From the local-inspired street sign reception centerpieces to the family tradition of being married by the groom's father, I don't even know where to start with this sentimental and personalized special day! I really need to just let this lovely bride Christina take the stage and tell her and Kiel's story-- all visually documented by Beth of Beth Hamilton Photography. :)

I grew up in Hampton Roads and have lived here my entire life. All of my family still resides in the area here locally, and within the last ten years, Kiel's mother and father moved to Hampton Roads. To bring in tradition, his father is the minister at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Suffolk and officiated our service. My husband is the second oldest of four boys, and in their family, it is tradition for his father to officiate their wedding ceremony. It really made our day extra special to have someone that we love marry us and lead us into that next chapter in our lives.

But there were so many great memories from that day, it is hard to choose! I guess my most vivid memory of that day would be the moment I got ready to walk down the aisle. Kiel and I had agreed that we would not see each other until then. It was a tradition I wanted to carry forward in my family. The anticipation of seeing him made seeing him at the altar so much more special.

In the bridal room by myself, there was just this moment that I had where I could hear the music playing as the girls were walking down the aisle. I remember thinking to myself, "I'm getting married in a few minutes!" All day I had been excited, but in that moment, I was beyond excited. I remember looking around the corner of the door frame to see my uncles waiting for me to come out. I went to them and stood in front of the closed doors of the church, waiting to hear the processional music cue.

Within a few seconds, we heard it start, and the doors opened. When I rounded the corner of the aisle and I saw Kiel for the first time that day, it took my breath away. There he was, my sweet husband, crying tears of joy to see me walking towards him. It was my favorite moment of that day. I started to cry as well as I neared him, and all I wanted to do was run to him. I saw the last eight years of our knowing each other flash in my mind. My heart was so full of love for him, and it still is.

There's just something deeply beautiful about a ceremony of three, the number most associated with balance and completeness.

With just two other loved ones in attendance, Melanie dreamed of a personal city chic wedding underneath a willow tree. By getting ready at home surrounded by the things they love, Melanie and Martin made that day about their commitment and new life together. Melanie's son was their bridal party (and rocked out the duties of wedding band protector).

Captured by Bit of Ivory Photography at the Pagoda in Downtown Norfolk, the bride mentioned her favorite memory of that day was a moment being shared between her husband, her son, and herself under the willow tree as they exchanged their wedding vows.

For those also treasuring the more intimate type of wedding day, she offered the following advice: "From the ocean to the bay, from the vineyards to all the beautiful gardens, you can put your personal touch on your wedding day. Your wedding doesn't have to be big to have wonderful memories and beautiful photos."

VENDOR CREDITS:
Photography: Bit of Ivory Photography // Ceremony Venue: The Pagoda // Reception Venue: Byrd and Baldwin Bros. // Florals: Palette of Petals // Cake: Plaza Bakery