Midnight Festivity

by

Friends of Welsy Mourino and James Dillon tried for three years to get the two Virginia Beach natives to meet. When they finally did cross paths in 2008, the couple fell in love within a few months. Four years later, James proposed while they vacationed in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Welsy wanted the wedding to have a luxurious feel with some history behind it, so the rich colors and Art Deco feel of the Bolling Haxall House created the perfect backdrop for the big day. The wedding date came about because Welsy’s family has always had big parties for New Year’s Eve — and what’s a bigger party than a wedding?

Despite the party atmosphere, Welsy and James’ ceremony took place within a very intimate setting at the Bolling Haxall House. Around 30 immediate family members and close friends witnessed the couple exchange their vows.

While the bridal party took photos, the remaining 170 guests arrived for cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Welsy’s Puerto Rican heritage was represented with small touches throughout the reception. The signature cocktail was a coquito — coconut milk, rum, condensed milk, evaporated milk, cinnamon and nutmeg. The guests also enjoyed empanadas and ceviche. The couple cut a small, traditional wedding cake, but they also served three different types of tres leches cakes. DJ Rudy Lopez kept the party going with Spanish music as well as modern hits. And the big night ended with a New Year’s countdown and a champagne fountain followed by a sparkler-studded grand exit.

James and Welsy, who enjoyed a mini-moon stay in a cabin in Stanley, Va., are planning a trip

to Ireland and Spain this fall.

December 31, 2013

CAKE: Black Bird Bakery

CATERING: Cater 2 Events

WEDDING PLANNER: Amelia Coulomb, Fête Studio

MAKEUP: Summer McCarley, Mint Collective

HAIR: Rachel Shrader, Elle Style Studio