Courtney and Josh’s wedding at Cedar Oaks was nothing short of an enchanting love story brought to life, crafted by this luxury wedding photographer. Bathed in the golden light of a spring sunset, their day unfolded with a symphony of soft blush, delicate whites, and verdant greens—a harmonious palette that echoed the beauty of nature’s awakening. It was a celebration steeped in romance, curated with an intentionality that made every moment feel timeless yet deeply personal.
Courtney and Josh’s wedding photos were edited with a timeless yet vibrant aesthetic, balancing soft, natural tones with a touch of warmth to highlight the beauty of spring. The images embrace a fine art film photographer inspired style, with gentle grain and dreamy light, creating an ethereal quality. Colors like blush, whites, greens, and pastels are enhanced to feel rich and elegant without overpowering the natural beauty of the scene. Their customized edits maintain a clean, polished look while preserving the authenticity and emotional depth of each moment, making their gallery feel both classic and contemporary. One of the beauties of Amative Creative, is that we allow our couples to truly personalize their aesthetic, so that their images are a true reflection of their wedding vision.
The wedding details were an exquisite reflection of Courtney and Josh’s wedding vision. The invitations, delicately crafted by Paradise Invitations, featured an illustration of Cedar Oaks, setting the tone for the timeless charm of the day. Surrounded by soft blush roses and the shimmer of gold wedding bands, the suite perfectly embodied their “Petals, Pearls, and Pastels” vision. Additionally, Courtney’s bridal shoes by Bella Belle—chic, lace and satin heels with ribbon ties—were the perfect final touch to Courtney’s bridal look. These thoughtful touches, rich with personality and artistry, were a testament to the couple’s attention to detail and commitment to beauty.
The ceremony began beneath a magnificent arbor adorned with cascading florals by Bloom by Doyles, a living tapestry of blush roses, ivory ranunculus, and sprays of fresh greenery. The Blue Ridge Mountains stood proud in the distance, their gentle peaks cradling the horizon as if nature itself was witnessing this union. As Courtney walked down the aisle, her bridal gown from Chantilly Place seemed to float effortlessly, its intricate lace details shimmering softly in the sunlight. Subtle pearl accents in her look tied into her theme of “Petals, Pearls, and Pastels,” a vision that radiated grace and femininity. Her bridesmaids flanked her like a soft watercolor painting, dressed in flowing blush gowns from AW Bridal that danced with the breeze, their floral bouquets a perfect ode to spring’s renewal.
Josh stood beneath the floral arch, his expression a mix of reverence and joy as he beheld his bride, dressed in a dapper blue suit from Generation Tux. Their vows were spoken in tender tones, their words weaving a tapestry of love and commitment. When Josh pulled Courtney into their first kiss as husband and wife, the crowd erupted into jubilant applause, a sea of happy faces framed by the sun-drenched mountains and vibrant blooms. It was a scene that felt plucked from a fairy tale, each element lending itself to a moment that would live on in their hearts forever.
The reception was a marvel of design and atmosphere, held within Cedar Oaks’ rustic yet refined venue, decor designed by Amy with I Do Events. Inside, long tables were adorned with garlands of pastel florals interwoven with artfully natural yet undeniably elegant touches. The fireplace, the room’s centerpiece, was transformed into a floral masterpiece, with blooms spilling gracefully from its mantle in a display that felt as if spring itself had blossomed indoors. Golden candlesticks cast a soft glow over the room, their flickering light dancing across the crystal glassware and gilded flatware, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance. It was a space where time seemed to pause, allowing every guest to fully savor the joy of the evening.
The pièce de résistance was the cake—a breathtaking four-tiered creation adorned with sugar petals so delicately crafted by Blush Baking Co., that they looked as though they had been plucked from the garden moments before. Each tier, a subtle nod to the timeless elegance that defined the day, while real flowers cascaded around its base, tying it perfectly into the floral-forward aesthetic. It was a showstopper, a culinary and artistic centerpiece that perfectly encapsulated Courtney and Josh’s vision.
As the golden hour approached, Courtney and Josh slipped away for portraits with their Virginia wedding photographer, with images that can only be described as ethereal. The field stretched endlessly around them, the setting sun casting its amber glow over every blade of grass and every fold of Courtney’s flowing train. In one moment, they danced together in the open meadow, her laughter ringing like a melody, and in another, they stood silhouetted against the fiery hues of the sunset, their love tangible in every glance and every touch. These moments, framed by the grandeur of the Blue Ridge Mountains, were nothing short of iconic—a visual testament to the enduring beauty of their love.
The evening crescendoed into a lively celebration as guests flooded the dance floor, the air filled with music, laughter, and the joy of togetherness. Glow sticks and exhilaration illuminated the room, while friends and family danced with unrestrained abandon under the warm glow of chandeliers. Courtney and Josh’s first dance, set against the backdrop of the glowing mountains, was a captivating blend of elegance and exuberance, a perfect reflection of their vibrant spirits. The night felt infinite, the kind of celebration where time falls away and memories take root.
Cedar Oaks became more than a venue that day—it became a sanctuary of love and joy, where every detail told the story of two hearts entwined. From the delicate pearls that adorned the bridal party to the abundant florals that mirrored the beauty of spring, every element was imbued with purpose and meaning. It was a day that transcended the ordinary, a celebration of timeless elegance, natural beauty, and the deep, abiding love of Courtney and Josh. Their story, captured in golden light and joyful smiles, will remain a cherished treasure, a reflection of God’s grace and the boundless beauty of love.
Take a deep dive and explore their full wedding photo gallery here, and don’t forget to watch their wedding film below! And many thanks to all the vendors who helped make this day possible below:
Photo & Video: Amative Creative
Wedding Planner & Decor: I Do Events
Venue: Cedar Oaks
Invitations: Paradise Invitations
Florist: Bloom by Doyles
Cake: Blush Baking Co
Catering: Purple Door
Bartending: Tabby’s Bartending
Party Favors: Madelyn Faith Art watercolor portraits
DJ: RSP Entertainment
Wedding Dress: Chantilly Place
Makeup: Looks with LALA
Hair: Jessica Comiskey
Shoes: Bella Belle
Bridesmaids Dresses: AW Bridal
Groom & Groomsmen Suits: Generation Tux