We really need to get to perfecting the ability to shrink people down and put them in our pockets to carry around because I would definitely shrink Katie and Tony and bring them out to smile at me every once in a while. They both have infectious, super radiant smiles that are amplified when around each other, around family and friends, and around HokieBird, the Virginia Tech mascot that seems to be a giant turkey (who knew?). Their wedding was held at the expansive and beautiful property of the Beliveau Estate Winery in Blacksburg, Virginia and we were lucky enough to join them (and become very educated in the ways of the Hokies). Katie and Tony booked us a long time ago after a Skype meeting and a much-appreciated referral from our good friend Janice at Big Dog Little Bed Productions, and we were lucky enough to all get to work together as a big happy family on their wedding day, drones and all.

When we arrived at the winery, we already suspected Katie and Tony of being super stellar humans, but this was confirmed to us several times throughout the day by outside source as well as Katie and Tony themselves, who were SO NICE! And I told all wedding guests I met how beautiful Katie looked in her awesome wedding dress (all the sparkly gold wedding dresses, please!) and had two completely separate people tell me, “She’s beautiful inside and out.” So – it was confirmed. In addition, Katie’s Maid of Honor Laura told a fantastic little story about how she used to hang out at Katie’s apartment only to find her favorite foods inexplicably waiting for her, including pre-cut-up fruit, after Laura mentioned that fruit is a pain to prepare. I both identified with this story (fruit is a pain and I’m glad I’m not the only one who thinks that) and found it wonderful that some people out there are still thoughtful, truly special people who listen and care about others in the way that Katie does. But it’s not even just Katie! Tony’s best man Dave told a story about how Tony once, without being asked, decided to help Dave’s family out by ironing Dave’s little sister’s tutu to help ease the pressure of them running a bit late. Laura also said that Tony helped her ride the subway to her new job in DC to show her the best way to get there. And we saw them do this all day. Smile at everyone, hug everyone, and be the nicest people in the room.

So… I’m sorry, everyone. But both Katie and Tony, two of the most selfless individuals we’ve had the pleasure of meeting, are already taken. And I feel like their relationship will just be one of those where they both show up after a long day and Katie will be like, “Tony, here is a milkshake I brought home for you to surprise you!” and Tony will laugh and be like, “But Katie, here is a milkshake I bought YOU!” and they will giggle and hug because that’s the kind of people they are and they’re proof the world is still a good place.

– Date: July 29, 2017
– Ceremony + Reception Venue: Beliveau Estate Winery // Blacksburg, VA
– First Dance Song: “You Are The Best Thing” – Ray LaMontagne
– Katie’s Occupation: Education Finance Researcher at Georgetown University
– Tony’s Occupation: Client Manager at Square One Bank
– How You Met: At a party! Fell in love over our shared admiration of hip hop.
– Interesting Fact: We’ve lived together in studio apartments for two years and still want to get married! We also went to the same college (Go Hokies!) at the same time and didn’t know each other.
– Vendor Credits: Officiant – Pamela Creekmur. DJ – Horizon Entertainment. Florist – DIY arrangements with flowers from Stonecrop Farmers. Desserts – Our Daily Bread. Caterer – Beliveau Estate Winery. Hair/Makeup – Polished by Clair V. Videographer – Big Dog Little Bed Productions.

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