The day began with Lexi getting ready alongside her closest friends. Her hair was styled by Chelsey Malone, and her makeup was done by Jane Polshcha. She slipped into her beautiful gown from La Jeune Mariee, our featured vendor. Known for their elegant collection and personalized experience, La Jeune Mariee helped Lexi find the perfect Dany Tabet dress that fit her timeless and romantic style.
Before the ceremony, Lexi shared a first look with her dad and brother. The ceremony itself was especially meaningful. Lexi’s stepdad, a retired Air Force pilot, officiated the wedding. He had previously sworn both Lexi and Matthew into the Air Force, where the couple first met during basic training.
After exchanging vows, Lexi and Matthew chose to release each row of guests themselves, greeting every friend and family member with a hug before heading to cocktail hour. It set a warm and personal tone for the rest of the celebration.
During cocktail hour, guests were invited to take part in one of the most creative details of the day. Each person had sent in a favorite recipe before the wedding. Lexi placed them all in a book and asked guests to find their recipe, take a Polaroid, and sign their page. “Now, when we cook their recipes as a married couple, we can see their photo and message to us,” Lexi shared.
The reception was beautifully designed with florals by Fiori Florals, decor from Aiden and Grace and Party Pleasers, linens from Connie Duglin Linen, and catering by Gourmet Fresh Catering. Every corner of the space felt warm, inviting, and personal.
Family traditions were woven throughout the day. Lexi’s grandmother and aunt served as flower girls, her bouquet was dedicated to her mom instead of a bouquet toss, and Matthew’s dad wrote and performed an original song for the couple. Each moment reflected the love and connection they share with their families.
As the evening went on, D and M DJ Entertainment kept the dance floor full. Guests were surprised with a late-night ice cream truck serving Graeter’s, which quickly became a favorite treat.
When the night drew to a close, the couple chose Country Roads as their final song before the sparkler send-off and private last dance. Matthew is from West Virginia, as were many of their guests. Everyone formed a circle while Lexi and Matthew stood in the middle, turning slowly to take in the faces of their loved ones. “It was such a special moment for us,” Lexi said. “We were surrounded by all our favorite people, singing along together before our send-off.”
Carter Teal Photography and East to West Film and Photo captured the day beautifully. Every frame reflected the timeless and heartfelt energy that filled the day from start to finish.
Lexi and Matthew’s wedding was more than a celebration. It was a reflection of their story, their families, and the joy of beginning a new chapter together.
