back

Weddings

A Virginia House Wedding with Romantic ‘Secret Garden’ Aesthetic | Richmond Wedding Photographer

As a wedding photographer, I take a lot of pride in noticing details that others might miss. I’m the pair of eyes that captures the overlooked. Sometimes it’s the nuanced expressions of love on everyone’s faces. Other times it’s the textures and emotions that make a memory so permeable through the lens. Kyle and Amira’s fall Virginia House wedding was full of these moments and details.

In the quiet atmosphere of an AirBnB, Amira and her bridesmaids attended to their lip liner, getting each mark just right. Meanwhile, in an echo-filled library, the groom’s laughter roared with his friends as I arranged their boutonnieres in a flat lay. As the ceremony commenced, I could hear sweet sniffles of guests overcome with happy emotion for the bride and groom.

Though, you may not have been there to hear and feel it. But I hope my images paint that picture clearly.

You can almost imagine the flower girl’s smile as her dizzying twirls showed off her long locks and white dress.

A heart-shaped cloud in the sky hovers above Kyle and Amira as they say “I do.” Without a photographer, they never would have seen that, because tree cover embraced their ceremony spot.

In summary, each of these details put a flourishing signature on this Virginia House wedding day. Needless to say, it was a pure dream, every moment straight out of a rosy film reel.

It’s a great inspiration for brides looking to plan a whimsical yet classic, traditional wedding day. And Richmond’s Virginia House is a great venue for such an occasion.

Even more inspiring, many of the details you’ll notice in these photos — from the bride’s hair, to her makeup, to the bouquets — were all done by the bride herself.

Throughout the day, the enchanting gardens and grand terrace overwhelmed me. Nestled in a very quaint residential street is this castle-like estate. Kyle and Amira, posed against this backdrop, looked all too appropriate in their setting. If Bridgerton were to be reimagined in a modern day scene, Netflix should have come to film this wedding.

Disclaimer

I had the sweet pleasure of serving as Marshall Arts Photography‘s second shooter to capture these moments and details. The images shared here are my own and edited by me, but the larger work delivered to the client can be found on Marshall Arts Photography’s blog.

Below are some of my favorite images from the day. I think it’s some of my favorite examples of the intricate details I’ve trained to capture.

Bridesmaids share a joy-filled moment while getting ready for the bride's Virginia House wedding in Richmond in the fall. Photo by a Richmond wedding photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A groom poses for a formal portrait while getting ready for his Virginia House wedding in Richmond in the fall. Photo by a Richmond wedding photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A groom poses for a close-up profile photo while getting ready for his Virginia House wedding in Richmond in the fall. Photo by a Richmond wedding photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
Virginia House wedding venue sits against an early fall backdrop in Richmond. Photo by a Richmond wedding photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
The bride is escorted down the aisle by her brother at her Virginia House wedding ceremony in Richmond in the fall. Photo by a Richmond wedding photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
The bride and groom exchange emotion-filled vows at their Virginia House wedding ceremony in Richmond in the fall. Photo by a Richmond wedding photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
The bride and groom kiss mid-way down the aisle as husband and wife at their Virginia House wedding ceremony in Richmond in the fall. Photo by a Richmond wedding photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
The bride and groom walk down the aisle as husband and wife, beaming with bright smiles at their Virginia House wedding ceremony in Richmond in the fall. Photo by a Richmond wedding photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
Inspiration for a simple yet elegant wedding guest look. A wedding guest poses in a sleek, blush dress, accessorized with a Cartier ring and Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet. Photo by a Richmond wedding photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A bride and groom pose with their black tie attired groomsmen and mismatched bridesmaids for portraits at Virginia House in Richmond, serving as the enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A flower girl twirls for a portrait at Virginia House in Richmond, serving as the enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A groom and his black-tie attired groomsmen pose for portraits at Virginia House in Richmond, serving as the enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A groom and his black-tie attired groomsmen pose for portraits at Virginia House in Richmond, serving as the enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A bride and groom pose for newlywed portraits at Virginia House in Richmond, serving as their enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A bride and groom pose for newlywed portraits at Virginia House in Richmond, serving as their enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A bride and groom pose for newlywed portraits at Virginia House in Richmond, serving as their enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A bride and groom pose for newlywed portraits at Virginia House in Richmond, serving as their enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A bride and groom pose in one of the raised Tudor-style gardens of the Virginia House in Richmond, serving as their enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A bride and groom pose in one of the sunken Tudor-style gardens of the Virginia House in Richmond, serving as their enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A bride and groom pose in one of the sunken Tudor-style gardens of the Virginia House in Richmond, serving as their enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A bride and groom pose in one of the sunken Tudor-style gardens of the Virginia House in Richmond, serving as their enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A bride and groom pose in front of the Virginia House in Richmond, serving as their enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
A bride and groom pose in front of the Virginia House in Richmond, serving as their enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
Virginia House in Richmond serves as an enchanting, fairytale estate wedding venue. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
Mid-century modern forks are laid at the place settings of a whimsical, elegant wedding reception table at Virginia House. Photos by a Richmond wedding Photographer, Emily Nicole Photography.
Bride and Groom are beaming with joy and laughter as they share an intimate, slow first dance against a beautiful stained window backdrop at their Virginia House wedding in Richmond.
Bride and Groom share an intimate, slow first dance against a beautiful stained window backdrop at their Virginia House wedding in Richmond.
A bride and groom cut their wedding cake together at their Virginia House wedding in the fall.

Looking for more weddings for inspiration? Check out these journal posts next:

featured

Every detail of the Madelyn Tenney Events Spring Design Showcase 2025 was pure magic. As an Atlanta wedding photographer, I had the joy of being invited to capture not only the beautifully curated spaces but also the intimate behind-the-scenes moments that made this spring showcase possible. From lush florals to elegant table settings, the event was a treasure trove of spring wedding inspiration for brides dreaming up their perfect day.

Hosted at Nova Studio in the heart of Atlanta, this carefully crafted experience was designed to set the tone for the upcoming wedding season—and it did not disappoint.

Spring Wedding Inspiration for Modern Southern Brides

The design vision for the showcase–Prima Flora–embraced soft pastels, delicate textures, and fresh seasonal styling. Think romantic blush tones, textured linens, and floral-forward installations. Madelyn and her talented team created a setting that felt simultaneously elevated and welcoming. It was truly a perfect exhibition of what sophisticated spring weddings can be in Georgia.

As I arrived early to document the event setup, I was able to photograph the team in their element: adjusting linens, styling stationery, and rehearsing the layout one last time. These behind-the-scenes moments revealed just how much heart went into this event. It’s easy to see why so many brides trust Madelyn Tenney Events to bring their dream weddings to life.

Behind the Scenes with Madelyn Tenney Events

Before the doors opened, I had the privilege of capturing team headshots for the women behind Madelyn Tenney Events. Their energy, collaboration, and vision made it clear this wasn’t just a design showcase—it was a heartfelt celebration of creativity and community.

The environment was buzzing with excitement as florists arranged final stems and vendors fluffed the final cushions. The team’s chemistry was undeniable, and it translated directly into the seamless flow of the event itself.

The Madelyn Tenney Events Spring Design Showcase

At the heart of the showcase were the intentional design vignettes. Each space told a story, offering spring wedding inspiration tailored for modern Southern brides. One standout element was a centerpiece floral installation by Marigo Flowers, assisted by Pollen Floral Company. It floated above a table layered with blush-toned linens from BBJ La Tavola, catching the light beautifully throughout the afternoon.

An eye-catching ice sculpture by Ice Sculpture Inc. ATL added a playful, elevated touch to the scene, while live entertainment from Jewel the Ballerina captivated attendees with ethereal movement, bringing life to the experience. Glasswing Rentals curated tableware that sparkled under the natural light of Nova Studio, and JC Rental Collective and Party Bound contributed pieces that gave each setup personality and polish.

Why This Event Matters for Atlanta Brides

If you’re a bride planning a wedding in Atlanta, Savannah, or North Georgia looking for fresh spring wedding inspiration, events like this one are invaluable. They don’t just showcase trends—they display the talent of local, trustworthy vendors who are passionate about what they do.

Every vendor at this showcase brought their A-game. Seeing each one’s work in person—and getting to document it as a film-inspired wedding photographer—was such an honor.

What I Loved Most as an Atlanta Wedding Photographer

Photographing this spring wedding inspiration at Nova Studio was a dream. The soft filtered light made the colors pop in a way that felt timeless and true-to-color. My goal is always to deliver film-inspired wedding photos that feel both editorial and authentic. The setting created by Madelyn Tenney Events was ideal for that.

Being trusted to document the designs and the passion behind them—team portraits, set-up, genuine laughter—reminds me why I love this work. These are the moments that couples don’t always see. These are the images that reveal the effort, energy, and heart poured into a couple’s day long before they say I do.

Want more from this amazing showcase? The full gallery is available for your viewing and inspiration!

If you’re planning a spring wedding in Georgia, take this as your sign: romantic color palettes, thoughtful texture layering, intentional florals, and a dream team of vendors are always a winning combination. And if you’re looking for a light and airy wedding photographer, I’d be honored to capture it all.

Let’s create something beautiful together. Contact me to inquire for more information about pricing and packages!

Vendors:

wedding Inspiration, Photo Prep tips, & exclusive offers only for the enp insiders

MORE TO EXPLORE

Image Hover Zoom Effect
Savannah Georgia Wedding Photographers | Bride And Groom In Front Of A Coastal Wedding Venue With Spanish Moss
Image Hover Zoom Effect
Descriptive Alt Text

Top Georgia Wedding Venue Recommendations

Read on the Blog

Our Favorite Savannah Wedding Venues

Read on the Blog