Sydney & John
June 5, 2021
It was summer 2016 in New York. Both transplants were a little over a year into big city living. Like most young hopefuls, they swiped right into their first date in Long Island City at Casa Enrique.
Fast forward to day 1 of 2020, and John and Sydney were the only Brooklynites who weren’t hungover. After a brief ferry ride, they wandered to The Max Family Garden, a rustic hideaway normally bustling with tourists, but the two had it all to themselves.
John paused their walk and said, “You know you’re my favorite person in the entire world, right?” And Syd (still clueless) joked, “Yes, duh John. You’re mine, too!” John leaned in for a kiss while shuffling his pocket and got down on his knee.
The two aren’t a traditional couple, so their wedding style was no exception. For the ceremony, friends Susannah and Sammy sang “This is Our Time” by WILD as Sydney walked down the aisle with mom Kathy.
Wedding inspiration came from the concrete jungle where it all began (NYC), to their houseplant collection, modern boho design style, and commitment to supporting local RVA.
Two elements defined the design: the disco ball hanging from the center of the skylight for the reception. This was a must-have, especially for Sydney, who says she should have lived during the 70s. Second was the “Virginia is for Lovers” neon sign custom made by a Richmond legend in his 80s.
Sydney’s favorite part of the day? The money gun on the dance floor. She ran the idea by John and he didn’t hesitate. She ordered a gold chrome gun, took out $300 in $1 dollar bills, and enlisted her most fun friend to use it. The crowd went wild!
The couple’s advice to others? “Do it your way. Have the wedding you want to have, and you’ll be so happy you did. Taking time to support small, local businesses comes with a cost – but it’s worth it 100%.”
