. With all the social media around them, it’s easy to get caught up in the feeling of planning the perfect event rather than a day to marry the person you love most. It can be overwhelming to compare what you have to what you’re seeing, but once Kaitlynn shifted her mindset, wedding planning became so much more enjoyable, and each appointment made her more and more excited!

Besides planning your wedding day, you’re also planning a marriage! It’s about putting as much preparation into your partner as you are into the wedding. Things like talking about how you handle stress, family dynamics, and receiving and showing love are so important.

“The wedding is one day, but the marriage is everlasting”