A Sweet Wedding Celebration in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley

Blog » A Sweet Wedding Celebration in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley

Thursday, May 14, 2020

By Elizabeth Larson Photography

On the last day of summer, Patrick and Shelby tied the knot in a beautiful location. I remember it being rather warm, however a gorgeous day with plenty of sunshine. The Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia was the location for their big day. The working farm museum is located on the outskirts of Staunton, which is in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. The ceremony was held outdoors in a tented area with the reception immediately following in the Octagonal Barn.

Arriving first at the inn where Shelby and her maid-of-honor, Rachel, were getting ready, I captured a few preparation shots there. Then Terry & I headed over to the wedding venue for detail photos. The circa 1908 barn is unique in itself, as it's 8 sided and was moved to the museum site from another location in the Shenandoah Valley. It was beautifully decorated with gorgeous flowers and no detail was overlooked. Shelby's aunt and mother did much of the planning and the design. Everything looked so incredible!

Although Patrick and Shelby got ready in different locations, they made the decision to see each other before the ceremony. And because of that, they were able to do all the wedding party photos beforehand and a good portion of the family photos. During cocktail hour, after the ceremony, we were able to finish up the family photos rather quickly. And because of that, Patrick and Shelby were able to enjoy most of the cocktail hour with their guests too.

The ceremony sure was heartfelt and meaningful. Shelby lost her dad several years ago and they were super close. So I know it was hard for her to not have him there. Her older and only brother, Evan, walked her down the aisle and gave her away. Patrick was genuinely thrilled to see his beautiful bride and you could see so much love for one another, as they recited their vows. Love is sweet!

The reception started with an introduction of the newlyweds, as they entered the barn. Everyone was seated inside for an amazing meal (glad I recommended the caterer!). Terry and I had a blast at this wedding. We were invited as guests and got to sit at a table with some really interesting folks. I was close to the dance floor so I could jump up at anytime with my camera as needed!

After dinner, the toasts were made and then Patrick and Shelby cut their cake. The cake was outstanding, I might add. I adore buttercream. After cutting the cake, Patrick and Shelby did their special first dance together. And after their first dance, Sam with King Studios opened up the dance floor. All ages were out there having the time of their lives and it was fun to capture those moments. After an evening of dancing, the newlyweds departed with a bubble exit, then retreating to their get-away limo. And off they were on their honeymoon trip!

Patrick and Shelby's wedding sure will be a day to remember. Being a big part of their day was all the more special, as I've known many of Shelby's family for years. Her aunt, a designer in Greensboro, is also a longtime client. She was also my first client before I even moved to the Greensboro area over 16 years ago. It was great seeing all of them again, especially on such a happy occasion! It was also wonderful to return to that part of Virginia, as I lived in that area for almost twenty years before I moved here.

Although its been several months since Patrick and Shelby's wedding, I'm sending out another big congratulations and so much love to these two!

ceremony + reception | The Octagonal Barn - Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia

officiant | Tim Cole - Blue Ridge Wedding Pastor

catering | Eric Stamer Catering

wedding cake | Paris Cake Company

floral design | Tourterelle Floral Design

planning + design | Stacey Johnson & Jamie Andrews (bride's aunt & mother)

DJ | King Studios

bride's wedding dress | The One Bridal Salon

bride's hair | True Kuhler Hair Design

makeup | DIY

maid of honor's dress | David's Bridal