Jeanette + Mike | A Wedding at Tredegar Iron Works | Virginia Wedding Photographer

Jeanette and Mike’s wedding was such a joy. Jeanette is so beautiful and sweet, and I couldn’t wait to capture her special day with Mike. After getting to know him at their engagement session, they seemed to just fit so perfectly together! The day was orchestrated by the talented Colleen Cook of CCS Events and it started at the Jefferson Hotel in Richmond, VA. Such a gorgeous and historic property in downtown Richmond, it was the perfect place for Jeanette to prepare for the day. Some of my favorite images are from this time. The four images above of Jeanette’s mom crying make me choke up every time I see them. Their bond is so special, and it’s the epitome of why I do this. Why my passion is wedding photography. They take my breath away…a mama and her baby girl on her wedding day. As a tribute to her father and a way to have him with her on her wedding day, she carried handkerchiefs with pieces of his favorite blue shirt sewn into them in a heart shape.

The view at the Virginia War Memorial was perfect the perfect location for Mike to see Jeanette for the first time. The Richmond city skyline was a beautiful backdrop. Their ceremony at First Baptist Church of Richmond on Monument Avenue was so sweet, and their reception at Tredegar Iron Works? Well, it definitely wins MVP for best dance party. From the beginning, I knew how important it was to Jeanette to capture the festive atmosphere at the reception. There were dance-off’s, imaginary double-dutch dancing, and a tradition at all of their friends’ weddings, everyone dancing to “Dixieland Delight” by Alabama. It was so much fun to see them having such a great time with so many of their friends. The reception had a beautiful palette of grey, pink, and navy, with yummy sweet treats by Kalico Kitchen and Carytown Cupcakes. What I really loved was Jeanette honoring her father by opening the dance floor with a song by his beloved Elvis. It was such a touching way to celebrate his memory. Following Mike’s heartwarming dance with his mom, the touching moments continued with several of Jeanette’s family members and friends surprising her by taking turns spinning her on the dance floor to “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder. Her smile completely lit up the room and the joy she radiated just filled my heart.It was such an honor to be a part of their day. They truly made it their own and filled it with sentiment, love, and tons of family and friends that I know mean the most to them. Cheers to the happy couple and to a lifetime beautiful memories!

Reception Venue: Tredegar Iron Works / Ceremony Venue: First Baptist Church / Wedding Planner: Colleen Cook of CCS Events /  Gown: Kathy Ireland by Mon Cherie / Veil: Nicole Hope Designs / Jewelry: Bella Rosa / Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo / Catering: Catering By Jill / Baker: Kalico Kitchen / Dessert Bar: Carytown Cupcakes / Music: Xtreme DJ’s / Second Photographer: Marvelous Things Photography