Planning a wedding while completing medical residencies might sound impossible to some, but for Madison and Will, it was a heartfelt journey of dedication, cre…
Planning a wedding while completing medical residencies might sound impossible to some, but for Madison and Will, it was a heartfelt journey of dedication, creativity, and love. Planning from Lexington, while at the University of Kentucky, the couple orchestrated their dream day back in their hometown of Bristol, Virginia. The result? A joyful vibrant pastel-colored summer celebration that beautifully blended personal meaning with stylish DIY details, and it was all perfectly photographed in film by Caitlin Wilcox Photography.
Choosing the Bristol Train Station as their wedding venue was more than just an aesthetic decision — it was deeply personal. Not only does the station boast timeless architecture and historical vibes, but it's also a stone’s throw from the iconic Bristol sign, a landmark that symbolizes the couple’s shared hometown and the city's two-state history. Adding an extra layer of meaning, Will has loved trains since childhood, making the venue choice even more special. And we sure do love a meaningful location!
With spring-inspired wedding colors like soft peach and cornflower blue woven throughout the décor, Will and Madison’s vision came to life with help from Simply Yours & Co., their talented wedding planner and florist based in East Tenneesee. Lush, floral-forward arrangements adorned the space, balancing vibrant color with romantic texture and elegance with the darker rich tones of the train station. From the bouquets to the draped ceremony backdrop with suspended candles, every detail echoed a timeless modern aesthetic perfect for an August celebration.
A DIY bride at heart, Madison infused the celebration with handcrafted details that showcased her creativity and resourcefulness. Using Canva and a white IKEA MULIG clothing rack, she designed a custom wedding welcome sign that made a beautiful statement as guests entered. Printed on foam board at FedEx and adorned with flowers, it was a Pinterest-worthy piece that brought personality and charm to the entrance.
For the seating chart, Madison again turned to Canva to create modern layouts to let her guests know where to go for the reception. Simply Yours & Co. then brought her vision to life by building the display and assembling it on the big day. And of course, as big Cricut wedding fans ourselves, we loved her classic gold acrylic table numbers customized with her Cricut machine!
The couple’s love story and connection to Bristol were reflected in their wedding stationery, designed in collaboration with a woman-owned Lexington-based studio, Bridle. Their save the date featured a hand-drawn illustration of the Bristol Train Station by a close friend, while their detail card included the one and only Bristol "A Good Place to Live" sign — all subtle, heartfelt nods to their roots. It goes without saying that Madison and Will's entire invitation suite was filled with meaning, intention, and bespoke artistry!
We couldn't not also share our love for the thoughtful In Loving Memory tribute decorated in loved ones' photos, a garden-inspired poem, and flowers on the loveliest little wood and white metal cart. Memorial tables are one of our most favorite details on the wedding day as they honor those cherished hearts attending in spirit.
And with the whole vintage sweetheart cake trend, we especially adored the single tier "Just Married" cake by Petite Sweets that Will and Madison had as their cutting cake which was supplemented by tasty bite-sized desserts like crème brûlée by Blackbird Bakery for the guests!
One of the most touching parts of the day was Will and Madison’s private vow exchange during their first look, a quiet moment of connection before the excitement of the ceremony. Later, during the reception, family and friends shared emotional toasts that celebrated the couple’s journey together — from medical school to marriage. The night ended with a joyful sparkler exit, sending the newlyweds off into their next chapter surrounded by laughter and light. And just like it began on their save the date, their grand finale was a late night portrait taken in front of the famous illuminated Bristol sign.
Editor's Note: Specially curated by us, the above product links are partner-connected and purchasing through these links means we get a small commission from those brands that helps support this website. You can find our full affiliate disclosure policy here on Tidewater and Tulle.
A Venue Rooted in Nostalgia and Home
Choosing the Bristol Train Station as their wedding venue was more than just an aesthetic decision — it was deeply personal. Not only does the station boast timeless architecture and historical vibes, but it's also a stone’s throw from the iconic Bristol sign, a landmark that symbolizes the couple’s shared hometown and the city's two-state history. Adding an extra layer of meaning, Will has loved trains since childhood, making the venue choice even more special. And we sure do love a meaningful location!
Spring Wedding Colors and Floral Elegance
With spring-inspired wedding colors like soft peach and cornflower blue woven throughout the décor, Will and Madison’s vision came to life with help from Simply Yours & Co., their talented wedding planner and florist based in East Tenneesee. Lush, floral-forward arrangements adorned the space, balancing vibrant color with romantic texture and elegance with the darker rich tones of the train station. From the bouquets to the draped ceremony backdrop with suspended candles, every detail echoed a timeless modern aesthetic perfect for an August celebration.
A Creative and DIY Wedding Aesthetic
A DIY bride at heart, Madison infused the celebration with handcrafted details that showcased her creativity and resourcefulness. Using Canva and a white IKEA MULIG clothing rack, she designed a custom wedding welcome sign that made a beautiful statement as guests entered. Printed on foam board at FedEx and adorned with flowers, it was a Pinterest-worthy piece that brought personality and charm to the entrance.
For the seating chart, Madison again turned to Canva to create modern layouts to let her guests know where to go for the reception. Simply Yours & Co. then brought her vision to life by building the display and assembling it on the big day. And of course, as big Cricut wedding fans ourselves, we loved her classic gold acrylic table numbers customized with her Cricut machine!
Custom Stationery with Heartfelt Details
The couple’s love story and connection to Bristol were reflected in their wedding stationery, designed in collaboration with a woman-owned Lexington-based studio, Bridle. Their save the date featured a hand-drawn illustration of the Bristol Train Station by a close friend, while their detail card included the one and only Bristol "A Good Place to Live" sign — all subtle, heartfelt nods to their roots. It goes without saying that Madison and Will's entire invitation suite was filled with meaning, intention, and bespoke artistry!
Reception Delights
We couldn't not also share our love for the thoughtful In Loving Memory tribute decorated in loved ones' photos, a garden-inspired poem, and flowers on the loveliest little wood and white metal cart. Memorial tables are one of our most favorite details on the wedding day as they honor those cherished hearts attending in spirit.
And with the whole vintage sweetheart cake trend, we especially adored the single tier "Just Married" cake by Petite Sweets that Will and Madison had as their cutting cake which was supplemented by tasty bite-sized desserts like crème brûlée by Blackbird Bakery for the guests!
Private Vows, Joyful Moments, and a Sparkler Exit
One of the most touching parts of the day was Will and Madison’s private vow exchange during their first look, a quiet moment of connection before the excitement of the ceremony. Later, during the reception, family and friends shared emotional toasts that celebrated the couple’s journey together — from medical school to marriage. The night ended with a joyful sparkler exit, sending the newlyweds off into their next chapter surrounded by laughter and light. And just like it began on their save the date, their grand finale was a late night portrait taken in front of the famous illuminated Bristol sign.
VENDOR CREDITS
Photography: Caitlin Wilcox Photography | Venue: Bristol Train Station | Wedding Planning & Florals: Simply Yours & Co. | Hair: The Beauty Shop | Makeup: Keira Brinegar | Rentals: Pop Event Co. | DJ: Night Moves Mobile DJs | Catering: The Catering Company | Charcuterie: The BleuBerry Bliss | Cake: Petite Sweets | Desserts: Blackbird Bakery | Pretzels: Frosted by Zack | Vintage Car: Fall Branch Car Club | Stationery: Bridle and Friend of Bride | Getting Ready Hotel: The Bristol Hotel | Piano Music: Anthony Mangrum | Officiant: Susan Murray | Wedding Dress & Veil: The White Dress of Lexington | Bridesmaid Dresses: Revelry and Azazie | Groom's & Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse | Getting Ready Attire: In Bloom by Jonquil from Nordstrom Rack | Table Numbers: DIY with Amazon and Cricut | Signage: DIY by Bride and Planner using Canva | Wedding Shoes: Alex Marie from Dillards | Wedding Rings: Goodman Jewelers and Manly Bands
Looking for Other Wedding Style Ideas? Shop These Inspiring Looks!
Editor's Note: Specially curated by us, the above product links are partner-connected and purchasing through these links means we get a small commission from those brands that helps support this website. You can find our full affiliate disclosure policy here on Tidewater and Tulle.
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