Ethereal Lakeside Wedding at Rassawek Vineyards | Virginia Wedding Photographer

Patrick and Alex planted delightful surprises at every turn at their beautiful Rassawek Vineyards Wedding. This wedding, though it followed many familiar norms of a lovely wedding day, included nontraditional details and elements. This added a flair to the day that perfectly matched Pat and Alex’s relationship and personalities. And it helped turn a rather rustic venue into an ethereal lakeside retreat.

Bespoke Bridal Party Attire

For starters, Alex’s wedding dress was the statement piece of the day! This massive layered ballgown featured off-the-shoulder sleeves, a stunning faded floral pattern, and a flattering and timeless corset bodice. Few brides could pull off such a show-stopping gown, but Alex did so flawlessly! Rather than wear the dress, the dress wore her! I know you’ll agree when you scroll to her gorgeous bridal portraits.

As I obsessed over her dress, Alex told me it served as the basis for the entire day’s details. I saw this in full display as the day progressed. Patrick rocked a gorgeous hunter green tuxedo, further hinting toward their truly bespoke event. Their large bridal party further complemented the theme with a mix-and-match palette of satin bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen suits that matched the groom’s.

Sweet Moments With Loved Ones

Speaking of their bridal party… Pat and Alex’s friends impressed me. I’m normally a bit nervous managing such a large group of people, as it can take a lot of coordination and patience to arrange group portraits. But these people were so warm, inviting and cooperative! It made that part of my job extremely easy and enjoyable. I had a blast hanging out with them!

Even so, no part of my experience as their Virginia wedding photographer could top the sweet display of emotion between the Pat and Alex at several moments of the day. This wedding will be added to my memory of one of my favorite First Looks between a bride and groom. As soon as Patrick laid eyes on his beloved bride, he was moved to tears. Sappy me joined him in that, trying to photograph through them. He teared up again as she walked down the aisle, proving once and for all that a First Look doesn’t mean the groom won’t cry at the ceremony.

Highlights of Pat & Alex’s Rassawek Vineyards Wedding Day

These are all memories I was honored to capture through the below images. You’re not going to want to miss a single one! If not for the gorgeous reception decor, bridal details and glowy portraits, then certainly for the special candid moments and personal touches scattered throughout the day. Here are some to look for as you view the highlights below:

Alex clearly has impeccable taste in fashion and accessories! Aside from her gorgeous dress, I just loved how adorably her mom’s wedding veil fit in with her bridal style. The pearl flowers were absolutely darling!
At Alex’s Daddy-Daughter first look, I realized where she gets her big, contagious smile – her dad! His reaction was just the sweetest.
Though Rassawek Vineyards proved a beautiful and spacious wedding venue, Alex tasked me with masking the many pieces of farm equipment and quirky, rustic structures on the property. I think we accomplished that beautifully, thanks to the pretty pink azaleas and charming greenhouse as alternative portrait locations.
Pat & Alex’s wedding reception details were so darling. I sure do have a soft spot for dusty blue cheesecloth, wicker chargers, and chinoiserie bud vases. Together they sang like a love letter to Nantucket-inspired elegance.

I was honored to photograph Patrick and Alex’s special day as a lead associate photographer for Willow Britt Studios.

Thanks for checking out a piece of my work as a Virginia wedding photographer! If you’d like to view more of my work, check out my featured galleries over on my portfolio. Or if you’re in love and want to know more about working with me as your wedding photographer, inquire today! I can’t wait to chat with you.