A Bright Country Wedding at The Lodges at Gettysburg in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Bethaney (26 and a physical education and health teacher) and Andrew (26 and a physician in the US Navy) met their senior year of college at West Virginia University. They bumped into one another at a local bar and, after some persuasion from the bartender (who later became a groomsman!), carried on a flirtatious conversation. Andrew proposed just under three years later on a hike at Harpers Ferry. Not anticipating a proposal, Bethaney brought along her dog, Riley, who refused to make it all the way to the top of the hill. When Bethany offered to stay behind, Andrew proposed right on the spot. "In the end, I think it was more perfect for us because it was very private in the woods," Bethaney assures. "Even though there were bumps in the day, I think it speaks true to how a real relationship is. Things will never go exactly as you plan, but the end result is what matters, and I would not have changed my proposal at all." They got married close to their hometowns at The Lodges at Gettysburg in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Bethaney wanted a country classic theme, so she incorporated bright sunflowers into the decor, a 1947 Chevy truck for wedding transportation, and homemade beer brewed by the groom for guest favors. The couple also incorporated elements from their alma mater, like a blue and gold color scheme, a giant flying WV ice sculpture, and a group sing-along of "Country Roads" to end the night. Since the outdoor wedding took place in the summer, Bethaney and Andrew designed their programs to double as fans. The tiered wedding cake featured a simple blue design decorated with real sunflowers, and Andrew had the cake topper say "Dr. and Mrs." because many friends and family members had not seen him since he graduated from medical school and wanted to also celebrate his tremendous accomplishment. After all the hard work to make her wedding day a dream come true, Bethaney wants other brides-to-be to know, "Everyone will have one or two good ugly cries over something totally stupid (mine was the tasting and shower) and everyone will want to give you their opinion, but stick with your gut--it is your day, after all."