Every bride and groom who planned their wedding in the midst of the current pandemic has had to make a million decisions and changes at the last minute and for Shawn and Julia, it was no different. They still wanted to get married on a date so special to them - April 25 - but they wanted family and friends to celebrate all together, which wasn’t possible a few months ago. Finally, they made the difficult decision to elope with just a few close family members at Roanoke College, and decided to postpone their Hollyfield Manor wedding until August when they could invite everyone they loved most in the world.
Though there was so much uncertainty surrounding their wedding, last Saturday was a beautiful celebration of two people who love each other and are deeply loved by everyone in their lives. Julia smiled all day long, tears filled her bridesmaids eyes when they first saw her in the stunning wedding dress she has gotten to wear so many times by now, and the ceremony was filled with emotion as Shawn held his bride’s hands, knowing their 8-year journey through dating and engagement was only the beginning of their lifetime together.
For Richmond and Hampton Roads brides, there is no better venue than Hollyfield Manor! From a beautiful outdoor ceremony space overlooking the water to a reception that looks stunning even before the decorations are added, I could not be more in love with this all-inclusive wedding venue, right in the heart of Virginia. Julia chose gorgeous multicolored bouquets, and her dress was absolutely to die for! My favorite part of the whole wedding, though, beyond all the beautiful details, were the tears that flowed freely, a joyful reminder of the marriage that has already begun.
Shawn and Julia, I’m so happy that your family and friends could celebrate the beautiful relationship you have, and I’m in admiration of your steadfastness during so much uncertainty. Your love is beautiful, and I know it will only continue to grow from here. Congratulations again!
Invitations: Merrymaker Paper | Bride's Dress: Bridal Elegance | Bridesmaid Dresses: Dessy | Hair + Makeup: FBJ Weddings | DJ: Bill Gilliam | Venue + Catering: Hollyfield Manor | Bakery: Carytown Cupcakes | Florist: King William Florist | Transportation: Winn Transportation | Videographer: Casey Ripp Videography
Rain threatened the outdoor pictures, but thankfully it held of I will never get over the estate look…or those gorgeous bridesmaid dresses!
Even though Shawn and Julia were already married, their first look was just so sweet. What a special moment it was for these two!
The ceremony was beautiful as always, the arch covered in flowers and the whole thing overlooking the water. Hollyfield Manor is a dream!
After celebrating and spending time with their family and friends during cocktail hour, we headed over to the reception where, as always, every detail was just stunning!
There were so many beautifully emotional moments…this picture captures the love Shawn and Julia’s wedding guests have for this special couple.
…in contrast, Julia had a HILARIOUS special dance with her three brothers! It was unforgettable!
Before the sun was gone, we had to capture some sunset pictures by the dock - my favorite place to take pictures in Hollyfield Manor!
Then came the dancing…and this group for SURE knows how to have fun!
