Ryan + Madaline | Married

Meeting Madaline and Ryan through a coffee date at Starbucks was such a serendipitous moment! Chelsea really hooked us up, and I’m so glad she did. Even though I don’t usually shoot on Memorial Day weekend, I’m grateful I made an exception for this amazing couple.

Madaline was not just a simple bride, she was truly exceptional. From the moment I met her during our bridal portrait session, I could tell that there was something truly special about her. She had a quiet grace and elegance that was simply captivating. Her presence was so calming and comforting, and it was a joy to work with her one-on-one. Madaline’s beauty radiated from within, and it was an honor to capture her essence in every photograph. She had a vision for her wedding day, and her attention to detail made every moment feel like a fairytale. I feel incredibly lucky to have been a part of her journey and to have witnessed the love and happiness she shared with Ryan.

Ryan, the groom, was an absolute delight. He was incredibly nice and funny, and I noticed that he made Madaline’s face light up whenever he was around. Whenever I asked him to do little things like whisper in her ear during photos, he was always more than agreeable. He was caring and always carried her dress, showing his love and support. He was also fun, easygoing, and laid back with his guys, and he even got them an awesome gift!

Madaline and Ryan as a couple were an absolute dream to work with! Their connection was undeniable, and it was clear that they brought out the best in each other. Ryan’s playful and funny nature perfectly complemented Madaline’s elegant charm. Whenever they were together, there was an infectious energy of love and laughter. It was heartwarming to see how Ryan’s presence brought so much joy to Madaline’s life. They were a perfect match, and their love story was truly captivating.

This is the part where I get to tell you about some of my favorite parts of Rachel and Tyler’s big day and drop a few tips for future couples to consider for their big day!!

First of all, let’s talk about the venue. Madaline and Ryan went with an all-inclusive option, and it was the best decision ever. Seriously, if you’re looking for a wedding that’s laid back, relaxed, and not rushed, all-inclusive venues are the way to go.

One of the coolest things about their venue was that Fairview had accommodations for their entire immediate family right on site. Can you believe it? It made the whole celebration feel like a weekend getaway with their loved ones. Plus, having everyone stay together created such a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It was like a big family reunion mixed with a fairytale wedding.

And let me tell you, these all-inclusive venues are prepared for anything! From setup to breakdown, they had everything covered. It took away so much stress and allowed Madaline and Ryan to fully enjoy their special day without worrying about the nitty-gritty details. They could just focus on making memories and celebrating their love.

Now, let’s talk about the reception. They really went above and beyond with the special details. One of the highlights was having a live painter capturing the magic of the evening. Can you imagine having a beautiful piece of art that was created right before your eyes, immortalizing the love and joy of your wedding day? It was truly breathtaking.

But that’s not all! They also had a photo booth, and let me tell you, it was a hit! The guests had an absolute blast posing with props, striking silly poses, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And the best part? Madaline and Ryan got to keep a collection of all those fun and candid moments. It’s like a time capsule of their wedding day that they can revisit whenever they want.

So, future brides, take note! If you want a stress-free, unforgettable wedding experience, consider an all-inclusive venue. And don’t forget to add those special touches like a live painter and a photo booth. Your guests will love it, and you’ll have cherished memories to look back on for years to come. Happy planning!

As a preferred wedding photographer at Fairview Farm, I’m always SO thrilled to work with this team. I frequent this venue so often that sometimes, I forget how truly AMAZING all the ameneties are. So, I figured I’d do a little spotlight on Fairview Farm Events for any brides who are looking for an all-inclusive wedding weekend option!

Fairview Farm Events is like a fairytale come to life! From the moment you step foot on the property, you’ll be transported to a world of enchantment. With breathtaking ceremony and reception spaces that can accommodate up to 200 guests, your wedding will be nothing short of magical.

This venue has truly thought of everything to make your wedding weekend stress-free and unforgettable! They offer all-inclusive wedding weekends, taking care of every detail from Friday to Sunday. From the moment you arrive on Friday, their friendly and attentive staff will guide you through the entire process. They’ll help you set up and decorate the ceremony and reception spaces exactly as you envision, ensuring that every detail is perfect. Plus, they provide all the essentials like tables, chairs, linens, and even a dance floor. They’ve got you covered from head to toe! And don’t worry about the logistics – they have ample parking for your guests and even offer shuttle services. In case of bad weather, they have backup plans in place, including indoor ceremony options and covered spaces.

Another standout feature at Fairview Farm is their partnership with top-notch caterers. These culinary maestros will delight your taste buds with their diverse menus and exquisite presentation. And the best part? When you book with one of their approved caterers, you’ll enjoy discounted pricing on beverages, including beer, wine, and mixed drinks. If you have a specific caterer in mind, no worries! Fairview Farm also allows you to bring your own caterer to create a custom culinary experience.

But the magic doesn’t stop there! Fairview Farm offers accommodations for up to 18 guests on the property itself. Their beautifully renovated Farmhouse, with its charming porches, decks, gazebos, and arbors, provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and celebration. And if you’re looking for some fun and games, they’ve got you covered too! With outdoor activities like cornhole, volleyball, and badminton, as well as fire pits for cozy gatherings, there’s never a dull moment at Fairview Farm.

And let’s not forget about the rehearsal dinner! Fairview Farm provides space, tables, and chairs for a one-hour rehearsal, making sure everything is just right before the big day. They even offer a discounted rate if you choose one of their preferred caterers. But if you have a specific non-preferred caterer in mind, no worries! Fairview Farm is open to working with them too.

If you’re considering choosing Fairview Farm Events as your wedding venue, I hope this blog adds to your excitement. It truly is a place where dreams come true!

There are several vendors who deserve a special shoutout for making this wedding day even more incredible! Let’s take a moment to highlight some of these amazing individuals who played a key role in creating unforgettable memories for the Farinas and their guests.

Chloe is an absolutely amazing second shooter! She has a keen eye for capturing those special behind-the-scenes moments with my clients and I. Her photos always showcase the genuine emotions and candid interactions that make weddings so unique. During the ceremony, Chloe never misses a beat, ensuring that every important moment is beautifully documented alongside me. And when it’s time to hit the dance floor, she’s right there with me, capturing the energy and excitement of the night. We make an incredible team!

Now let’s talk about Richmond Photo Booth! Their team brings so much fun and engagement to any reception. The guests absolutely love stepping into the photo booth and letting loose, creating hilarious and memorable moments. The photo booth adds that extra touch of entertainment and gives guests something fun to do during the celebration. It’s a fantastic addition to any reception that everyone will enjoy!

And how can we forget about Kaitlin Funkhouser Art, the talented live artist? Watching her paint a custom scene from this wedding was such a special experience everyone to enjoy. Guests were able to watch as she brought the magic of this day to life on canvas, capturing the atmosphere and emotions in real-time. It’s such a unique and interactive element that adds an extra layer of artistry to any wedding. Kaitlin’s live painting truly becomes a cherished keepsake that the couple will treasure forever.

Another HUGE shoutout to each of you- you’re all total rockstars!

Now, let’s dive into Maddie’s interview answers!

Question: Tell us a short story about a core memory you took away from your wedding day. 

Madaline’s Answer: When they tell you that the day of your wedding goes by in a blur, they weren’t kidding! One core memory we have from our wedding is dancing with all of our guests. At one point, I (Maddie) remember looking out into the seating area and not seeing one single person sitting down because they were all up dancing the night away, which was something completely unexpected for us. We had people coming up to us after the wedding telling us that it was the most fun wedding they’ve ever been to because the energy was immaculate throughout the night. We didn’t get a videographer for our wedding, but I wish we did so we could revisit everyone having fun like that again! It’s something we will remember and cherish forever and smile back on! 

*Ashley’s Note: I remember that moment so vividly! As your wedding photographer, I captured the pure magic of that dance floor. It was absolutely electric! I remember snapping away as I looked out into the crowd and saw everyone up on their feet, dancing their hearts out. Not a single person was sitting down, and the energy was off the charts! It was such a beautiful surprise, and I could feel the joy radiating from every guest. And let me tell you, Maddie, the photos turned out absolutely stunning! I wish you had a videographer too, so you could relive that incredible atmosphere and see everyone having the time of their lives. But hey, those memories will forever be preserved in the photos I took. Dance on, Maddie!

And here’s a tip for future brides: If you can’t hire a videographer, ask a friend to capture those unforgettable moments on the dance floor with their phones. While photos are fantastic for capturing still moments, videos can bring the energy and joy of the dance floor to life. You’ll be able to see everyone moving, grooving, and having the time of their lives. It’s an incredible way to relive the atmosphere and cherish those memories forever. So, don’t forget to have someone capture those epic dance floor moments on video!

Question: Do you have a favorite memory from working with Ashley Dorton?

Madaline’s Answer: Ashley did a bridal portrait session for me (Maddie) as well as our wedding! She delivered amazing bridal portraits and I get so many compliments on them when showing them off to friends and family! One thing we remember from our wedding when working with her is how she took control to gather our family members during the family portrait session! She gave us a stress free family portrait session with her taking control of the craziness from both of our families! 

*Ashley’s Note: Oh Maddie, thank you so much for your kind words! I remember that bridal portrait session like it was yesterday. You looked absolutely stunning, and capturing those beautiful moments was such a joy for me. I’m thrilled to hear that you received so many compliments on the portraits! As for the family portrait session on your wedding day, I’m glad I could help create a stress-free experience for you. Family portraits can sometimes get a little chaotic, but I was determined to take control and make sure everything went smoothly. It was important to me that you and your families could relax and enjoy the moment. And let me tell you, the photos turned out amazing!

Now, here’s a tip for future brides: when it comes to family portrait sessions, having a photographer who can take charge and handle the craziness can make all the difference. So, make sure to choose a photographer who can keep things organized and create a stress-free environment for you and your loved ones. Trust me, it’ll make the whole experience so much more enjoyable!

Question: When planning the wedding, how did you pick each vendor? What stood out about each one?

Madaline‘s Answer: Most of our vendors were recommended to us by Fairview Farms from their preferred vendor list!

Fairview Farm Wedding & Events | Venue- We chose Fairview because it offered us more than what we imagined for our wedding. With the on property renovated barns, it allowed our wedding party along with immediate family to stay and celebrate with us for the whole weekend! The rooms were beautifully decorated and we both (along with many of our guests) all stated how comfortable the beds were.  In addition, it gave us flexibility to just relax and enjoy the evening a little more as opposed to a traditional venue that has a strict timeline. Debbie and Blanton were also amazing to work with leading up to our wedding and quick to respond to any questions we had! We were so beyond thankful for their work and beautiful space they provided for us! 

Illumination Events Studio | Coordinator- A 3 month out coordinator was one of the many benefits of choosing Fairview, and Chelsea did not disappoint! Despite caring for her newborn, she was quick to respond to emails and her bubbly personality made for a fun experience leading up to our wedding. I (Maddie) joined a few bridal Facebook groups and noticed how having a coordinator like Chelsea was practically a godsend to organizing a wedding. We were so thankful for her and her team on our day! 

Ashley Dorton | Photography- We chose Ashley because we liked how she knew the farm and worked closely with Fairview staff before! Basically, we liked how she knew all the good lighting spots! We also appreciated her natural editing style in her photos! 

DJ Goddess/ John Diamond | DJ/Officiant- Another included benefit of going with Fairview was a DJ. We didn’t hesitate in choosing Barbara and John! Ryan actually knew John from his baseball era many many years ago, so it was a small world moment for him for sure! We got so many compliments after the wedding about how great the music was and how they truly understood our crowd’s energy! We really didn’t expect all of our guests to be up and dancing. I think the only regret we had from the wedding was not adding an extra hour because we wanted to keep dancing the night away! 

Flowers Make Scents | Florist- We had a wonderful experience with Flowers Make Scents! We had two consultations (due to the fact that I (Maddie) have an indecisive personality type) and they were easy to work with, friendly, and truly put our vision to life! We had the most beautiful centrepieces and the bridal bouquet along with the bridesmaids bouquets were beyond perfect and at a reasonable price! 

Kaitlin Funkhouser Art | Live Painter- We went with Kaitlin because her watercolour style and quality differed from any other Live Painter I inquired! I was impressed! It was beautiful and the detail she added was amazing. Kaitlin was also extremely quick to respond to any questions and great to work with prior to our event! We had many  of our guests come up to us after and say how cool of an addition it was to our wedding and how her painting was one of a kind! She actually finished our painting that night, so we got to take it home immediately!

Richmond Photo Booth | Photo Booth- Our Photo Booth was a HIT at our wedding! Another thing that we didn’t expect! We looked into a couple photo booth companies in the area, however, we noticed the quality of the props and back drops just didn’t meet our standards. Richmond Photo Booth went above and beyond with great props, personalization of our template, as well as a full digital gallery of everyone’s pictures! They also provided us a guest book that everyone signed but we didn’t think we would love it as much as we did, and we love looking back at all the fun pictures everyone took! 

Amanda M Perry Hair and Makeup | Hair and Makeup- I hired Amanda and her team because I loved her social media and her airbrush work! I was incredibly happy with my overall look and my updo hairstyle ended up staying in place all night!! My girls and I looked beautiful! 

Studio I Do Bridals | Bridal Gown- Studio I do is a bit of a drive compared to other nearby stores since it’s in Virginia Beach. I visited probably 8-9 stores and couldn’t find a dress, but Studio I do has SO many beautiful options and the staff that I worked with was attentive and delivered exactly what I was looking for! 

To Madaline and Ryan,

I just wanted to say a big ‘thank you’ for choosing me to be a part of your special day. I had an absolute blast capturing all the beautiful moments and memories. Your wedding was absolutely stunning, from the incredible centerpieces to the amazing details. I feel so honored to have been able to document it all. Thank you again for trusting me with such an important role, and I hope to capture many more milestones for you in the future. Wishing you both a lifetime of love and happiness!

And finally, a huge ‘thank you’ to all of the amazing vendors mentioned in this blog, who played a special part in making this wedding such a success! You’re all true professionals, and I hope to work with you many more times in the future!

Here’s to the most beautiful beginning for the most beautiful love,
Xo,
Ashley

(Blog designed & Written by Sarah of Aligned Artists)