A Dreamy Beach Wedding at Cavalier Resort, Virginia 

How did you two meet, and how did your love story begin? 

We met online in March 2022 and quickly bonded over brunch on our first date. At first, we weren’t sure where things were heading – Kelly was open to friendships or relationships at the time, so we took it slow, spending time together and building a strong connection.

It became apparent that our feelings were much deeper than friendship, but our dogs, Charlie and Heidi, had the final say. After they met and became instant doggie soulmates, we knew our partnership was meant to be. Throughout our relationship, we’ve been intentional about open communication, discussing what we want, including our hopes for marriage and building a future together.

What made the Cavalier Resort your dream wedding venue?

When our first venue fell through due to a scheduling conflict, we found ourselves just three months away from our wedding date with no location. After an exhaustive search, the Cavalier Resort came to our rescue. Known for hosting some of the most beautiful Virginia Beach weddings, it was an easy decision. 

The team at Cavalier Weddings was incredibly accommodating, helping us craft our beachside ceremony and reception in their gorgeous indoor space as a backup in case of bad weather. Kelly, a Virginia Beach local, had always dreamed of a romantic beach ceremony and it came to life thanks to Cavalier Resort’s expertise.

What was your vision for the wedding theme and vibe – and how did you include your dogs in your ceremony?

We wanted our wedding to feel inclusive, warm, and full of personal touches. Books are a big part of our lives, so we incorporated them into our table centerpieces. They featured beloved novels we both adore, sourced from local bookstores and our own collections. Guests were encouraged to take a book home with them – a unique and meaningful wedding favor.

Another truly personal element? Incorporating our dogs into the ceremony. Heidi wore a custom floral wreath, while Charlie rocked a tiny tuxedo bandana with our rings attached to it. It made the whole day feel extra special for us.

Tell us about your wedding day timeline – what were your favorite moments?

We started the day in the Cavalier’s gorgeous Presidential Suite, with light streaming in as dolphins jumped in the ocean below. It was such a magical way to begin our wedding day! Surrounded by our families and attendants, we enjoyed food, laughter, and excitement as Darling & Dapper Studio worked their hair and makeup magic.

The ceremony itself felt like something out of a dream. With perfect 70°F weather and barely any wind, we said our vows under the golden autumn sun. Kelly’s dear friend Merrin officiated with a touching and personal speech that brought tears to our eyes. One particularly memorable moment? Charlie, our ring dog, decided to lay down on Kelly’s wedding dress train. It added a lighthearted, love-filled touch to the day.Afterward, as the sun set, we escaped for some stunning golden-hour portraits with Adriana Maya Photography. Adriana captured everything beautifully, making us feel comfortable despite not being the most “natural” in front of the camera. Her artistry really brought out the best moments of our day.

How did you choose the elements of your reception, like the menu and music?

The Cavalier Resort catering team served up a delectable three-course dinner with options for every guest—beef, fish, and vegetarian dishes. For dessert, we went the non-traditional route with wedding pies from Prosperity Kitchen & Pantry. They made a stunning full-sized strawberry rhubarb pie for us to cut, as well as five individual flavors for guests, including key lime and chocolate silk. It was a huge hit!

Later in the evening, we treated guests to a late-night French fry bar – because who doesn’t love fries after a full day of dancing? Speaking of dancing, the music, expertly handled by Melody & Co., kept the energy high from start to finish. They created a custom soundtrack tailored to our favorite songs, ensuring that all our guests hit the dance floor.

How did you decide on your wedding outfits?

Keely found her stunning gown at Ava Clara Couture Bridal, designed by Watters Designs, while Kelly’s look came together at Studio I Do. Both bridal looks captured our individual personalities, and we felt incredible walking down the aisle.

Any advice for other couples planning a Virginia Beach wedding?

First, clarity and flexibility are key. We experienced a venue change just months before the wedding, but staying calm and working with experienced vendors like Cavalier Weddings helped us make the most of the situation.

Second, don’t be afraid to get creative with the details! Whether it’s pie in place of cake or personalized wedding favors, those special touches made our day unforgettable.

Finally, prioritize the vendors that matter most to you. Finding a photographer like Adriana Maya with a personal connection to the LGBTQ+ community made all the difference for us, ensuring every beautiful moment of the day was authentically captured.