Virginia is the perfect destination for a soft and sweet southern wedding. Jamie and Elliot brought together lace umbrellas, a beautiful white carriage, and hints of blush to solidify their nuptials. Read below how this bicoastal love hosted the wedding of any BSB’s dreams.
Bride Name
Jamie Coles
Groom Name
Elliot Burnette
Wedding Location
Private Residence, South Boston, Virginia
Wedding Date
September 3, 2016
Alma Mater of Bride
The Johns Hopkins University
Alma Mater of Groom
Proud Veteran of the United States Navy
Current City Where You Live
Seattle, Washington
Hometown
Lanham, Maryland (Bride)
Los Angeles, California (Groom)
How did you meet?
We met New Year’s Eve 2014 at a celebration church service. Jamie was new in town (barely 2 weeks!), and by what they both describe as divine guidance, she ended up attending this service without having ever visited this church before.
How long did you date?
Our courtship lasted about 5 ½ months before he proposed.
How did he propose?
On a Sunday afternoon in June after attending church, we dined at a local restaurant. After a touching moment of sharing while we were eating, he interrupted me while I was speaking, grabbed my hand, and blurted out “Will you marry me?” to which I replied, “Of course I will!” Thinking that he was just talking about long-term relationship goals in that moment, I didn’t realize that he was seriously asking me to marry him. Then it hit me and I said, “Wait a minute, did you really just ask me to marry you?” And he said, “Well, yes.” Of course I got misty-eyed, and the rest is history.
When did you know he was the one?
I knew he was the one after our first phone conversation which lasted for seven hours (yes, seven hours!)!
What is the cutest thing he has done for you without you asking?
It’s very simple, but it’s one of my favorite things – impromptu foot rubs!
What is something you love about him that has completely changed your life?
His kind heart and generosity. It reminds me very much of the kindness and generosity that I witnessed in my late father.
What part of wedding planning made you crazy?
Just trying to make sure that everything went as we planned.
What part of wedding planning could you not live without?
A great team of wedding professionals and vendors, and a village of family and friends that helped us pull everything together.
What was your first thought the day after your engagement?
“Oh my goodness, I’m getting married!”
What was your favorite part about the ceremony?
The first time we saw each other as I came down the aisle.
What was your favorite part about the wedding?
Watching the vision for our wedding come together so beautifully, and most of all, we had a blast with our family and friends.
Did you do any DIY?
If so, what? Yes. A lot of the little décor touches, and my personal baby, which was the dessert table.
Who were your wedding vendors?
Invites: Elegant Wedding Invites
Flowers: The Arrangement Company
Catering: Cater This!
DJ/Entertainment: DJ Ed of MG Productions
Dress: Bridal Gown – Custom design by – Ms. Jean James, Capitol Heights, MD
Rentals:
Linens: BBJ Linens
Tables & Chairs: Classic Party Rentals of VA
Wedding pergola & other vintage décor: Vintage VA
Restroom Trailer: Big Sky Rents
Wedding Planner: A Little Party Events
Wedding Consultant: Weddings & Events by T. Michelle
Cake: LaBella Torta (www.labellatorta.net)
Photographer: Rhiannon Kathleen Studios
Videographer: That’s a R.A.P. Video
Bridal Hair & Makeup: Mrs. Monica Edmonds of Premier Beauty Group, Inc., South Boston, VA
Transportation: Horse drawn carriage: Mr. Charles Clay, Jr., South Hill, VA
Valet: News Ferry Valet
What were your wedding colors?
Ivory, blush pink, and gold
What was your wedding theme?
Vintage rustic elegance
What is your favorite part about being married to each other?
That we get to spend the rest of our lives with our best friend.
What did you learn about each other through the wedding planning process?
The planning process definitely tested the boundaries of our patience under pressure (lol!), but we’re glad to report that we’re still standing and still in love that grows each day. ☺
What southern traditions did you do at your wedding?
Horse and carriage, lace umbrellas and table runners, pearl headpiece and clutch purse for the bride.
Did you have any southern food on your menu?
If so what and why? Our wedding brunch menu featured fried chicken (and waffles). We decided to have a morning wedding, and wanted delicious brunch food. We both love breakfast food, so what better food to include with waffles than good old southern fried chicken!
What southern decor did you include in your wedding?
Our wedding venue was on a farm our reception was in a barn – you can’t get much more southern than that. ☺ We also included lots of vintage touches, like farm tables, vintage urns, and lace which enhanced the southern, rustic, elegant feel of the wedding.
What did you love about being a southern bride?
My southern heritage evokes memories of loving family, good times, and hospitality, all of which best summarize our wedding.
Comments
Michiel is a Black Southern Belle living a lowcountry life. I love all things fashion, home decor and southern! When I am not running around doing fun stuff for Black Southern Belle, I live in antique stores and have a minor obsession with historic homes :)
Jamie….I remember you at St Paul COGIC growing up as a happy smiling face pleasant little girl (with hair everywhere). You have grown into an exceptional young women. My God continue to bless “Mr. and Mrs. Elliot (Jamie) Burnette!
Everything was so beautiful, Jamie! Again, congrats.