Courtney + Nathan
September 24, 2021
Which part of your wedding did you want to WOW your guests?
“A good DJ and caterer are extremely important to us. Thankfully, we had both! My step-father, a recognized Richmond chef, Carlisle Bannister, stepped in and catered our wedding. And while I know it’s common knowledge that the bride and groom don’t get to eat on their wedding day, I can say first hand that he blew everyone away with his southern surf ‘n’ turf creation. Our DJ, Frank Guertler of Bunn DJ Company was phenomenal. We STILL hear about how amazing his set list was, and how much fun people had on the dance floor.”
Favorite parts of the day
“I loved the very end! Our DJ played Friends in Low Places (we both grew up on old country classics!) and had everyone sort of organically link arms in a circle around us as we sang, and I was able to see all my friends and family joined arm in arm as they sang together…it was a really sweet memory that I will cherish. Nate doesn’t really like being the center of attention, so he will tell you he loved being able to “loosen his tie” and kick back on the dance floor with our friends the best!”
Biggest Challenge
“It’s a tie between budget and guest count. It’s so hard to know what things cost if you haven’t done this sort of thing before, and while you plan your guest list so far in advance, it’s so hard to know how many people are actually coming when everything is dependent on that number.”
Best piece of advice
“I know it seems overwhelming, but start with your date and your venue, and the rest will fall into place! Also, your vendors will be your saving grace. They’re the experts so you don’t have to be…trust and listen to their advice!”
Post wedding news
“Nathan and I both were sought out and received work promotions, taking on new roles at our respective companies right before the wedding! (Crazy, right?) We are happy to say that we have both settled into our new roles and are doing well. We are currently looking to find land and build a house together.”
Testimonials: “Our DJ, Frank Guertler of Bunn DJ Company was phenomenal. With over 5,000 five star reviews online, we had high expectations, but he EXCEEDED those! We STILL hear about how amazing his set list was, and how much fun people had on the dance floor (I mean he had my very pregnant SIL on her feet all night long if that tells you anything!). Frank is the ultimate professional, providing all his own equipment and lights, and he knew exactly how to lead the show while modestly keeping out of the spotlight. He was so easy to work with, and we cannot recommend him enough.”
“My step-father, a recognized Richmond chef, and owner of the soon-to-open “Supper Club”, Chef Carlisle Bannister, stepped in and catered our wedding. And while I know it’s common knowledge that the bride and groom don’t get to eat on their wedding day, I can say first hand that he blew everyone away with his southern surf ‘n’ turf creation, as Whitney stole us away to eat a private dinner in the cottage. We are so thankful for all his hard work, and cannot wait to continue enjoying his creations with his new restaurant opening!”
