Garden Wedding in Norfolk VA
The day had finally come! This wedding was a dream to be a part of. At the beginning of the year at the Vow Bridal Show, Will & Helene were announced as the winners of the Norfolk Botanical Gardens Winners of their dream wedding giveaway! Helene, not being sure what just happened, lingered behind Will who excitedly approached the stage. It was really happening, they had won the 35,000.00 wedding giveaway and they couldn’t be more excited!
A beautiful love story.
Marriage is about love and commitment and for Will and Helene the traditional vows, “for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health,” are especially meaningful. They met in 2010 at work and their personalities clicked immediately. The two began dating and fell deeply in love. Then they moved in together and even adopted a dog. For two years, their lives were blissful and happy.
An unexpected turn of events.
In 2012, after a severe sudden illness, Will was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease. In the difficult year, the followed he was hospitalized and unable to work. Will underwent surgery to alleviate the symptoms but recovery and learning to live with a disability was difficult. The one shining light during that time for him was Helene. She cared for him and stood by his side through it all and encouraged him to embrace life beyond his disability. After years of treatment, surgeries, and hospitalizations Will’s Crohn’s Disease is finally in remission and he and Helene can once again focus on building their life together. Unfortunately, outstanding medical bills have thus far prevented them from planning their dream wedding. Will submitted the contest entry because he would like to give Helene the wedding of her dreams, and says that winning would be “an amazing blessing after years of hard times.”
Love triumphs all.
As watching these two become husband and wife, I noticed there was hardly a dry eye there. Their friendship through the years grew into an unbreakable bond that will continue to get them through this life. They make an incredible team and it was a joy to come together and celebrate their story. Their garden-inspired wedding was not only full of beauty and love but also so much joy and celebration.
Kindness always wins.
Getting to be a part of this amazing garden wedding giveaway was such an honor. I especially loved being apart of a team of vendors who love and care hard. This incredible day was put on by people who serve selflessly and who bring so much kindness and love to the wedding industry. Will & Helene received many special offers from local wedding vendors and even tons of complimentary services as well. Luke and I revel in the fact that we get to be included in this incredible team of vendors who made their wedding day a success.
Will & Helene,
You were a reminder to us what it means to love. You reminded us what it means to be a friend. We have never met a couple that has such a bond as you do. Cherish that and continue just being you. Thank you for trusting us with your big day. We wish you a lifetime of love and happiness.
Love,
-Luke & Ash-
Thank you to these amazing vendors who came together and served selflessly to make their dream wedding come true!
You guys ROCK!
Venue: Norfolk Botanical Gardens
Planning: Cherry Blossom Planning Factory
Florist: Fluttering Flowers
Cake: Incredible Edibles
Hair: Stacy Walton
Dress: Studio I Do
Men’s Suits: Miguel
Lighting: Courtney (Stage Right Lighting),
Officiant: Christina (Just Married by Christina),
Rentals: Amber (Distinctive Event Rentals)
Catering: Monteros
We LOVE shooting at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens! See some more weddings and sessions from there!
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