Welcome to Beauty of the Soul Studio. Led by photographer Emily, we were founded to fill the need for wedding photography "for the intentional" - the brides + grooms who are choosing to celebrate their marriage, not just throw a good party. Our goal is always to capture the beauty of the "soul" of your wedding with bright, bold, and romantic photography.
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Elizabeth and Jonathan’s Christmas themed wedding was a perfect celebration of holiday magic. From the nostalgic decorations at the bride’s parents’ house to their beautiful Catholic wedding ceremony at St. Joseph Catholic Church, every detail reflected their love and faith. The celebration continued with a festive and cozy reception at the Hyatt Regency Dulles, where the room transformed into a holiday wonderland.
The day began at Elizabeth’s parents’ house, which was decked out with Christmas decorations that felt nostalgic and warm. Photos of family Santa visits and sentimental ornaments on the tree created a beautiful backdrop for Elizabeth’s morning preparations with her bridesmaids. One of the most emotional moments of the day happened early, during Elizabeth’s first look with her father. He entered the room and immediately the space was filled with tears of joy. Soon after, her four brothers had their turn for a first look, and there wasn’t a dry eye in sight!
Before heading to the church, Elizabeth surprised her parents with a horse-drawn carriage ride to St. Joseph Catholic Church. It was a touching nod to her parents’ own wedding day. The carriage adorned with greenery and ornaments fit the Christmas-themed wedding perfectly! Her parents were thrilled! They were able to enjoy a few special moments alone with Elizabeth before her walk down the aisle.
The Catholic wedding at St. Joseph Catholic Church was deeply moving. The church’s elaborate Christmas decorations, including poinsettia trees and a large nativity scene, brought a festive and sacred atmosphere. Elizabeth and Jonathan’s joy was on full display as they exchanged vows. I loved how they smiled at each other as if no one else was in the room. One of the most beautiful moments came when they brought a bouquet of roses to Mary and lilies to St. Joseph, taking a moment to pray in thanksgiving for their vocation.
After the ceremony, guests enjoyed the talent of Elizabeth’s uncle playing the bagpipes outside the church. Elizabeth and Jonathan took photos in front of the stunning nativity scene. The backdrop was perfect for their Christmas-themed wedding! Next, the wedding party traveled to Old Town Herndon. There, the couple posed by the iconic red caboose decorated with Christmas lights. It was absolutely freezing outside! Instead of long portraits, the wedding party warmed up at Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern. Everyone gathered in the outdoor bar space, enjoying drinks under heat lamps. Elizabeth and Jonathan even hopped behind the bar to pour their own celebratory drinks!
The reception at the Hyatt Regency Dulles was a magical finale to their wedding day. The couple made a grand sparkler entrance to their cocktail hour, which included festive touches like handbell musicians playing Christmas songs. Inside the ballroom, their coordinator Annie from Floriography put final touches on a breathtaking holiday-inspired atmosphere. Cranberries and greenery decorated the tables, the chairs donned Santa hat covers, and Christmas tins of cookies added a sweet, nostalgic touch. Red uplighting and glowing candles gave the space a warm, cozy feel. It was a magical Christmas themed wedding!
Elizabeth and Jonathan’s first dance was nothing short of dreamy, complete with twirls and dip kisses that left their guests cheering. A highlight of the night came when Elizabeth danced with her father, followed by each of her brothers cutting in. It was such a tender moment that left everyone emotional.
The evening wrapped up with a lively dance floor and endless laughter. Their Christmas themed wedding was a perfect mix of meaningful traditions, holiday magic, and pure celebration—an unforgettable day for everyone lucky enough to be part of it!
Beauty of the Soul Studio was founded to fill the need for wedding photography "for the intentional" - the brides + grooms who are choosing to celebrate their marriage, not just throw a good party. Our goal is always to capture the beauty of the "soul" of your wedding with bright, bold, and romantic photography.
Serving Northern Virginia and the greater DC area.
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