Monday, May 18, 2015

emily + blake - charlottesville wedding - {UVA chapel & restoration hall at old trail}

Emily and Blake's wedding was one of several of my 2014 weddings in the Charlottesville area. They had a classic, elegant style with hues of kelly green, yellow, cream, & navy incorporated into their day.  I met the couple about 6 months before their wedding & though we planned from afar {they in northern VA, me in NC, & the wedding there} we certainly made it work. It truly helped with such a great team of vendors to make their big day come together seamlessly!

Early on the day of their wedding, my partner Terry & I arrived at the Omni Hotel where the gals were getting their hair & makeup done. Getting ready shots are always popular & I enjoy shooting at this time, as you can get lots of creative, documentary images.  Terry joined me as my photographer's assistant extraordinaire for the entire day & even did a little 2nd shooting for me when we needed to be in two different places.  It was a long day & his help was greatly appreciated!

Emily & Blake decided not to do a "first look",  however we planned for plenty of time for photos throughout the day. We were able to take some photos along the downtown mall adjoining the hotel, of Emily and the bridesmaids and then Emily with her parents & sister before heading over to UVA Chapel for the ceremony. Although Emily & Blake agreed not to see each other before, I really love that Emily & her father did a "first look"  - it was so sweet and touching! Moments like these are what make me really love what I do.

The couple chose to get married at the chapel, as Emily did her undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia. It turns out Blake is a Clemson graduate and a big fan at that!  The beautiful ceremony was followed by a few photos at the chapel. Then Terry and I met the wedding party over by the lake at the Boars Head Inn, before heading out to Old Trail for additional wedding party photos around the property and then a few family groupings on one of the patios. Lastly, the two of us joined Emily & Blake out on the golf course together to take some couples photos. Although the rain held off all day, almost as soon as we got out on the course it started to come down & didn't let up! We were able to get a few pics before heading back in. Its too bad, as they have amazing mountain views there! The weather will do its thing - grateful it was nice most of the day.

 Emily & Blake were introduced & went into their first dance under the big tent - the beginning of a wonderful reception. The tent was setup on one of the patios for dancing, adjoining the Pavilion where dinner was served.  I always enjoy working with the DJ, Rick Haggard, as he is not only cheerful but great at keeping a party going.  Kristin Ridge at Restoration Hall, which is the event space & restaurant at Old Trail, was wonderful to work with! Very organized, professional, and keeping things on track. I highly recommend her and the venue itself. This is only the second time I've photographed a wedding at this venue & its been several years since. I loved how they served the meal family style - the food there is out of this world!  After dinner, dancing, & then the toasts, Emily and Blake cut their cake, danced a little more,  before departing on their honeymoon. It was such a amazing day still fresh in my mind!


all images © elizabeth larson photography 2014
a special thanks to my partner Terry for assisting!

celebrant - Pastor Greg Anderson
ceremony organist - Norman Allen
ceremony coordinator - Julia Define/Down the Aisle Events
wedding party photos {location} - The Boars Head Inn
reception music - Rick Haggard DJ
wedding cake - Albemarle Baking Company
floral design/decor - Foxtail Cottage Floral
bride's gown - Watters at Love Couture Bridal
bridesmaid's gowns - Bill Levkoff
hair & makeup - A More Beautiful You
accommodations - Omni Charlottesville Hotel
transportation - Camryn Limousine & Easy Riders Bus Company 


















































































































































  















































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