A Memorable Poe Museum Elopement | Virginia Wedding Photographer

Rebecca & Raphael | Virginia Wedding Photographer

You might remember Rebecca and Raphael from their engagement session I shot at the VMFA. That day, I got to know them better and met Nina, their adorable dog, who was also a special guest at their wedding at the Poe Museum, in Richmond, VA.

Let me tell you—I knew something fun was coming when Rebecca called me a couple of months ago! She was planning their elopement, and photography was one of the first things they booked for the day (what an honor!!). As a Virginia wedding photographer, moments like these warm my heart.

[Side note] You might have seen Rebecca here on my IG a few months ago—she was one of Ariane’s bridesmaids, and we got to spend that whole day together!

Back to the main story—Rebecca and Raphael are the type of couple you just LOVE to be around.

Rebecca is full of energy and passion in everything she does. While I was capturing the beautiful details of their wedding (I loved the colors they picked!), she was finalizing the decor, getting dressed, and welcoming guests—all with so much love. Also, she made sure to remember her dad, who passed away a few years ago, by reserving the first seat with a bouquet adorned with a chain holding a picture of them together and a note he wrote for her when she was born. That detail warmed my heart!

Raphael is such a wonderful soul, always caring for the ones he loves (Rebecca highlighted this in her vows, and tears were flowing!). Funny enough, Raphael and Andre used to play soccer together as teens, and they only reconnected at Ariane’s wedding. Small world!

Everything about their elopement was fun and special (can I mention how gorgeous the Poe Museum garden is?), but I’m saving one of my favorite details of their story for…

...The Heartwarming Family Connection

The whole family is tied in a special way. Rebecca’s mom met Raphael’s dad when they were young, but life took a different path for them. Years later, they reencountered each other. Rebecca’s mom would always say good things about Raphael to Rebecca, which led to Rebecca meeting him—and now they’ve been together for over 10 years!

The whole family is very close. Raphael’s dad is married to Rebecca’s mom, and this is too sweet for me! I love it! Capturing not just the union of two people but the beautiful intertwining of families is what makes my job so rewarding.

Oh, and let’s not forget Nina! She was the cutest guest, wagging her tail and bringing smiles to everyone. Pets at weddings? Yes, please!

During wedding season, I get to witness so many unique love stories, but Rebecca and Raphael’s will always hold a special place in my heart. Their elopement at the Poe Museum was beautiful and meaningful.