A Traditional Wedding With Scottish Flair at Meadowbrook Country Club in Richmond, Virginia

rn When Allison Ethridge (25 and a zookeeper) left for Scotland to study abroad, her family warned her about falling in love with a Scotsman. Though she brushed it off with a simple “Yeah, right,” a few months later she arrived home with Michael Robinson (23 and a communications executive) at her side. After two years of dating long distance, splitting their time between Scotland and the US, Michael surprised Allison with a proposal near her hometown. “On July 21 my dad woke me up with a note. It gave me instructions to find the outfit he had laid out and to trust where my sister was taking me blindfolded without any questions,” Allison says. Her sister whisked her off to a quaint wooded area with a calm lake, where they found Michael sitting on the dock. Presenting a photo album filled with pictures from important moments throughout their relationship, Michael got down on one knee. Allison, of course, said yes. For their wedding, the couple planned a traditional affair with subtle Scottish elements woven throughout. The day started with a traditional ceremony at Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Richmond, Virginia. For Allison and Michael, a religious ceremony was a must and the cathedral couldn't have provided a more beautiful backdrop, with its striking architecture, ornate detailing, awe-inspiring ceilings and undeniable ambiance. “It had a very traditional feel, but there was loads of light and atmosphere,” Allison says. Surrounded by their closest family members and friends, the couple exchanged vows in the historic church, Allison in an elegant Casablanca gown and Michael in his traditional Gunn tartan. A reception followed at the Meadowbrook Country Club in Richmond, Virginia, where the couple introduced their guests to a traditional Scottish dance. “It was hilarious watching everyone have a go at it, but also really lovely to have Scottish elements in our wedding and reception,” Allison says. At the end of the evening, Allison and Michael sent guests home with traditional shortbreads and tea from the United Kingdom, another nod to Michael’s roots. A tip from Allison: “Enjoy the day. It goes by so fast. And don't stress, because it all works out.”