Love is in the Air(lie)
With its sprawling grounds, gorgeous gardens and glass pavilion, the historic Airlie Conference Center outside Warrenton, VA provided the backdrop for the wedding weekend of Katie Knodt and Paul Hurley on September 8, 2017. Katie and Paul not only played it smart by hiring VP Consulting for their day of wedding coordination, Katie’s sister Kim, who works for Wedding Wire, provided the inside track on vendor connections and current trends.
Organization was the watchword of the day. The couple and the wedding party utilized Airlie’s guest cottages and arrived at the ceremony site, the labyrinth garden, via golf carts. Paper wedding bells guided guests, along with chalkboards from VP Consulting’s rental selection. (The chalkboards were used throughout the evening, directing guests to cocktails in the garden, then later to the glass enclosed pavilion for dinner and then to the photo booth). Katie and Paul thoughtfully provided insect spray in baskets at the ceremony and during cocktail house as a "just in case". Airlie does a wonderful job with their landscaping and gardens and the insects were kept at bay..
Lining the ceremony aisle were shepherd’s crooks decorated with birdcages filled with flowers. These were created by the bride’s mother. A guitar soloist provided the music for the ceremony, which included a reading by the groom’s sister and a knot binding ceremony. Katie and Paul’s little son played the role of ring bearer. By using a toy to keep his attention, Paul kept him focused like a laser beam down the aisle while mom waited in the wings– definitely an “Awwww” moment. Music continued to build throughout the evening. Other musicians joined the guitarist for cocktail hour. The couple opted for no receiving line and made their entrance by dancing into the pavilion with their bridal party. And the reception rocked to the Bachelor Boys Band. Stunning floral table arrangements were designed by JP Wedding Flowers and details included fresh sprigs of lavender and rosemary at the place settings.
The couple’s organization and reliance on qualified professionals ensured a smooth wedding day. Marirosa Anderson, of Photography by Marirosa, is not only a talented image maker but a seasoned wedding pro who provides clear direction to her subjects. Two of our favorite shots from the day are of Katie and Paul in front of the Airlie LOVE sign (made from keys, locks and other raw materials) and the bridal party on the iconic Spanish steps at conference center. Armed with a utility belt of multiple lenses, lights and cameras, Marirosa is a cross between Batman and Inspector Gadget. Marirsoa is passionate about wedding photography – enjoy her work from this beautiful day.
