Emily and Woodson’s story began the week that Emily graduated from Christopher Newport University. Their relationship grew throughout the years, culminating in an August 2020 engagement. They chose the tucked away Cousiac Manor, which sits on the river between Williamsburg and Richmond, as their venue. Our team came into the planning process during the final few months; we were excited to put all of the couple’s plans into place via our Event Management package! We’ve had a thing for green lately, so hearing that she’d planned a wedding based off her family’s plaid, which is navy and emerald, had us all tickled pink… or should we say green. We quickly began contacting vendors, drafting the timeline, attending the final walk-through at the venue, and crossing off all the final tasks on their checklist.
Emily and Woodson opted to do a first look prior to their ceremony, which gave them ample time to get some stunning portraits, shake off their nerves, and relax before guests started to arrive. Once it was time for the ceremony, the wedding party processed from inside the venue’s barn and down the aisle toward the picturesque Pamunky River. The couple’s officiant was one of their good friends as well as a bridesmaid, which added an intimate touch to the proceedings.
One unique part of the ceremony was the couple’s unity ceremony. Both Emily and Woodson collected dirt from their childhood homes to pour into the vessel of a new plant. It was a perfect way to blend their pasts together to create a symbolic future through new growth. We love that they will have the plant at their home and may watch it grow with their relationship throughout the years to come!
After a cocktail hour by the water, guests were treated to a grand reveal of the reception space inside of the barn. The barn was decked out in the couple’s signature green, lush centerpiece arrangements, and fun accents of gold. We loved the cake table, which included heirloom pieces, photos of their parents and grandparents’ wedding days, Emily’s mom’s bouquet, her cake serving set, and the family’s favorite blue and white dishware. We’re big fans of sentimental pieces at Amber Justine Events!
From dancing under the stars to the couple’s sparkler exit, we loved coordinating every minute of Emily and Woodson’s wedding day. We can’t wait to see where the future takes you two!
We’d be remiss to not thank all of the vendors that helped to make this day happen. Check out the list below!
Planner: Amber Justine Events
Photography: The Inmans Photo
Venue: Cousiac Manor
Catering: OMO Catering
Rentals: Party Perfect
DJ: ENCORE Music and Entertainment
Hair & Makeup: Best Face Forward
Transportation: James River Transportation