With lush, vibrant florals and a dreamy, organic aesthetic, Gabrielle and Pradip’s celebration radiated warmth, beauty, and connection. Pippin Bride Gabrielle shares her favorite memories from the weekend and how they crafted such an unforgettable, love-filled experience in the heart of the Blue Ridge.
How did you two meet?
We met in medical school at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. From anatomy labs to late-night study sessions, our friendship grew quickly, and before long, so did something more.
First Date?
Our first date was at Ghibellina on 14th Street in D.C.—a cozy Italian spot where, believe it or not, they gave you scissors to cut your pizza! It’s since closed, but we’ll always remember that night.
Tell us more about the two of you!
We love good food, music, and company—whether that means cooking dinner together, exploring new restaurants, or spending time with our families. We both matched at UVA for residency (orthopaedics for Pradip and dermatology for me), which brought us to Charlottesville. It’s where we built our first home and our life together.
How did Pradip pop the question?
He proposed in front of our house on a walk —the very first home we bought together in Charlottesville. It was sweet and intimate, just the two of us standing in the place where so much of our journey began.
Walk us through your wedding weekend?
Our wedding weekend was a true celebration from start to finish. We kicked things off with our traditional Indian ceremony and reception on Friday evening. Saturday, we had a daytime happy hour gathering with all of our guests. On Sunday evening, we had our beautiful wedding ceremony and reception at Pippin Hill. Despite the two weeks of hurricaning – it ended up being perfect!
What was your vision for your wedding day at Pippin Hill?
I envisioned a romantic garden party with a timeless feel—something joyful, and full of beauty. I envisioned a dance party all night with a lot of energy.
Why did you choose Charlottesville—and Pippin Hill—as your venue?
Charlottesville is our home and where we both moved together to train at UVA. We toured Pippin Hill and the beauty, tranquility, and incredible service and hospitality made it an easy choice. We immediately knew the day we toured the venue it was our perfect spot. We actually toured in August on one of the peak blooms of the hydrangeas!
What was your favorite thing about hosting your wedding at Pippin?
The seamless blend of stunning natural beauty and warm, welcoming charm. Pippin felt intimate and grand at the same time. We’d tell any couple: if you want a venue that feels both magical and grounded, this is it. Everyone on Pippin’s team was absolutely incredible and went above and beyond to make our night perfect. Natalie worked endlessly to help us execute our vision. She is amazing!
What kind of experience did you want your guests to have?
We wanted our guests to feel joy and connection—to laugh, dance, eat, and celebrate with us. We wanted it to be very high energy.
Favorite sentimental memory of your wedding day?
The bedeken was deeply meaningful. Having that spiritual moment surrounded by our loved ones, with music and joy all around, was unforgettable. It felt sacred and celebratory at once. It is a tradition where the groom walks to meet the bride and place the veil on her, while all family and friends dance and sing. We did this in the tasting room which was a perfect setting.
Favorite fun moment?
The dancing – especially the Hora! Once the music started, it never stopped. Our band, Alex and Amir, were incredible and brought the live instruments onto the dance floor. We even made a cameo on the drum set. We were surrounded by our people, laughing and sweating on the dance floor, just soaking up every second.
What was most important to you two on your wedding day?
To spend time and joy with our family and friends. We wanted the love and intention behind every choice to come through, from the ceremony to the smallest design detail. Most of all, we just wanted to be present with each other and everyone we love.
Anything we missed?
Just a huge thank-you to our families, friends, and the incredible team who made the day happen! We are still on a high and will be forever.
Planner: Kat Ferguson, Little Creek Events | Photographer: Ashley Sawtelle | Florist: Nature Composed | DJ/Band: Alex & Amir | Hair: Posh Bride | Makeup: Evy Polish | Cake: Cake Bloom | Rentals: Rent Equip, MS Events, Blue Ridge Event Production, Stradley Davidson | Stationary: Dear Eloise
In search of the perfect venue for a wedding, rehearsal dinner, and beyond? Our team is here to help you plan the celebration of your dreams at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards.
