You don’t have to choose between a quiet, meaningful adventure and time celebrating with your favorite people — in Virginia, you can do both.
From the Blue Ridge Mountains to hbeautiful beaches, historic towns to wildflower-filled meadows, Virginia is full of stunning spots where you can say your vows and start your next chapter. Whether you’re dreaming of a private ceremony at sunrise, an intimate hike with just the two of you, or a relaxed celebration with your crew after a weekend getaway, I’ll help you craft a day that feels true to you.
From the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park to hidden waterfalls, beaches, forests, and rolling farmland, Virginia packs a ton of natural beauty into one state. Whether you're dreaming of a mountaintop ceremony, a riverfront picnic, or cozy cabin vows in the woods, there's a spot that fits your vibe.
You can chase wildflowers in spring, plan a golden-leaf elopement in fall, or even bundle up for a snowy winter ceremony. Virginia’s seasons are distinct and beautiful — which means you get to pick the backdrop that feels most like you.
Virginia makes eloping simple: no waiting period for marriage licenses, no witnesses required, and tons of Airbnbs, small venues, and park options to choose from. Whether you want something spontaneous or you’re planning a full weekend with loved ones, you’ve got options.
Molly + Porter
"Aimee felt like part of the family, she truly listened to what we wanted and captured every moment perfectly. We’re so grateful to Please Don’t Blink Photography for giving us photos we’ll cherish forever. Also my girl reacted to the rain SO well, I never felt stressed about it which feels so much better!"
Becky +Dov
“Aimee is quite literally one of the kindest, funniest people I have ever met in my life, and despite our wedding being 4+ years ago, the impact she made in our lives continues every day ."
Maisie and Neil
"From the very first conversation, Aimee felt less like a vendor and more like a longtime friend. She is truly an amazing elopement photographer — flexible, easy to talk to, and someone who instantly makes you feel comfortable and understood. Planning an elopement can feel overwhelming, but Aimee made the entire experience effortless and fun."
I’m a photographer, planning sidekick, and unofficial hype person for couples who want a wedding day that feels real, personal, and fully their own. Whether you’re saying your vows on a misty mountaintop, chasing waterfalls, or wrapping up the day with your people around a backyard bonfire — I’m here to help make it happen.
With a background in photojournalism, I’m all about documenting the real moments: the emotion, the connection, the joy that happens when you're not worried about what a wedding “should” look like. If you're dreaming of a nontraditional wedding that blends epic landscapes with deep connection, you're in the right place — and I’m here to help every step of the way.
Step 1 – Reach Out
Send me a message with your vision (even if it’s just “we want mountains!”).
Step 2 – Let’s Talk
We’ll hop on a quick call to dream up your day and see if we’re the right fit.
Step 3 – Make It Official
Choose your date and package, then lock it in with a signed agreement and retainer.
Step 4 – Plan Your Epic Day
I’ll help with locations, permits, timelines, and insider tips.
Step 5 – Celebrate & Get Married
Get married surrounded by incredible views while I capture it all.
Step 6 – Relive It All
Sneak peeks within 48 hours, full gallery in 4–8 weeks.
• Elopements 2-20 guests, small wedding 20-50 guests
• Coverage starting at 4 hours to 2 days.
• Location planning and timeline help, as needed.
• Sneak peeks within 48 hours.
• Travel included to Shenandoah
Do we need to be Virginia residents to get married there?
Nope! You don’t need to be a resident of Virginia to get legally married there. Couples from anywhere can apply for a marriage license and elope in the state.
What do we need to get a Virginia marriage license?
Both partners must go together to any Virginia Circuit Court clerk’s office. Bring a valid photo ID, and know your Social Security numbers. The license costs around $30–50 (varies by county), and there’s no waiting period — you can use it right away.
Do we need witnesses for our ceremony?
Not in Virginia! No witnesses are required to sign your marriage license, which makes it extra simple for couples planning just-the-two-of-us elopements.
Who can legally officiate our ceremony?
A registered officiant must perform your ceremony — Virginia doesn’t allow self-solemnization. You can hire a local officiant, or a friend/family member can apply to be a one-time civil celebrant (though requirements vary by county, and they usually need to be a Virginia resident).
Can we include guests or have a celebration after?
Absolutely. Your elopement can be just the two of you, or you can bring along a handful of your favorite people — or even split it across two days. Virginia has great options for backyard dinners, cabins, and laid-back venues to celebrate your way.
What if it rains?
I always help you build a flexible plan — just in case. We’ll talk through backup locations, coverage, and how to make it magical no matter the forecast (plus, moody skies = gorgeous photos).