
[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Black, Green, White[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]
Thoughtfully planned and designed by Jazmin Portnow of Anyvent Event Planning, the wedding embodied a classic black-tie vision that felt timeless, elevated, and refined. Every element was curated to honor the grandeur of Dover Hall while maintaining a sense of warmth and celebration. The overall aesthetic balanced sophistication with joy, creating an atmosphere that felt both formal and deeply personal.
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[field title=”Proposal Story”]
Sheridan proposed to Shakye on April 20, 2024, a date rich with meaning and symbolism. The date itself was a palindrome—42024—marking the beginning of ten consecutive palindrome days and symbolizing their ten years together. It also fell on Sheridan’s late father Cornell’s birthday, proposing a heartfelt way to honor his presence and legacy in such a meaningful moment. The timing aligned with UVA’s Black Alumni Weekend, allowing the couple to return to Charlottesville, where they first met, without raising suspicion. Sheridan proposed at Mount Ida Reserve Vineyard, where the Blue Ridge Mountain views mirrored the significance of the moment. After Shakye said yes, she was surprised by family and friends from near and far waiting to celebrate, making the proposal both intimate and joyfully communal.
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[board_carousel title=”Getting Ready”]






















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[board_carousel title=”Bridal Portraits”]





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[board_carousel title=”Flat Lays”]






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[board_carousel title=”First Look”]







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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]
Shakye wore the Stella gown from Designer Loft Bridal in New York City for the ceremony. When the ballroom opened, and she and Sheridan were introduced for the start of the evening’s celebration, she changed into the Jupiter gown by Dovita Milano from Ava Laurenne Bride in Virginia, a striking look that set the tone for the night ahead. Later in the evening, as the dance floor came fully alive, Shakye slipped into her second reception dress, the Nova Fringe Mini Dress by Albina Dyla, shimmering with movement and giving the impression she was draped in strings of diamonds, a moment that had guests cheering and celebrating alongside her.
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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Bridesmaids wore Azazie stretch satin dresses in Juniper Green, a hue chosen to reflect one of the wedding’s primary colors while allowing each attendant to select a silhouette that suited her personal style. Immediate family members were asked to wear blue, serving as an intentional and meaningful “something blue” for the couple’s I dos.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]
Sheridan wore a custom Brandon Gray suit by House of Gray, a timeless look that complemented the classic black-tie aesthetic of the celebration. He paired the suit with black Del Toro velvet loafers, adding a refined finishing touch that felt both elevated and effortless.
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[board_carousel title=”Wedding Party”]








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[board_carousel title=”Ceremony”]







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[board_carousel title=”Cocktail Hour”]







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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]
Food and drink were an intentional extension of the guest experience, thoughtfully curated by Dover Hall’s in-house catering team. During cocktail hour, guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres including lobster rolls as a nod to Shakye’s Boston roots, fried chicken croquettes finished with lavender honey, fried garlic, and Parmigiano Reggiano, and New Zealand lamb chops served with chermoula and kecap. Signature cocktails added a personal touch, with a mezcal old-fashioned selected for him and a lavender French 75 chosen for her, setting the tone for the evening ahead. As dinner was served, guests were treated to a thoughtfully composed menu that balanced comfort and refinement. Entrées included miso honey-glazed salmon with dill roasted potatoes and sesame green beans, housemade three cheese tortellini with cream sauce, blistered tomatoes, crispy oyster mushrooms, Parmesan Reggiano, and fried garlic, and peppercorn crusted beef tenderloin accompanied by roasted garlic pomme purée, charred onion, crispy oyster mushrooms, and truffle bordelaise. The meal unfolded seamlessly, complementing the rhythm and warmth of the celebration
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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]
Florals and décor, designed by Angie Wright of Embellished Details, were rooted in classic elegance and organic movement, bringing a timeless and romantic palette to Dover Hall. The arrangements featured white roses, white Phalaenopsis orchids, spray roses, white ranunculus, and soft greenery, with layered textures that added depth and softness throughout the estate. Each floral moment enhanced Dover Hall’s grandeur while maintaining an effortless, romantic feel. After the celebration, Shakye and Sheridan donated their florals to VCU Children’s Hospital, offering a small gesture of beauty and joy to the children receiving care there.
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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]
Reflecting the refined black-tie aesthetic of the evening, the wedding cake featured a timeless and elegant design. Thoughtful in both presentation and flavor, it became a beautiful focal point during the reception. In addition to cutting cake, the couple offered his and hers flavors, chocolate for her and red velvet for him, adding a playful and personal touch to conclude the celebration on a sweet note.
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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]
Their ceremony included a reading from Ecclesiastes 4:9–12, chosen for its message of partnership, resilience, and unity, reflecting Shakye and Sheridan’s belief that love is built through mutual support and a shared commitment to stand together through life’s seasons. While not a traditional wedding reading, the passage felt timeless and deeply personal to their relationship. As the evening unfolded, Shakye spontaneously led guests in a spirited rendition of UVA’s “The Good Ole Song,” bringing school pride and nostalgia to the dance floor. Line dances quickly became a crowd favorite, and even Cleo, the couple’s cat, made a playful appearance in cardboard cutout form during dinner and dancing.
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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]
The couple’s wedding date held profound significance, falling on the birthday of Shakye’s late stepfather, who passed away in July 2024. A steady and loving presence since she was four years old, his memory was felt throughout the day. When Shakye’s mother and grandmother were unexpectedly hospitalized during the wedding, she honored them by wearing cherished family heirlooms—including their blue-stoned rings—and attaching their photographs to her bouquet, allowing them to walk beside her in spirit. The couple also honored loved ones who have passed with a memorial table during the reception.
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[field title=”Special Detail #2″][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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[board_carousel title=”Couple Portraits”]






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[board_carousel title=”Reception”]











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[iframe https://www.youtube.com/embed/TyrNO5wCVCk 600 338]
Photography: Chantel Cruz Photography | Cinematography: Claude Robinson | Event Design: Anyvent Event Planning | Event Planning: Anyvent Event Planning | Floral Design: Embellished Details | Wedding Dress: Designer Loft | Wedding Dress: Ava Laurenne Bride | Catering: Dover Hall Estate | Makeup: Stefani J Beauty | DJ: Rhythm of Love | Groom's Attire: House of Gray | Wedding Venue: Dover Hall Estate | Beauty: By Natasha Renee | Rentals: Party Perfect | Rentals: Richmond Photo Booth



































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































