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Weddings

John & Sarah’s Hallmark-Worthy Christmas Themed Wedding | Northern VA Wedding Photographer

Hallmark Christmas wedding in Arlington Virginia at Washington Golf and Country Club

*Soft bells start jingling in the background* Friends, I am absolutely GIDDY about sharing John and Sarah’s wedding day with you all! I hope you are reading this from in front of a fireplace or cuddled up on the couch with hot cocoa because you’re about to see THE MOST Hallmark-worthy Christmas wedding. That’s right, the holidays aren’t over yet.

Aside from being just so perfectly festive, John and Sarah’s day was a beautiful display of their long-time relationship (they’ve been together ten years!!) and the love was felt through every moment and by every guest. This couple is so inspiring, not just for their relationship but get a load of Sarah! This girl graduated her accelerated nursing program THE DAY BEFORE her wedding!! Talk about celebration!!

My second shooter and I had a conversation a couple weeks after this about how some couples just have this “quality” or “thing” … it’s so hard to describe … but essentially as wedding photographers it’s easy to spot when a couple just has it. There’s a spark of electricity when these couples come together at their First Look — or in John and Sarah’s case, First Prayer. The rush of the early afternoon sometimes produces stress or even just seems to go by in a blur. But once the bride and group touch hands or melt into their first hug, their whole demeanor changes. It’s as if they are more themselves as individuals when they are together as a couple. John and Sarah were a quintessential picture of that kind of couple.

It was such an honor to capture their wedding day and share this part of their lives with them. I love all my ENP couples. But there are some that I truly feel sad when I leave their wedding day, because my time with them is nearly over. Seriously, if I could go back in time and photograph this day over and over, I would. Even though 75% of the day was shot with FLASH!! (I know… all the natural light photographers are gasping)

But now I’ll let you feel it for yourselves! Enjoy this beautiful Christmas wedding, and leave a comment with well wishes for the new Mr. & Mrs. Stuart!

Also check out John & Sarah’s Engagement Session to see their wedding venue in the daytime 😉

Flash-only wedding portrait, Arlington, VA. Bride and Groom standing and smiling at the camera for a traditional full-length portrait.
Wedding dress hanging on a white door near a window. Christmas garland around the door frame. 

A champagne velvet ring box holding a solitaire diamond ring with a twisted, white gold diamond wedding band. A dark, black men's wedding band. Lace veil flat-lay. A crystal bracelet.
Ballgown lace wedding dress from Zakaa Couture in Ashburn, VA. Hanging on a white french door with Christmas garland around the frame. In the background, a black baby grand piano.
Lace wedding dress bodice with beaded spaghetti straps. A deep V-neck with sheer lining. Groom puts on  shiny black tuxedo shoes in a light colored hotel room.
Solitaire diamond engagement ring with diamond band. Twisted diamond and white gold wedding band. Black men's wedding band.
Christmas florals for wedding. Red berries and evergreen florals with white roses. Groom wearing a black tuxedo with gold vest and bowtie.
Wedding hair updo with crystal and pearl hair pins. Wedding hair for blonde hair.
Christmas boutonnieres with white gardenia and red berries, evergreen greenery. Black tux groom.
Christmas bridal bouquet. Christmas bride's bouquet. White rose bouquet with winter greens and red ornamental berries.
Kate Spade sparkly Keds for wedding day.
Kate Spade sparkly Keds for wedding day
Bride putting on her earrings detail shot, fine art wedding photos. Crystal bracelet and spaghetti strap wedding dress.
Mother-daughter wedding day portrait. Bride putting on her wedding dress with mom.
Mom helps bride get in her wedding dress.
Christmas wedding day bridal portrait. Christmas wreaths for wedding decor.
Dad's first look of the bride. Father of the bride first look. Emotional first look with father of the bride.
Dad's first look of the bride. Father of the bride first look. Emotional first look with father of the bride.
Dad's first look of the bride. Father of the bride first look. Emotional first look with father of the bride.
Dad's first look of the bride. Father of the bride first look. Emotional first look with father of the bride.
Dad's first look of the bride. Father of the bride first look. Emotional first look with father of the bride.
First Look alternatives. Blind first look or prayer around the corner. Traditional wedding instead of a first look
First Look alternatives. Blind first look or prayer around the corner. Traditional wedding instead of a first look
First Look alternatives. Blind first look or prayer around the corner. Traditional wedding instead of a first look
First Look alternatives. Blind first look or prayer around the corner. Traditional wedding instead of a first look
First Look alternatives. Blind first look or prayer around the corner. Traditional wedding instead of a first look
Indoor ceremony decor. Christmas wedding decor for ceremony. Christmas wedding florals. Christmas wedding flowers. Gold chairs for indoor wedding.
Indoor ceremony decor. Christmas wedding decor for ceremony. Christmas wedding florals. Christmas wedding flowers. Gold chairs for indoor wedding.
Indoor wedding with string quartet. Christmas wedding with string quartet.
Indoor wedding with string quartet. Christmas wedding with string quartet. Sage String Quartet at Arlington, VA wedding
Winter wedding bride and groom portraits. Indoor bride and groom portraits during winter. Christmas bride and groom portraits
Winter wedding bride and groom portraits. Indoor bride and groom portraits during winter. Christmas bride and groom portraits
Winter wedding bride and groom portraits. Indoor bride and groom portraits during winter. Christmas bride and groom portraits
Winter wedding bride and groom portraits. Indoor bride and groom portraits during winter. Christmas bride and groom portraits
Winter wedding bride and groom portraits. Indoor bride and groom portraits during winter. Christmas bride and groom portraits
Winter wedding bride and groom portraits. Indoor bride and groom portraits during winter. Christmas bride and groom portraits
Winter wedding bride and groom portraits. Indoor bride and groom portraits during winter. Christmas bride and groom portraits
Winter wedding bride and groom portraits. Indoor bride and groom portraits during winter. Christmas bride and groom portraits
Christmas reception decor. Indoor winter wedding, ballroom with gold and white decor and winter greenery
Christmas reception decor. Indoor winter wedding, ballroom with gold and white decor and winter greenery
Christmas reception decor. Indoor winter wedding, ballroom with gold and white decor and winter greenery
Christmas reception decor. Indoor winter wedding, ballroom with gold and white decor and winter greenery
Christmas reception decor. Indoor winter wedding, ballroom with gold and white decor and winter greenery
Christmasy wedding cake. Christmas wedding cake with white buttercream and wintery flowers. Christmas florals. Winter florals on Fluffy Thoughts Cakes from northern virginia wedding.
Christmasy wedding cake. Christmas wedding cake with white buttercream and wintery flowers. Christmas florals. Winter florals on Fluffy Thoughts Cakes from northern virginia wedding.
Christmasy wedding cake. Christmas wedding cake with white buttercream and wintery flowers. Christmas florals. Winter florals on Fluffy Thoughts Cakes from northern virginia wedding.
Christmasy wedding cake. Christmas wedding cake with white buttercream and wintery flowers. Christmas florals. Winter florals on Fluffy Thoughts Cakes from northern virginia wedding.
Sparkler exit at Christmas wedding.
Sparkler exit at Christmas wedding.
Vintage getaway car wedding Black and white photo

A special kudos to the amazing vendor team that pulled off this dreamy Christmas wedding day for John and Sarah!

Venue: Washington Golf and Country Club, Arlington, VA

Dress: Zakaa Couture, Ashburn, VA

Shoes: Kate Spade x Keds

Florals: J. Morris Flowers, Leesburg, VA

Cake: Fluffy Thoughts Cakes, McLean, VA

DJ: Bialek’s Music, D.J. Mike, Rockville, MD

String Quartet: Sage String Quartet, Washington, D.C.

Rentals: Perfect Settings, Landover, MD

+ view the comments

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Planning your wedding in Savannah, Georgia, provides you with so many options in a city full of Southern charm, historic elegance, and breathtaking low-country beauty. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic garden ceremony, a grand ballroom reception, or something in between, Savannah seems to have wedding venues for every taste. As a Georgia wedding photographer, I’ve done the research so you don’t have to.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side images of Spanish moss at a Savannah wedding venue

Why You Should Consider Savannah Wedding Venues

Savannah is a city unlike any other. With its oak-lined streets, historic homes, and timeless coastal views, it’s no surprise that couples flock here to tie the knot. Savannah wedding venues offer something for everyone—from intimate settings surrounded by nature to grand estates steeped in history. Plus, its mild climate makes it a perfect choice for weddings year-round.

Top Savannah Wedding Venues to Consider

Hotel Bardo (formerly, The Mansion on Forsyth Park)

For couples seeking a venue that provides a fun vintage aesthetic amidst classic Savannah landmarks, Hotel Bardo is one of Savannah’s crown jewels. This venue combines historic charm with mid-century modern sophistication, offering everything from intimate indoor spaces to a picturesque garden courtyard.

Wormsloe Historic Site

For those who want to embrace Savannah’s natural beauty, Wormsloe Historic Site provides one of the most iconic backdrops in the city. The long driveway lined with towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss is a bride’s dream. It’s a serene, ethereal setting perfect for a romantic outdoor ceremony.

The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

If waterfront views are your vibe, The Westin Savannah Harbor offers a stunning riverside backdrop. With expansive lawns overlooking the Savannah River, this venue blends elegance and nature seamlessly. Plus, the convenience of on-site accommodations makes it ideal for your out-of-town guests.

The Savannah Yacht Club

Couples who envision a sophisticated coastal wedding will fall in love with The Savannah Yacht Club. This venue offers sweeping views of the water, nautical charm, and an air of exclusivity. It’s perfect for smaller, more intimate weddings or grand celebrations with a coastal flair.

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

For history buffs and lovers of unique spaces, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is a standout option. This venue features a lush garden courtyard and historic exhibits that add personality and charm to your wedding. The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces offers flexibility for your big day.

Bethesda Academy

Bethesda Academy boasts one of Savannah’s most stunning natural landscapes, featuring majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss and rolling green fields. Its historic chapel and beautiful outdoor spaces create a dreamy, intimate setting perfect for a romantic Low-Country-inspired wedding.

The Mackey House

Tucked away in a private estate surrounded by nature, The Mackey House is a venue straight out of a fairytale. With a grand Southern-style mansion, lush gardens, and a peaceful lake, it’s the perfect place for an outdoor wedding full of whimsy and charm.

The Ford Field & River Club

Located just outside Savannah in Richmond Hill, this venue exudes refined Southern elegance. The sprawling estate features scenic views of the Ogeechee River, romantic oak groves, and luxurious accommodations, making it a perfect choice for an intimate yet grand wedding experience.

The Harper Fowlkes House

The Harper Fowlkes House is a historic and elegant mansion nestled in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. With its Greek Revival architecture, sweeping staircase, and lush gardens, this venue exudes timeless sophistication and charm. The courtyard garden is ideal for an intimate outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour, while the mansion’s interior offers a beautifully preserved space for receptions with intricate details like antique furnishings and grand windows.

The Kehoe House

The Kehoe House is a stunning, historic mansion located in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District. Built in 1892, this stately home is an exquisite example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Known for its ornate ironwork, grand interiors, and warm Southern hospitality, the Kehoe House is ideal for couples seeking a venue with timeless elegance and charm.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side photos, left side image shows a long rectangle table set for a wedding reception amidst live oak trees draped with Spanish moss; right side photo shows a set of gold wedding rings next to a strand of Spanish moss

Tips for Choosing Between These Savannah Wedding Venues

  1. Consider Your Guest List Size
    Savannah wedding venues come in all shapes and sizes. From intimate gardens to sprawling estates, ensure the venue you choose comfortably accommodates your guest list.
  2. Think About Your Wedding Style
    Your venue should reflect your wedding vision. Are you dreaming of timeless elegance, coastal charm, or a whimsical outdoor affair? Savannah has venues that can bring any aesthetic to life, but the wrong venue can make your details and decor appear out of place. Make the most of that investment (and wedding photos) by choosing a venue that harmonizes with your style!
  3. Factor in Logistics
    From transportation to accommodations, Savannah is known for its hospitality, but it’s wise to consider the proximity of your venue to hotels and local attractions for your guests’ convenience. Consider traffic, city events on or around your wedding day that may cause disruption, and other logistics your guests may face. A wedding planner will help you navigate all the unexpected challenges with ease!
  4. Book Early
    Savannah is a popular wedding destination, especially in spring and fall. To secure your dream venue, book your Savannah wedding venue as early as possible! Then secure primary vendors on your list such as photographer, videographer, planner (if you don’t yet have one) and more.
Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | photo shows a wedding couple kissing under the Spanish moss, wearing a light grey linen suit (groom) and an off-the-shoulder satin wedding gown (bride)

Making the Most of Savannah Wedding Venues

Choosing one of Savannah’s stunning wedding venues is just the beginning. Personalize your celebration with touches that reflect your interests and love story. Whether it’s incorporating local cuisine like shrimp and grits, offering your guests trolley rides through the historic district, or having your photos taken under the iconic Spanish moss, Savannah is full of ways to make your wedding day an unforgettable experience for all.

Planning a wedding is no small task, but having a photographer who knows and loves the charm of Savannah can make all the difference.

I specialize in creating artful images out of your favorite memories. Booking me ensures you’ll have a wedding gallery that represents the essence of your love and legacy in every image. Learn more about my services and approach here.

If you’re considering a wedding in Savannah, I’d love to capture every moment for you. Let’s connect and discuss how I can create timeless art from your most cherished memories.

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