From college sweethearts to a Christmas fairytale dream come true.
December 9, 2023–Wedding: University Chapel of Washington and Lee University, Lexington. Reception: The Georges, The Livery, Lexington
Annie Terrell Williams Anderson loves Christmas—she starts decorating in early November, binges Hallmark Christmas movies, and adores the feeling of holiday magic. Of course, her wedding to Kyle James Anderson had to be a warm, Christmassy, romantic affair under twinkling lights in a charming town.
The pair tied the knot at University Chapel of Washington and Lee University, the school where the two met as undergrads, fell in love, and got engaged—and where Annie’s parents’ meeting and proposal was as well. Plus, Annie says, “Lexington fit the vision for a Hallmark Christmas movie aesthetic so perfectly.” Her vision for the day was a moody, magical scene. “I wanted lots of low light, candles, Christmas trees, Christmas lights, dark velvet, wood—almost a more feminine Harry Potter ‘Hogwarts’ theme,” she says.
The magic spell was cast over the venue with the help of wedding planner Ivy Robinson Events of Charlotte, North Carolina; 20 decked-out Christmas trees; a hot chocolate bar; and a romantic farewell, cozied up in a horse-drawn carriage.
She Said, He Said
First look?
She said: Yes! It was so nice to finally see Kyle and have my other half to share the nerves and excitement with. It allowed us to have a moment before being in front of 300 people at the altar.
Favorite splurge?
She said: The dress!!! Honestly, all the outfits from the weekend—oh, and the Christmas trees! I did not realize how expensive 20 Christmas trees would be!
Wardrobe change?
She said: Of course—I changed into an adorable long sleeve, high neck, lace, fit-and-flare dress. It matched the vibe of my wedding dress so perfectly but in a shorter, more casual way.
Music?
They said: Live band! They killed it. We had them end with “All I Want for Christmas” by Mariah Carey, obviously.
First dance song?
They said: “I’ll Be” by Edwin McCain. We both love early 2000s soft rock music.
Honeymoon?
They said: We went to Rome and Florence in Italy and Lucerne and Crans Montana in Switzerland. We wanted to keep the Christmas vibes going, and no better place to feel all of the Christmas feels than in Europe with all the Christmas markets, decorations, lights, and snow.
The Details
Photography: Patricia Lyons Photography
Florals:Kelly Odum Flowers
Planner: Ivy Robinson Events
Rentals: Skyline Tent Company
This article originally appeared in the February 2025 issue.
