It’s rare that you see a wedding so full of personalized touches and meaningful details: Each and every aspect of Lin and Caryanne’s day was a reflection of their personalities. The two included many amazing, gracious gestures towards their guests, many of whom played important roles in the ceremony and reception: among other contributions, Lin’s mom read a blessing before the meal, a good friend made the cupcakes, college friends were the photographers, and Lin’s colleague and sister officiated the service. From cupcake platter centerpieces that were also gifts for wedding party members to handmade thank-you cards at each place setting and a going-away treat for guests, in every aspect of their wedding, it was evident how much these women value one another and their loved ones.
Lin and Caryanne were high school sweethearts. They met while playing soccer for opposing teams, and they felt an immediate connection. Fourteen years and many milestones later, they are embarking on their biggest adventure yet — navigating life together as a married couple.
During the initial stages of wedding planning, it was clear that both Lin and Caryanne wanted a reception venue that was classy but comfortable. It was important to them that their friends and family feel welcomed and at home, especially since many of their guests were from out of town. The couple ultimately decided on the O.Henry for their reception, because they felt it provided the mix of grace, authenticity and hospitality they were searching for.
After a private courtroom marriage in Boston, the couple honeymooned in the city. Caryanne surprised Lin with a train trip from Boston to NYC for their final honeymoon night, complete with Broadway tickets to see one of Lin’s favorite performers. Once they returned to Greensboro, they had a one-of-a-kind ceremony at College Park Baptist Church — a deeply special community for the couple, in part because Lin is Associate Pastor there. They then celebrated with family and friends at the O.Henry Hotel.
We are honored Lin and Caryanne chose the O.Henry as their setting for such a joyous occasion, and we’re happy we could help make their day so special!
Clockwise: Caryanne is giddy while getting ready; Lin’s sisters & cousin help her with her dress and makeup.
Clockwise: Lin and Caryanne have an emotional first look in the Don Rives Cloister Garden; the couple take a moment to relax in the Social Lobby.
Lin and Caryanne ride in style, taking the hotel’s London taxi to the church for their ceremony.
Clockwise: Playful escort cards featured some of the couple’s most beloved “&’s” (Salt & Pepa, Dumb & Dumber, Simon & Garfunkel, etc.); in lieu of a guestbook, the couple opted for a more creative alternative — guests were encouraged to sign pre-cut bright orange, cream and turquoise squares in the couple’s favorite patterns, for guests to sign. The squares will be stitched into a wedding quilt on Lin and Caryanne’s first anniversary. The ampersand was a prominent theme in the couple’s wedding.
Southern iced tea gave each table a pop of color, complementing the vibrant orange tulips. White platters of red velvet and carrot cake cupcakes made by a friend of the brides’ also graced each table. Underneath each cake stand was a special note to loved ones who participated in the ceremony.
Gold Chiavari chairs and cream taffeta table linens helped set the scene for the reception in the sun-drenched Caldwell Room.
Southern Family-Style Dinner From Green Valley Grill
- Salad of Mixed Greens, Celery and Cucumber, with Fried Green Tomato, served with Buttermilk Five Herb or Balsamic Dressing
- Collard Greens
- Green Beans
- Vintage Cheddar and Truffle Mac and Cheese
- Mashed Potatoes
- Braised Beef Short Rib with Au Jus
- Lucky 32’s Black Bean Cakes & Corn Relish, with Sour Cream
- BBQ Chicken
- Biscuits with Butter, Honey, and Molasses
- Southern Iced Tea, Beer and Blackberry Sangria
Sweet & Savory Late Night Snacks
- Sweet and Savory Popcorn
- Banana Pudding
- Chocolate and Vanilla Sheet Cakes
- Nuts and Trail Mix
- Pretzels
- Chocolate Chip and Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Clockwise: A friend of the couple’s designed a DIY photo booth station, complete with a variety of goofy props and costumes; guests pose for polaroid-inspired shots; Lin’s nieces and cousin have fun dancing the night away.
Always a sign of a good wedding — a packed dance floor, without a wallflower in sight!
Clockwise: the couple have their first dance; guests get down on the dance floor; Lin, family & friends rap to Salt N Pepa’s “Shoop,” a family tradition .
Guests left with candy-coated cinnamon bark favors, a treat the couple learned about while in Boston.
Joyful guests give Lin & Caryanne a white rose petal sendoff, as the brides make a blissful getaway in the hotel’s London Taxi.
Wedding Magic Makers:
- Wedding Venue: O.Henry Hotel, Caldwell Room
- Chef Designed Menus and Catering: Green Valley Grill
- Getting Ready: O.Henry Hotel King Room
- Flower Centerpieces: Brenda McLamb, with O.Henry Hotel
- Linens: Party Tables
- Photographer: Story Photographers
- DJ: Triad DJ
- Caricature Artist: Bat Hilliard
For more information about planning your wedding or event Greensboro, North Carolina, please email our wedding and event specialists or give us a call at O.Henry Hotel: 336-478-9112 or Proximity Hotel: 336-478-9111.