The celebration begins in
OurLoveStory
Jonathon & Chelsea met the modern way — pure, blind, stupid luck. Their first date was at Ten10 Brewing on one of those rare Florida nights that felt suspiciously like the Arctic. Neither of them suggested going inside, so they sat there, freezing, pretending to be totally fine. They were not totally fine. But something clicked anyway, which was either fate or frostbite.
What followed was arcade dates, movie nights, and one very ambitious road trip with Evie the husky, who had strong opinions about the playlist, the route, and pretty much everything else. Somewhere in all of that, they got stuck with each other. Neither of them is complaining.
They eloped before deployment — mostly for love, obviously, and yes, full transparency, for that sweet, sweet BAH. Zero regrets.
Now they're finally throwing the party — good food, good drinks, and everyone they love crammed into one room. Also, Chelsea really wanted an excuse to wear a pretty dress and take photos that will last forever, because it turns out eloping, while wildly romantic, does not come with a photo album. An oversight they are actively correcting. Jonathon is also very excited.
RSVP
Schedule
Thursday
September 3, 2026
Guest Arrival & Welcome Drinks
Sip, settle in, and enjoy cocktails and charcuterie as guests arrive.
Dinner
A wonderful meal with good conversation and great company.
Dessert & Toasts
Cake, sweets, and a moment to raise a glass together.
Farewell
Every beautiful evening must come to a close. Safe travels, and thank you for celebrating with us.
The Venue
The 1883
Historic charm in the heart of Eustis
Built in 1883, this landmark in downtown Eustis first began as a small church serving the town's earliest settlers. Its roots trace back to 1878, when the first Sunday school opened at Crooked Lake. As Eustis grew, the community gathered enough spirit to lay the cornerstone for one of its first churches.
In 1910, the structure was moved by horse and manpower to its current home on Citrus and Hawley Streets, with a tower and basement added two years later to meet the needs of a thriving congregation.
Despite challenges like the "Great Freeze" of 1894–1895, the building stood as a symbol of endurance through changing times. Lovingly preserved and restored, it was recognized by the Eustis Historical Museum and Preservation Society as one of the city's most treasured landmarks.
Today, The 1883 blends historic craftsmanship with timeless charm — a space where old Florida elegance meets the joy of new beginnings.
Event Details
Semi-formal
Embrace the season! Fall tones like sage green, blues, and warm browns are encouraged but not required. Please avoid white, off-white, or cream.
Where to Stay
A few options close to the venue — all within about 15 minutes of The 1883.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
Tavares – Leesburg
Our top pick — Jonathon, Chelsea, and family will be staying here. We're looking into a room block if there's enough interest, so let us know!
~10 min from The 1883Hampton Inn
Mount Dora
A reliable pick in charming Mount Dora — great location with easy access to the venue and plenty of spots to grab breakfast or brunch nearby.
~15 min from The 1883Comfort Inn & Suites
Tavares North
A solid, no-fuss option conveniently located near Lake Eustis — close to the venue with easy freeway access if you're coming from further out.
~10 min from The 1883Interested in a room block at the Holiday Inn Express? Drop a note in your RSVP — if enough guests want one, we'll get it sorted. No pressure either way!
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TargetQ&A
Are kids welcome?
We adore your little ones, but this is an adults-focused evening. We hope you can find a sitter and enjoy a night out!
Indoors or outdoors?
Fully indoors inside The 1883's beautiful dining hall and bar area — so no need to worry about Florida weather!
What colors should I avoid?
Please avoid white, off-white, or cream. Fall tones like sage green, blues, and warm browns are encouraged but not required.
Is parking available?
Yes — street parking is available along Citrus Ave and on nearby streets. We recommend arriving a few minutes early to find a spot.
Will there be a bar?
Of course — it wouldn't be a Jonathon & Chelsea celebration without one. Cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options will all be available.
What's being served?
We're serving a buffet dinner from Mission BBQ! Cocktail hour features jalapeño cheddar sausages, followed by sliced brisket, smoked turkey, green beans & bacon, cheesy baked potatoes, bread sliders, cornbread, and a garden greens salad with ranch and Italian dressing. It's going to be delicious.
Gallery
A glimpse of The 1883 & our favorite moments
More photos from the celebration will be added after September 3.
