St. Francis de Sales wedding in Purcellville, VA – Marina and Andrew

Weddings

Some wedding days feel like a deep breath – sacred, joyful, and radiant from beginning to end. Marina and Andrew’s St Francis de Sales wedding in Purcellville, VA was exactly that: a Christmas-filled morning at home, a classic Nuptial Mass in one of my favorite churches in Northern Virginia, and a celebration at Historic Rosemont Springs Barn that was pure joy from the first dance to the dance floor.

Marina and Andrew were surrounded by people who adore them – and you could feel it in every hug, every tear, every laugh.

A Christmas wedding morning at home

Marina got ready at her parents’ home near the church, and it was beautifully decked out for Christmas. The tree in the foyer set the tone the moment we walked in – warm, welcoming, and glowing. One of my favorite details was the mistletoe hanging in the bedroom doorways, the kind of simple touch that turns an ordinary hallway into a memory.

Marina’s mom helped her get dressed, and it felt so tender and meaningful – just the two of them, taking their time. Marina wore the most stunning brocade dress with a long veil that felt timeless and regal. And her shoes were absolutely unforgettable: delicate crepe ankle laces that made the whole look feel elevated and personal.

Then came one of those moments that always gets me – the bridesmaids’ first look. Marina’s sisters and friends saw her and instantly gasped in joy. The hall filled with delighted squeals, happy tears, and that sweet “you’re a bride!” energy that makes everything feel real all at once.

Before we left, Marina descended the grand staircase for a first look with her father. He turned, saw his girl, wiped away tears, and pulled her into a hug that said everything. No performance – just love.

A St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church wedding in Purcellville

I truly adore photographing a St. Francis de Sales wedding in Purcellville, VA. The natural light is beautiful, the space feels serene and prayerful, and the image of the Crucifixion behind the altar is breathtaking – an artistic focal point that quietly anchors the whole liturgy.

Marina walked down the aisle with her father toward Andrew, and Andrew’s expression was pure joy. Their Nuptial Mass was classic and reverent, filled with a sense of peace that made the joy feel even deeper.

After the ceremony, Marina and Andrew stepped outside into the most romantic flower petal sendoff – bright smiles, laughter, and that glowing “we’re married” kind of joy.

For couples planning a Catholic wedding in Purcellville, St. Francis de Sales is a truly beautiful place to begin your marriage – both spiritually and visually.

Historic Rosemont wedding celebration: portraits and party time

Marina and Andrew had a Historic Rosemont wedding reception and we made the most of the scenery right away. We photographed the wedding party by the little waterfall feature behind the barn. It’s such a fun backdrop with texture and movement. Then they slipped away for a few romantic bride and groom portraits along the side of the barn. It was the perfect balance: classic, charming, and cozy.

And once the reception began, the celebration didn’t slow down for a second. Marina and Andrew shared a choreographed first dance that had everyone smiling, followed by heartfelt toasts that felt deeply personal. During cake cutting, they shared a bite with Marina’s mom – one of those sweet, family-centered moments that makes a wedding day feel even more like home.

Then came the dancing: a packed floor, high noons in hand, and joyful chaos in the best possible way. It was a blast – pure celebration, full of love.

Looking for more Christmas wedding inspiration? Check out Francis and Caitlin’s wedding at St. Dominic in DC, Elizabeth and Seamus’ wedding in Herndon, and Molly and Drew’s wedding at The Line Hotel in DC!

FAQ

Where is St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church?

St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church is located in Purcellville, Virginia. It’s part of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. It’s a beautiful choice for couples planning a St Francis de Sales wedding in Purcellville, especially if you love a bright sanctuary that still feels reverent.

What is it like to have a Catholic wedding in Purcellville at St. Francis de Sales?

A Catholic wedding day here often feels peaceful and prayerful, with a strong sense of tradition and sacredness. The church’s natural light and the striking Crucifixion imagery behind the altar create a meaningful setting for the ceremony. There’s a statue of Mary off to the side of the altar that makes the perfect space for presenting flowers to Mary. There’s also a choir loft that makes for beautiful supplementary photos from a higher angle.

What is a Nuptial Mass?

A Nuptial Mass is a full Catholic Mass celebrated within the wedding ceremony. It includes the Liturgy of the Word, the exchange of vows, and the Eucharist – centering the marriage on the sacrament and the grace of the Church. As a Catholic wedding photographer in Northern VA, I primarily photograph Nuptial Mass wedding ceremonies.

Is Historic Rosemont Springs Barn a good location for wedding portraits?

Yes. For a Historic Rosemont wedding, the barn grounds offer several portrait-friendly locations, including the waterfall feature behind the barn and exterior spaces that work beautifully for wedding party photos and romantic couple portraits. For this Christmas wedding at Historic Rosemont, the barn was a romantic background that didn’t rely on the natural greenery of warmer months and featured tasteful Christmas decorations.

How should we plan a timeline for a St Francis de Sales wedding in Purcellville, VA?

A smooth flow is: getting ready near the church, a buffer before Mass, family and couple photos after the ceremony, then wedding party and couple portraits at the reception venue before the evening events begin. This keeps the day calm, spacious, and enjoyable.

Vendors from this day: