Ellie and Bryan’s American Hotel Wedding was the perfect blend of quirky personalities and retro, industrial style. As self-proclaimed “People-People”, Ellie and Bryan designed their day to be able to celebrate safely with their closest loved ones after quarantine.
If you’re looking for ideas on how to keep your guests connected and engaged without a dance floor, this creative couple has the perfect solution for a COVID-19 reception!
With a deep love of small towns and bringing people together, Bryan and Ellie discovered Staunton while searching for a halfway point between their families in Washington DC and Virginia Beach. They quickly fell in love with the way the venue’s unique industrial feel complemented their personal style.
The American Hotel’s exposed brick and stained glass were a stunning backdrop for Ellie and Bryan’s vintage-inspired looks. I’m getting all of the 20s vibes thanks to Ellie’s BHLDN gown and Bryan’s Bonobos suit.
Ellie and Bryan broke away from traditional wedding party norms to do their wedding their way by having Bryan’s Best Woman as their officiant. (Speaking of bringing people together… the Best Woman was also the best friend who introduced them!)
I’m ALL for doing what makes you happy on your wedding day – whether that means following along with traditions or creating your own. Konmari your wedding plans so that the whole day sparks joy for you and your partner ✨
These two love to travel together (they even named the tables on their seating chart after their favorite travel destinations!) so the train station next door was the perfect place to sneak away for portraits that would complement the industrial mood of the venue.
Facing new COVID-19 regulations as their wedding date approached, the couple decided against including a dance floor to reduce any risks during their reception. To keep guests entertained and engaged, families were seated together as Ellie’s mom led an enthusiastic game of trivia which covered a myriad of pop culture, geography facts, and tie-breaker bonus questions about the newlyweds’ relationship.
Seeing everyone laugh while working together to answer within the time limit made for such a great night! Ellie and Bryan’s American Hotel wedding felt like a Gatsby-era family reunion, and Downtown Staunton VA was this family’s perfect escape from quarantine.
Vendors:
Venue is The American Hotel
Dress by BHLDN
Suit by Bonobos
