Bluestone Vineyard Wedding Belinda and Ben

I recently had the wonderful opportunity of photographing Belinda and Ben’s wedding at the new reception hall at Bluestone Vineyard in Bridgewater, VA. Belinda and Ben are one of those couples who you know are just perfect for each other. Belinda is one of the most joyful and cheerful brides I have ever photographed, and Ben radiates kindness. This couple has been together for 6 years (!!!) and it was such a joy to witness their marriage.

Belinda and her bridesmaids were putting finishing touches on their hair and makeup when we arrived,  and they were more than happy to smile and pose for some cute pictures. Purple, wisteria was the inspirational color of the day, and was perfect for the light and breezy bridesmaids dresses, and sunny bouquets. The new bridal suite at Bluestone Vineyards has everything a photographer could want with lots of natural lighting, pretty throw pillows, and a special hook designed to hang up the wedding dress. It was the perfect recipe for wonderful getting ready photos.

It was a toasty, sunny day for an outdoor wedding when Ben and Belinda got married in front of the grapevines. Sometimes, on particularly sunny wedding days, it can be challenging to take evenly lighted portraits with harsh lighting. Thankfully, Belinda and Ben had carved out time in the evening to take sunset portraits and they turned out to be some of the most beautiful images from the day! I would strongly recommend that couples consider making time during the evening to take pictures while the sun is setting (photographers call this the “Golden Hour” and it’s so dreamy).

The evening reception at the vineyard was a joy-filled celebration. Belinda’s dad gave a wonderful toast, recognizing all the important men in Belinda’s life, and celebrating the newlyweds. Dinner, dancing, and laughter followed and continued through the evening; with guests stopping to enjoy a cupcake from the beautiful cupcake display by Ashley Jones. Guest’s left with an adorable jar of homemade jam as a wedding favor! What a great idea!