All love stories are beautiful, but our favorites are told from our couples - those who were married at our venue - the Amazing Graze Barn! Wendy & Joshua are a precious couple, and we are blessed to have been a part of their next chapter.
We asked our bride, Wendy, a few questions to learn more about her and Joshua’s story and wedding day. When asked, these were Wendy’s responses:
How Did You Meet?
Josh and I met at a difficult time in both of our lives. He was going through a divorce, and I was in the early years of grieving the sudden passing of my first husband. I was pregnant with my fourth child at the time of my husband's death. Josh had two children. Anyway, for some reason, we both decided to test out dating apps at the same time. He had been on the app for a couple of weeks and was ready to give up. I had just joined the app days before I spotted him and sent him a little message.
It wasn't long after that I heard from him. We chatted a bit that night, but he had work early so he went off to bed. About 45 minutes later he came back on to tell me how much he looked forward to talking to me more. This caught my attention- and clearly, I had caught his.
We chatted for a week or two on the app and then decided to meet for our first date- but then ended up meeting the night before the first planned date. From there things just took off.
Please, Give All The Proposal Details!
Josh and I went on a trip to the North Carolina mountains. We stopped at several beautiful places. I was expecting the proposal- but not 100% sure and very nervous so I kept finding ways to turn away and he was unable to propose at the first several stops.
We came to my favorite spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Josh dropped to one knee and popped the question! It was special and a beautiful place.
What Were A Few Elements That Were Important To You To Have On Your Wedding Day?
It is important to me that the wedding is very personalized with and by people we love in our lives.
We have 6 children, and they are all included in the wedding party.
My late husbands' parents will walk in as my parents- I have come to know and love them in that way. While this may not seem like much to some- you have to know that we (my mother-in-law and I) never got along before- and after the death we helped each other through. Her support has been more important than anyone's else's. I know that this day will be hard for her- so it means the world to me that she will be there. Many others in Mark's family will be there as well. They are my family now.
Our first dance will have an important message- to love like it's your last day to do so. The song "Like I'm Gonna Lose You" tell the story of dreaming about losing your partner. In the song she wakes up and it was not real- but I did not wake up from that nightmare. I really did lose my husband- and tomorrow is not promised to any of us. I hope people hear us making that promise to one another-and also that they focus on that in their own lives.
Why Did You & Joshua Choose The Amazing Graze Barn?
The mission behind it all- to help feed people who need it. To support those around us- just as God has called us to do. The cross is also stunning, and the sunsets. Amazing Graze just felt right.
What Wedding Style Were You Trying to Achieve?
Joshua and I went for a classic beautiful look on our day.
Do You & Joshua Have Any Fun Facts To Share?
We will be married 3 years to the day we met.
What Advice Do You Have For Future Amazing Graze Brides?
Make your wedding what you want it to be. Having my kids in the wedding may make for some crazy moments- but we will cherish those. Having fajitas isn’t the fanciest meal ever- but so yummy, and was exactly what Joshua and I wanted!
What Marriage Advice Can You Offer?
Love each other like you are going to lose each other. Every single day. Make it intentional. Cherish even the regular days- the habits that drive you insane. Those are the things you would miss the most.
Vendors:
Photography - Lindsay Clark Photography
Second Shooter- Savannah Yu Photography
Caterer - Southern Harvest
DJ - Harvey Nation