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We LOVE This Luxury Styled Shoot at One of the Newest Wedding Venues in Richmond VA
The moment we laid eyes on the photos from this luxury styled shoot—planned by Styled Memories and captured by Debbie Elisa Photography—we knew we had to get the inside scoop from the planners. Stick around until the end for our top tips on the best wedding venues in Richmond VA!
Debbie Elisa Photography
Debbie Elisa Photography
“Alissa, the stunning model for this shoot, wore a breathtaking gown from the Dahl Collection. The shoot was set in Richmond, VA, at “The Hidden Oaks,” a brand-new venue with a dark and moody aesthetic nestled on 55 acres of enchanting land. If you’re dreaming of a magical, whimsical wedding, this venue is for you! Surrounded by towering trees, it offers a cozy yet spacious feel, accommodating up to 350 guests. The venue even features a charming guest cottage and a greenhouse reception space. And let’s talk about those string lights adorning the front—pure magic! They create the illusion of dancing under the stars, which inspired Alexis James, owner of Styled Memories, to name this shoot “Under the Stars.”
Debbie Elisa Photography
Debbie Elisa Photography
Debbie Elisa Photography
Alexis wore many hats for this project—planner, host, event designer, and stylist for the models. Her vision was to craft a warm, fall-inspired atmosphere, and she nailed it with a rich, seasonal color palette. The florist, Fleure Studio, delivered in a big way, creating lush floral installations that perfectly complemented the venue’s natural elements. Staying on trend with 2024 wedding vibes, they designed a floral meadow to surround the cake. Speaking of the cake, Jilly kept it simple yet elegant, ensuring it didn’t outshine the florals. The result? A harmonious blend of class and beauty.
Debbie Elisa Photography
Debbie Elisa Photography
Debbie Elisa Photography
The model bride, Alissa, stole the show in a gown featuring intricate floral lace, paired with a long, captivating veil. Alexis styled the real-life married couple with an eye on 2024/2025 wedding trends, and their chemistry was palpable. The beauty team gave Alissa a soft, glowing look that enhanced her natural beauty, making her absolutely radiant.
Debbie Elisa Photography
Debbie Elisa Photography
Debbie Elisa Photography
The moody yet airy tablescape set the perfect tone, complete with real mocktails to inspire couples for their big day. Every detail was meticulously planned to create a romantic and whimsical vibe. Debbie Lisa Photography, a trusted collaborator of Styled Memories, captured the couple’s love and the shoot’s magic flawlessly.
From the cozy, star-lit ambiance to the lush florals and trend-setting details, this shoot was a dream come to life. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or planning your wedding, “The Hidden Oaks” might just be your perfect venue in Richmond, VA!”
Debbie Elisa Photography
Debbie Elisa Photography
Debbie Elisa Photography
Debbie Elisa Photography
Check out the vendors list below and then continue to read our top favorite wedding venues in Richmond VA…
The Vendors
Planner / Host / Event Designer / Stylist: Styled Memories | @styled_memories_
Florist: Fleure Studio | @fleurestudio_
Venue: The Hidden Oaks | @thehiddenoaks
Photographer: Debbie Elisa Photography | @debbielissaphotography
Content Creator: Content By Lemon Tree : @contentbylemontree
Mocktails: Bar-Ellla Mobile Bar : @barellarva
Beauty Team: Society 1:11 | @_society1111
Menu’s: Karena Vetan : @covenantcalligraphy
Rentals: The Event House | @theeventhouseva
Model Couple: Andrew and Alissa | @alissaandandrew
Alissa’s Dress / Veil: Dahl Collection | @dahlcollection
Tux: Stich & Tie | @stitchandtie
Headpiece and Earrings: L’atelier Tssubomi | @latelier.tsubomi
Flat Lay Mats: Liv Style Mats | @livestylemats
Cake Designer: Jilly | @jilly_got_cake
Stationery: Minted Weddings | @mintedweddings
Vintage Car: @rbvintagecarservice
Our Top Favorite Wedding Venues in Richmond, VA
Richmond, VA, is a city where history meets charm, and its wedding venues reflect that in the most enchanting ways. Over the past 13 years of blogging for Bespoke Bride, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring, interviewing, and experiencing countless weddings in this vibrant city. From moody modern aesthetics to timeless romantic hideaways, Richmond has it all. Let me take you on a journey to my top favorite wedding venues in Richmond, VA, where love stories come to life in truly unique settings.
The Estate at River Run
For those dreaming of a grand, opulent affair, The Estate at River Run is the perfect choice. Overlooking the James River, this venue boasts a stately mansion, sprawling grounds, and a sense of timeless elegance. The estate can host up to 200 guests, with its gorgeous architecture and breathtaking views serving as the perfect backdrop for your special day. Learn more about The Estate at River Run here.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
Our Experience: When I spoke with Charlotte and Mark, a couple who got married here last spring, they described the venue as “something out of a Jane Austen novel.” Charlotte told me, “Walking down that staircase felt like I was stepping into a dream.” Mark added with a grin, “I think my groomsmen were more impressed by the cigar lounge than anything else.” Couples I’ve interviewed consistently rave about the unmatched luxury and attention to detail at The Estate at River Run. It’s the kind of place that leaves an impression long after the last dance.
Why We Love It: The venue combines grandeur with intimacy, making every corner of your wedding feel special. Whether you’re sipping champagne on the terrace or dancing in the ballroom, The Estate at River Run offers an unforgettable experience.
The John Marshall Ballrooms
If vintage elegance is your vibe, The John Marshall Ballrooms should be at the top of your list. This historic venue offers soaring ceilings, sparkling chandeliers, and a regal charm that’s hard to beat. Located in the heart of downtown Richmond, it’s a nod to the city’s rich history with all the modern amenities you’d expect. Discover more about The John Marshall Ballrooms here.
Our Experience: Back in 2018, I attended Sarah and Kyle’s wedding here, and let me tell you, it felt like stepping into the Great Gatsby’s world. Sarah described it perfectly: “It’s like the room itself is dressed up for your wedding.” And she wasn’t wrong—the chandeliers alone felt like they’d been styled by some celestial event designer. Brides and grooms I’ve interviewed since then have shared the same sentiment: this venue oozes sophistication and leaves guests in awe. One bride even said, “My grandma told me it felt fancier than Buckingham Palace. I’m not sure she’s even been to Buckingham, but still…”
Watch this video to get a glimpse of a wedding at The John Marshall Ballrooms in Richmond:
Why We Love It: The timelessness. This venue doesn’t just host weddings; it hosts experiences. The kind that makes you feel like you’re part of something grand and unforgettable. Plus, it’s perfect for couples who want a downtown wedding without sacrificing charm.
Maymont
Picture this: rolling hills, manicured gardens, and a historic mansion that looks like it’s straight out of a period drama. Maymont is not just a wedding venue; it’s an experience that feels as though you’ve borrowed a slice of paradise for the day. Whether you’re saying your vows by the Italian Garden or hosting a reception under a sprawling tent, Maymont delivers an undeniable wow factor.
Our Experience: The first time I covered a wedding at Maymont, I was blown away by the sheer beauty of the place. But what really sealed the deal for me was hearing stories from couples who had celebrated their big day here. One couple, Liz and James, shared how their guests kept getting distracted by the scenery during their vows. “We could actually hear people whispering about how stunning the view was,” Liz laughed. “At one point, I think my aunt took a photo of the flowers instead of us.” Brides and grooms consistently rave about how Maymont offers a perfect balance of elegance and natural charm.
Watch this video of an Indian wedding at Maymont:
Why We Love It: It’s an outdoor lover’s dream. The gardens, the views, the historical touches—Maymont feels like a love letter to nature, and your wedding becomes part of that story. Just make sure to wear comfy shoes for those garden pathways. Trust me.
Quirk Hotel
For couples with a modern, artsy edge, Quirk Hotel is where it’s at. This boutique venue combines quirky design elements (pun intended) with a rooftop bar that offers sweeping views of the city. It’s bold, it’s colorful, and it’s perfect for couples who want their wedding to feel more like a curated art exhibit than a traditional affair.
Our Experience: I’ve covered a handful of weddings at Quirk, and every single one felt completely different. One couple, Megan and Rob, opted for bold jewel tones and a food-truck-style menu for their reception. “We wanted our wedding to feel like a party we’d actually want to go to,” Megan told me. Rob chimed in, “And the rooftop bar? Worth every penny.” What I’ve learned from couples who get married here is that Quirk thrives on creativity. It’s a blank canvas that’s anything but boring.
Watch this New Year Eve’s wedding at Quirk in Richmond:
Why We Love It: The personality. Not every wedding has to be about chandeliers and sweeping staircases. Sometimes, it’s about funky wallpaper, craft cocktails, and a killer rooftop view. Quirk Hotel proves that weddings can be fun and chic.
Richmond, VA, truly has something for everyone, from fairytale vibes to urban elegance. Over the years, I’ve learned that the best wedding venues aren’t just about the space; they’re about the stories that unfold within them. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of The Estate at River Run, the timeless grandeur of The John Marshall Ballrooms, the garden magic of Maymont, or the artistic flair of Quirk Hotel, one thing’s for sure: Richmond knows how to celebrate love in style.
