Golden light, intricate traditions, and a love that felt straight out of a fairytale—this Persian wedding at Dover Hall in October was everything you could dream of and more. As a Richmond VA wedding photographer, Dover Hall is one of those venues I always get excited to return to. Its grand architecture, lush gardens, and castle-like elegance are the perfect match for couples looking for a timeless yet luxurious atmosphere—especially for a wedding as culturally rich and visually stunning as this one.
The Venue: Dover Hall’s Autumn Glow
Nestled in the rolling hills just outside Richmond, Dover Hall offers a magical blend of European elegance and Southern charm. In October, the estate’s ivy-covered walls begin to shift with the changing leaves, adding warm, romantic tones to every corner. The couple chose this venue for its regal ambiance and versatile indoor-outdoor spaces—ideal for incorporating both traditional Persian elements and a more modern celebration.
A Ceremony Rooted in Tradition
One of the most beautiful parts of photographing Persian weddings is witnessing the sofreh aghd—a ceremonial spread filled with symbolic items that represent the couple’s new life together. At one of Dover Hall’s beautiful outdoor ceremony spaces, the sofreh was elegantly curated with mirrored trays, antique candelabras, rosewater, honey, and delicate Persian textiles. The bride and groom sat in front of the spread as loved ones showered them with blessings (and sugar), a tradition that dates back centuries and always feels deeply intimate to witness.
Emotional Vows & Joyful Celebrations
After the formal Persian ceremony, guests moved to the terrace for cocktails while we snuck away for portraits around the property. As a wedding photographer in Richmond VA, I’m always chasing light—and October gave us the dreamiest golden hour glow. We wandered through Dover Hall’s stone archways and garden paths, capturing candid moments, stolen kisses, and a whole lot of laughter.
When it was time for the reception, the couple kicked off the party with a high-energy grand entrance that set the tone for the night. There was an abundance of dancing (hello, Persian drums!), heartfelt speeches, and a beautiful night full of celebrations.
The Photos: A Blend of Digital and 35mm Film
For this wedding, we documented the day using a blend of digital and 35mm film, giving their gallery a layered, nostalgic feel. The digital photos captured the crisp detail of Dover Hall’s architecture, while the film added that dreamy, timeless softness to the portraits and candid moments.
Why This Wedding Matters
This wedding was more than a celebration—it was a merging of cultures, a homage to heritage, and a true reflection of who the couple is. Capturing days like this is why I do what I do. As a Richmond VA wedding photographer, being trusted with these moments—especially when they carry such emotional and cultural weight—is something I’ll never take for granted.
Planning a wedding in Virginia?
Whether you’re hosting your celebration at Dover Hall, another estate venue, or somewhere a little more off the beaten path, I’d be honored to document it with the care, creativity, and respect it deserves.
Reach out to connect—let’s make something beautiful together.
