I love destination weddings and I especially love hearing why a couple chose their particular destination. For Ari and Ryan, the decision was a simple one when planning their Pippin Hill Farms Wedding in Virginia. To begin, Ari and Ryan met at a bar in Norfolk, Virginia when Ryan was stationed there in the Navy. He then moved to Jacksonville and Ari “suddenly” wanted to go to school down here too. When it came time to plan their wedding, Virginia seemed like the natural choice between her family in Pennsylvania and his in Florida. One look at Pippin Hill Farm and they knew it was their dream wedding venue.

Honestly, as soon as I stepped foot on the property I understood why. At the heart of Virginia Wine Country, Pippin Hill Farms is just breathtaking with rolling hills and incredible views. The photo opportunities throughout the property were endless.  Ari turned the beautiful venue into something of a dream with floral arrangements galore including the jaw-dropping fall arbor they were married in front of. The floral decor continued throughout the venue and transformed the head farm table into a work of art. It was stunning.

But as beautiful as the flowers, the venue and the scenery were – nothing could top some of the beautiful moments throughout their wedding day. Ryan’s son, Jackson, first met Ari when he was 3 years old, and she’s been the only mom he’s ever known. So when tears poured down his face as he walked down the aisle, it pulled at everyone’s heartstrings. But the truly beautiful moment was when Ari turned to him and spoke to him about becoming her son and all composure was lost. He was an absolute angel sent to bless this family and their wedding ceremony couldn’t have been more perfect.

At the reception, Ryan reunited with his military buddies and everyone got down with a silent dance party where they wore headsets and listened to personalized music. Did I mention both families were AMAZING? It was like a huge party that everyone participated in. To top it all off, they wound down the night with freakin’ SMORES. It doesn’t get any more fall than that!

Ari and Ryan, I am SO lucky you chose me to document your perfect destination wedding! I absolutely adore you both! To a lifetime of Love and Laughter.

Want to see another gorgeous destination wedding? Check out Brooke and Tony’s Destination Wedding at Casa Marina Key West