Melissa is a nurse and currently in school at Virginia Commonwealth University to further her degree. Justin works in finance in Washington D.C. but has also spent some time in Paris, and they both went to James Madison University! Their romantic summer wedding at the Mankin Mansion in Richmond had tons of sweet moments and details that honored the groom’s time in France. The Girl Tyler captured their day!
A summertime Mankin Mansion wedding in Richmond, VA
The Proposal
Justin lived in France for 2 years after we started dating. I tried to visit as much as I could. He surprised me in his tiny little apartment on the Places des Vosges in Paris right before our weekend getaway in northern France!
About the Wedding
My grandparents were well respected and involved in the Greek Orthodox Church in Richmond. Justin and I have decided to raise our future family in the church, as it has special meaning to both of us. We loved Mankin for its outdoors and the gardens, something that we truly enjoyed in France!
Favorite Moments
I think we both enjoyed getting ready with our friends and family. We love QT! But the ceremony! AND the party afterwards!? I’m not sure we can pick a favorite. It was pretty special to look out and see all of these amazing people you love so much their celebrating with you.
The Flowers, Cake & Favors
Roses, peonies, juniper and rosemary! Justin loved the greenery and I love to cook, so we wanted it to smell good.
WHISK CAKE! Corn cake with blueberry compote and honey buttercream. I still crave this, too bad it’s only a summer special.
My mom and stepdad raise honeybees, so we gave everyone some of “Junior’s Spring Run Honey” to go home with. We also had Koufeta at the church, a Greek tradition of candy coated white almonds.
Personal Details
My mom put together the favors and the koufeta. I had my yiayia’s ring and opal pendant on the wedding bouquet. Justin’s dad carried out the Greek tradition of bringing my shoes on a platter, and I gave Justin a watch!
Artists
- Photography: The Girl Tyler
- Ceremony Venue: St. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral
- Reception Venue: Historic Mankin Mansion
- Catering: Champagne Taste Catering
- Videography: Moovis
- DJ: Hunter Omohundro
- Wedding Cake: WHISK
- Cupcakes: WPA Bakery
- Floral: Flowers by Mona Ray
- Stationery: Piedmont Press & Graphics
- Rentals: Classic Party Rentals of Virginia
- Transportation: James River Transportation, After Five Limousine
- Wedding & Bridesmaid Dresses: BHLDN
- Groom’s Attire: JCPenney
- Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka
- Submitted via: Matchology
