The Omni Homestead Resort

Welcome Party

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Dinner

Reception and DJ Festival

Our Wedding

HIS VERSION:If somebody told me I already met my wife while I was still in college six years ago, I’d say that’s impossible. I never would’ve known that an interview in Florida would have led me to the most amazing woman I would ever meet. Later I’d meet her again, this time in Virginia, for an accepted student’s day at VCU. We quickly became friends and talked all throughout the day. After the day, she informed me that she was deciding between dental school in Virginia and Los Angeles. I recalled encouraging her to follow her passion and pursue her dreams. To my surprise and happiness, months later we’d reunite at VCU and reignite our friendship. Julia’s friendship was like no other; she was a joy to talk to, and our conversations would effortlessly last hours into the night. Deep down I knew I liked Julia, but I was too scared to tell her, and yet again, to my surprise, one day she expressed her feelings to me. I saw how our friendship transitioned into a relationship easily; it all felt so natural. We supported each other through dental school and celebrated our successes. Now we’ve moved out to the Shenandoah Valley, where I’m enjoying every second I spend with her. I can’t wait to have her as my wife. Julia made this the easiest decision of my life, and I couldn’t be more grateful for her.

HER VERSION:

Our Story

Photos

Aren Russ

Charlotte Sadar

Diana Ngo

Denice Soto 

Gene Soto

Irma Soto 

Kali Gabriel 

Lauren Dunn 

Alex Cao 

Alex Villamar 

Ben Kordsmeier 

Christian Leonzo 

Miguel Soto 

Raymond Shum 

Tito Soto 

Zach Esser 

Wedding Party

What to Wear to a Semi-Formal Wedding

41 Sites to Buy Wedding Guest Dresses

The 15 Best Places to Buy a Suit

Dress Code

Q + A

Driving from Northern VA to The Omni Homestead3 hours and 30 minutes of driving time via 1-81S

Nearby Airports1.) Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport- 2 hours away from Omni Homestead- Rental cars available2.) Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport- 1 hour and 36 minutes away from Omni Homestead-Rental cars available

Enjoy staying at our beautiful wedding venue for one night, or for a luxurious, unforgettable weekend. The Omni Homestead has graciously offered a heavily discounted block room rate. Please reach out if you are interested in a room upgrade. Block pricing is available for upgrades as well.Please note: This resort requires a minimum of a 2 night stay if checking in on Friday, April 24th.Check-in time is 4:00pm, Check-out is 11:00am- Guests may arrive early for check-in, and a room will be provided if available.Parking is on-site and $35Group Code: 042126RUSS

Travel

Those travelling to the Omni Homestead Resort in Virginia will have a wide variety of activities to enjoy in addition to the ceremony. The Homestead has been around for over 250 years, nestled in the Allegheny Mountains and the George Washington National Forest. The resort itself boasts numerous pools, hot springs, mini golf, a movie theater, fitness center, and bars. Nature lovers can enjoy nearby hiking trails, fishing areas, horseback riding, and other amazing activities that can be organized through the resort. For those able to travel further away from the resort there are plenty of places to visit, especially for those coming in from Charlottesville and Roanoke Airports. The Natural Bridge State Park offers a stunning view of a local Virginia wonder. The skyline drive in Shenandoah National Park offers miles of gorgeous views of the nearby Shenandoah Mountains. Nearby cities in the Shenandoah Valley such as Staunton, Lexington, and Charlottesville offer amazing local restaurants, coffee, historic downtown areas, and endless vineyards.

The Warm Springs Pools, located just five miles from the resort, offer a serene, historic soaking experience in mineral-rich waters, with reservations required and available daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. Rates range from $35–$40 per person for a 50-minute soak.

Warm Springs Pools

Swim year round in the outdoor, naturally warm, spring-fed spa pool. This area is available to guests 18 years and older.&nbsp;The Omni Homestead Resort also has an indoor pool, which is open year round, and the Allegheny Springs pool, featuring water slides and a lazy river.

The Spa at The Omni Homestead Resort

The Omni Homestead is surrounded by numerous hiking and exploring opportunities. Located just 17 minutes from the Omni Homestead Resort is the Falling Springs Waterfall. For more nearby hiking and adventures, check out: <a href="https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/homestead-virginia/things-to-do/area-attractions" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/homestead-virginia/things-to-do/area-attractions</a>

Falling Springs Falls

Regarded as one of the finest mountain courses in the country, The Cascades offers challenging links set against the backdrop of Virginia's breathtaking Allegheny Mountains. Sam Snead launched his career on this fabled Virginia mountain golf course, which has the honor of being ranked among "America's 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses" by Golf Digest.

Cascades Golf Course at The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa

Natural Bridge State Park is located approximately 1 hour from The Omni Homestead Resort. The park’s highlight is the 215-foot-tall bridge, formed naturally by the flowing waters of Cedar Creek through this limestone gorge.&nbsp;Beyond the bridge, Natural Bridge State Park, VA, visitors will enjoy 7 miles of hiking trails that take you through beautiful forests and expansive meadows that showcase the James River Valley.

Natural Bridge State Park

Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s wine country, the Monticello Wine Trail is home to more than 40 acclaimed wineries. You’ll find a vibrant mix of tasting experiences, from intimate vineyard tours to lively festivals and concerts under the stars. Savor award-winning wines, while exploring the rich history and stunning landscapes that define this renowned wine region. The top rated wineries include: King Family Vineyard, Pippin Hill, Baboursville Vineyard, Blenheim Vineyard, Early Mountain Vineyard, and Hazy Mountain.

Monticello Wine Trail

Staunton, Virginia is a charming, historic city located just 1 hour and 10 minutes from The Omni Homestead Resort. It’s a friendly combination of small town and a vibrant cultural scene. It’s the place you go to admire stunning architecture, shop at locally-owned boutiques, and enjoy a nice cup of coffee. It’s where you can unwind at trendy breweries, dig into fresh culinary creations and take-in a dose of nature in the nearby Shenandoah National Park.&nbsp;

Julia & Rodrigo

Julia & Rodrigo

The Omni Homestead Resort