Lauren McBride & Reilly McDonnell
April 30, 2022, at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Photography by Kylie Martin
While Lauren is a big fan of Jane Austen and was craving a wedding with a 17th-century Britain aesthetic, Reilly wanted a more whimsical feel. But they both knew that, whatever they came up with, the central theme had to be romance. They hired a harpist to play during the ceremony, and incorporated wax seals throughout the décor. They utilized free-flowing greenery and twinkle lights to amp up the playful, intimate vibe, while personalized details—like Reilly’s Pink Penelope cocktail, named for their ragdoll cat, custom welcome boxes with a few of their favorite things, and the alstroemeria Lauren held in her bridal bouquet honoring her mother—achieved a sentimental mood.
Still, the couple’s favorite moments of their big day were the ones they stole for themselves. Reilly counts among her most treasured memories of the day their first look, when she and Lauren exchanged their vows with only one another. Later, they slipped away from the party and took a quiet moment on the veranda to drink in the night sky.
Bottle service
On their first date, in the fall of 2016, the couple made homemade pizza together. Lauren brought a bottle of Charlottesville wine.
Perfect place
Residents of Washington, D.C., Lauren and Reilly often escape the city on weekends to visit Charlottesville wineries. Pippin Hill checked all their wedding venue boxes, with catering included and a list of preferred vendors to make planning from afar much easier.
Italian getaway
The couple honeymooned in the Amalfi Coast of Italy. “It was absolutely gorgeous and such a fun time, from the
boat day to the private cooking class,” Lauren says.
THE DETAILS
Event planner: Adam Donovan-Groves Officiant: Maria Minnick Catering: Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards Flowers: Nature Composed Cake: Cakes by Rachel Music: Trademark Band Harpist: Eve Watters Brides’ attire: Alpha dress from Vagabond Bridal (Lauren), Monique Lhuillier gown, Mandi Jackson Bridal veil (Reilly, ceremony), Alice + Olivia (Reilly, reception) Shoes: Sam Edelman (Lauren), Loeffler Randall and glitter Kate Spade Keds (Reilly) Rings: Brilliant Earth (Reilly), custom (Lauren) Bridal party attire: Azazie (matrons of honor), custom Sid Mashburn (bridesman), Jenny Yoo dresses from Bella Bridesmaids (Lauren’s maid of honor and bridesmaids) Hair and makeup: Lipstick and Chiffon
