Nestled in the heart of Charlottesville, Virginia, The Clifton stands as a timeless beacon of romance and elegance. This historic boutique bed and breakfast is a favorite among couples seeking an intimate and chic wedding experience, and it served as the perfect backdrop for Amanda and Sherman's wedding day. Their celebration was a beautifully private affair, steeped in warmth, love, and the kind of details that make a wedding unforgettable.
Amanda and Sherman’s love story began at a work party, an unexpected meeting that would change their lives forever. They chose to tie the knot on the anniversary of that fateful evening, a meaningful nod to the moment their journey together began. From the start, their vision for their wedding day was clear: intimate, elegant, and deeply personal. With just the two of them, an officiant, and us, their two photographers, Amanda and Sherman created a day that truly reflected who they are as a couple.
A Ceremony by the Fireplace
The Clifton’s veranda, with its charming fireplace and cozy atmosphere, was the ideal setting for Amanda and Sherman’s ceremony. Fireplaces have always held a special place in their hearts, symbolizing warmth, comfort, and connection. As they exchanged vows in front of the fire, it felt as though time stood still. Amanda looked radiant in a chic, understated gown that perfectly complemented the elegant simplicity of the day. Sherman’s classic attire was equally fitting, and together, they were the picture of timeless romance.
A Toast to Forever
Amanda and Sherman started their wedding off with a glass of prosecco. This simple yet elegant toast was a perfect reflection of their personalities and the tone of the day. Instead of a traditional wedding, they opted for a series of experiences that allowed them to fully immerse themselves in the moment.
We began their photo session at The Clifton’s bar, where Amanda and Sherman’s laughter filled the air. The rich, dark wood and vintage accents of the bar provided a stunning contrast to Amanda’s light dress and Sherman’s polished look. From there, we ventured outside to explore the property, capturing images against the lush greenery and historic architecture that make The Clifton so unique. One of our favorite shots featured Amanda and Sherman framed by The Clifton’s iconic garden archway, their smiles lighting up the scene.
Exploring The Clifton’s Charms
The property’s beauty offered countless opportunities for breathtaking photos. Amanda and Sherman strolled hand in hand along the manicured pathways, their joy evident in every step. The soft afternoon light filtering through the trees added a dreamy quality to the images, perfectly complementing the romance of the winter day.
Inside, we continued the session in the library, where the couple’s love for warmth and coziness was once again at the forefront. We then moved to The Clifton’s wine cellar, a hidden gem that perfectly suited Amanda and Sherman’s shared appreciation for wine and bourbon. Surrounded by rows of carefully curated bottles, the couple shared quiet moments that we were honored to capture.
A Charcuterie Board and Private Dinner
After the photos and ceremony, Amanda and Sherman indulged in a beautifully arranged charcuterie board. This delicious spread, paired with more prosecco, was a delightful way to celebrate their union. It was a moment of quiet connection, just the two of them savoring the day’s events and looking forward to their future together.
Their celebration concluded with a private dinner at The Clifton’s renowned restaurant. As the evening unfolded, it was clear that their wedding day was everything they had envisioned: intimate, elegant, and uniquely theirs.
Reflecting on Amanda and Sherman’s Day
Amanda and Sherman’s wedding at The Clifton was a reminder of what makes small weddings so special. By focusing on what truly mattered to them, they created a day filled with meaning and beauty. From the fireplace ceremony to the charcuterie board and private dinner, every detail was a reflection of their love story.
As photographers, we feel incredibly lucky to have been part of this intimate celebration. Capturing the quiet, tender moments of Amanda and Sherman’s day was an honor and a privilege. From their heartfelt vows to their shared smiles during our portrait session, each moment told a story of love and connection. It’s days like these that remind us why we do what we do—to preserve the memories of love stories as unique and beautiful as theirs.
Planning Your Intimate Wedding at The Clifton
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that is intimate, chic, and deeply personal, The Clifton in Charlottesville offers the perfect setting. Its historic charm, stunning property, and exceptional service make it a top choice for couples looking to celebrate their love in style.
We’d love to help you document your special day. As a team of two photographers, we are dedicated to capturing every moment with care and artistry. Whether you’re planning a small ceremony like Amanda and Sherman’s or a slightly larger gathering, we’re here to ensure your memories are beautifully preserved.
Visit our website at lumieredesoiweddings.com to learn more about our services, and follow us on Instagram @lumieredesoiweddings and Facebook facebook.com/lumieredesoiweddings for inspiration and updates.
Amanda and Sherman’s wedding day was a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of love. If their story has inspired you, we’d love to hear from you and help bring your wedding vision to life.