Cabell’s Mill at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park in Chantilly, VA is proof that you don’t need an expensive, popular venue to have a gorgeous wedding. Isabel and Ian had a beautiful fall wedding day at this hidden-away Fairfax County park property and I’m already eager to return!

We started our afternoon at the Hyatt Regency Fairfax to capture getting ready photos and details like the bride’s gorgeous blue suede shoes, classic diamond engagement ring, and unique (and comfy!) BHLDN wedding dress – which her sisters say was her second wedding dress purchase; when she found this dress she knew it was the one she wanted for her big day. The big windows of the corner room at the hotel made for the perfect location for both detail shots and candid getting ready photos as Isabel, her Maid of Honor, her sisters, and her mom enjoyed a few moments of slowly getting Isabel ready to meet her groom at their wedding ceremony just a few minutes away.

We had perfect weather while at Cabell’s Mill, and despite only being late September, there was already a little extra color in the foliage and a coolness in the air – the perfect weather conditions for an outdoor wedding ceremony. I had never visited the site before and was blown away by the giant tree that served as the marker for their ceremony; the beautiful stone buildings on the property, and the abundance of fall foliage that surrounded us at every angle. And under the coordination of Teal Coast Events, the afternoon was smooth sailing with lots of well-executed details thanks to their coordinator Andie.

We were limited on portrait time but thankfully we had the beginnings of golden hour right on time, resulting in some beautiful photos in the 15 minutes that we had reserved for just the two of them. Isabel and Ian were so obviously in love and over the moon after being declared husband and wife – which made my job so much easier! Our portrait time made me anxious to return to Cabell’s Mill soon and I’m excited to already be returning this week for an engagement session… so stay tuned for more from this hidden gem!