There are some wedding days that feel like they unfold in chapters, each one more vibrant than the last. Caroline and Pierce’s celebration at the John Marshall Ballrooms was exactly that kind of day. From the quiet, anticipatory moments in the morning to a dance floor that never slowed down, their formal Richmond wedding was layered with personality, intention, and so much joy.
As wedding photographers based in Charlottesville, we always love traveling to Richmond. There’s something about the blend of historic architecture and city energy that creates the perfect backdrop for a truly classic celebration. And the John Marshall Ballrooms, with its soaring ceilings, grand windows, and timeless charm, felt like stepping into a modern-day fairytale. We kept saying it gave subtle Beauty and the Beast vibes in the best way. Elegant, romantic, and just a little bit magical.
Caroline started her morning surrounded by her closest friends and family, with hair and makeup by Avenue 42 Salon. There’s always a certain energy in the getting-ready space. A mix of calm, laughter, and those little glances in the mirror when it all starts to feel real. Her look was timeless and refined, perfectly matching the overall feel of the day. Meanwhile, Pierce spent the morning with his groomsmen, equal parts relaxed and excited, counting down the minutes until he would see Caroline for their first look.
One of our favorite parts of the day was how seamlessly everything came together thanks to CCS Events. A large, formal wedding like this requires thoughtful coordination, and every detail felt intentional without ever feeling overdone. The design leaned into a classic palette with lush, all-white florals by Tommy's Garden. The arrangements were abundant and sculptural, softening the grandeur of the ballroom while enhancing its elegance.
But what we loved most was how Caroline and Pierce infused the day with personal touches that made it entirely their own.
As guests began to arrive, there was a sense of anticipation building throughout the space. And then came one of the sweetest moments of the entire ceremony. Their dog, Harlow, made her way down the aisle wearing the most perfect white lace bandana. There’s just something about including your dog in your wedding day that instantly makes it feel more intimate, more personal. Harlow absolutely stole the show for a moment, and we were so here for it.
The ceremony itself was heartfelt and emotional, set against the grandeur of the ballroom’s architecture. Surrounded by their people, Caroline and Pierce exchanged vows in a space that felt both expansive and deeply personal at the same time. It’s one of the things we love most about a venue like the John Marshall Ballrooms. Even with a large guest count, it still holds space for those quiet, meaningful moments.
After the ceremony, the celebration flowed effortlessly into cocktail hour and then into the reception. The room transformation was stunning. Tables were adorned with those lush white florals, glowing candlelight, and one of our favorite unexpected details: Rubik’s cubes.
Pierce is a big fan, and incorporating them into the decor was such a fun, personal touch. It added a layer of playfulness to an otherwise formal wedding design, and guests absolutely loved it. We always encourage our couples to include those little pieces of themselves. They’re often the details people remember most.
Dinner was followed by a cake cutting featuring a beautiful creation from Corazon Cake Co, along with gluten-free whoopie pies that were just as thoughtfully crafted. It’s always meaningful to see couples consider their guests in these ways, making sure everyone feels included and taken care of.
As the evening unfolded, the energy in the room shifted in the best way. Once the dance floor opened, it stayed full all night thanks to Bunn DJ Company. This was truly one of those receptions where the music never dipped and the crowd never left. From classic hits to crowd favorites, every song felt like the right one at the right time.
We always tell our couples that your reception energy is something you feel just as much as you see. And Caroline and Pierce’s was electric. It wasn’t just a party. It was a full-on celebration of everything they’ve built together, surrounded by the people who matter most.
And then, just when it felt like the night couldn’t get any better, it was time for their send-off.
Guests lined up outside with sparklers in hand, creating the most magical exit. There’s something timeless about a sparkler send-off. The glow, the movement, the laughter. Caroline and Pierce ran through it all, completely wrapped up in the moment, and it was the perfect ending to a day that felt both elevated and deeply personal.
This Richmond wedding was the perfect example of what happens when classic design meets meaningful detail. It was formal without feeling stiff, grand without losing intimacy, and full of personality from beginning to end.
Caroline and Pierce, it was such an honor to document your day. From Harlow’s walk down the aisle to your sparkler exit, every moment told a piece of your story, and we’re so grateful we got to be there to capture it all.
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If you’re planning your own wedding at the John Marshall Ballrooms or anywhere in Richmond, we would love to connect. You can find more of our work at Lumière de Soi Weddings, follow along on Instagram at @lumieredesoiweddings, or reach out through our website at lumieredesoiweddings.com.
We believe the best wedding photos come from real moments, thoughtful details, and a day that truly reflects you. Caroline and Pierce’s celebration was all of that and more, and it’s one we won’t soon forget.
