A Vintage Thrifted Wedding at The Chairman’s Retreat in Burlington

Some weddings are full of little details that tell you everything about the couple. Madeline (she/her) and Lindsay (she/her) planned their day around thrifted glassware, jewel tones, and community-centered traditions. They married at The Chairman’s Retreat in Burlington, North Carolina, and every piece of the celebration reflected who they are: creative, intentional, and deeply in love. From swapping charcuterie in a TJ Maxx parking lot on their second date to walking each other down the aisle, their story is just too good not to share.

How did you two meet?

We met in 2020 for a very pandemic-style first date in Durham, NC. We sat outside six feet apart, talking about queerness, family, and navigating life changes during such a strange time. Our second date was even more unconventional. We swapped charcuterie and cocktails in a TJ Maxx parking lot and then went home to continue the date on Zoom for over three hours. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was perfectly us.

How long were you engaged?

About a year and a half. We knew from the start we wanted to marry on our anniversary, November 9, so that timeline gave us enough space to plan while still being able to take breaks when other things in life came up.

A Vintage Thrifted Wedding at The Chairman’s Retreat in Burlington – photo 1

A Vintage Thrifted Wedding at The Chairman’s Retreat in Burlington – photo 2

What was it like planning the wedding?

We leaned into our strengths. Lindsay is a project manager, so she handled the logistics, budget, and contracts. I (Madeline) work in events and design, so I focused on vendors, creative direction, and all the handmade details. I designed our stationery, made the place cards and signage, and together we DIY’d so much of the decor. We also had a lot of help from friends and family, and we couldn’t have done it without them.

Why did you choose The Chairman’s Retreat in Burlington, NC?

The venue was one of our first decisions. We were set on November 9 as our date, so once we booked The Chairman’s Retreat, everything else could fall into place. We also loved that the venue didn’t feel restrictive or gendered, which was important to us as a queer couple. The exposed brick gave us that perfect industrial-meets-vintage vibe we wanted.

What inspired your wedding theme?

We’re both suckers for vintage and thrifted finds. Over a year and a half, we collected colored glassware with the help of family and friends until we had enough for every guest. That set our jewel-toned palette. We paired it with gold and brass accents, handmade signage, and decor we borrowed or created ourselves. Our wedding party all wore deep blues and teals, which tied beautifully into the overall look. My gown came from David’s Bridal and was designed by Willowby by Watters, and Lindsay’s look fit seamlessly into the jewel toned rainbow we created.

Tell us about your ceremony.

Neither of us loves being the center of attention, so planning the ceremony felt daunting at first. We decided to walk ourselves down the aisle together as a symbol of entering marriage side by side. We included a community vow so our guests could promise their support in our marriage, and we added a handfasting ritual for something tangible to mark the “I do” moment. Our band, GrayMatter, played “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” during the processional, and it was everything we hoped it would be.

What did you serve for dinner?

We wanted comfort food that felt like us. City BBQ set up a buffet with brisket, smoked turkey, and mac and cheese, but also made sure our vegan and vegetarian friends were included with options like black bean burgers and gluten free pasta. Celeste & Co. kept everything running smoothly, making sure plates were full and glasses never stayed empty.

What were some of your favorite moments?

Our first look was unforgettable. The moment we saw each other, we both cried instantly. Dancing with our dads was another highlight, especially since we weren’t sure we’d go through with it, but it ended up being so much fun. Having my (Madeline’s) mom there was the most meaningful part of all. Her cancer treatment had been rescheduled just so she could be present, and that’s something we’ll never take for granted. And closing out the night with Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” was the perfect queer ending to the party.

Did you have any standout vendors?

So many. Fireside Farm created our bouquets and curated floral buckets that brought all the colors together. City BBQ and Celeste & Co. nailed the catering and service. GrayMatter had everyone on the dance floor. Khaki Bedford Photography captured everything with such a relaxed, documentary approach that made us feel seen. Our rings came from Zales, where we felt welcomed and celebrated as a queer couple.

And we can’t forget Britt Rorer, who did both our hair and makeup and made sure we felt like our best selves all day.