Church Wedding + High Tea Reception with Vivid Florals, Colorful Birds, Adorable Garden Critters and Bug Details
CJ and Gwen’s wedding in Harrisonburg, Virginia was full of charm, personality, and so many little details that made it truly unforgettable. They had a classic ceremony at the bride’s childhood church, which was extra meaningful. Their classic ceremony was followed by a high tea reception that felt like stepping into a magical garden, hosted by Spotswood Country Club. The reception was full of whimsy, from bug-inspired details sprinkled throughout to Gwen’s hand-painted gown and playful manicured nails. Each table was named after a bird, and the floral centerpieces matched the colors of the birds—bright, unique, and completely one-of-a-kind. Ket with One Last Avocado Floral Design created the standout floral arrangements, including the custom urns that framed the sweetheart table and the church altar, giving the whole day a fresh, garden-inspired feel.
The couple’s personality really shone through in the little touches. The teapots for the high tea were all different—some inspired by bee hives, some Japanese-style, even a Winnie-the-Pooh teapot—making the tables feel fun and personal. CJ and Gwen also shared a private first look and exchanged vows just between the two of them, which was such a sweet, intimate moment amid all the playful details.
Their portrait session ended up being just as unique as the day. A sudden storm meant we swapped the planned Arboretum session for Overlook Produce, a greenhouse and market. We wandered through the plants while shoppers went about their day, then caught a few dramatic outdoor portraits once the rain let up—stormy skies, wind in their hair, and totally cinematic moments that felt completely their own. Between the hand-painted gown, the bird-inspired florals, and the greenhouse adventure, this wedding was equal parts heartfelt and totally playful—a day full of details every couple would love to take inspiration from.
Highlight Wedding Photos from this High Tea Wedding
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Jo Mahaney is a professional photographer of PhotographyByJo.net based in Charlottesville, Virginia, specializing in wedding photography. With over eight years of experience, Jo is dedicated to creating effortless, joyful imagery that authentically captures the essence of each couple’s unique love story. She is known for her ability to create meaningful galleries filled with emotion and personal narratives. Jo is not just a photographer; she is an active supporter of her clients, providing resources and guidance to ensure a stress-free experience. From the initial inquiry call to the wedding day, Jo is transparent, open, and ready to get to know her clients to provide the best service possible. Her commitment to her craft and her clients is evident in the glowing testimonials she has received. Jo’s work extends beyond Charlottesville, covering areas such as Harrisonburg, Staunton, Lexington, Roanoke, and Richmond. She has also had the privilege of photographing weddings in various locations, including the Outerbanks, DC, Maryland, Pennsylvania, North and South Carolina, and even Spain.