I’m a little way behind on updating my blog and posting about my stories. I’ve been busy with work, getting married, and traveling. And now, I’m finally finding the time to sit down and update my portfolio. [dramatic sigh]

I spent a good chunk of January writing and researching a large feature story for Virginia Living on the women who own/run the James River plantations. Several trips to Charles City, tours of their homes, and me pestering them while on vacation, etc., ended up as “The Tie That Binds” in Virginia Living’s March/April issue. It’s a comprehensive look at these gorgeous, historic properties, and all the hard work the families who own them put into restoring them. I found myself admiring these women — their dedication to history and their selflessness. Instead of keeping these plantations under lock and key, they are opening them up so all can learn from the past.

Simultaneously, I was working on a story for R•Home Magazine on artist Nancy Mauck’s home in the Westham Ridge neighborhood. The story “Creative Expression” explores how she uses her aesthetic eye in the home. Here’s a little snippet that sums up the piece: “Much like her expressive paintings, artist Nancy Mauck’s home is dynamic. Thoughtfully blending styles and layering unexpected colors and materials, she has created a home that is a sophisticated work of art.”

I had a blast writing about Virginia wine for the Richmond Times-Dispatch’s quarterly mag, Discover Richmond. I paired six excellent wineries across the state with unique area offerings. Think historic homes and outdoor adventures. Read the story here, and then grab all your friends and plan a fun weekend outing in Virginia’s wine country.

Personally and professionally my mind has been lost in the wedding world. As I entered the final stretch of wedding planning for my own wedding, I started a new gig as a correspondent for The Knot, writing love stories for print and online. I’ve been writing a series of blog posts on real weddings for their website, and am currently writing stories for the fall/winter publication. Writing about love has allowed me to embrace my sentimental side. I’m a total sap and romantic at heart.

Here are a few other online pieces I’ve worked on recently:

For The Knot’s website:

A Romantic Winery Wedding at King Family Vineyards in Crozet, Virginia
A Fairy Tale-Inspired Wedding at a Private Residence in Waterford, Virginia
An Elegant Wedding at Daughters of the American Revolution in Washington, D.C.
A Rustic Vineyard Wedding at Trump Winery in Charlottesville, Virginia
An Elegant Pink Wedding at the National Museum for Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C.

For Wedding Paper Divas’ website:

6 Unique Marriage Proposal Ideas
15 Ideas For Your Bohemian Wedding
Elopement Ideas For the Modern Couple

For Wine Country’s websites:

Shenandoah Valley Wineries: A Tasting Itinerary
Visiting The Shenandoah Valley: A Traveler’s Guide
A Perfect 2 Days Exploring Wineries near American Canyon
How To Have A Romantic Getaway in Sonoma County
A Zinfandel Lover’s Guide to Lodi

I have some fun travel story ideas brewing, so stay tuned! xo, marissa