A lot of Virginians flock to Charlottesville, Virginia various times of year. Some for the fall foliage and others for spring blooms. It really depends on your reasons for visiting. There are so many vineyards to visit and have a sample (or two) of wine. Another attraction of Charlottesville is the expansive landscape of hills and mountains that make a great backdrop for weddings. Whether you’re eloping with the fresh, mountain air or having a full on large scale wedding, it has everything you need. When Caleigh and Seth invited me to document their wedding day, of course I responded with an immediate “YES”!

As a wedding photographer in Virginia Beach, I jump at the chance to photograph in Charlottesville to get a change in scenery. Charlottesville has fantastic wedding vendors which include Virginia wedding planners, florists, caterers, and of course wedding venues. The wedding venue in Charlottesville is called Glenthorne Farm. It lies just outside Charlottesville in Nellysford, Virginia. A two story, renovated farm house from the 1800’s. There is also a adorable carriage house that is located on the backside of the property.

The morning I arrived at Glenthorne Farm the bride, Caleigh, along with the closest women in her life were getting ready in the carriage house. I instantly felt a warmth from everyone present and began photographing the wedding day in my style which is a documentary and editorial style. The day carried on from getting ready with the girls, some time with the guys, an emotional first look, an energized ceremony, and cocktail and reception that felt like the perfect late summer party. Guests wandered from the tent into a nearby pasture to take sunset photos with the mountains in the distance. You’ll see in the photos how the property played a party in creating a dynamic flow of different scenes throughout the day.

For couples photos we really had the moments of the first look and during golden hour to photograph which was so nice. It gave us a variety of different scenes to play around with and take some romantic photos of Caleigh and Seth. I try to make my couples photos not feel monotonous. I try to give prompts and allow quiet conversation between the two to let them feel as present as possible. Without further ado, I give you a gallery of some my favorite photos to tell the story of this day.

The reception was the quintessential laidback, late summer party. Delicious oven made pizza by local pizza artisans Crustworthy Pizza and beer flowing from a local brewery fresh from a keg. Caleigh and Seth entered the dance floor and did the sweetest, choreographed dance. Once the sun set, the candles set the mood, drinks flowed, and people danced like crazy.

Lastly, the day was guided and planned by Little Acorn Events. I highly recommend them for your planning and coordinating, as they did a flawless job and were so helpful throughout the entire day.