Rachel and Evan | September 26, 2020
the Stringers
Their Story Began
Rachel and Evan's love story began in the hallowed halls of William Byrd High School, where they first crossed paths as teenagers. They were not just any high school couple, they were high school sweethearts. Their journey took a memorable turn when Rachel decided to snapchat Evan after getting her braces off. Little did she know that this seemingly casual Snapchat would mark the beginning of something truly special. From that moment on, their connection grew, and they embarked on a journey of love and companionship. Fast forward to the present day, and Rachel and Evan are on the brink of celebrating a decade together, with three wonderful years of marriage under their belt. Their enduring bond and shared history are a testament to the power of young love and the strength of their connection.
Decor
Rachel and Evan wanted a timeless, classic feel to their wedding day. “ It was late September, so my girls were in pale pinks and the guys were in navy suits. We crafted a wedding logo that was the center-point of many of our decorations and prints for the big day.” Sunnybrook went above and beyond by taking care of all the floral arrangements, perfectly capturing Rachel and Evan's pink and white theme. The venue's talented team expertly curated a stunning array of blooms, ensuring a diverse and captivating floral display. From elegant roses to delicate peonies, each arrangement boasted a harmonious blend of colors and textures. The floral designs added a touch of romance and sophistication to every corner of the venue, elevating the ambiance and complementing the overall aesthetic of the wedding.
Ceremony
Rachel and Evan's wedding ceremony was a sight to behold, a celebration of love and beauty. The pergola, adorned with an array of exquisite flowers, created a breathtaking backdrop for the couple's special day. The meticulously crafted bouquets, a harmonious blend of pink and white roses with draping eucalyptus, added an enchanting touch to the overall ambiance. However, it was the inclusion of their beloved chocolate lab as the ring bearer that truly warmed everyone's hearts. As Rachel, stunning in her bridal gown, was gracefully escorted down the aisle by her proud father, Evan couldn't contain his joy. With an ear-to-ear grin, he eagerly awaited the moment he would finally marry his high school sweetheart. As the couple exchanged heartfelt vows, emotions filled the air, and not a dry eye could be found in the gathering. Their love and commitment resonated deeply with everyone present, making it an unforgettable and touching ceremony.
Cocktail Hour
During Rachel and Evan's delightful cocktail hour, the couple ensured that their guests were treated to a unique and personalized experience. As trays floated through the crowd, the signature drink, inspired by their beloved chocolate lab, Laney, and their favorite drink, the skinny margarita welcomed all of their guests to cocktail hour. Alongside the delightful drinks, an array of delectable appetizers tempted the guests, but it was the charcuterie board that became an instant favorite. The beautifully arranged selection of cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and artisanal crackers brought both elegance and comfort to the occasion.
Adding to the joyous atmosphere, a photo guestbook circulated among the attendees, allowing each guest to capture a cherished moment with a polaroid and write a heartfelt message for the newlyweds. Laughter and camaraderie filled the air as memories were captured, and sweet sentiments penned. Rachel and Evan's cocktail hour not only satisfied their guests' palates but also deepened the bonds shared between friends and family, making it a truly memorable celebration of their love and the beginning of a wonderful life together.
Reception
Rachel and Evan's reception was an evening of pure joy and celebration, filled with heartfelt moments that touched the souls of all who attended. The festivities commenced with the cake cutting ceremony, a sweet and tender moment that symbolized their unity and the beginning of their shared journey. Following this, the speeches from family members and friends were an emotional rollercoaster, inducing laughter and tears as they lovingly recounted memories and shared heartfelt wishes for the couple's future. The atmosphere was then electrified with the bridal party's high-spirited entrances, evoking laughter and setting the tone for a lively and unforgettable party.
As the night progressed, the couple's heartwarming first dance illuminated the depth of their love, drawing everyone into the beauty of their connection. The dance floor was soon flooded with guests, all celebrating the love of Rachel and Evan with enthusiasm and exuberance. Laughter, cheers, and music filled the air as everyone danced the night away, creating cherished memories that would be treasured for years to come. As the evening drew to a close, the couple was sent off with a dazzling sparkler exit, illuminating the happiness and excitement in the air. Rachel and Evan's wedding was an enchanting affair that not only celebrated their love but also brought together friends and family to create a night of unforgettable magic.
Vendors:
Photographer - Ashley Thomas
Dress and Suits - Virginia Bridal Boutiques
Videographer - MNF Productions
Venue - Sunnybrook
Florals - Sunnybrook
Planner - Sunnybrook
Charlotte & Cam | October 8, 2022
The Bennetts
Charlotte and Cam's wedding this past fall was a celebration of love and luxury that redefined the traditional concept of a wedding. This breathtaking event brought together friends and family to witness the union of two people who share a deep and abiding love for each other. From the stunning florals to the sumptuous decorations, every detail of the wedding was carefully chosen to create a truly unforgettable experience. The couple's commitment to elegance and style was evident throughout the day, with every element coming together to create a perfect harmony of beauty and refinement. This was truly a wedding for the ages and one that will be remembered by all who attended for years to come.
Decor
Charlotte and Cam's wedding was a true masterpiece of design and aesthetics, with every element carefully chosen to create a breathtaking experience. One of the most striking features of the event was the stunning tablecloths that adorned the reception area. These tablecloths were a beautiful blend of pastel shades and intricate patterns, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complemented the elegant décor.
But it was not just the tablecloths that caught the eye. The floral arrangements were simply breathtaking, with a riot of colors that perfectly reflected the joy and happiness of the day. Every corner of the venue was adorned with gorgeous blooms, from the elegant bouquets carried by the bridesmaids to the towering centerpieces that graced the tables.
And let's not forget the wedding crest, a beautiful symbol that tied together the entire theme of the wedding. This bespoke design was carefully crafted to incorporate the couple's initial, while setting the elegant tone of the wedding. It was emblazoned on everything from the wedding invitations to the bar front, serving as a constant reminder of the beauty and joy that this wedding represented.
Menu
The food at Charlotte and Cam's wedding was a true culinary delight, with a menu that perfectly complemented the elegance and refinement of the event. The meal began with a delicious Fall Kale Salad, topped with fresh berries and dressed with a house dressing that perfectly balanced the flavors of the salad. This was followed by the main course, which featured two mouth-watering options. The Beef Tenderloin, cooked to perfection and served with a rich and savory demi sauce, was a true highlight of the meal. And for those who preferred poultry, the Chicken Roulade with creamy bechamel sauce was a delicious alternative that did not disappoint. And of course, no wedding feast would be complete without a hearty side, and the twice baked potatoes were the perfect accompaniment to the main course.
Later in the night, to keep guests from going hungry, the reception featured a delicious array of late-night snacks that were both tasty and satisfying. From the mouth-watering sliders to the savory quesadillas, these snacks were a perfect pick-me-up for guests who needed a little boost of energy to keep them going. And for those who craved something a little more indulgent, the chicken and waffles were a true treat, offering a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that perfectly hit the spot. All in all, the food at Charlotte and Cam's wedding was a true feast for the senses, and a testament to the skill and artistry of the catering team.
Reception
The reception was a true celebration of love and beauty, with a variety of stunning elements that made the evening truly unforgettable. One of the highlights of the night was the beautiful 5-tiered cake that took center stage. This gorgeous masterpiece was a true work of art, with delicate frosting and intricate details that perfectly captured the beauty of the event. The cake was a true feast for the senses, with layers of rich flavor and texture that delighted the taste buds and left guests wanting more.
In addition to the stunning cake, the reception also featured a live artist who captured a colorful bouquet in their own unique perspective. This talented artist created a beautiful painting that was put on display for all of the guests to watch as she painted. This small detail added such a large touch to the perfectly though through event.
Of course, no wedding celebration would be complete without great music, and Charlotte and Cam's wedding did not disappoint in this regard. The evening was filled with live music that kept the dance floor packed and the energy high, with guests dancing late into the night and celebrating the love and joy that the couple shared.
Vendor List:
Planner/ Coordinator - A Little Party Events
Venue/Caterer - Sunnybrook Venue
Specialty Rentals - Happily Ever After & Rent EQuip
Liquor Bartenders - One for the Road Cocktail
Linens - BBJ Linens
Cake/Desserts - Blush Baking Company
Photographer - Jared Ladia
Videographer - Whole Heart Studio
Florist - Cara Cait Creative
Ceremony Music - Melodious Strings
Reception Music - Better By tuesday
Dinner Pianist - Adam Mitchell
Hair Stylist - Studio 3-2-1, Amy Loope
Makeup Artist - Makeup by Summer + Asst.
Officiant - George Anderson
Shuttle Service - 540 Party Bus
B&G Exit Car - Wilner’s Rolls Royce
Lighting - Lighting Professors
Photo Booth - Flex Photobooth
Wedding Dress Shop - Studio I Do
Bridesmaids Dresses - Bella Bridesmaid
Groom Attire - Hickey Freeman
Groomsman Attire - Calvin Klein
Invitation Design - Emily Mayne Studio
Dog Service - Flower Paws (Jordan Meador)
Live Painter - Maria Driscoll
Ashley & Dujuan | April 2019
When it came to Ashley and Dujuan’s wedding, we went with the motto “bigger is better!” From towering vintage candelabras to colorful smoke bombs, they created a unique and beautiful event that was as vivacious as their personalities! Every planning meeting with Ashley was accompanied by big ideas and an even bigger binder to store them all. We had so much fun crafting their wedding.
Decor
We have been collecting some amazing vintage china, candle sticks, and décor items over the years; we were so excited to get to use them for Ashley and Dujuan’s big day. We paired our beautiful dove grey linens with dusty rose-colored velvet napkins and textured rose gold chargers for each place setting. Vintage china plates finished out the look with each guest getting a different china pattern. We created long garlands as well as short and tall centerpieces with our vintage gold candle sticks and candelabras. Our in-house floral designs were large and draping; we used lush greenery along with muted purples, oranges, and pinks to reflect the vintage style. Vintage furniture adorned the rest of the house, including the cigar bar we created on the patio.
Menu
Guests started off the evening with a raw bar stocked with oysters on the half shell and shrimp cocktail. Our servers passed tomato basil soup shooters topped with grilled cheese triangles and meatballs drizzled with sweet and sour barbecue sauce. After cocktail hour, we served a pre-plated salad on vintage china as guests were seated for dinner. They enjoyed a creative station-style dinner, which included a chef-manned southern fried chicken and waffles station, roast beef carving station, and martini mashed potato bar.
Reception
Ashley, Dujuan, and their guests had a great time dancing and enjoying the vintage cigar lounge on the patio. Their DJ provided an incredible light show that really kept the wedding energy alive! A few weeks after the wedding was over, we were lucky enough to see Ashley at our Mother’s Day brunch.
Photography by: SnapKraklePop Photography
Kate & Ryan | October 2018
When Kate & Ryan first toured with us, they immediately pictured how they wanted their wedding to look. They envisioned long tables that spanned the length of the ballroom, plated dinners for their family and friends, and deep burgundy décor. As wine enthusiasts, they wanted wine-colored accents, wine bottles, and wine barrels to adorn the ballroom and veranda. We got to work planning and came up with an event design and timeline to exceed their expectations.
Décor
Kate and her family and friends made most of the décor items themselves! Their creativity shined as they put together table numbers, centerpieces, and hand-drawn signs. We had a lot of fun taking their ideas and putting them together into a cohesive look. We used our house ivory linens for their long, dramatic tables, and we ordered specialty, wine-colored napkins for a pop of color. Kate and Ryan made a statement by enjoying dinner (and a few photos) on our vintage red couch.
Menu
Guests started their evening with a delicious and beautiful charcuterie display with vegetable crudité and French onion dip. Kate and Ryan then provided an amazing plated meal with three meat options: beef tenderloin medallions served with herb cabernet sauce, herb encrusted chicken with apple cider champagne sauce, and grilled salmon over saffron rice. The entrée options were all accompanied with ginger orange glazed roasted root vegetables, asparagus with lemon butter, and brussel sprouts with bacon and breadcrumbs. We selected this menu because it is so wonderfully fall inspired!
One challenge with plated dinners is that guests choose their dinner option months before they attend the wedding. Many times, guests can forget what they originally selected when they sit down to eat their meal. Kate did an amazing job communicating menu selections with Jessica (her Sunnybrook coordinator) and with her guests, which made dinner service go flawlessly.
Reception
Kate, Ryan, and their friends and family danced the night away. They brought in their own wine from their favorite winery, and even provided a unique tap system for their beer. Kate changed into a stunning reception dress, and they exited the party under a sparkler tunnel to Taylor Swift’s “End Game.” The perfect end to a perfect evening.
Photography by Jessica Fike Photography.
Stepping into September
Sandi & Chris
We spent our Labor Day weekend celebrating Sandi and Chris’ wedding! What stands out most about their wedding was their unique menu. Sandi and Chris chose a menu that fit their personalities perfectly. Sunnybrook staff passed grilled chicken quesadilla wedges and French fry shooters during cocktail hour. For dinner, we created a custom station menu with a pizza bar, slider station, mac & cheese bar, and mashed potato bar. Delicious! Sandi and Chris incorporated personalized vintage touches to their big day, including using a vintage veil as their sweetheart table overlay and changing into a vintage reception dress. They even used Sunnybrook vintage china for their place settings.
Photography by Lori Hedrick Photography
Roanoke Symphony Orchestra Lobster Bake
Talk about a one-of-a-kind event in the Roanoke Area! The Roanoke Symphony Orchestra held a lobster bake at Virginia Mountain Vineyards. Captain Paul supplied lobsters, crabs, and oysters straight from Maine, and Sunnybrook supplied delicious side items, including our famous kale salad. We also designed the event will fall inspired linens and place settings. Guests danced to Star City Swag while enjoying delicious food and atmosphere.
Restoration Housing Fundraiser
More than 100 people came to the Restoration Housing plated lunch fundraiser at the Jefferson Center. Participants learned about the amazing work Restoration Housing is doing in the community. Sunnybrook served our kale salad topped with French lentils and grilled chicken. For dessert, we served our house-made cheese cake topped with fresh berries. As guests entered the event, they were greeted with a blackberry thyme champagne cocktail as well as a non-alcoholic version of the same drink. This was a unique touch that left a great impression!
Company Picnic at Nesselrod
Nesselrod on the New River is a great venue in Radford, VA. It is a perfect venue for a fall-themed annual company picnic. Our chefs created a grazing table with marinated and pickled vegetables, warm potato soup, pecan & apple salad, and fresh fruits. For lunch, guests enjoyed roasted pork with grilled peaches, smoked barbecue brisket, fried chicken, acorn squash with coconut sugar and sea salt, and our famous mac and cheese. No picnic would be complete without a Mule Bar, where we served Kentucky Mules and Moscow Mules in copper mugs, as well as vintage wines and local craft beers. Let’s not forget about the dessert station stocked with delicious donuts, house-made beignets, Dutch apple pie, and cheesecake. We not only provided the food, but we partnered with Big Fun Events to put together an exciting entertainment and games package. Guest took part in candle making, gem stone mining, skeet shooting, horse & pony rides, and carnival games. Our event planners designed this event from top to bottom!
Maggie & Adam
This was an especially extraordinary wedding at Sunnybrook. Maggie & Adam shared so many special moments with their friends and family. We created beautiful floral designs for their big day, and their menu was to die for. Carved roast beef and chicken with a cranberry apricot glaze wowed their guests. But the moment that stole the show was their wedding cake cutting! A week before their wedding, Maggie & Adam gave us a sealed envelope that held the gender of the baby they are expecting next year. For the first time ever, we were able to create a gender reveal wedding cake! As they cut their cake, everyone was thrilled to see they were having a girl! We were so excited to be part of this incredible moment.
Photography by Boyd Pearman Photography.
From July into August
Summer is winding down, and we have so much to celebrate. Throughout July and August, we have experienced beautiful weddings and community-building corporate events. We even were able to enjoy a sweet time of rest at the beach! Check out how we’re ending our summer season.
Katie & Tom
We absolutely loved working with Katie and Tom! The couple prioritized their wedding meal, and we had so much fun crafting the perfect menu. Their guests were greeted with a pop of color with a pre-plated salad wrapped in cucumber ribbons. We also served sliced baguettes with Mediterranean dipping oil. Katie & Tom live in (and planned their wedding from) the Netherlands, and they shared authentic Dutch candies with their guests.
Photos by Matt Schmachtenberg Photography.
Steel Dynamics Company Picnic
Start your engines! The Steel Dynamics Company picnic was NASCAR themed, and we went all out! It was an absolutely beautiful day at the Floyd EcoVillage. We provided a delicious picnic meal of all-American burgers, hot dogs, barbecue, and chicken fingers. Servers strolled the picnic with bags of popcorn, jumbo pretzels, and frozen treats. Also, for dessert guests enjoyed a strawberry shortcake station. We coordinated field games, inflatables, and video bingo with Big Fun Events. This is one of our favorite annual events!
Haleigh & Jake
Our little bohemian bride! Haleigh & Jake had a casually cool vision for their wedding. Sunnybrook overflowed with succulents and floral patterns. Haleigh’s dress, mis-matched bridesmaid’s dresses, and the guys’ floral ties were a unique way to bring the whole look of the wedding together. We absolutely loved their upscale breakfast-for-dinner theme. Guests enjoyed a made-to-order waffle station and delicious breakfast buffet. Haleigh & Jake had such a fun wedding!
Photos by Hannah Lee Photography.
Krystyna & Corey
This couple was special because Krystyna’s parents were married here at Sunnybrook, as well! Krystyna was born in the Ukraine, so they incorporated many Ukrainian wedding traditions throughout the day. The couple and their families worked hard to hand make their extensive wedding decorations, from Krystyna’s bouquet to the custom centerpieces on each table. Krystyna & Corey’s families showered them with love and praise as they toasted to the happy couple.
Photos by
Family Vacation
Sunnybrook is a family business, and the family was able to enjoy a week at the beach in the month of August!
Those Sweet June Evenings
This summer truly feels like it has flown by in a flash. Our calendar has been full to the brim with fun weddings, picnics, and events! We were fully booked in June, with even two and three events each weekend. Check out some of the highlights for June!
Katy & Dustin
Katy & Dustin’s wedding felt like a breath of fresh air! Their bright colors, unique bridesmaids’ dresses, and rustic details created a true summer atmosphere. Guests enjoyed a delicious traditional buffet dinner and a fun chips and dip station during cocktail hour. Katy & Dustin incorporated a Pittsburgh tradition by providing a homemade cookie station for dessert. A rainbow even appeared right after their ceremony, which made for some great photos! We loved their sweet personalities, and Katy’s beautiful smile!
Photos by Chelsea Anderson Photography
Meredith & Logan
We absolutely loved Meredith & Logan’s vision for their wedding. She paired soft whites with dusty blues and bold reds in her design. Her flowers were so much fun to put together! Meredith’s personality really came through in her wedding details. We created centerpieces of terrariums filled with beautiful flowers, and we accented them with slate grey linen napkins and matching menu cards. Guests enjoyed artisan breads with dipping oils, honey, and butter at each table for dinner. Meredith chose a station-style dinner with a carving station, deconstructed salad station, and vegetarian pasta station. They also created specialty cocktails: a refreshing mojito and tropical rum punch. Every detail was executed to perfection!
Photos by Meredith Sledge Photography.
25th Wedding Anniversary
What an honor to cater Jeanne and Jay’s 25th Wedding Anniversary at Virginia Mountain Vineyards. They treated their guests to a beautiful event with a delicious buffet, elegant petit fors and bar desserts display, and unique hand-layed garland centerpieces. With every event, there is a story to tell, and this one is no exception. During dinner, a storm came through and the wind blew rain all through the tent. Everyone got wet, but laughter ensued! Our staff even had to break down and re-set some of their stations and décor items! Through it all, Jeanne and Jay had great spirits, and smiles never left their faces.
Gillie & Eric
This was one of the largest weddings we have ever had Sunnybrook, and it was so much fun. The ballroom transformed into an elegant garden with custom-designed greenery garlands filled with flowers on each table. Gillie & Eric wanted a true southern menu, including fried green tomatoes topped with aioli and goat cheese as well as cheddar ham biscuits as passed hors d’oeuvres. They also chose a Moscow Mule as their signature beverage, which we served in personalized cups that guests took home as wedding favors. Friends and family celebrated Gillie & Eric’s marriage by dancing the night away!
Photos by Mike Topham Photography.
Marie & Douglas
Marie & Douglas’ wedding was full of simple elegance. After nearly a decade together, we are honored they chose to tie the knot here at Sunnybrook. Their whole day was very family-oriented, and you could tell their guests all loved them dearly. This intimate ceremony was full of love and even a few tears. For dessert, they had a sweetheart cake and a cupcake display! Their guests had a great time dancing together after dinner was served.
Photos by Kathy Jennings Photography.
Courtney & Kevin
This wedding was unique in that Courtney is an interior designer! She and her family hand-made her decorations and floral designs, and she even had her brother and dad putting up her décor items before the wedding. They had a beautiful, sunny wedding ceremony in our Boxwood Garden, where they read their own heartfelt vows. We enjoyed their Joining of the Sand ceremony, which they did in an hour glass vessel. Courtney and Kevin were such a sweet couple, and it truly came through in their wedding.
Photos by JR Wedding Photography.
Vistar Eye Center Company Picnic
Employees of Vistar Eye Center enjoyed great food and sangria at their company picnic at Boxtree Lodge. Our chefs grilled hamburgers and all-beef hotdogs on site, and we served them with delicious sides. We also served red berry sangria and white peach sangria, which was a huge hit! Adults and kids enjoyed music, games, and food on this beautiful June afternoon.
What a fun and busy month! Check back soon for an update about our July events. Even though summer is still here, we are already working on our fall & winter events. For your catering needs, call one of our event planners at 540-561-0700.
The Merry Merry Month of May
Between sweet weddings, exciting graduations, and beautiful memorials, May has been another jam-packed month for us! Our staff worked hard to make each of these events a reality for our clients, and each party was better than the last. Check out a few high lights from May!
Elaine & Jason
What a fun wedding! Elaine & Jason’s casual personalities shined in every detail of their wedding, including their Cinco De Mayo themed rehearsal dinner the evening before the big day! Jason is a military man, and they had a lot of fun with their unique military traditions, like the sword arch. It was a beautiful day, and they had their ceremony in our elegant boxwood garden. They enjoyed herb encrusted chicken breast, green beans, and our famous Mac & Cheese at their wedding. Delicious! To add to the fun, their guests created ice cream sundaes at the Sundae Station (a common theme for our May weddings). We loved their perfect spring wedding!
Photos by Bone and Sol Photography
Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine Graduation
There is a new class of doctors in Roanoke! On May 5, we celebrated the VTCSOM graduation at the Jefferson Center with a brunch-style menu. Graduates and their families enjoyed fresh pastries, parfaits, and fun food stations. Chefs created made-to-order omelets and waffles, as well as shrimp and grits. We even provided a salad station with fresh fruits and vegetables. Each table was covered in bold glitz linens that looked great in the Jefferson Center’s Fitzpatrick Hall. The students worked hard to complete medical school, and we were excited to be able to honor them on their graduation day!
Abigail & Steven
One thing that really stood out about Abigail & Steven was their love for ice cream! Along with their cake, they had a Sundae Station and our staff passed ice cream to their guests. They even encouraged their friends and family to feature their sundae creations in their Selfie Station! Abigail and Steven planned to get married in the Boxwood Garden, but the weather had other plans for them. Our staff was able to quickly change the plan and reset their entire ceremony under our beautiful covered veranda without missing a beat. The couple danced the night away with the people they loved most.
Photos by Kaitlyn Phipps Photography.
Kristen & Cameron
We absolutely loved the food Kristen and Cameron chose for their wedding and rehearsal dinner! Rehearsal dinner guests enjoyed breakfast for dinner, complete with chef-manned omelet and waffle stations. The wedding menu had a little bit of everything: passed hors d’oeuvres, buffet, and food stations. Guests especially loved their roast beef carving station, which really made their menu pop. Kristen had a clear vision for her big day, and we created creative centerpieces using flowers and our vintage tea cups, tea pots, and mirrors. We also designed and created the bouquets and boutonnieres for the wedding party, all 22 of them!! After the cake cutting, guests spent an hour toasting the bride and groom, making speeches, and sharing sweet words of encouragement. Although their wedding was large, the love in the room made the whole day feel cozy and intimate.
Photos by Jasmine White Photography.
Celebration of Life Event
In 2017, two sisters came to us wanting to celebrate the life of their father, who had recently passed. They chose a date in May 2018, which happened to be the week of their dad’s birthday. The sisters chose a casual heavy hors d’oeuvres menu paired with an extensive buffet of sweets! Sunnybrook was transformed with photos, people, and happy memories of their dad. We were thankful to be part of this unique celebration.
Thanks to all our brides, clients, and corporate partners who allow us to be part of their big moments!
An April to Remember
Our team had a very eventful April! The month was filled with weddings, Easter Sunday brunch, surprise birthday parties, and one of the largest events we have ever done. We even sent a team to the Master’s Tournament in Augusta, Georgia! We pride ourselves in being able to execute any event, from a corporate luncheon to a beautifully designed wedding, and the month of April really put those skills to the test.
Krysta & Neal
Our first wedding of the year! Krysta and Neal were such a fun couple with a very unique vision for their wedding. Krysta and her friends made terrariums as her centerpieces, and we added greenery and blossoms to create a beautiful look. Instead of a traditional buffet, Krysta and Neal opted for a heavy hors d’oeuvres menu and encouraged their guests to mingle and get to know others at the wedding. We also provided a delicious signature cocktail and dessert display for the wedding. Although the day was colder and rainier than we hoped, Krysta and Neal’s joy and personalities came through every detail of the day. Neal surprised Krysta by writing and recording their first dance song. Not a single dry eye in the room! (Also, check out Krysta’s AMAZING blush linen skirt)
Photos by Abby Grace Photography
Sarah & Chase
Sarah and Chase took advantage of the simple elegance of Sunnybrook. Sarah wore a beautiful flower crown over a dramatic braided up-do. They enjoyed a delicious southern-style buffet full of the best comfort food we have to offer! Both Sarah and Chase were so excited for their big day, which made the day so enjoyable for everyone. Her décor, from linens to flowers, were bright and light, covered with whites, pinks, and rose gold.
Photos by Emily E Martin Photography
Erica & Kyle
When we asked Erica and Kyle how they pictured their wedding, they said they wanted a springtime meadow. That’s exactly what we did! They had their ceremony up in the boxwood garden, and we lined the aisle with vintage bottles filled with wildflowers and created beautiful sprays for the pergola. Their guests enjoyed lemon pepper grilled chicken and chipotle pork for dinner. Erica is vegan, so our chefs created a custom vegan dish that was out of this world! They concluded their wedding with a glow stick send-off.
Photos by Abby Joy Photography
Ashley & Jacob
From match-book favors to a vintage get away car, Ashley and Jacob stayed true to their vintage-style vision. We created amazing centerpieces with tea lights, vintage china, and beautiful flowers. Ashley’s bouquet was full of lavender and soft colors. They chose an upscale buffet with a wide variety of choices for their guests. Our team also created custom signature cocktails for Ashley and Jacob using seasonal flavors like peach and mulberry. We had such a fun time creating their vintage inspired day!
Photos by Katie Nesbitt Photography
Ut Prosim Society Events
We had a marathon weekend putting on our largest events to date! The first night was an upscale plated 4 course dinner with wine pairings served in the Torgerson Bridge at Virginia Tech. We worked with the Virginia Tech Special Events team for months crafting an excellent meal. Our chefs prepared the dinner entrees using the sous vie technique, ensuring that each piece of meat was cooked to perfection. Once we successfully executed the plated meal, we turned the 4th floor of the Newman Library into an upscale station party. We created 7 custom food stations, from an action pasta station to a self-served sushi display. Our bartenders created 2 Hokie-inspired signature cocktails: white peach sparkling sangria and blood orange bourbon smash. We were exhausted after a long weekend of events, but we were also proud of the great job our team did in coming through for our customer.
Other Fun Events
Along with our busy weekends, we sent a group to the Masters Tournament, helped pull off a great surprise birthday party at Soaring Ridge Brewery, and put on many corporate and private events. We are a family owned and run business, and we love to work hard and play hard. Thank you so much to our amazing customers for allowing us to do what we love!
How To Create Your Wedding Day Timeline
You have your sparkly ring, dreamy venue, and maybe even your perfect wedding dress. Wedding planning up to this point has been just magical, from day dreaming with your close friends to sharing emotional moments with your family. Then, all of the sudden, the questions start coming: What time does the wedding start? Where should I book a hotel? How many tables will you have? What time is cocktail hour?
My sweet Bride, you are now entering the uncharted territory of wedding logistics. Things that previously meant nothing to you (e.g. how much time you should allow for cake cutting) will now seem like a life or death decision about which your friends and family will have very hard opinions. Take a deep breath, because we are here to help. Hold tight to your fiancé and follow these tips on how to create a wedding timeline that will keep you sane and stress free on your big day.
Identify Your Values
When you think of your wedding day, what sticks out to you? A big, beautiful feast? The perfect music? Dancing the night away at your reception? There are so many traditional and non-traditional wedding activities, but unfortunately, you can’t fit them all into your 5-or-so hour event. Think about the parts of your wedding that you truly value and write them down. That way, when your friends and family start giving you well-meaning advice, you don’t lose sight of the big picture. Work your timeline around your values, not the other way around. Remember, this day is about celebrating your love and sharing your vision with the people who love you most.
Keep Your Guests in Mind
While your wedding day is all about you, the reality is that there are also 150 other people to consider when creating your wedding timeline. Keep the action moving and avoid long periods of no activity. Instead of having your guests wait for dinner while you take photos, provide a fun cocktail hour with delicious hors d’oeuvres and fun music. As you enjoy cake, entertain your guests with hilarious and heartfelt toasts from your Best Man and Maid of Honor. This strategy also helps you fit in as much fun as possible during your wedding!
Make Some Decisions (and stick with them)
The hardest part of wedding logistics is actually nailing down the details. Many brides make the mistake of waiting too long to make decisions, and the timeline becomes an overwhelming obstacle. For most brides, this is the first time they have had to make a wedding timeline, and they don’t know where to start. Below, we’ve provided a sample timeline just to give you a “jumping off” point.
Don’t let the stress of wedding logistics take away from your wedding planning experience. At Sunnybrook, our wedding planners have done this a time or two. Whether you need a full wedding timeline or advice about how to get started, we are there for you. Call us at 540-561-0700 to book a tour and speak with us about bringing your dream wedding from words on a page to reality.
Our Favorite Things: Fall Weddings!
It’s finally here. Fall is in the air, and this week we are capturing our excitement over Fall Weddings. In the past few years, we have seen a rise in couples wanting to get married in September, October, and November. The changing leaves and crisp air almost gives the feeling of a second “new year,” and an anticipation of the future. Also- fall wedding colors are the BEST.
Fall Flowers
Can we just take a second to appreciate fall-inspired floral arrangements? The bold, bright colors stand out against the neutral tones of a traditional wedding. There is so much variety, and the flower options are so fun! Fall styles make even small arrangements pop in a huge way.
Fall Colors
Those deep reds and burgundies. Dark navy suits. Fiery trees in the background. From dresses to nature, fall colors are bold and unique. You can also complement them in so many unique ways. You can soften your wine red with a pale blush or dusty blue, or embolden it with a dark navy or bright orange.
Fall Weather
Unfortunately, we at Sunnybrook cannot take credit for the incredible weather that a southwest Virginia fall can offer. We can take advantage of it, though! Our outdoor spaces stay cool, but not too cool, and our indoor spaces can feel like a warm hug on a chilly day. And, if it gets too cold, we can pull out our outdoor heaters so you and your guests can keep on dancing on our covered veranda.
Are you planning a fall wedding? Our September & October 2018 dates are filling up fast! Call us at 540-561-0700 for a tour!
Our Favorite Things: Vintage Details!
It should come as no surprise that we LOVE everything vintage. And our 100-year-old historic home venue is the perfect backdrop for our favorite vintage details!
Vintage Furniture
Over the years, we have scoured antique stores and estate sales collecting beautiful vintage furniture pieces. From couches to buffets, we carefully curate furniture that will add an extra charm to weddings and events at our venue. There is no better way to stand out from the crowd than incorporating unique details to your event.
Vintage China
Want to add some pizzazz to your guest seating tables? Vintage will take your décor to the next level. The best part? You can mix and match your china to create a fun and unique look. Vintage china is also a great way to honor your family members. We can mix your family china in with our collection. What is more special than eating your wedding dinner on the same china your great-grandmother used at her wedding?
Vintage Photography
Have you ever seen those amazing vintage wedding photos? The ones where they separate the men and the women, and they snap straight-faced sepia-toned masterpieces? The Plantation on Sunnybrook is the perfect place to recreate some of those iconic images. Ask your wedding photographer if they are up for some non-traditional, traditional photos that will showcase your vintage style.
Talk to your wedding planner about the best ways to incorporate vintage style into your wedding to display your unique vision. We have some amazing pieces available for our brides to rent and enjoy!
How to Plan for Rain on your Wedding Day
You wake up the morning of your wedding, and look out the window. It’s raining. You take a deep breath and brace yourself for the next few hours full of people telling you “It’s good luck to have rain on your wedding day!” (NOT helpful, Aunt Carol). However, you are not worried about the weather! You followed these steps before hand to ensure your wedding day goes off without a hitch.
Have a Plan B before your Plan A.
Weather planning starts as soon as your venue search begins. Ask each venue about their back-up plan for inclement weather, and make sure you love it! There’s nothing worse than loving Plan A, and then feeling like you are compromising your vision for Plan B. Has your venue dealt with weather problems in the past? Ask them how they overcame the challenges. Make sure you are confident in your venue’s ability to be flexible when it comes to rain. Your peace of mind is at stake! Work with your venue and planner to create a Plan B that fits your needs. You may love Plan B so much, that it becomes your Plan A!
Coordinate your Vendors
Once you create your weather plan with your planner and venue, loop in your other vendors. Your photographer, videographer, and DJ should all be comfortable with your weather plans long before the big day. You may never even need to deploy Plan B, but coordinating your vendors ahead of time will make your wedding day run much smoother and save you a lot of stress!
Wait it Out
In many places, especially in Virginia, weather can change on a dime. On Monday, the Weather Channel app may forecast rain all day on Saturday. Resist the urge to change your whole wedding day plan right away. As hard as it is, wait the weather out for as long as possible. Discuss with your venue the “last possible moment” to make a call on executing your Plan B. Make sure you know all the vendor fees associated with last-minute changes. Because you have already coordinated your venue, planner, and other vendors, your event team should be able to seamlessly make changes in a timely manner and give you the wedding of your dreams.
When you spend a whole year planning for one day, changing plans due to weather can make you feel emotional and defeated. However, if you can be proactive by creating a weather plan that you love, you can navigate the weather in the least traumatic way possible. Rely on your venue, planner, and vendors to keep the event rolling so you can focus your attention on what matters most: marrying your true love and celebrating with the most important people in your life.
Company Picnic at EcoVillage
There's no better way to show your employees how much you appreciate their work than with a big party! Steel Dynamics has been celebrating their employees with a family picnic for many years, and we were so excited to partner with them to create an incredible event.
We put on the Backyard Barbeque-themed picnic at EcoVillage in Floyd, VA. Guests were entertained with bingo, inflatables, carnival games, live entertainment, and even a petting zoo!
And let's not forget the food! We crafted a classic, yet creative Backyard Barbeque menu display that wowed the crowd. Along with lunch, we created and designed an ice cream station, chip bar, snow cone station, and an array of carnival treats.
We have been planning and executing company picnics for nearly 20 years, and it is one of our favorite types of events. Something about a fun atmosphere, delicious foods, and exciting activities really gives us something to celebrate!
Thinking about throwing a company picnic or corporate event? Call us at 540-561-0700 to hear how we can help!
The Janelle Terrace
Imagine: a covered outdoor veranda, a bubbling waterfall, beautiful flowers all around. The Janelle Terrace provides our couples with a great outdoor ceremony and reception space that surrounds them with natural beauty. The best part of this space is its versatility. From your ceremony to your dance floor, the Janelle Terrace has you covered.
After your ceremony, the Janelle Terrace can be transformed into the perfect party space. You and your guests can dance the night away!
Come out to Sunnybrook to check out the Janelle Terrace along with the entire venue!
The Boxwood Garden
There is nothing better than a beautiful, outdoor wedding. Sunnybrook has many different indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, and one of our favorites is the Boxwood Garden. The large space, beautiful greenery, and beautiful white pergola is the perfect backdrop as you marry the love of your life.
Add white drapery and flowers to the pergola to create an elegant and romantic look to your ceremony.
You can also use the Boxwood Garden to take unique photos with a luscious, green background in any season.
The Boxwood Garden can even be transformed into an amazing reception space!
It’s no secret why the Boxwood Garden is one of Sunnybrook’s most popular spaces. Contact us for a tour of our entire wedding venue!