A Traditional, Elegant Wedding at the Vineyard at Riverbend Chapel in Washington, Missouri

Jessica Hauser (25 and works in academics) and Sean Coser’s (26 and a steelworker) winter wedding was all about timeless elegance with a few twists. The Vineyard at Riverbend Chapel in Washington, Missouri, proved to be the perfect backdrop for the couple to celebrate with their closest family members and friends, since the ceremony space had floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Missouri River and the intimate reception space downstairs was fit for dancing the night away. The day started with a heartwarming ceremony, complete with a candle lighting tradition that allowed all of the couple’s guests to take part in the proceedings. “We gave every guest a small candle that was then lit by the closest people to us,” Jessica says. “Looking out at our guests blessing and vowing to support us was moving and special.” After saying their “I dos,” the couple and their guests moved downstairs for an evening filled with delicious food, great music and lots of dancing. With the help of Jessica’s mother, the couple transformed the Vineyard at Riverbend Chapel into a romantic, ambient scene. Textured metallic linens, warm candlelight and arrangements of classic blooms like roses and hydrangeas in soft ivory and pink hues decorated the reception tables, infusing the room with an air of sophistication. The couple placed a thank-you note at each guest’s seat and sent everyone home with an assortment of loose-leaf teas. A highlight of the evening was when a group of the couple’s family friends hit the dance floor wearing outrageous Tina Turner wigs and performed a choreographed dance to the song “Proud Mary.” And at the end of the evening, the newlyweds invited their guests to join them at the Old Dutch Tavern to keep the party going. A tip from Jessica: “Just know that no matter what, as long as you are marrying your best friend, the details don't matter.”