Betsy + Jesse's Refined Wedding at The Starting Gate at Greathorse
Ryan Williams
Drive through their gated entryway to the mountainside stone and cedar venue with uncompromised views of the Connecticut River Valley. Their breathtaking views match the luxurious design. This extravagant wedding, let The Great Horse focus on Betsy and Jesse’s special occasion, details and bring their vision to life. But don’t take it from me or the fabulous venue; Here’s what our bride and groom had to say about it.
How did you two meet? We met in our Kindergarten Class 20 years ago
How did they pop the question? Jesse proposed on Top of the Rock Observation Deck in New York City overlooking the NYC Skyline
What was your favorite moment(s) from the wedding? We had a blast dancing with our friends and family - especially when the band called Jesse and all of his groomsmen up to perform "Jessie's Girl" by Rick Springfield. It was hilarious!
How long have you been together? We started dating 8 years ago during our Junior year of High School
How would you describe your overall wedding experience? Wedding planning was extremely stressful - but it was all worth it! Everything turned out great.
What advice would you offer to other couples planning a wedding? Make sure you have a day-of coordinator to handle all of the details. I was so busy throughout the day, I don't know what I would have done without mine!
Tell us about your dress! Where did you find it, how did you choose it, how did you know it was the one? I was pretty lucky to find my dress at the second store I went to (The White Dress by The Shore in Clinton, CT). I had tried on a few dresses which were beautiful but just didn't WOW me. The second I walked out of the dressing room in my dress, both my mom and future mother in law stood up and gasped - they knew that was the one! I initially thought I'd choose an elaborate lace gown, but when I looked in the mirror in my simple crepe dress I knew it was perfect for me.
Did you see each other before the wedding? If not, did you like waiting or would you have rather done it differently? Tell us why or why not! I didn't want to do a first look but ultimately decided to have one because I didn't want to miss my cocktail hour and reception taking pictures. It wasn't as emotional of a moment as it would have been if I walked down the aisle, but I wouldn't change it.
What was the first song you danced to as husband and wife? Father-daughter dance? Mother-son dance? Husband & Wife - Can't Help Falling in Love, Elvis Presley Father/daughter - Butterfly kisses, Bob Carlisle Mother/son- Humble & Kind, Tim McGraw
What kind of food was served at your reception? Statler Breast of Chicken, Filet Mignon, and Sea Bass with yummy sides like mashed potatoes, basmati rice, and carrot puree.
What were you most anxious/nervous/fearful about regarding your wedding day? What was the outcome? Because my dress was relatively understated and simple, I decided to go pretty glamorous with my hair and make-up. I was nervous it wouldn't all look good together, but I think it all worked out wonderfully!
We love to hear about vendors that you particularly loved! List any vendors here and feel free to share your experience. Be sure to include the name of the vendor, their profession, city/state, site, or Facebook page. -Our band, Clockwork Boston, was phenomenal. At least 85% of our guests were dancing at all times. I highly recommend them! -The hair & Make-up team at Divine Elegance Beauty Boutique was amazing. I've never felt more beautiful and they were really fun to hang out with while getting ready.
Did you find a store or site that had everything you were looking for? Use this space to talk about favorite shops. (Example, where you got your dress and sites where you got your veil/decor/accessories etc.)I was a total Etsy bride. Almost everything at our wedding, including the custom cocktail napkins with fun facts about us, a wooden sign with our love story on it, and even the pashminas that we gave out as favors, were purchased through various Etsy shops.
