Wedding: VA Wine Country
When your cousin invites you to their wedding in one of the most picturesque corners of the Virginia countryside, you simply can't refuse—even with an almost 2-year-old and a nearly 5-month-old in tow. Pro parent tip: Secure the closest Airbnb to the wedding venue pronto and enlist the help of the other set of grandparents!
But in all seriousness, we were eagerly anticipating this trip. Not only is attending a family wedding always fun, but it would also mark our first family wedding with both kids, allowing them to meet extended family without the pressure of being at the actual ceremony. Win-win!
The wedding took place in Purcellville, VA, near Leesburg, at the stunning Shadow Creek venue nestled in the heart of wine country. The rehearsal dinner set the tone perfectly at The Barn at Hamilton Station Vineyards, blending rustic charm with elegance. As we planned for this adventure, a few key considerations came to the forefront:
1. Choosing the Right Accommodation: Finding a suitable place for our young family and accommodating the grandparents was paramount. We lucked out with one of the most beautiful and historic homes we've ever rented. Snagging it quickly proved important, as the area was thin on options to begin with. The house turned out to be a perfect fit for our weekend needs – check it out here
2. Ensuring Peaceful Nights: With two little ones in tow, securing enough rooms for uninterrupted sleep was crucial.
3. Flexibility with Scheduling: Navigating schedules, especially with breastfeeding, required a special kind of grace.
While we don't have an extensive list of recommendations beyond our own experiences, if you ever find yourself in this neck of the woods, you won't be disappointed! Whether you're exploring the area or considering it for your own wedding, Purcellville and its surroundings offer charm aplenty, with numerous wineries, restaurants, and outdoor activities to enjoy.
Now, onto how we not only survived but also made some cherished memories:
· TIP #1: Pack Smart: Bring along groceries to minimize trips, especially with little ones who might need a break upon arrival.
· TIP #2: Be Prepared: Extra sound machines and batteries are a must, particularly in older homes prone to creaky floors. Those floor creaks, though charming, can be quite the wake-up call for sleeping babies!
· TIP #3: Embrace the Setting: Take full advantage of the property. Throw a mini cocktail party to savor the ambiance and tire out the kids for a peaceful night's sleep. Planning meals ahead of time also helps keep chaos at bay, especially with hungry little ones in the mix.
· TIP #4: Location, Location, Location: Opt for accommodation near the wedding venue, especially if you're juggling breastfeeding and a baby going through a bottle refusal phase. Trust us, it saves countless trips back and forth!
While traveling with young children may seem daunting, the memories made along the way are priceless. Embrace the adventure, savor the moments, and treasure the journey!
