Courtney and Ben’s Kentucky Derby Inspired Wedding

by Amy Serrago

Courtney and Ben chose to get married on Derby Day and they planned a perfect spring wedding, drawing inspiration from the season and the iconic horse race that was being run that day. They started with a ceremony on the lawn outside the historic Hanover Courthouse in Hanover Virginia. White chairs adorned with delicate white florals and baby’s breath were lined up on the lawn, giving the ceremony a light and airy feel and the exposed brick archways made a stunning backdrop for their “I dos”.

Courtney was gorgeous in her traditional A-line gown with its antique-inspired lace bodice, sheer overlay and court train. She finished her look with delicate pearl accessories and baby blue ballet flats. Her bridesmaids were perfectly styled for a spring wedding in their sky blue chiffon cocktail dresses, pearls and nude shoes and all of the ladies carried bouquets of white and blue hydrangea with accents of rose, wildflowers and plenty of lush greenery. Ben and his groomsmen were picture perfect in classic navy blue suits which they paired with gingham ties, Ben in blue and his guys in green.

After Courtney and Ben exchanged vows at the courthouse, it was on to the Hanover Tavern for the reception. Tables were set family style with centerpieces of white roses in jars that sat atop rustic wooden pedestals and crisp white linens that were a perfect contrast to the wooden walls of the space. Courtney and Ben created a special Derby themed hashtag so that friends and family could share their images from the day’s celebration and they had the race playing live during the reception. This clever couple gave out personalized bottles of hot sauce as favors which they set up on a table with a sign that read “Thank You for spicing up our day” and when it was time to say goodnight, guests saw them off with glow wands and funky sunglasses. Congratulations Courtney and Ben!