This swank styled shoot took place at a stunning manor house in the Shenandoah Valley channeling the glam days of the sixties and takes you from the bride getting ready for the big day, relaxing with a martini in hand, to that first glimpse of the wedding dress, to the end of the day, as the couple relaxes from a fabulous wedding day.
The Scoop:
The photographer had this to say about the inspiration behind this shoot:
“The inspiration for this editorial began the moment I discovered the estate. It felt like a true hidden gem in the heart of Virginia — a place I had never heard of before, but immediately knew I had to photograph. The nearly 100-year-old architecture, carefully preserved details, and rich historical character make this estate feel like a home with soul. Every corner of the house is beautifully designed — not in a trendy or manufactured way, but with timeless elegance that would speak to any couple who values art, history, and quiet beauty.
Once we added carefully curated fashion, floral design, and intentional styling, the vision came to life. The shoot combined vintage elements with modern touches, mixing natural daylight and flash photography for a fresh, editorial look. I’ve always loved the contrast between softness and structure — and using flash helped give the images that polished, magazine-style finish that still feels very current.
Throughout the day, I kept thinking, “Let’s treat this as if we’re shooting for a magazine.” Even before I knew this would be published, the energy and styling carried that direction naturally.
We included subtle nods to iconic fashion — silhouettes with a whisper of Chanel elegance, the quiet luxury of textures and accessories, and details that elevated the visual story without being too obvious. I even brought along my own Dior handbag to add a personal touch of refined luxury.
The garden at the estate was just as inspiring as the interior: tree-lined paths, blooming lily pads in the pond, and a sense of calm that felt almost cinematic. It’s the kind of space that doesn’t need much to be beautiful — and that’s what made it so perfect for this shoot.”
What we love:
We totally agree and as soon as we saw this shoot, rocking a retro vibe that reminded us of the glamorous sixties ( think Jackie Kennedy), we knew it would be a perfect fit for a print feature in Virginia Weddings! Look for more of the details of this shoot in the fall | winter 2025 issue.
Sources:
Venue:
Stoneleigh Estate
@stoneleigh_estate
Gowns:
Isabella Grace Bridal
www.isabellagracebride.com
@isabellagracebride
Florals:
Grey Peony Boutique
https://greypeonyboutique.com/
@greypeonyboutique
Photography:
Lavender Dreams Photography
https://lavender-dreams-va.com/
@lavenderdreamsphotography
Hair & Makeup:
Allen Artistry
@allen.artistry
Llamas:
Infinity Acres Ranch
@infinityacresranch
Horse & Carriage:
Suthers Carriage Company
Facebook only
https://www.facebook.com/sutherscarriagecompany
Grooms Suit:
Classic Menswear VA
https://classictuxedos.net/
@classicmenswearva
Model:
Elizabeth Hernly — @theelizabethhernly
If you are planning a wedding in Roanoke, Richmond, Fredericksburg/Northern Virginia, The Shenandoah Valley, Coastal Virginia, or Charlottesville/ Lynchburg, Virginia, we can help with your wedding planning and ideas.
