Real Loudoun Weddings: Simple & Sweet Soiree at Patowmack Farm

After a sentimental ceremony at the Mormon Temple just outside of Washington DC, these sweethearts headed out into the lush Virginian countryside for a lovely reception with their closest family and friends. A floral palette of bridal-worthy blush, cream and pale coral was sweetly subtle against the bride's warm white gown and made a picturesque addition to the verdant environs. Tied with delicate streamers, the bouquet added a graceful touch to the bride's demure ensemble.

Embracing a fresh teal hue, the bridal party was prettily arrayed in a mixture of gowns and skirts, keeping the vibe of the day relaxed and charmingly perfect for this garden-style soiree. Set at Patowmack Farm, the juxtaposition between elegance and dressed-down chic was expertly realized. Enclosed with glass, the sit-down reception area provided lovely countryside vistas and beautiful expanses as guests celebrated with the happy pair.

Reception decor was defined by fresh-from-the-garden blossoms and trailing greenery. Small, perfectly-spaced floral arrangements brightened crisp, clean white table linens with a pretty pop of color. Golden chargers paired with white scallop-edged tableware and gold-rimmed bread plates kept the aesthetic simple with understated elegance. Balloons in the bridal party's signature teal hue added to the festive ambiance. Every detail was precise from charming rustic touches, like the X-back chairs, right down to golden-hued cutlery.

Homespun touches, including family photographs, as well as love notes and well wishes from guests, added a sentimental element to this affair. A simple buttercream cake decked with the day's blooms made for a sweet ending to a touching occasion. Family and friends said a glimmering farewell to the newlyweds with sparklers for a final celebratory send-off. It was a beautiful ending to a sentimental occasion, full of all the pretty little touches that make a wedding magical.

Another couple, another love, another successful Loudoun Weddings affair.

Photography by Anne Robert Photography
Florals & Design by Holly Heider Chapple Flowers
Reception Venue, Patowmack Farm
 

Loudoun Venue Spotlight: Silverbrook Farm

A gem of a venue, nestled within Loudoun County’s green and rolling hills, Silverbrook Farm is a quaint bed and breakfast as well as a charming events space. From the main house to the barn to delightful gardens and other rustic dependencies, the property is full of romantic possibilities. Lovers can play a life-sized game of chess in the garden, or meander amongst the roses. A sprawling porch offers opportunity to relax in the rocking chairs for a few precious moments as lovely bucolic vistas spread towards the horizon.

The main house was originally constructed in the 1700s and exudes all the allure of a historic structure. Comprised of gorgeous stone, with wooden frame additions, it’s easy to see why couples feel right at home on the property. Several ceremony sites are exclusive to the premises, the especial raised arbor a particular favorite.

Owned and operated by Dot Shetterly, Silverbrook Farm is an enchanting little secret, tucked away in the Virginian countryside. Read below as we explore the history, opportunities and possibilities Silverbrook offers, and begin to imagine yourself as a Silverbrook bride.

Meet Dot Shetterly, owner of the lovely, rural haven of Silverbrook Farm. Silverbrook is beautifully set amidst the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Photo courtesy of Tom Lussier Photography.

Loudoun Weddings: What makes Silverbrook Farm a unique venue in Loudoun County?

Dot Shetterly:  Silverbrook Farm is certainly a unique venue in Loudoun.  We offer the residence, the lawn, the gardens, the barn, and a lovely tent site.  But probably what makes us different is the flexibility we offer.  We do only one wedding a week, which allows the bridal couple to come out any time during the week of their wedding to bring what they need for their special day.  Rentals can come as early as Thursday and nothing has to be picked up until Monday.  Decorating can be begun as early as Thursday and does not need to be taken down until Monday.  The couple is encouraged to come out as often as they can from contract to wedding and bring friends and family.  This makes for a very relaxed wedding day.

LW: What do couples say that they love best about Silverbrook Farm?

DS: Couples in many testimonials have said they love the positive energy at Silverbrook.  They feel welcome from the first visit. By their wedding day, they feel it is their home away from home. They love the flexibility. They love the sereneness, the gardens, the views, and they refer to the barn as magical.  As one bride said, "Silverbrook is the diamond in my tiara."

The arbor ceremony site. Photos courtesy of Genevieve Leiper Photography.

LW: How many ceremony locations does Silverbrook offer?

DS: The most popular ceremony site is the arbor with the raised platform in the garden.   We also offer the boxwood garden, a tent site next to the barn, open fields and the barn itself, if weather dictates.

LW: Tell us about the reception location options couples have on the premises.

DS: The cocktail reception is usually held in the gardens and on the lawn.  The dinner reception is most often held in the barn. If the number exceeds 125, there is a lovely space for a tent (with views of two mountains) next to the barn.  The dinner is held there and folks come inside the barn for dancing.

For small weddings, we can accommodate up to 24 for a seated dinner in the residence or up to 60 for a cocktail reception. With both, we have room for ceremony and dancing, if desired.

Silverbrook Farm is a unique venue, offering brides and their grooms the opportunity to have a wedding that feels elegant, but homespun.

LW: What is the most magical moment you have experienced during a Silverbrook Farm wedding?

DS:  There are so many magical moments, but the one that stands out the most was the releasing of the doves. The bride and groom each released a dove and they flew over the ceremony site, met and flew back to their home. Then the handler released several and they did the same. It was so great seeing them meet and then fly off.

LW: What Bed & Breakfast services are available for couples wedding at Silverbrook?

DS: As part of our wedding package, we offer a complimentary night's stay with a full country breakfast for the bride and groom.

A beautiful old stone façade graces the main house. Photos courtesy of Genevieve Leiper Photography.

LW: How many people can the inn accommodate, as far as overnight guests go?

DS: We have 3 suites, plus a handicapped bedroom.  The number we accommodate depends upon the make-up of the group.  Each suite has one bathroom so guests have to be willing to share a bath.

The bedroom that is handicapped accessible has its own bathroom, outfitted for the handicapped.

LW: Can you tell us about the history of the Silverbrook Farm property?

DS: The original part of the house was built circa 1765; the second wing circa 1790; the third wing circa 1870 and the fourth wing was built as our retirement wing in 1998.  It has been owned by only two families since the mid 1700s: the Potts family and my family, the Florances.  My family came in 1941 and it became a working dairy farm with 300 acres.  When my father lost his health and could no longer farm, I bought the house and 37 acres in 1981.  I started the B & B and wedding business nine years ago after my husband, Bob Shetterly, passed away.

The rustic barn at Silverbrook Farm is wonderfully nostalgic with beautiful opportunities for draping and exquisite lighting. Photos courtesy of Genevieve Leiper Photography.

LW: Tell us about one of your favorite events that has been held at this charming venue.

DS: Again, there are so many favorites, but the one that stands out in my mind is Holly's son, Alex's, wedding to Mallory. Alex booked two years in advance and I really got to know them during those two years. Of course, the flowers were the most beautiful ever. And the decorations and all the touches. But, what was the magical moment, was when Alex sang to Mallory during the reception. It was so touching that he would want to do that in front of God and everyone. Will always remember it.

LW: Are there any traditions specific to Silverbrook Farm that couples should partake in?

DS: We have an old southern tradition that I share with my clients. Part of me wants to share it with every bride and part of me wants to keep it for our Silverbrook brides. I am afraid if it gets too widespread that it will stop working for the brides at Silverbrook.  o, this is just a teaser. No rain on the brides at Silverbrook.

Silverbrook brides enjoy tender moments with their grooms.

Visit Silverbrook Farm for more information.

SAAVY STYLE INSPIRATION: SPRING FORWARD WITH AIRY FLORALS & FRESH PASTELS

Spring has sprung! We are officially ready to put our freshest face forward and welcome the change in the weather. Soft vines, airy pastel palettes and a budding sense of new life abound here in Loudoun. From baby bunnies to chirping chicks, we can’t help but fall in love with the magical beauty of Spring.

We’re finding our greatest inspiration in earthy neutrals and barely-there blushes and nudes. Paired with an abundance of trailing, cascading and ethereal blooms, the season’s florals are fresh and beautifully mixed with plenty of vine-y greens. Juxtaposed against the still-stark backdrop of the fading winter months, we’re in love with this stylish array of pretty, pale hues. Natural textures are also trending this Spring- from rustic wooden accents to sumptuous silk ribbons and demure laces.

Pretty, pastel and pastoral, Loudoun is coming alive. Jodi Miller Photography has exquisitely captured Holly Heider Chapple's 2015 Floral Collection, and Sweetz Bakery's cupcakes are beyond tantalizing, styled with Target's chic tableware and linens. Find fabulous inspiration in this Loudoun-styled shoot full of bunny fluff and fabulous floral inspirations.

Photography by Jodi Miller Photography
Florals & Design by Holly Heider Chapple Flowers 
Gowns by Shop Gossamer
Cupcakes by Sweetz Bakery
Tableware & Linens by Target

REAL LOUDOUN WEDDINGS: SOUTHERN SOPHISTICATION AT OATLANDS HISTORIC HOUSE & GARDENS

Soft, sophosticated and undeniably romantic, this lovely Loudoun County wedding reception was held at Oatlands Historic House & Gardens. With a gorgeous manor house, rolling lawns and lovingly-tended gardens, the property's very essence lends itself as an exquisite backdrop for an elegant affair. Teeming with history and culture, the boxwood hedges, canopied trees and clandestine paths create picture perfect moments for classic day-of photographs that will last a lifetime.

Stunning florals grace every aspect of this sweet southern soirée. Wisps of greenery and silver-hued foliage create a demure backdrop for bouquets laden with layered garden roses and ranunculus. Floral crowns and other personal accents give the wedding day a sense of woodland nostalgia. Every detail is fresh, clean and simply composed from tenderly calligraphed invitations to charming reception decor.

Full of classic details, the event exudes a sense of eloquence. The raw wooden surfaces of farmhouse-style tables, vintage-gold chargers and tabletop details paired with fine woven linens, subtly patterned, establish an intriguing surface for vases laden with the season's choicest blooms. A striking juxtaposition of rustic chic elements with carefully placed splashes of color and texture bring vibrance to the overall event aesthetic.

Clean lines and the careful exposure of wood grain textures leave this wedding feeling approachable and relaxed. Unique vintage chairs were brought in for the bride and groom, adding a sophisticated touch. Like most aspects of this alluring affair, the cake was executed in a simple, yet classic, manner. A layer of decadent floral detailing elevates the design to a place of elegant refinement.

Vintage settees, ottomans and draping lend spectacular style to the tented outdoor reception. Chandeliers, silver trays and well-placed compote designs were curated to ensure guests would enjoy the genteel environment of the historic premises. Imaginative, carefully furnished and expertly designed from the smallest bud vase to the loftiest tented peak, this Oatlands wedding oozes the quality and expert aesthetic of a Loudoun Weddings event.

Another couple, another love, another successful Loudoun Weddings affair.

Photography by Anne Robert Photography
Florals & Design by Holly Heider Chapple Flowers 
Wedding Planning by Cherry Blossom Events
Venue, Oatlands Historic House & Gardens
Music, EBE London Bridge
Transportation, Virginia Rides
Makeup & Hair, Salon Emage
Rentals, Design Foundry, DC Rental, Bella Villa
Linenes, La Tavola
Catering, Design Cuisine

Location, Location: Loudoun's Myriad Venue Possibilities

Wedding in Loudoun County presents a vast array of opportunities and choices for couples that are ready to tie the knot. Rather than offering a predominant type of venue, Loudoun has myriad spaces and places that are ideal for creating the wedding and reception of your dreams. Whether you envision an upscale ballroom-style event where your guests will dance into the night or you are in love with the idea of a nostalgic country chic affair, the possibilities are endless.

To help you and your love make the most well informed venue decisions possible, we’ve narrowed the choices for wedding and reception venues in Loudoun County into easy-to-manage categories. Loudoun boasts wedding-worthy Barns, Community Spaces, Historic Properties, Inns and Bed & Breakfasts, Resort Locations and Wineries. As you define the aesthetic and feel that you want your wedding to exude, these definitive categories will enable you to navigate what is available and what will most perfectly suit your desired look and feel.

Top Left Murray Hill's chic barn reception venue ; Top Right Lovely Shadow Creek Events & Weddings ballroom, photographed by Jodi Miller Photography; Below Riverside on the Potomac's spacious barn-style structure, photographed by Photography Du Jour.

Barns
Known for its vast, rolling countryside, Loudoun County is home to some of Virginia’s most picturesque farms- and subsequently, barns. Over the past several years, barn weddings have been all the rage and we don’t see the trend dying down this season. Whether you want the classic rustic chic feel that many brides have opted for the last few years, or you want to kick off the bridal boots and relish a rustic-mixed-with-glam event, a beautifully-situated barn will be the perfect choice. The best thing about a barn wedding? Typically, the bare-bones structure of the venue makes a fabulous backdrop for developing any sort of aesthetic that you so desire with elegant draping, florals and lighting. Barns also tend to offer ample space for slightly larger guest lists (Shadow Creek, for example, can seat up to 300 in the main room of the venue). If you decide you would like your event to be more glam than down-home, we recommend perusing Resort, Historic Property & Inn and Bed & Breakfast options.

Best-Loved Barn Venues in Loudoun
Murray Hill’s Barn, Riverside on the Potomac’s Historic Bank Barn, Shadow Creek Weddings & Events

Top Morven Park is beautifully transformed with gorgeous styling and lighting; photography by Rebekah J. Murray Photography; Bottom Left The Middleburg Community Center is airy and light for this lovely reception; photography by Anne Robert Photography; Bottom Right  Beautifully-canopied vistas at Morven Park; photography by Genevieve Leiper Photography.

Community Spaces
If you would prefer to do less by why of extravagant décor, consider utilizing a Community Space or Park. With the addition of some beautifully designed florals and select stylish touches, a Community Space can be expertly transformed into the venue of your wedding day vision. Since most Community Centers and Parks have a pretty specific design aesthetic already in implementation, it is important to note that if there are extensive details about the space that you would like to alter or change, it may not be possible- or, it may be costly to do so. Generally easily accessible to the public, as well as to vendors, Community Spaces are great choices for a both wedding ceremony and reception. These spaces have seen many different types of events and have the process of preparing, setting up and cleaning up down to an art.

Charming Community Spaces & Parks in Loudoun
Middleburg Community Center, Morven Park

Top Left Murray Hill's lovely stone façade; Top Right Gorgeous Oatlands Plantation, with it's beautifully columned porch; Bottom A romantic evening at Whitehall Estate.

Historic Properties
Full of historic charm and intrigue, Loudoun’s Historic Properties provide venue offerings that are full of all of the delicate details of the past. Nostalgic and sophisticated, these properties convey a romantic ambiance. In addition to stately manors and houses, the properties boast full natural and formal gardens. Proffering exquisite backdrops for wedding day photoshoots, the gardens also provide couples with opportunities for a clandestine jaunt. Get caught up in the mystery and majesty of bygone days and enjoy the natural loveliness and nostalgia of these properties simultaneously.

For those of you who prefer not to wander down Memory Lane, we suggest exploring Loudoun's Resort venue possibilities.

Lovely Historic Properties Located in Loudoun
Murray Hill, Oatlands Historic House & Gardens, Whitehall Estate & Winery
 

Top Beautifully bedecked ceremony location, found at Goodstone Inn; Bottom Left Red Fox Inn & Tavern is charmingly-appointed with Virginian antiques and works of art; Bottom Right Silverbrook Farms' Bed & Breakfast-style charm extends to the quaint barn tucked away on the property; photography by Genevieve Leiper.

Inns and Bed & Breakfasts
For a stylish and sweet Wedding, we recommend an inn or bed & breakfast option. Ideal for smaller events, we love the feeling of being in an environment that feels almost like home- but with an added dose of charm and elegance. Since the properties are smaller, you and your event will be the very center of attention, with every detail catering to your big day. The option to stay at the venue is an added bonus that helps to simplify and streamline your day-of itinerary.

Quaint Inns and Bed & Breakfasts in Loudoun
Goodstone Inn, Red Fox Inn & Tavern, Silverbrook Farm

Top Salamander Resort & Spa on an early Spring Day; Bottom Lansdowne Resort's patio ceremony location- airy and bright.

Resorts
If the idea of a spacious ballroom, gorgeous expanses of greenery, golf courses and luxurious living speaks to you, you might be a prime candidate for a Resort-inspired wedding. With well-manicured gardens and perfectly situated patios for cocktails, the ceremony or even a reception, a Resort is a beautiful selection for sumptuous wedding day style. Additionally, resorts are large enough to house all of your guests and bridal party, making it a simple solution for bringing everyone together for your celebration. Meals with family and friends, catering, activities- it's all a cinch when you have access to the many amenities of resort-style life.

For a little more rustic charm and historically-influenced surrounds, Historic Properties or quaint Inns and Bed & Breakfasts might match your preferences more suitably.

Ravishing Resorts We Love in Loudoun 
Lansdowne Resort, Salamander Resort & Spa

Top left Belmont Vineyard draped and lit for a festive reception; Top right The rustic aesthetic of the barn at WeatherLea Farm & Vineyard; Bottom Airy reception held at Breaux Vineyards; photography by Paper Antler Photography.

Wineries
Always an exquisite choice, Loudoun boasts an array of gorgeous winery venues. With opportunities for ceremonies and receptions to be held indoors or out, couples who would love to incorporate a sense of nature and the vine's bounty into their nuptials will find a fabulous pairing if they go this route. Clean, bright and bursting with opportunity, wineries have tons of character but also leave plenty of room for personalization. Of course, if your event will take place out-of-doors, it's always wise to have a back-up plan in case of inclement weather. However, we can't imagine that anyone could possibly worry about the weather when they have a glass of a fine Loudoun vintage in hand.

Wedding-Worthy Wineries in Loudoun
Belmont Vineyard, Breaux Vineyards, WeatherLea Farm & Vineyard

Whether you desire to have an elegant wedding or a charmingly rustic event, Loudoun's options are varied and sure to offer the discerning couple plenty of possibility. We hope our guide has left you full of inspiration and some savvy Loudoun County insight to assist you in selecting the perfect Wedding Day location.

Loudoun Venue Spotlight: Shadow Creek, Weddings & Events

Visions of an entrancing escape to Loudoun County, Virginia, conjure images of charmingly situated barns and rustic structures set amidst rolling hills and sumptuous forests, verdant and thriving. Shadow Creek, located just outside of Purcellville, fits this ethereal vision perfectly. Beautifully constructed, the post and beam equestrian-style barn exudes a sense of pastoral chic sophistication. From the Bridal Suite to the Groom’s Lounge, the venue is a comfortable choice for an elegant- or even garden-style- affair.

With a lovely ceremony site, fabulous set up for a reception and plenty of room for lawn games and fire pits, Shadow Creek makes entertaining a cinch. Owned and operated by the Carlyle family, guests and clients quickly sense the air of effortless hospitality that pervades the property. Brides and Grooms even have the opportunity to have one of the Carlyle’s gorgeously-groomed quarter horses in the outside stall for photo opportunities or for a romantic carriage ride across the expansive property.

In an effort to offer our Loudoun County couples the most insightful information possible, we’ve chatted with Shadow Creek’s own Lori Carlyle for all the tips and tidbits a couple should know about wedding or hosting a reception (or both!) at the exquisite Shadow Creek estate.

It's a family affair! The Carlyle family owns and operates Shadow Creek with great pride and joy.

LW: What makes Shadow Creek Unique?

LC: Shadow Creek was specifically built for couples looking for a wedding venue that perfectly blends rusticity with elegance.  Shadow Creek is perched on the top of a hill overlooking the rolling countryside, where you’ll often see our family’s cows and horses grazing in the distance. Although Shadow Creek was built to replicate an equestrian barn on the outside, the inside is whimsical, romantic and chic. Hardwood floors, stunning chandeliers, twinkle lights, a French country inspired bridal suite, a manly groom’s lounge, and outdoor lawn games are just some of the things that make Shadow Creek so unique!  

LW: What do you wish discerning brides knew about Shadow Creek?

LC: We are beyond grateful for the men and women who defend our country, and keep our communities safe everyday. Therefore, we proudly offer a $500 discount to any firefighter, police officer, or military personnel.   

LW: How did you come up with the idea to open this lovely property up as an event venue?

LC: When our oldest daughter got engaged, she was in search of the perfect venue. She had a large guest list, wanted to be able to be married outside, but if there was inclement weather, wanted to be able to easily move the ceremony indoors.  She did not want to get married under a tent, at a winery, or at a hotel, so as you can imagine this was quite a challenge! She ended up selecting a venue outside of the county, and that is when the idea was dreamed up! Years later, at a family dinner, the topic came up again, and we decided it would be a great venture to fill the niche for a large venue in Loudoun! 

LW: What is your favorite aspect of the property, personally?

LC: I have two. First and foremost, the awesomeness of the massive oak beams and the woodsy aroma that permeates the air inside Shadow Creek. Second, the panoramic views of the rolling meadows that surround the property, and the breathtaking view as you round the corner to the ceremony site.

Ceremony and Reception sites at the Shadow Creek property present exceptional vistas. Floral designed by Holly Heider Chapple.

LW: What locations on the premises do you have available for the wedding ceremony?

LC: We have two outdoor ceremony sites. One is a large cobblestone patio that overlooks beautiful farmland, and a view of the creek. We also have a grass ceremony area, which also overlooks the beautiful rolling hills, and can accommodate 300 guests.  The ceremony can easily be moved indoors pending inclement weather, or for a dreamy winter wedding.

LW: What locations are available for the reception?

LC: Receptions can be inside, outside on the lawn, or under the covered portico.

LW: What is it about Shadow Creek that generally makes your couples choose you over other venues in the area?

LC: The views, and the exposed wooden beams are what most couples say they love about Shadow Creek! However, one of our biggest assets is our size, being able to seat 300 guests with a dance floor.  Our space can also be transformed to cater to smaller, more intimate weddings as well!

The post and beam style equestrian barn offerns a backdrop for countless renditions of wedding day glamour. Floral designed by Holly Heider Chapple

LW: Tell us how you came up with the name for this gorgeous venue.  

LC: To be honest, I was just driving by one day, and the name popped into my head. It stuck, I liked it, my family liked it, and so it is! There is a beautiful creek that runs along the base of our property and after coming up with the name, we noticed that the large trees that are situated alongside the creek, casting picturesque shadows over the entire area, so the name was meant to be!

LW: Are there any traditions that you observe at Shadow Creek that are exclusive to the property? (For instance, a specific spot all couples have their photo taken, or, all couples have a romantic ride in a horse drawn carriage, etc.)

LC: Yes, we had a gate put in the fence, so our couples can access all of the property. The couples are allowed to walk or drive through the fields for their pictures, even down to the creek, if they like. This seems to be a favorite

LW: Tell us about one of your favorite events that has been held at Shadow Creek.

LC: A wedding… The bride’s brother had been in a very serious accident the year of her engagement, and it wasn’t sure if he would even survive.  After the accident, he was wheelchair bound for several months, not knowing if he would ever be able to walk again. As part of his rehabilitation, he took months of dance lessons, from the prospective groom’s parents, who lived in another state, as an innovative way to help him with his motor skills. One year later, every heart pounded with joy as this bride and her brother took to the dance floor!

Visit Shadow Creek Weddings & Events for more information.

Real Loudoun Weddings: Rustic Chic at Riverside on the Potomac

Rustic and sweet, Brittney and Nathan's Riverside on the Potomac nuptials were bursting with stylish southern tradition and hospitality.  A stunning Virginian afternoon in May made the picture-perfect setting for this intimate affair.  Riverside on the Potomac, which offers an array of lovely lawns, sweeping landscapes and vast views of nearby Sugarloaf Mountain and the Potomac River, was the ideal locale for this plein air ceremony and homespun barn-style reception.  

The Historic Bank Barn on the premises was outfitted with farm-chic vintage pieces, adding to the antiquated charm of the space.  Loudoun Weddings brought in fresh, garden-inspired arrangements with vibrant accents of coral and yellow, brightening the interior of the Bank Barn, making it feel as light and airy as the surrounding expanses of kempt lawns and seasonal gardens.  Brittney and Nathan encouraged their guests to 'Spread the Love' with darling little jars of spreads to take home as the sweetest of favors.

A pair of turquoise vintage doors with calligraphed detail made a gorgeous and original focal during the ceremony.  As Brittney and Nathan sealed their love with the exchange of vows, the doors represented an opening into their new life together as man and wife.  Decked with a luxuriant bundle of florals including Free-Spirit roses, majestic peonies, bright billy balls and airy smatterings of stock, this design detail was an exquisite ceremony highlight.

Carefully curated linens with an array of festive patterning brought the reception space to life.  Between lush florals and chevron runners, with table numbers and food signage calligraphed onto cut sections of wood, texture was abundant and varied.  These careful details were beautifully woven together utilizing the natural, earthy hues of the wooden barn beams and the coral-infused palette.  An aroma of chocolate chip cookies and bitty pies such as pecan and apple brought the sumptuous scent of home into the rustic reception scene.

 With a timeless ambience skillfully crafted utilizing natural forms and materials, this Loudoun Weddings event exuded a bright, bold return to the couple's homespun roots, with a touch of elegant sophistication.  Even the invitations, simply calligraphed with a flourish of inked vine and accented with a brilliant coral envelope, demonstrated the couple's attention to specific detail and limited palette.  We loved pulling this event together, from antique furniture accents to beautifully simple bud vases bursting with color.  

Another couple, another love, another successful Loudoun Weddings affair.

Photography by Shauna Ploeger, Photography Du Jour
Florals & Design by Holly Heider Chapple Flowers 
Wedding Planning by Wit Weddings
Venue, Riverside on the Potomac 
Music, Musical DJs 
Transportation, Road Yachts 
Bridal Gown, Watters Brides from Ann's Boutique  
Groom's Suits, Men's Warehouse 
Ring Bearer Pillow, Two Peaches Design
Flower Girl Dresses and Headbands, Posh Peanut Kids 
Makeup, Jamie Mangovski 
Hair, Brenda Gibb
Cake and Pies, South Street Under 
Cookies, Mom's Apple Pie 
Catering, Celebrations Catering
Chalkboard Signage & Door Signage, Karen Milnes 
Guest Book, Sweet Invitation Co. 
Guest Book Pens, Sommer Crawford
Favors/Jam, Chicks Dig It 
Invitations, Grey Snail Press 
Doors, Barry Gibb
Table Numbers, Brandon Crawford

Real Loudoun Weddings: Southern Charm & Sophistication at Silverbrook Farm

Charming and heartfelt, Alex and Mallary's Real Loudoun Weddings affair was teeming with vibrant color and intricate detailing.  Beautifully situated at Silverbrook Farm, guests were enraptured with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and welcome to experience the innate loveliness of the property from formal to airy country gardens.  The couple's theme was Loudoun-inspired from the outset, which is why we thought it only fitting that our very first Real Loudoun Weddings feature should center around Alex and Mallary. 

As Holly's son, it was already evident that Alex's wedding would be extraordinary, but when he and Mallary came up with the idea for a Loudoun-themed event, the wedding took an inspired turn.  The epiphany stemmed from the fact that Alex and Mallary met, dated and fell in love right here in Loudoun County, Virginia.  When the couple decided that the wedding, too, should take place in Loudoun, the theme began to unfold and Loudoun Weddings itself began to take form.  Each element of the event was the very best of Loudoun, through and through.  Even the invitations featured a custom emblem with the county's silhouette gracing its center, which was utilized throughout the event to truly brand Alex and Mallary's wedding, making it like none other.

The ceremony was magical, with the aisle bedecked with floating vases and brilliant blooms which created a simple, yet imaginative, canopy.  Specially selected wicker-backed chairs were perfect for the guests, and lovingly composed floral accents were strategically placed to give the entire area a sense of rustic charm.  Each detail was carefully realized, bringing the space into focus with truly subtle touches that were extraordinarily transformative.

Loudoun Weddings utilized a vast array of garden flowers to tie both the sophisticated and rustic elements of Alex and Mallary's event together.  From-the-garden selections like hydrangea and gomphrena added zest to the brilliant splash of roses and zinnias decking the tables.  Wheat-like touches and trailing ivy made the florals feel at home in Silverbrook's rustic atmosphere. 

Silverbrook's restored 19th century barn was the perfect selection for Alex and Mallary's elegant, yet understated reception.  Cascading lengths of fabric were artfully draped to add a sense of airiness to the space, while glowing chandeliers, glimmering candles and hanging floral installations embodied the romance of the occasion.  An enchanting ensemble of textures including silky linens, earthy floral accents and fine tablewares, coupled with the rustic nature of the barn's structure, made for an aesthetic that was both seamless and intriguing.

With vast premises perfect for gorgeous photo styling (as well as for a few clandestine moments for the newlyweds), Silverbrook Farm created the perfect backdrop for Alex and Mallary's 'I dos.'  Each space was transformed with the addition of carefully curated items which defined the originality of this couple's love.  From the cascading florals to gracefully pooling linens, this Silverbrook event was sophisticated with just the right amount of rustic charm mixed in.  It's clear to see this spectacular couple is happily in love in Loudoun. 

Photography by Genevieve Leiper Photography
Stationery by Miss Merkle Design

We know Loudoun. We know weddings.

Situated in the heart of rural Virginia, Loudoun County is known for its sweeping landscapes and picturesque expanses, bordered by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.  Intricately colored with lush flora, forests, hills and streams, Loudoun's beauty is as varied as its terrain. 

Boasting a wealth of gorgeous options for your dream Wedding, Loudoun County is home to a lovely array of vineyards, wineries, inns and sumptuous resorts.  Loudoun Wedding's exclusive Loudoun Weds will open your eyes to a whole new world of possibilities as you discover the magic of falling in love in Loudoun.

Stay tuned for the most savvy publication on loving and marrying in Loudoun- we know Loudoun, we know weddings and we know you're going to love Loudoun Weds!