Typically, when brides are getting ready in a hotel, there’s a ton of people, stuff everywhere, and the music is bumping. While there is nothing wrong with that, it can be a bit chaotic. With Charlene, she was quietly sitting getting her makeup done, with all of her details all neatly together waiting to be photographed. By the time I was almost done with details, her bridesmaids came in to get dressed. It was such a relaxing atmosphere for Charlene to get ready on her wedding day.
We captured Charlene and Josh’s details and getting ready images before heading to their ceremony venue. It rained on and off all day but luckily never a hard enough rain that it prohibited us from photographing outdoors. I love that Charlene choose to walk with her Dad and Mom down the aisle for the ceremony. Josh looked like he was about to loose it when he first saw his beautiful bride but was able to keep most tears from falling. In traditional wedding fashion, Charlene’s veil covered her face and her Dad lifted it up and kissed her before giving her away. This was such a beautiful moment.
Wedding Ceremony
Charlene and Josh’s wedding ceremony was elegant and officiated by the youngest priest I’ve ever met. Guests enjoyed a ribbon exit after the ceremony before heading to the reception venue, RiverView at Occoquan. From there we were able to take portraits by the water before heading into reception. Even with the rain, it was such a gorgeous wedding day. I absolutely loved Charlene and Josh’s easy going and such joyful personalities. They are the type of people who, I’m sure, meet people and become instant friends because they are just so fun, energetic, and kind.
Reception
After the ceremony, we headed to RiverView at Occoquan for their reception. We were able to take portraits with the bridal party and Charlene and Josh by the water before heading into reception. Their reception had the best money dance I’ve ever seen! Charlene’s parents created a sash of money that guests were able to tape money to. You have to scroll to the bottom of this blog to see what I mean. I thought this was the most fun way to have a money dance.
Even with the rain, it was such a gorgeous wedding day. I absolutely loved Charlene and Josh’s easy going and such joyful personalities. They are the type of people who, I’m sure, meet people and become instant friends because they are just so fun, energetic, and kind. Thank you Charlene and Josh for choosing me to capture your day.
Thank you to all the vendors who made this RiverView at Occoquan possible:
Ceremony Venue: Saint James Catholic Church | Reception Venue: River View at Occoquan | Photography: Sarah Botta Photography | DJ: Black Tie Entertainment – Matt Johnson | Bridal Dress: The Bridal Room – Style Zavana | Bridal Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Bridesmaids Dress: Azazie | Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Warehouse | Hair & Makeup: JSL Visions | Videographer: Tolman Media | Florist: Twinbrook Floral | Cake: Liberty Baking Co
You Might Also Love:
Engagement | Lydia and Alex Leesburg Engagement
Is there anything more beautiful than two people who fell in love? For Andrea and Howard, life is full of responsibilities and high-pressure careers, so when it came to their wedding day, they wanted something simple yet meaningful. Surrounded by their closest family members, they chose the charming Red Fox Inn in the heart of […]
Abby and Troy’s Winchester-Inspired Six Pastures Farm Virginia Wedding was a beautiful homage to all things Winchester, Virginia. For Abby, who grew up in the area, it was important that her wedding reflect the place she calls home, with every detail thoughtfully crafted by local vendors. From the florals to the personal touches, their wedding […]
Visiting Trummer’s Restaurant in Clifton, Virginia is always a treat. There’s something special about this charming spot, where the welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service make every visit memorable. The owner, Victoria, has a way of making everyone feel like family—her warmth is contagious and truly sets the tone for any event held there. For Lindsey […]
From Engagement to Family to everything in between, I’ve been able to photograph my brother in law and sister in law as they fall in love, get married, and now are a family! View a few of my favorites from their Winchester VA Fall Family Session. Looking to have your family photos taken? Email me […]
Fall in Virginia is a truly magical time, and there’s no better place to capture that beauty than the Virginia Arboretum in Winchester. Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, this location offers the perfect blend of stunning foliage, expansive landscapes, and charming walking paths that make for a picturesque setting. As many times […]
It’s never too late to blog a beautiful Winchester Lifestyle Virginia Newborn Session. Baby Izzy is one of my nieces and is now a year old! Having my sister come over and take photos of the two of them was truly special and a fun time. I know she will cherish these images of them […]
entries
popular
view the highlights
The Sarah Botta Experience is rooted in timeless & refined images so couples feel their imagery.
