Shannon Lobdell and Rowdy Gilbert met in 2019 when they were both working at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. They began dating right around the start of the pandemic and quickly formed a bond like they’d never known before. They got engaged, but found the logistics of planning a wedding during lockdown a challenge. Instead, they chose to elope so they could start building a life and family together.

Why did you choose Martha’s Vineyard as the location for your elopement?

Shannon is from the Island; Rowdy is originally from Oklahoma. “While his home state is beautiful in its own right, the charm, family ties, and closer proximity to life in D.C. at the time made Martha’s Vineyard our ideal choice.”

Tell us a little bit about your day.

Shannon and Rowdy spent the morning enjoying breakfast in their room at the inn, connecting with family and friends through texts and phone calls to receive well wishes, before going their separate ways to get ready. Once in their attire, they met at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum in Vineyard Haven for their first look. It was “truly unforgettable,” they said as there was a light snowfall while they took their pictures. Back at Nobnocket, the pair exchanged vows in front of the fireplace, followed by their first dance. The night ended with a celebratory dinner at The Sweet Life in Oak Bluffs with Shannon’s parents. “Our day was just as magical and memorable as we ever could have imagined,” they said.

Details

Wedding Date: January 22, 2022
Ceremony: Nobnocket Boutique Inn
Dinner: The Sweet Life
Photographer: Mila Lowe
Wedding Planner: My Vineyard Elopement
Officiant: Rev. Jacalyn Kane
Flowers: Aubrey Maria Designs/Donaroma’s
Hair + Makeup: Sea Spa Salon
Cake: Val Cakes