Christina + Diton’s wedding was “an elegant, evening event in late winter in the rolling hills of the Shenandoah Valley.” I love the intimacy and richness of a winter wedding, as it’s such a wonderful opportunity to incorporate textures, candle light, lace and special details like an Irish blessing, a Spanish poem and traditional Albanian dancing to reflect the bride’s Mexican background and the grooms Albanian heritage. Don’t miss the beautiful detailing of Christina’s Rivini sheath gown in French Chantilly Lace with boat-neck overlay, 3/4 length sleeves and custom base sweetheart neckline. Enjoy!
Christina + Diton | February 23, 2013 | Charlottesville, Virginia
The Ceremony
My godparents served as the officiants of our ceremony – it was fitting because they’ve shared over 30 years of marriage! Behind them, serving as a backdrop, was a gorgeous candle wall that was installed that day. As the night grew darker, they stayed in place, and looked like little stars in the background. Our wedding was a blend of cultures, and the flower girl and ring bearer walked down the aisle in traditional Albanian dress, there was an Irish blessing and a poem in Spanish. I walked down the aisle with both of my parents. The ceremony was held at the same location as our reception, and during the cocktail hour, the room was flipped. We could not believe the quick transformation!
The Reception
Our reception was an elegant, evening event in late winter in the rolling hills of the Shenandoah Valley. My mom arranged the gorgeous red roses on each table and made champagne colored overlays to be spread beneath. The guests had several dinner options for the three-course meal. Everybody was surprised when we started our first dance to La Bamba (my family is Mexican) and then when we changed outfits for the Albanian wedding dance. The toasts were extremely memorable as our fathers come from such different worlds yet echoed the same wedding message. The dancing continued into the night.
Christina’s Dress Search
I was pretty set on what I wanted: lace, sleeves, simple & elegant lines. I already had the venue (a manor-like space) and time of year (late February), so I really found a perfect dress.
How Christina Felt in Her Wedding Dress
Beautiful, classic, and very, very happy.
Why Christina Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
This dress is so gorgeous – a once in a lifetime memory – but it can’t be kept in storage. I really believe another bride would be so happy to wear this most beautiful French lace gown.
