Adriatica Village

10  Year Vow Renewal

The Waites

Andrea and Oscar have been on this adventure and shared in the magic and trials of married life for 10 years, and they wish to renew their commitment to growing their relationship for many more to come. May this celebration remind them that despite the continued and inevitable ups and downs, their love, trust, and respect for each other will only increase their contentment in life, themselves, and one another. May their carriage never turn back to a pumpkin, may the clock never strike midnight, may their fairytale never come to an end. Here’s to new chapter after chapter together in marriage… Wedding Hashtag: #AwaitedFairytale

Awaited Fairytale 

Our Wedding

HOW WE MET

We met on MocoSpace. It was June 2013. It finally felt like summer. If you’re a Cincinnatian then you know how unpredictable the weather is.  So… on a nice summer day Andrea was contemplating on deleting the app. She was on the app to find love. She recently graduated and began her career. The only thing missing was love. After taking yet another break from the app she began to lose hope. But, something told her to go back and scroll. She found Oscar’s profile and quickly matched with Oscar. They bonded over football. Oscar is a Cincinnati Bengals Fan. While Andrea is Baltimore a Ravens Fan.

WHAT IS MOCOSPACE?

MocoSpace is a mobile social network. At its core, Mocospace is a mix between a dating app and a social networking website. The features of the site are similar to other social networking sites. Features include mobile games, chat, instant messaging, eCards, and photos. Mocospace was created during the popularity of and based on Myspace.com. Also, within an era of Black Planet and Black People meet. Sounds ancient right?

LOVE AT FIRST WAITE

They had talked nonstop for a year. Never had met in person. They fell in love with each other without seeing each other, only exchanging photos and following each other on social media. They waited and took their time getting to know each other. The emotional connection conquered the physical attraction.   Their journey is a beautiful reminder that love goes beyond the surface. They first connected online, but it was a full year before they met in person. During that time, they built a strong friendship and an emotional bond that became the foundation of their love. That year was also a transformative one she embarked on a wellness journey for her health, and he was her biggest cheerleader every step of the way. He saw her, supported her, and loved her for who she was, long before any physical changes. Their story reflects the heart of Love Is Blind—proving that true connection comes from within. When they finally met in person, their first date was at Olive Garden. He was a perfect gentleman, making the night feel special in every way. At the end of the date, he gave her a kiss and asked her to be his girlfriend. It was her first real date, and the beginning of a lifetime of love.

IT WASN’T ALWAYS EASY

(From The Waites)

The first couple of years weren’t always easy. But we embrace those years, as the struggles in those years is part of our love story.   There is so much that is wonderful, but there was some messy too. We aren’t living a fairy tale, we are building a life. It is full of trials and tribulations, bumps and bruises, and so much that is beautiful. We sometimes get a little lost, but we always find our way back to one another.

We actually told people different versions of how we met. But, eventually embraced our story. So much of our life is online that it would make sense we’d meet someone that way, right? We know how exhausting dating and apps and deciphering texts can be, and our story is a reminder that these apps do work.  Our relationship is obviously not perfect and we’ve had our bumps in the road like all couples do, but these past couple of years have been the best years of our lives.  Love isn't always perfect. It isn't a fairytale or a story book and it doesn't always come easy. Love is overcoming obstacles, facing challenges, fighting to be together, holding on & never letting go. It’s a short word, easy to spell, difficult to define & impossible to live without Love is work, but most of all, Love is realizing that every hour, every minute, & every second was worth it because we did it together. We’ve waited for this moment.  This is our story… our awaited fairytale.

Our Love Story

Photos

Wedding Party

Q + A

Travel

Things to Do

Registry

We KINDLY REQUEST OUR GUESTS TO WEAR THESE COLORS FOR OUR SPECIAL DAY.   Blue & Silver colors represent: 10th yr anniversary

Color Inspiration 

Ice Blue, Orange, and Pink color scheme and a European theme: Welcome to Our Love Story Join us as we celebrate a decade of love and commitment. Our journey has taken us to new heights, and we're excited to share this special moment with you. Inspired by the romance and charm of Europe, we've chosen a color palette that reflects our playful, passionate, and tender love story. Ice Blue: Representing trust and loyalty Vibrant Orange: Symbolizing passion and excitement Soft Pink: Embodying sweetness and tenderness Explore our website to learn more about our journey, our European-inspired celebration With love and gratitude, The Waites

Semi-Formal (Dressy Casual)

Semi-formal is basically a scaled-up version of dressy casual attire.

Click On Images To Enlarge 

Attire

Theme

“Fairytale”  Once in a mile, in the middle of an ordinary life. Love gives you a Fairy Tale

Vibe

European style with decadence, sophistication, as well as a vintage setting. Elegant, Romantic, Timeless and Enchanting. Appreciating the natural surroundings.

Colors

A Timeless Romance: Black For our vow renewal, we’ve chosen an elegant and timeless black color theme, symbolizing the depth, strength, and sophistication of our love. Set against the enchanting European-inspired backdrop of Adriatica Village, every detail is designed to evoke romance and intimacy. From our attire to the décor, black will set the tone bold yet classic, modern yet timeless. Deep red and gold accents will complement the richness of the theme, creating a luxurious and intimate atmosphere. We celebrate love, commitment, and the next chapter of our story in the most stunning and unforgettable way.

Numerological Significance:

Anniversary.... 5-5-15 at married 5:15 pm, On the 5th month and 5th day of the week. And I was 15 weeks pregnant.... In numerology the number 15 dissolves obstacles. The number 15 has a similar meaning to the number 6 (1+5=6). The number 6 represents love, romance and friendship. 6 and 15.... love and harmonious wedding/marriage.

WE INVITE YOU TO BE FULLY PRESENT WITH US DURING OUR CEREMONY

Family and friends, we’ve hired a photographer to capture how this moment looks with their camera, so you can capture how it feels with your hearts.

Photos and Videos will be shared with you once released. NO SOCIAL MEDIA PLEASE. 

Unplugged Ceremony 

What Is an Unplugged Ceremony? An unplugged ceremony is a ceremony in which the couple requests that guests put away cell phones, cameras, and any other devices in order for them to be present in the moment.

Why Go Unplugged?

When guests aren't fixated on texting or capturing the money shot of the bride walking down the aisle, the event immediately grows in intimacy. For the couple, it focuses the entire energy of the whole ceremony onto what's actually happening and that sacred moment of the actual wedding.

Photographers Perspective 

Eliminating phones and cameras is also a blessing from a photographer's perspective. It gives them clear shots, which is awesome. They don't have to struggle to find an angle and it's a more visually appealing look than phones in the air. Because no couple should have extended limbs obstructing their professional pics. And, let's be honest of the snippets from each guests' unwarranted photoshoots, one or two might make it to Facebook or Instagram, while the rest will merely live on their phones, out of sight, for all eternity.

Plugged-In Reception 

A “plugged-in” reception means allowing guests to share their photos on social media.

Reception will be at FORTUNATA WINERY.

When sharing photos on social media use our hashtag.

Use Hashtag: AwaitedFairytale

Unplugged Ceremony

Ceremony Planner & Officiant

Jennifer Allen Elopement and Micro Wedding Expert.   Jennifer Allen, has orchestrated over 350 micro-weddings and counting since 2017 to officiating for icons like DaBrat & DaReal BB Judy on WeTv to Emmy Nominated Netflix's Love is Blind. The daughter of Jerry Rice. Jacqui Rice Gold and her husband Mr. Gold, owners of Goat fuels energy drinks.

As seen in :  WeTv, Netflix, Essence, MunaLuchi, Today NBCDFW

The Venue

The ceremony took place place at Brighton and Abbey. Brighton Abbey is an elegant mansion venue with a beautiful glass chapel surrounded by enchanting woods and gardens. This 5-acre oasis features a beautiful reception space with soaring chandeliers, oversized bride and groom suites, picturesque balconies and a stunning event lawn for outdoor wedding events surrounded by water features, statues and mesmerizing lights. Its European-influence brings together a timeless fusion of nature and architecture to create an unforgettable experience.

Evening Excursion

The Officiant

Thanks A Brunch!

11am - 1:00pm 

To say thank you and farewell on your journey back home. We will extend the celebration and spend extra time with you before you head home.  Thank you for celebrating with us on our special day! Your company, love and wishes made our day complete and we appreciate your love and support.   Come celebrate for afternoon tea, desserts, and large French buffet.

About The Venue 

Heirloom Haul is a modern take on the classic tea room serving scratch-made sandwiches and salads in a pretty setting that celebrates special occasions unique style.

Farewell

Our Vow Renewal: A Day of Love & Reflection 

Our vow renewal is a celebration of love, reflection, and new beginnings, blending European romance with heartfelt moments. The day unfolds in two unforgettable parts:

A Morning In Northern Italy 

📍Inspired by: Northern Italy – Tuscany & Milan

Started our morning at the historic Cotton Mill, where White Box Roastery offers artisanal coffee and delicate pastries. With warm cups in hand, we strolled into the Secret Garden. A peaceful ivy covered courtyard that feels like a hidden Italian escape. This moment is all about sweetness, stillness, and savoring the simple joys together.

Morning Stroll & Reflection at Adriatica Village

📍 Inspired by: Croatia’s Seaside Villages (like Rovinj or Trogir)

A Fairytale Morning at Adriatica Village:  Our vow renewal celebration begins with an intimate stroll at Adriatica Village, a breathtaking European-inspired setting that transports us to the charm and romance of the Adriatic coast. Designed to resemble a small Croatian village, Adriatica features cobblestone streets, a stunning bell tower, and tranquil waterfront views, making it the perfect backdrop for our European fairytale theme.  This picturesque setting offers us a peaceful moment to reflect, laugh, and celebrate before we continue our special day with a romantic gondola vow renewal turning our long-awaited European-inspired dream into reality.  Sunrise Passeggiata “ A Romantic Morning Promenade” As part of our anniversary celebration, we’ll begin our day with a peaceful morning promenade through the charming cobblestone streets of Adriatica Village—a European-inspired escape right in the heart of Texas. With the morning sun glistening over the lake, we’ll take a quiet stroll, hand in hand, soaking in the beauty of this hidden gem. Along the way, we’ll pause by the fountain to make a wish for our future, visit the enchanting Adriatica Village Chapel to reflect on our journey together, and capture a few special moments in this storybook setting. We’ll finish our walk with a cozy breakfast, sharing laughter, dreams, and gratitude for another beautiful year together. A simple, intimate moment just the two of us, savoring the love that continues to grow. From the very beginning, it’s always been the little moments that mean the most stolen glances, soft laughter, and quiet walks like this one. Here’s to forever, one beautiful step at a time.

Reflection Walk Vow Renewal: A Journey Through Time

STOP 1:  ⸻  The Bell Tower – The Past Symbolism: The Bell Tower represents the foundation of your love—your early days, the vows you first made, and the journey that led you here. Bells have historically marked significant moments, just as your love story has been shaped by milestones.  Reflection & Vows: “This tower stands tall, just as our love has stood strong through time. Today, I reflect on where we began—the laughter, the challenges, the deep love that brought us together. I honor the past that shaped us, the moments that made us who we are. I vow to cherish those memories and carry them forward as we continue this journey together.”  (Paused here to share a meaningful memory from your relationship.)   cherished our present, and embraced our future. I love you today, tomorrow, and always.”

STOP 2: ⸻ The Fountain – The Present Symbolism: The flowing water of the fountain represents the movement of life, love, and growth. Just as water never stays still, your relationship has evolved, deepened, and strengthened over time.  Reflection & Vows: “As we stand by this fountain, I honor the love we share today. The way we uplift each other, the quiet moments, the laughter, and the unwavering support. I vow to continue choosing you every day, to love you as you are, and to walk beside you with gratitude and devotion.”  (We exchanged vow renewal promises and small tokens)

STOP 3: ⸻  The Chapel – The Future Symbolism: The chapel is a sacred space, symbolizing new beginnings, commitment, and faith in the journey ahead. It represents the years to come and the promise of a love that endures.  Reflection & Vows: “Standing before this chapel, I look toward our future. Just as this building stands as a place of devotion, I vow to remain devoted to you, through every season of life. I promise to dream with you, grow with you, and continue building a life filled with love and joy. No matter what the future holds, I will always walk beside you.”  (We whispered a private wish and silent prayer for our future together.)

FINAL STOP: ⸻ The Water – A Moment of Reflection & Silence Symbolism: Water represents peace, renewal, and the flow of time. Sitting by the water allows you to absorb the significance of the moment in quiet reflection.  Silent Reflection: • We held hands and sit quietly, letting the moment settle in. • Took deep breaths together, feeling the love and commitment in your hearts. • We tossed flower petals into the water as a symbol of releasing the past and welcoming the future.  Closing Words: “With this walk, we have honored our past, cherished our present, and embraced our future. I love you today, tomorrow, and always.”

A Taste of Nostalgia Olive Garden – McKinney, TX 

📍 Inspired by: Our Very First Date – 12 Years Ago

After our vineyard stroll and village wandering, we’ll stop for lunch at Olive Garden the place where it all began. It’s where we shared our first date, laughed nervously over breadsticks, and began writing the love story we’re still living. This isn’t just a lunch stop it’s a warm, familiar toast to where it all started. One table, two hearts, and a thousand memories.

Just The 2 Of Us

We renewed our vows in an intimate, private, and sacred ceremony just the two of us. On our wedding day, we never got the chance to say our vows. In the whirlwind of excitement, we accidentally left our wedding bands behind, delaying the ceremony and forcing us to skip over reading the words we had written from the heart. This time was different…. With no distractions, no rush, and nothing left unsaid, we held hands together and spoke the words we had always meant to share. We allowed ourselves to be vulnerable, to express the depth of our love, and to say, with full hearts, why we would choose each other again and again. This second “I do” was not just a renewal it was a moment of truth, love, and the promise of forever.

Unplugged, Unfiltered, Nothing Fancy Just Love!

Ten years ago, we said ‘I do’ in a whirlwind of love, family, and celebration. But amidst the joy, our special day was filled with distractions, pulling us away from the quiet, intimate moments we truly longed for.  This time, we’re reclaiming our moment.  We’re renewing our vows in a simple, heartfelt ceremony just us, our love, and the promise to cherish each other forever. No frills, no fuss, no distractions. Just the two of us, hand in hand, heart to heart.  As we celebrate a decade of love, laughter, and adventure, we step into the next chapter with intention, gratitude, and a love that has only deepened with time. This renewal is not just a promise it’s a celebration of us.

The Vow Renewal

European-Inspired Spa Daycation at WorldSprings As part of our vow renewal weekend, we’re soaking in love and relaxation with a luxurious morning at WorldSprings in Colony, Texas. This European-inspired mineral spa brings the romance of Hungarian thermal baths, Icelandic lagoons, and Roman soaks all in one dreamy place. WorldSprings is the largest outdoor mineral springs resort in the U.S., spanning 9 acres. It features 46 globally inspired mineral pools, each designed to emulate famous hot springs from around the world.   Each pool varies in temperature from the mid-80s to 104°F and is infused with minerals like lithium, silica, magnesium, and potassium to promote relaxation and wellness.

📍9:00 AM – Arrival & Roman Bath Warm-Up We’ll begin in the Mediterranean-inspired pools, just like the ancient Roman baths perfect for easing into the day together.

📍9:30 AM – Hungarian Healing Waters Relax in mineral-rich pools inspired by the iconic thermal baths of Budapest. Magnesium and calcium-rich waters for the ultimate deep soak.

📍10:00 AM – Nordic Sauna & Cold Plunge  Feel refreshed as we cycle through the warm sauna and cool plunge a wellness ritual beloved in Scandinavia.

📍 11:00 AM – Icelandic Mineral Soak & Wind Down To close, we’ll slip into the milky blue, silica-rich waters inspired by Iceland’s Blue Lagoon calming, skin-soothing, and serene.

📍12:00 PM – Depart Relaxed & Reconnected We’ll leave refreshed, recharged, and ready to celebrate the rest of our special weekend.

Soaking In Love

📍 Lake Como, Italy 

We visited the Rockwall harbor where the lakeside views and Mediterranean-style architecture gave us all the Lake Como feels. We soaked in the sunset, and celebrate our love with an intimate lakeside escape just the two of us with dinner and a movie.

A Night on Lake Como

Seville, Spain 

After renewing our vows, we’re escaping to the charming San Antonio River Walk for a honeymoon inspired by the romance of Seville, Spain. With its winding waterways, stone bridges, and old-world ambiance, it’s the perfect setting for an intimate getaway filled with love, reflection, and new memories.

Friday 

Afternoon

3:00 pm – Visited Marriage Island & Love Lock Bridge

• 4:00 pm Checked-in at Hotel Valencia Riverwalk

Evening

• 6:30 pm Dinner at Dorrego’s and Welcome Toast

• 8:00 pm Sunset River Boat Cruise

Saturday 

• 9:00 am Breakfast in bed from La Panadería

• 11:00 am Visited the San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden

📍Resembles the Parc Oriental de Maulévrier in France.

• 12:00 pm Visited immersive experience HOPSCOTCH

📍Resembles Illuseum Berlin in Berlin, Germany

Afternoon 

• 1:00 pm Lunch at Ocho (Hotel Havana)

• 2:00 pm Explored the Historic Market Square in Alamo District (El Mercado)

📍 Resembles The La Boqueria Market in Barcelona, Spain

• 3:30 pm Enjoyed a relaxing siesta and indulge in some spa time at your hotel.

Evening 

• 6:00 pm Dinner at Bohanan’s Steakhouse

• 9:00 pm Short walk to The Saga (located at San Fernando Cathedral). 24-minute light show that takes place on the cathedral’s facade, offering a beautiful visual experience.

📍 Resembles the Projection mapping light shows seen at the Château de Versailles in France.

Sunday 

• 9:45 am Breakfast at Box Street

📍 Box Street most closely resembles London’s trendy brunch cafés, particularly those in Shoreditch or Notting Hill.

• Visited The Pearl District

📍Resembles Shoreditch district in London, UK

Weekend Escapade Romantique

We Made It Through 10 Seasons (and Still Swinging)

Ten years ago, right after we got married, we couldn’t afford a honeymoon but we were gifted tickets to our first Cincinnati Reds game. That day became one of our sweetest memories, full of joy, love, and hope for our future. We always dreamed of going back to Cincinnati to celebrate our 10-year anniversary and be honored by the Reds, but due to a recent spinal diagnosis, long-distance travel wasn’t in the cards this year. Still, love finds a way. The Reds will be commemorating our milestone with a thoughtful gift basket, and we’ll be celebrating our big day May 15, 2025 closer to home at a Texas Rangers game, where the organization will also be recognizing our special day. Baseball has become part of our love story a symbol of the resilience, fun, and teamwork that define our marriage. From Cincinnati to Texas, we’re grateful for every inning we’ve spent together and look forward to many more.

10 Seasons Together

A journey Through Time

A Decade of Togetherness: A Journey Through Time'. We reminisced about the nostalgia of our first wedding while sharing the photos and videos of our recent vow renewal. We celebrated with family and friends, cherishing the past, embracing the present, and looking forward to many more years of love and togetherness.

Andrea & Oscar

Andrea & Oscar

Nostalgia

A journey Through Time