Real Weddings
Jillian and Jordan’s Fearrington Wedding
How did you and your partner meet?
We met our freshman year of college at UNC-Chapel Hill through mutual friends. We remained friends at first and then quickly realized how much we had in common an
d enjoyed being with each other. We have been dating ever since!
Tell us about the engagement?
Jordan knew I wanted something private, so I had a feeling it was coming when we went on a trip to Europe together the summer before I started grad school. We had just moved back to North Carolina from Atlanta and it felt like a turning point in our relationship – starting our lives together and settling down in our home state! After three or four nights of romantic dinners in Italy without a ring on my finger, I lost all hope. Maybe he had something planned for back home in North Carolina…there was no way it was happening at this point. Turns out Jordan was the only person in the world brave enough to carry a ring around for our entire 10-day vacation. He waited until the very last night and took me to a beautiful spot overlooking the capital of Malta. There was a photographer posing as a tourist and everything. Safe to say I was shocked!
What made Fearrington the place for you to say “I do?”
We both grew up in North Carolina so there was no question we would get married here. Fearrington was one of the first (and few) venues we toured. Meeting Gilda was like meeting our future therapist. We had no idea what we were getting ourselves into being the first ones in both of our families to get married. We left feeling confident and at ease, not to mention in awe of how much Fearrington takes care of for you (food, décor, flowers, coordinator…the list goes on) All of this without having to leave the vicinity. Our guests took advantage of the spa, shopping, dining and our ceremony could not have had a more gorgeous backdrop with the fountain trickling and bees buzzing around the lush gardens. It was a no-brainer. I’m pretty sure we signed a contract the very next day.
Describe the highlight moment of your wedding day.
The highlight was definitely getting to witness everything we had been working on for over a year come to life. Most notably, the cake! It was so much bigger and better than I could have ever imagined. Although we got to do a cake tasting, nothing compares to seeing your completely custom design for the first time. We met with Kara almost six months before our wedding date and you would have never known. Her and her team are extremely talented and diligent and I will forever cherish the photos of our gorgeous cake…and that frozen piece in the freezer!
What was the biggest surprise of the day?
I am a huge control freak, so I expected to feel very overwhelmed throughout the day. I could have not been more relaxed or content. Everything was taken care of – my bridesmaids and I enjoyed a catered brunch in the bridal suite that morning, and we even got to toast with the groomsmen in a separate garden room while we signed the marriage license. Every aspect of the Fearrington is classy and comfortable!
What was your biggest surprise about wedding planning?
People actually notice and appreciate the little details. It can feel silly fretting over the small things during the planning process, but seeing those details in real life and watching your guests enjoy them is so rewarding.
Anything you want to add about your wedding story?
We almost didn’t have a wedding! I found out the next day that there was an electrical fire that took out the power in the barn!! Just a few hours before my ceremony started, Gilda and team were dealing with firetrucks and the utility company, moving carts full of food to a different kitchen. I was completely clueless. Luckily, the power was quickly restored and everything went off without a hitch (the food could have not been more delicious!) We can all laugh about it now, but it just goes to show how well the event was managed.
Photos: Krystal Kast
Video: White Elm Films
Hair and Makeup: Logan and Adrienne of Tease and Blush
Wedding Gown: Kitty Chen
Bridal Salon: Gavin Christianson Bridal
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Assorted
Groom’s Attire: Ticknors Durham and Suit Supply Atlanta
Stationery: Bella Figura through The Write Occasion
Ceremony and Reception Music: Arioso Strings, The Band Punch
