Amanda and Verity’s Wedding at The Pavilion at Black Water Junction
Any opportunity I get to photograph a couple’s love, is a day that I’ll never forget. I had the pleasure of photographing Amanda (she/her) and Verity (she/they) and their wedding day on August 20, 2022 at The Pavilion at Black Water Junction in Union Hall, Virginia. Read on to see how magical Amanda and Verity’s big day was and how we were able to capture it all on camera.
The Chosen Venue: The Pavilion at Black Water Junction
The Pavilion at Black Water Junction is a beautifully maintained wedding venue with ponds, ample lawn space, and magnificent views. As a photographer, this venue checked off the boxes with its quaint charm and overall welcoming atmosphere. The week of their wedding was actually calling for rain, but when the day came, not a drop fell from the sky! We really couldn’t have asked for a better wedding day.
Behind the Scenes: Capturing Every Moment
The morning of August 20th was a whirlwind of excitement. We were on a mission to capture every tiny detail – from the rings to the cute wedding detail photos (otherwise known as “flatlays”). But you know what was even better? Seeing Amanda and Verity getting ready with their crew. There’s something about those moments that just tugs at your heartstrings.
Getting Ready: Amanda and Her Crew
Amanda and her wedding party were in a cozy suite just a stone’s throw from where the action was about to unfold. It was a whirlwind of hairspray, laughter, and shared moments as they helped each other slip into their wedding day attire. And you know what? Amanda couldn’t resist doing a mini first-look with her crew, and the reactions? Priceless. The vibe was all warmth and excitement, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead.
Pre-Wedding Antics: Verity and the Posse
Meanwhile, Verity and her wedding party were put up in a rustic cabin, a short walk away from the main venue. After grabbing a few quick shots, I passed the baton to my second photographer to make sure we didn’t miss a beat. Let me tell you, if you’re considering getting ready separately like Verity and Amanda did at this venue, having two photographers is a game-changer! With a little help from her siblings, Verity got dolled up and ready to roll. And once everyone was ready and looking fly, they even squeezed in a celebratory shot (minus Verity’s sis, who was rocking the mom-to-be glow).
First Look: A Sneak Peek at Forever
After Amanda, Verity, and their parties were dressed and ready, Amanda and Verity escaped away to do their first look before the ceremony. They also had a private vow exchange. Watching their reactions made me tear up behind the camera; you could feel their love for one another exuding in that moment. Being a witness to that moment will never get old.
Wedding Party Group Photos
After Amanda and Verity’s first look and private vow exchange, we got their wedding parties together and snapped some photos before guests started to arrive and make their way to their seats. Prior to their wedding, Amanda and Verity told me they were absolutely DYING to have a jumping photo so, you know I made that happen for them! No injuries involved!
The Ceremony: Where Forever Begins
Under the open sky and amidst the embrace of nature, Amanda and Verity’s love story took center stage in a ceremony filled with raw emotion and genuine moments. From the heartfelt words shared by a dear friend to the planting of a tree symbolizing their growing love, every aspect of the ceremony felt personal and true, a reflection of their authentic connection.
The Reception: Love, Laughter, and Happily Ever After
The reception began with an introduction of the newlyweds and their parties, followed by dinner, and shortly after, Amanda and Verity had their first dance, but with a loving and heartwarming twist! As they began dancing, they invited Verity’s mom and step-dad up for a dance. Then, as the song continued to play, they invited members of their wedding party, their partners, and friends to join them. It was the sweetest gesture and made you feel like you were at a ball. Surrounded by friends and family, Amanda and Verity danced the night away, their smiles lighting up the room brighter than any string of fairy lights. The reception was a true reflection of the couple’s down-to-earth spirit and the love they share.
Sneaking Away for Sunset Photos
As the sun began to set, Amanda and Verity snuck away from their reception with me and my second photographer to take photos with the colorful sunset; the sky started with deep blue hues and transitioned to bright pinks and a vivid purple. It was absolutely stunning and deeply appreciated, since the day initially called for rain!
The Sparkler Sendoff: A Farewell to Remember
As the evening drew to a close, friends and family gathered once more to bid Amanda and Verity farewell with a dazzling sparkler sendoff. With sparks flying and hearts soaring, they made their grand exit, surrounded by love and well-wishes for the journey ahead. And as they disappeared into the night, hand in hand, they carried with them the memories of a day filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities.
Testimonials
This wedding was an absolute blast to be a part of. I thoroughly enjoyed capturing all of the magic from Amanda and Verity’s special day and would do it 100x more if I could. I am wishing Amanda and Verity a lifetime of happiness, joy, and adventure.
Here’s what Amanda and Verity had to say about our time together:
“Everything was beyond our expectations! Cameron was accessible for our questions; she was organized, thorough, and really cared about getting the details just right. She took the time to get to know us and our story, which made us feel safe to be vulnerable. We really appreciated her transparency and constant communication throughout the whole process. She worked with our busy schedules and helped us achieve so many of our ideas. We honestly attribute the success of the day to Cameron’s guidance in planning our timeline. The photos were stunning and felt genuine. It was truly a great experience working with Cameron. We will be recommending her to anyone we can!” – Amanda (she/her) and Verity (she/they)
Amanda and Verity’s Wedding Vendors
Primary Photographer: Cameron Warren Photography
Second Photographer: Marissa Yi
Ceremony and Reception Venue: The Pavilion at Black Water Junction (see venue here)
Catering: The Village Grill
Makeup & Hair: Elegance Artistry
Band: Jojo Stockton with Solacoustix
Bakery: Casey’s Cakes
Beer: Starr Hill Roanoke Pilot Brewery
Flowers: Thornfield Farm
Suit: Davidson’s Clothing
Dress: Olivia Bottega
Dog Handlers: Flower Paws
Reverend: Kirk Ballin, Unitarian Universalist Church of Roanoke
Officiant: Cameron Terry
Wedding Planner: Anne Lloyd
Sign Design: Elliot Johnson
If you’re planning to elope in Virginia, I would love to be your photographer! Check out my pricing to learn more about my philosophy, process, and packages. If you’re ready to book now, fill out an inquiry form to get started.
