By Terry Meadows
Jamie and Dave, both managers at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, connected as they settled into new jobs in the Chicago suburbs. Their relationship grew over shared interests like breweries and trivia. Their bond deepened unexpectedly when a stranger at Noon Whistle Brewing complimented them as a couple, and a spontaneous kiss that night cemented their connection. Facing a promotion, Dave moved to Atlanta, but they committed to a long-distance relationship.
Just before moving from Chicago to Maryland, Jamie met Dave and their dog Magnes in Louisville. Before heading to the Bourbon and Beyond music festival, Dave proposed with Chris Stapleton's "Starting Over" playing, and Jamie said yes. With Dave’s subsequent promotion, he returned to Maryland, reuniting him with Jamie, Magnes, and their new puppy, Luna, as they prepared to start their forever together.
The Engagement
868 Estate Vineyards
The Rehearsal
"We did a lot of research online comparing venues and considering what we wanted in a venue. What really stood out for us was the all-inclusive nature of Zion Springs...it seemed too good to be true! We both have very busy careers and the fact that we didn't need to identify and track down a half a dozen different vendors was extremely appealing. Zion Springs was the first and only venue we actually visited...Jon and the team really helped us visualize our perfect wedding weekend surrounded by people we love the most for the whole weekend. Nothing else we researched came close to Zion Springs. It was the easiest decision for us to make!"
Wedding Attire
Bride: Posh Bridal in Frederick, MD
Groom: Men's Wearhouse
Bridesmaids and Groomsmen: Birdy Grey | Men's Wearhouse
"Everything about Zion Springs made us and our guests feel at home, welcomed, comfortable and special. We loved chatting around the fire pits the night before the wedding. We both completely love the rural feel, the barn and the rolling hills - the natural beauty of the property was just perfect."
The Ceremony
Processional Music: "Starting Over" by Chris Stapleton
"Everything was orchestrated perfectly; we didn't have to think about anything except each other and savoring every moment of the day...and the Zion Springs team made sure every detail was handled and that we were taken care of at every moment of the day. We loved the quiet moments together after pictures and before the reception started. And there were thoughtful surprises throughout the weekend (not going to spoil anything for future couples) that quite simply blew us away...they truly got to KNOW us and made every moment perfect."
The Reception
First Dance: "Sweet Symphony" by Joy Oladokun and Chris Stapleton
Dinner: Petite Filet, Chicken Piccatta, Vegetarian Portobello Mushroom with Rice Pilaf | Cupcakes
The Cake: Red Velvet with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
"We all loved the filet mignon and the smoked mac and cheese platter at the afterglow was a huge hit! Perfect for a cool night around the fire pits!"
Sunday Breakfast
"We all felt at home and cared for and part of the family. Having breakfast with all of us together on Saturday and Sunday was so special."
What advice would you give to other wedding couples?
"We can't recommend Zion Springs enough. They truly made our wedding weekend perfect, stress-free, and more than we could have ever hoped for. We had SO many guests share that it was the best wedding they had ever been to. We don't know how it could've been better. The value of what Zion Springs offers and the level of professionalism and quality can't be beat."
Zion Springs: The Ultimate Venue for Your Wedding Day Dream
Are you dreaming of your perfect wedding day? We encourage you to explore our Real Weddings stories on the Answers and Advice page at Zion Springs, where you'll find an array of unique and heartfelt ceremonies that have taken place here.
Zion Springs, as an all-encompassing wedding venue, focuses on eliminating the stress of wedding planning, so you can concentrate on what's most important—celebrating your union. Our detailed collection of articles is tailored to guide you seamlessly through every phase of your wedding planning, ensuring your day is not only unforgettable but truly "your best day ever."