Bride and groom
Jennifer Herndon, a first grade teacher with Montgomery County Public Schools, originally from Boyds, Md.; and James Schneider, a loan officer for NewDay USA Mortgage Company, from Potomac. The couple currently lives in Bethesda.
The wedding
September 3. The ceremony was held at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Gaithersburg and the reception was held at the Lodge at Little Seneca Creek in Boyds, Md.
How they met
Although both grew up in Montgomery County, the couple met while at college in Jacksonville, Fl. They spoke briefly at a fraternity party and quickly bonded over their hometowns and their love of the Redskins.
The proposal
James proposed at the Shenandoah Wine & Hot Air Balloon Festival in October 2010. He popped the question in the hotel room and Jen was later surprised by the arrival of her family and best friends, some of whom traveled as far as New York City to celebrate.
What she loves most about him
Jen loves James’s way he can make anyone he meets feel comfortable (and laugh). She also values his easy going attitude and positivity.
What he loves most about her
James loves Jen’s caring attitude, inner and outer beauty and persistence to make others around her happy and better.
Wedding Theme
“Warm country chic”
Number of guests
120
What made it special
“The day truly represented us,” Jen said. “Having it our local church and then at a space close to where Jen grew up made it special. We also had a lot of friends involved in the process, so it felt like a group effort.”
First Dance
“You and Me” by Dave Matthews
Favors
Personalized koozies that were Redskins theme. At the end of the night, they also handed out McDonalds.
Gown
“Roxanne” dress by Modern Trossuo purchased at Nicole’s Bridal in Jenkintown, Pa.
Photographer
Nick Strocchia Photography
Honeymoon
They did a “mini-moon” at the Willard in DC after the wedding and toured southern Ireland the next spring.
The Details
Day of wedding planner was Heather Sala, HJ Planners; flowers, by Kelly Shore, Petals By the Shore; hair, by Bella Souer; makeup, Marquia, Blend Makeup; music, by Lyric Inc.; videography, by Bill and Kate Power; lighting and outdoor decor, by Billy Galanis, Olive Tree Landscaping; invitations, by Wedding Paper Divas; men’s formal wear, by JoS A. Bank and JCrew; desserts, by The Royal Bagel Bakery, Just Cakes and homemade; rentals, Allied Rental Company; transportation, Martens Transportation; caterer, Gourmet by Paula.