Elizabeth and Seamus’ Winchester VA wedding was the kind of day that felt both classic and genuinely fun. It started with their Nuptial Mass at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Winchester, VA, then moved to a barn celebration at Gable Five in West Virginia. And in between? The sweetest portraits, a colorful wedding party, and one hilarious red wagon moment.

Catholic wedding photographer at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Winchester, VA

We began right at the start of the Nuptial Mass, and Sacred Heart was such a beautiful setting for it. One detail that stands out immediately is the crucifix hanging over the altar. It anchors the whole space in the best way, and it photographs beautifully during key parts of the Mass.

As a Catholic wedding photographer, this part of the day is always something to savor – because it goes by quickly, and it matters. It’s also why experience in a church setting helps: knowing the rhythm of the Mass and where to be so nothing important gets missed.

Winchester VA wedding party portraits

After the ceremony, we headed behind the church for wedding party portraits. The color palette was so good: orange and peach tones that popped against the greenery. It felt bright and happy, even on an overcast day.

Then, the guys found a little red wagon – and of course it turned into a moment. They pushed Seamus around, right past Elizabeth, and it was equal parts ridiculous and adorable. Those little bits of personality are the photos you end up loving more and more over time.

We also took bride and groom portraits right in front of the church, including shots with the Sacred Heart statue. Those images felt especially meaningful for Elizabeth and Seamus – simple, romantic, and rooted in the place where they got married.

Gabe Five wedding reception: pink + peach details and a packed dance floor

Next stop: the Gabe Five wedding reception – held at Gable Five, a beautiful barn venue in West Virginia. The space featured pops of light pink and peach, plus the prettiest blue cheesecloth runners down the long rectangle tables. It was a great mix of soft color and clean design.

And once the reception started, it really started. They had a live band (always a win), and the night kicked off with a caeli dancing demonstration that pulled everyone in fast. From there, the dance floor stayed full, and the energy just kept building.

Why a Catholic wedding photographer helps introverted couples feel natural in photos

Elizabeth and Seamus are more introverted and humble, and that’s exactly why their portrait time worked so well. We kept things moving, kept it simple, and gave them space to just be together – without making it feel like a performance.

This is where clear direction matters. Most couples aren’t trying to become models on their wedding day. They just want to look like themselves and not feel awkward – so having a photographer who guides you through it makes a huge difference.

At Gable Five, we took bridal portraits surrounded by greenery and early autumn corn fields, with that gentle overcast light that makes everything look smooth and natural. It was relaxed, it was easy, and they absolutely nailed it.

Planning a Winchester VA wedding? If you want someone who understands the importance of a faith-based ceremony and knows how to keep portraits feeling natural and fun, that’s exactly what Beauty of the Soul Studio is here for.

And if you’re looking for more Northern Virginia barn wedding reception inspiration, check out Erin and Jack’s reception at Murray Hill Events, and Dani and Connor’s wedding at Blue Hill Farm.