Natalie and Joey’s Shadow Creek wedding in Purcellville, VA was the kind of day that felt both joyful and spiritually grounded. It was full of thoughtful details like peach summer florals, a glowing barn reception space, and the sweetest getting-ready moments at the little house on the property. But what stood out most was how intentionally they brought prayer into the day.

Before we ever arrived at St. Francis de Sales for their ceremony, Natalie’s bridesmaids prayed over her on the porch. Natalie and Joey shared a quiet first touch and prayer in the church stairwell. Those moments weren’t “extras.” In fact, they set the tone for everything that followed.

Getting Ready at Shadow Creek Weddings & Events in Purcellville, VA

Natalie got ready at the sweetest little house on the Shadow Creek property. It’s warm, peaceful, and full of soft summer light. She stepped into her dress near a bright bedroom window, and everything about the moment felt gentle. The hush in the room, the way the light wrapped around her, the sense that something holy was unfolding.

One of my favorite first look options on a wedding day is a first look with Dad, and Natalie’s was as tender as they come. It was the kind of moment that pulls you right back to what this day is really about… Love formed over years, a father’s pride and protectiveness, and a daughter stepping into a new season.

Not long after, Natalie walked out onto the porch for a first look with her bridesmaids. They were absolutely overjoyed to see her! And then came the moment that anchored the entire story for me.

A Bridesmaids’ Porch Prayer: A Sacred Start to This Shadow Creek Wedding

There wasn’t a dry eye on that porch as Natalie’s bridesmaids gathered around her, laid hands, and prayed over her. This wasn’t a performative pause, but as a real and reverent covering. It was personal, heartfelt, and brave in the best way.

As a Catholic wedding photographer, these are the moments that remind me why I love this work: not because weddings are pretty (they are), but because they’re full of meaningful moments where God’s grace feels close enough to touch.

St. Francis de Sales Wedding Ceremony in Purcellville, VA

After the prayer, we headed a few minutes down the road to St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church – one of my very favorite Catholic churches for weddings in the area.

If you’re planning a St. Francis de Sales wedding in Purcellville, you already know the magic: the space is filled with natural light and calm, neutral tones. And the stunning painting of the Crucifixion above the altar draws your eyes, and your heart, back to Christ. And that brings a depth to every photo that can’t be replicated anywhere else.

(If you’d like to see another St. Francis de Sales wedding day, take a look at Marina and Andrew’s wedding at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church.

First Touch and Prayer at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church

Natalie and Joey chose a first touch. The back-to-back moment carries the emotion of a first look, but preserves the surprise of seeing each other on opposite sides of the aisle.

They stood in a dim stairwell, hands reaching for each other, and shared a short prayer. It was brief and yet deeply grounding. You could feel the peace settle over them, like a steadying breath before stepping into the sacrament.

This is one of those choices I’ll always encourage couples to consider if they want something intentional and deeply meaningful together on the wedding day. These quiet, prayerful moments are some of my favorites to photograph, and I approach them with a calm, respectful presence. If you’d like to see what it’s like to work together, take a look at my Experiences page to learn more.

A Beautiful Ceremony at St. Francis de Sales

Their ceremony was absolutely beautiful! Reverent, joyful, and centered on the sacrament.

St. Francis de Sales holds light so gracefully, and it creates a remarkable backdrop for the Nuptial Mass. Soft illumination, clean lines, and an altar space that feels both grand and intimate. Every time I photograph a wedding here, I’m reminded why the Church’s beauty matters. Not for show, but because it lifts our hearts toward what’s eternal.

Ribbon Sendoff and Just-Married Portraits in Purcellville

After the ceremony, Natalie and Joey were greeted outside with the happiest ribbon sendoff – so colorful, so energetic, and wildly fun. It was one of those “everyone is all-in” moments that instantly turns into a core memory for guests and newlyweds alike.

We took a few family and church portraits inside, then it was time to celebrate.

Shadow Creek Weddings & Events Reception Details: Peach Florals and Candlelight

Back at Shadow Creek Weddings & Events, the reception space was coming to life under the care of the incredible team at Cana Wedding Co. And it was stunning!

Peachy florals were perfectly placed. Taper candles flickered. Gold-edged menus rested on green floral charger plates. And overhead, the string lights gave the whole room a warm, inviting glow.

One of the best surprises about Shadow Creek is how photographer-friendly it is. Even with the classic barn interior, there’s an abundance of natural light thanks to the many windows and large doors. So your reception photos stay bright, true-to-color, and full of life.

If you’re venue hunting in this area, you’ll want to take a look at our list of the Best Wedding Venues in Loudoun County.

Wedding Party Photos at Shadow Creek: Patio Portraits and Summer Color

Before guests settled fully inside, we stole some time on the back patio for wedding party portraits. It was truly the perfect setting to show off every thoughtful detail.

The bridesmaids’ dresses were beautifully mismatched in a way that felt effortless and elevated. And the peachy summer bouquets brought such a fresh, romantic warmth to every frame. The whole group had that light, happy energy that makes portraits feel like fun instead of a task.

Bride and Groom Portraits at Shadow Creek: The Iconic Black and White Barn Doors

Shadow Creek’s black and white barn doors are iconic for a reason. Graphic and modern, while also adding a slight rustic touch that feels authentic to a Loudoun County wedding.

Natalie and Joey’s portraits there were classic and romantic. And yes – we captured a flying veil shot that turned out so beautifully! The kind of photo I can instantly see hanging above their mantle for decades to come.

Reception Highlights at Shadow Creek: Mother-Son Dance, Candid Joy, and Dancing

The reception was a perfect blend of happy tears and joyful laughter. One of my favorite moments was Joey’s dance with his mom – she got more than a little emotional, and I’ll admit, so did I behind the camera. As a mom of two boys, that moment hits differently.

And then: party time. From a Gonzaga flag photo-op with friends from school, to Natalie’s dance with the priest, to Joey spinning his new bride on the dance floor – there was laughter everywhere, and the kind of celebration that feels rooted in real community.

Sunset Portraits at Shadow Creek in Purcellville: A Cotton Candy Sky

The best moment of the evening from my photography perspective was when Natalie and Joey snuck out into the mid-summer twilight for a breather… And a few portraits under the softest cotton candy sky.

Golden hour gets all the attention (and yes, it’s magical), but sunset, right at the edge of day, can be even more romantic. The light is gentler. The mood is quieter. And couples get a moment to simply be together after the whirlwind. Those portraits felt like exhale.

If you’re planning a Shadow Creek wedding or a Catholic wedding in Loudoun County, I’d love to hear what you’re dreaming up. Reach out to schedule a quick chat about your vision and whether I’m the right photographer for you!

A Note on My Role That Day

I photographed Natalie and Joey’s wedding day as an associate lead photographer for Right Up Your Allie Photography. It was such an honor to document a celebration so full of faith, family, and genuine romance on Allie’s behalf!

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FAQ: Shadow Creek Weddings & Events + St. Francis de Sales Wedding Days

Where is Shadow Creek Weddings & Events located?

Shadow Creek Weddings & Events is located in Purcellville, Virginia. It’s in Loudoun County, an area known for scenic countryside views, charming venues, and a wonderful variety of wedding-day backdrops.

What makes Shadow Creek a great venue for wedding photography?

Shadow Creek is a classic barn wedding venue but offers excellent natural light thanks to large windows and doors throughout the space. It photographs beautifully across the day, from patio portraits to indoor reception moments to sunset outside.

Can you do portraits at Shadow Creek before the ceremony?

Often, yes, especially if you’re getting ready on-site. Many couples choose to do bridal party portraits on the patio or couple portraits around the venue property, depending on timeline and preference.

Why is St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church popular for weddings in Purcellville?

St. Francis de Sales is beloved for its natural light, neutral tones, and timeless interior, plus a sanctuary that draws the eye toward Christ. This makes it both spiritually grounding and visually stunning for ceremony photography. As a Catholic wedding photographer, I’m an expert on church wedding photography. It doesn’t get much better than a St. Francis de Sales wedding!

What is a “first touch,” and why do couples choose it?

A first touch is a moment where the couple stands back-to-back, holds hands, and often pray together. This allows them to share an emotional connection before the ceremony without seeing each other face-to-face. It’s a beautiful option for couples who want peace and closeness before the aisle.

When is the best time for sunset portraits at Shadow Creek?

Sunset portraits right at twilight can be especially soft and romantic – more gentle than peak golden hour. If you want that “cotton candy sky” look, planning a short 10–15 minute window near sunset can be perfect. For a summer wedding, this is often shortly after your dance floor has just opened, making it the perfect opportunity to take a breather together before you dance the night away with your guests!