Gretchen and James met at a church function years ago. And while Gretchen attempted to flirt with him for the 2 years they were friends it took a while for James to figure it out. One Easter, while celebrating at a friends house, James was complaining about his lack of cooking facilities to show off his cooking skills. Gretchen made a snide comment about having a kitchen nobody used. Gretchen thought it was just a joke and didn’t think much into it. During that evening James caught Gretchen giving him a “look” and it was then that it occurred to him that she might like him. As they were leaving James asked when he could come over and use her kitchen to cook dinner. The cooking date was a huge success, as well as the made from scratch chicken fettuccine alfredo!.
Their proposal story involves a migraine that almost ruined the day of apple picking, a nearly discovered ring in James’ pocket when Gretchen patted downs James’ pockets looking for exact change, then James spilled his beer at dinner in Gretchen’s lap, and the night concluded with a sky FULL of stars, some trespassing and James down on one knee. James claims Gretchen cried so much, he wasn’t sure if she was saying yes!
James says he realized Gretchen was “the one” on a trip down to Disney so it was only fitting they would travel from Virginia to have their wedding at Disney. The day started with Gretchen getting ready at the new Disney Grand Floridian Villas as Gretchen and James are Disney Vacation Club members. The girls had matching robes and Gretchen donned Minnie Yellow Shoe Slippers! While over in the guys room James had matching Mickey Yellow Shoe Slippers. The guys didn’t have matching robes but instead had different Disney socks to match each of their personalities! After everyone was ready it was time for Gretchen and James first look. After a sweet moment together…and maybe a little rain…we had photos inside the lobby at the Grand Floridian with their family and wedding party. Then it was time to head over to Disney’s Wedding Pavilion to tie the knot! After a touching ceremony the couple headed outside to run through bubbles their guests greeted them with and into a classic Rolls Royce limo! Then we were off to Disney’s Boardwalk Atlantic Dance hall for their reception. But before the party could start Gretchen and James wanted to walk around the Boardwalk for some fun photos and we had such a blast with them! After dinner everyone went out on the balcony to watch EPCOT’s fireworks. Then it was time for JW to rock the night away! And just incase anyone was still hungry after cake there were Mickey Ice Cream bars for all to enjoy! The night ended with confetti cannons as they celebrated one of the best days of their life coming to a close! Congratulations to both of you!!!
Getting Ready Venue: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
Ceremony Venue: Disney Wedding Pavilion
Reception Venue: Disney Boardwalk Atlantic Dance Hall
Wedding Planner: Elizabeth Davis with Disney Fairytale Wedding
Floral: Disney Floral
Hair and Makeup: Beaute Speciale
DJ: JW Jaeger with Mix on Wheels
Catering and Cake: Disney
Gown: Narin Moda from Something New Bridal Boutique
Bridesmaids: Oleg Cassini from David’s Bridal
Men’s tux: Men’s Warehouse
Wedding Favors: Krispy Kreme
