Journal

From the dusty blue bridesmaid gowns to antique flat lay styling, Jon and Allison’s June wedding at Rust Manor House was the perfect reflection of modern vintage wedding themes. Set in Leesburg, VA (a wedding I was honored to travel back to my old stomping grounds from before we moved to Atlanta) this celebration effortlessly blended refined elegance with heartfelt, personal touches—creating a vibe inspired by the French countryside but grounded in the couple’s love story and family heritage.

This wedding is not just visual inspiration—it’s a real example of what I want it to feel like to work with me. I am so proud to provide a fine art wedding photography experience that prioritizes genuine connection and timeless storytelling.

Why Historic Estate Venues Bring Modern Vintage Wedding Themes to Life

If you’re dreaming of a venue that feels historic, romantic, and naturally elegant, Rust Manor House is just one example—there are so many beautiful venues like it around Atlanta, too. Allison and Jon chose this estate because its natural beauty and formal gardens perfectly aligned with their garden party formal aesthetic. The venue’s soft gold accents, European charm, and lush outdoor spaces created an atmosphere that felt like stepping into a Jane Austen novel—with a modern twist.

It was the ideal canvas for their vision of refined elegance with organic textures—everything you’d hope for in a modern vintage wedding.

Personal Details That Elevated the Vintage Feel

Every part of Jon and Allison’s day was intentional. The bride wore a pearl bracelet gifted to her at birth by her late grandfather, earrings borrowed from her dad’s jewelry store, and her Nana’s original engagement ring. The groom wore his late step-grandfather’s Rolex. And both of them wore matching perfume and cologne engraved with “Mr” and “Mrs” and their wedding date.

The bridal party styling was a seamless blend of elegance and personality. Bridesmaids wore dusty blue chiffon gowns from Azazie in mix-and-match silhouettes. Jon and his groomsmen were classic in black tuxes, with Jon’s boutonniere standing out against the timeless lines of his look.

As a fine art photographer, I always strive to elevate styling details. For Allison, I went antiquing in advance to find a vintage silver tray and a blue Wedgewood dish that brought out the soft tones in her flat lays. Alongside dusty blue velvet ring boxes, toile vow books, and sprigs of florals from the Fertile Burb, the result was heirloom-quality detail imagery that felt editorial yet deeply personal.

A Sentimental Summer Celebration Filled With Meaning

Aside from the most touching details were the sweet moments. Without planning it, Jon and Allison both found quiet moments to finish writing their vows and personal letters while getting ready—at the same time, completely in sync just like the couple they are.

Their ceremony took place outdoors under a vibrant sun, with a flower petal toss exit that felt joyful and effortless. Every candid moment felt organic and light, just as Allison had hoped when she described her vision: authentic, loving, and real.

How Fine Art Photography Complements a Modern Vintage Wedding Theme

When a couple chooses a modern vintage wedding theme, the photography style should reflect that soft, timeless elegance. With my light and airy, film-inspired approach, I focused on capturing the organic flow of the day—unposed laughter, romantic stolen moments, and heartfelt connections. But I also worked in editorialized poses & details to represent the emotions and connections I was observing.

Allison told me she wanted the photos to feel natural, loving, and less staged—and I kept that vision front and center all day. From vow reading candids to dance floor moments under glow sticks, their gallery tells a story as emotionally rich as it is beautiful.

The Experience: Why Jon and Allison Trusted Me

Honestly, I’m always so flattered and humbled when a couple trusts me with their all important day. This was actually my second wedding with this family—I photographed Allison’s sister’s wedding in 2023. So when it came time for her own day, Allison said she already knew she wanted to work with me.

That trust allowed us to move through the day with ease. I knew when to step in with direction and when to step back and let the moment breathe. Whether capturing the first look with bridesmaids, documenting the couple’s room reveal of their reception design, or sneaking away for sunset portraits, I was there to not just photograph the day, but to protect the joy in it.

Modern Vintage Wedding Ideas You’ll Want to Steal

If you’re inspired by this aesthetic, here are a few takeaways for your own planning:

• Choose meaningful heirlooms – Allison’s bracelet and Jon’s watch added layers of emotional depth and opulent details.
• Incorporate soft textures and muted tones – Think dusty blues, white florals, velvet, toile, and ribbon.
• Opt for a naturally elegant venue – Like Rust Manor, with architectural charm and romantic gardens. Here are some of my favorite wedding venues near Atlanta, GA!
• Add storytelling props – From engraved perfume bottles to custom vow books and matchbook favors.
• Trust your photographer – Your photos should feel like you. Get to know your photographer and vice versa for the most authentic images in your gallery!

If you’re planning a wedding with vintage soul and modern flair, and you want your photos to reflect the emotion behind every moment—I’d love to help you tell your story.

Let’s capture something timeless, together. Inquire with me for your wedding date, before it’s gone!

Vendors

Venue | Rust Manor House

Planning | Days and Eves Weddings (Genevieve)

Photographer | Yours truly, Emily Nicole Photography

Second Photographer | Virginia Aldana Photography

Florals | The Fertile Burb

Makeup | J. Tan Artistry

Hair | POSH by Laglam

Dress | The Bridal Room

Bridesmaids | Azazie

Menswear | The Black Tux

Invitations | Minted

Menus | Confetti and Canvas

DJ | Mixing Maryland DJs (Kyle)

Strings | Atoka String Quartet

Cake/Desserts | Signature Sweets by Amanda

Catering | Great Blue Heron Catering, NOVA Parks

Rentals | Select Event Group

Transportation | All Pro Charter

Favors | Zazzle