Shaniquia + Rashaad, Morais Vineyards, Summer 2023

Shaniquia Epps & Rashaad Harris locked in their wedding vows surrounded by family and friends on July 2, 2023 at a classic Portuguese style vineyard, Morais Vineyards & Winery, in Bealton, Virginia.  Vineyards, water, fountains, bridges, and more were the backdrop for the Summer afternoon ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.

About the Couple

Shaniquia, a healthcare professional from Virginia and Rashaad, a coach and educator from New Jersey met on the campus of Virginia Union University. The two initially connected over a work project, but decided to explore the option of dating each other.  Just like their personalities, the first date was very informal and laid back. The two discussed their backgrounds, goals, college experience, degrees, and past relationships all over Shaniquia’s favorite food:Mexican. Individually, they both were thinking “will this work”?

After dating for seven years, our love birds were on their summer vacation in Cancun, Mexico when Shaniquia canceled the dinner reservations because she was too tired from all the sightseeing in the country that morning. Instead, they decided to attend dinner at the resort. After dinner, Rashaad asked her to take a walk on the beach. As the couple walked toward the beach, Shaniquia declined because there was a tremendous amount of seaweed. The seaweed captured Shaniquia’s attention so much that she pulled out her phone and began recording. While Shaniquia was recording, little did she know Rashaad was behind her on his knee asking for her hand in marriage. When Shaniquia no longer heard Rashaad nearby she quickly turned around and said “oh no what are you doing down there” and it was happily ever after since.

The planning process lasted just over one year after the couple booked our full planning services.  Shaniquia and Rashaad found their gorgeous venue first, and they reached out to us to execute their vision!  Shaniquia was fully immersed into the planning process with us every step of the way.  Together we shared ideas and ultimately planned the ultimate wedding guest experience.

Wedding Day

The color palette was rich, romantic, and sophisticated.  We opted for olive green, gold, and ivory.  The final design was a perfect mixture of the bride and groom’s Pinterest inspiration, our detailed finishings, and Oniee’s Engagement’s flawless floral execution.

On the morning of wedding day, Shaniquia and her bridesmaids enjoyed breakfast and mimosas in the private Cottage Wedding suite onsite. The Cottage Wedding Suite is saturated with natural sunlight, multiple vanity seating with LED lighted mirrors, a beautiful armoire, lounge furniture, stunning fireplace, outside terrace, and a French garden. This space provided an elegant and relaxing oasis for our bride and her best girls.  Meanwhile, Rashad and his groomsmen kicked back in The Venue Wedding Suite.  This space is equipped with a full bathroom, spacious lounge area, candle lit bar and wine cooler. The Groom and his guys enjoyed the seclusion of this space as they prepared for the festivities of the day ahead.  Getting ready portraits took place all around the grounds of the vineyard. Bridesmaids dressed in varying olive green chiffon dresses from Tiffany’s Bridal.  The olive green tones complemented the greenery of the venue perfectly.  The juxtaposition of Shaniquia’s ivory spaghetti strap, lace, mermaid gown by Christina Wu, allowed it to shine through and be the star it deserved.  Groomsmen sported expertly tailored cream colored suits from Denzel Honore, while the Groom opted for olive green.  

Guests arrived at Morais Vineyards on this scorching hot day, greeted by venue staff serving lemonade and water.  We took care to make sure all guests were comfortable by providing hand-held fans and tissues for happy tears.  The magnificent sounds of Dr. Violin echoed through the vineyard for all to enjoy during the prelude and ceremony.  Shaniquia and Rashaad dedicated their lives to one another just beneath an impressive pergola overlooking the vineyard’s pond. 

Cocktail hour took guests on an experience that will be hard to soon forget.  Immediately following the ceremony, friends and family were ushered to the main building where they could sit on the patio and watch the sunset over the vineyards, while enjoying a live violinist, cool off in the Wine Tasting Room and take a spin on Curated by Phoenix’s 360 Photo Booth, or enjoy a glass of bourbon while savoring a hand rolled cigar from The Mobile Cigar Lounge.  Ice Lab sculpted a custom “H” ice carving that was positioned near the bar for a quick photo opportunity.  No matter which experience you chose first, it was surely an experience you would treasure forever.

The Look

To find their seat, attendees found their name and table number printed on a glass of wine by KK&S Designs.  This wine wall was placed in the grand foyer surrounded by cream marble floors.  Guests were seated at a mixture of gold and ivory tables paired with gold starburst placemats, gold beaded chargers, satin olive green napkins, and brushed gold flatware provided by Beyond the Decor.  Oniee’s Engagements and Beyond the Decor dressed the tables in alternating, trumpet vase floral centerpieces, bud vases, and gold mirror boxes.  Shaniquia and Rashaad sat slightly elevated above their guests, on the stage anchored by columns elaborately-painted with Portuguese tiles, surrounded by Palladian style windows, and six champagne leaf grand chandeliers.

For those with a sweet tooth there was a donut wall filled with olive green and gold donuts, a treat cart full of the couple’s favorite things, and a three tier vanilla  bean and red velvet cake baked by The Sweet Stop.  The cake also featured a cascade of fresh blush roses.

Guests danced the night away to the sounds of DJ Rayvon, and ended the evening on the vineyard patio, lighting up the night sky with led light sticks for The Harris’ send-off.  Shaniqua and Rashaad enjoyed one final dance in private.  Once they headed outside, their friends and family cheered them on as they exited the ballroom, and onto their party bus.

What’s Next

We loved planning, and executing a wedding that had so many extraordinary guest experiences.  Shaniqua and Rashaad look forward to honeymooning in Mexico.  The newly-weds’ plans for the future include purchasing a beautiful home with a couple of acres, investing in real estate, and growing their family. The two also plan to visit every NFL stadium, travel with friends and purchase a vacation home in Jamaica.

Client Review

“Soni and her team made sure I had not one worry on my big day. They made sure my wedding day went off without at hitch. She is so organized and she anticipates your every need! She’s the best choice!”

Mr. & Mrs. Harris

Photo Credits: Judah Avenue