Celebrations, Magazines, Winter 2024-25

SML Wedding Profile: Elizabeth & Griffin

Andie Gibson
December 7, 2024

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Photos by Megan Rose Photography

Elizabeth and Griffin Peters met in Arlington soon after moving there post-college. Though they lived in the same neighborhood, their love story didn’t begin until a dating app matched them in October 2019.

The connection was immediate, and they grew closer over cozy evenings cooking together during the pandemic in 2020. That summer, Elizabeth introduced Griffin to Smith Mountain Lake, a place she’d cherished with her family since childhood.

“I was so excited for Griffin to finally experience the lake,” Elizabeth said. “It’s been the heart of so many family memories, and it became even more special as we made new ones together.”

Smith Mountain Lake had been part of Elizabeth’s life since her great-grandparents bought property here in 1995. Summers were filled with swimming, tubing and celebrating her July 4th birthday with fireworks over the water. After spending several summers at SML together, Griffin proposed during a stunning sunset at Mariners Landing—the very spot where they would later exchange vows.

With its picturesque views, award-winning restaurant and convenient lakeside accommodations, Mariners Landing checked all the boxes for the couple. Tiffany Silva, an owner of The Landing Restaurant, jumped at the chance to bring their wedding vision to life, helping them plan every detail, including a fun-filled welcome party at Bottles and Bites.

“While my great grandparents are no longer with us, I know in my heart they were smiling down on our wedding day, seeing the joy their decision almost 30 years ago continues to bring to our growing family,” Elizabeth said.

“One of my favorite parts of the entire planning process was getting to connect with local vendors. There is an incredible community of professionals that live on and around the lake.”

– Elizabeth Harley Peters