Stella’s Restaurant & Belle Isle Engagement Session | Richmond Wedding Photographer
- Munhoz Photography
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Engagement sessions are one of my favorite chapters to photograph... relaxed, joyful, and full of anticipation for what’s ahead. As a Richmond engagement photographer, I love helping couples choose locations that feel personal, and Maria & Luke’s engagement session at Stella’s Restaurant and Belle Isle was exactly that: intentional, fun, and so them.
From that first connection, their relationship grew into something steady and deeply rooted. Stella’s quickly became their favorite date spot, and popping champagne at Belle Isle felt like the perfect way to celebrate this season before they say “I do” this June at the Omni Richmond Hotel.
Why Stella’s Restaurant Is Perfect for Engagement Photos in Richmond
Stella’s Restaurant has a timeless, European charm that photographs beautifully and is one of my favorite spots for engagement photos in Richmond, especially for couples who want something meaningful and intimate.
What I love most about this engagement sessions at Stella’s:
• It felt personal
• The location already held meaning for my couple
• It works beautifully for candid, story-driven images
Starting the session here allowed Maria & Luke to ease into photos naturally — laughing, talking, and simply being together in a place that already feels like home to them.
Belle Isle Engagement Photos Along the James River
After Stella’s, we headed to Belle Isle, one of Richmond’s most iconic engagement photo locations and a favorite spot for Belle Isle engagement photos because of the river, open skies, and natural movement.
Belle Isle is especially beautiful for couples who want:
• Natural light and open space
• A mix of greenery, water, and city views
• Room to move, walk, laugh, and celebrate
Maria & Luke brought champagne to mark the moment... a simple detail that added so much personality to their session. Between the river breeze, golden light, and their easy connection, everything fell into place effortlessly.
What to Wear for a Stella’s + Belle Isle Engagement Session
This combination of locations works best with outfits that feel elevated but relaxed. I always recommend:
• Neutral tones or soft colors
• Comfortable shoes (especially for Belle Isle paths)
• Clean lines that won’t compete with the scenery
Maria & Luke’s choices complemented both locations perfectly: polished enough for Stella’s, relaxed enough for the river.
From Engagement Session to Wedding Day in Richmond
One of the things I love most about engagement sessions is how they flow into the wedding experience. For many of my couples, this is their first time working with a Richmond wedding photographer, and it sets the tone for a relaxed, connected wedding day.
Maria & Luke will be getting married this June at the Omni Richmond Hotel, and after spending this time together during their engagement session, I already know their wedding day will be filled with the same warmth, joy, and intentional moments.
Planning an Engagement Session in Richmond?
If you’re looking for engagement photos that feel natural, meaningful, and true to your story, Richmond offers some incredible locations. And choosing places that matter to you makes all the difference.
Stella’s Restaurant and Belle Isle are perfect examples of how combining a sentimental location with a natural outdoor setting can create a beautifully balanced engagement gallery.
If you’re planning your engagement session or wedding in Richmond, I’d love to help you choose locations that reflect your relationship and create images you’ll love for years to come.
A perfect setting for timeless engagement photos with warmth, texture, and understated romance.
Here are some of my favorite engagement portraits from this Belle Isle session — timeless Richmond engagement photography with soft light, movement, and genuine connection.
More Richmond Weddings
Engagement sessions like this one at Stella’s and Belle Isle are a perfect way to capture the connection and joy couples share before their wedding day. Richmond offers so many beautiful locations for engagement photography, each with its own personality and charm.
Download my welcome guide for tips, timelines, and what to expect:
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