A crisp October sky, golden leaves, and a church rich with history made the perfect setting for this beautiful Richmond wedding. Sarah and Chris's was a joyful blend of reverence, family, and fall color that felt cozy from beginning to end.
A Fall Wedding at Saint Benedict
Their celebration began at Saint Benedict Catholic Church in Richmond, Virginia, a historic parish with soaring ceilings, warm wood tones, and stained glass that glowed in the afternoon light. Guests gathered quietly as the couple prepared for their vows, the air full of both excitement and peace.
The ceremony itself was deeply rooted in their Catholic faith. From the procession down the aisle to the Liturgy of the Word and the exchange of vows, each moment carried a sense of sacred intimacy. The couple’s quiet glances, clasped hands, and soft smiles at the altar told the story of a love grounded in trust and grace.
Portraits at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
After Mass, we stepped out into the crisp October air and headed to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The grounds of the VMFA were full of color—amber leaves, rich greens, and soft light reflecting off the modern lines of the museum. It was the perfect blend of classic and contemporary, just like the couple’s style.
We wandered the expansive lawns and walkways, pausing wherever the light and color framed them beautifully. Some of my favorite moments were the in‑between ones: the bride gathering up her dress to walk across the grass, the groom helping her with a laugh, and the two of them sharing a quiet breath together away from the crowd. Those small pauses always become some of the most meaningful images.
A Joyful Walk to Three Notch’d Brewery
One of the most memorable parts of the day came right after portraits. Instead of hopping into cars, the bridal party walked together from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts to the reception at Three Notch’d Brewery. It was such a simple, joyful transition: dresses swishing, bouquets in hand, friends chatting and laughing as they moved through the city streets.
That walk created some of the most fun and candid images of the entire wedding day. People passing by offered congratulations, cars honked and waved, and the couple had a chance to soak in the fact that they were finally married before stepping into their reception.
Cozy, Laid-Back Reception at Three Notch’d Brewery
Three Notch’d Brewery was the perfect spot for a warm, relaxed reception. The space had a cozy, welcoming feel—string lights, rustic touches, and the happy buzz of guests enjoying good food, good beer, and even better company. Toasts were given, glasses were raised, and the dance floor quickly filled with guests of all ages.
Between the clinking of glasses, heartfelt speeches, and lively dancing, there were countless little moments worth remembering: a parent’s tearful smile, friends hugging tightly, and the couple stealing a quiet moment together in the middle of it all. It was the perfect finish to a day that started in sacred stillness and ended in joyful celebration.
Planning Your Own Catholic Wedding in Richmond
If you’re dreaming of a Catholic wedding in Richmond—perhaps at a historic church like Saint Benedict, with portraits at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and a laid‑back reception at a favorite local spot like Three Notch’d Brewery—I’d love to help you tell that story. With a faith‑aware, heartfelt approach, I focus on capturing both the sacred moments at the altar and the real, joyful in‑between memories with your favorite people.
Reach out to puddle‑WONDERFUL Photography to chat about your date, your parish, and your plans. Let’s create images that feel true to your love story and the beautiful city you’ve chosen to celebrate in.
