They contacted us in December, when we shot their engagement portraits when they visited Florida, and they asked how we would feel about shooting a wedding in Warrenton, Virginia. Since Warrenton happens to be just a town over from Danny’s parents, the setup couldn’t have been more perfect. And Deneice and John’s wedding day earlier this month? It was definitely a piece of perfect, too.

It couldn’t have been a more beautiful early summer day at Alwyngton Manor in the Virginia countryside. And Deneice couldn’t have chosen a more beautiful Monique Lhuillier wedding gown.
Deneice and her mom got ready side by side. It was the first time I’ve ever seen a bride style not only her own hair and makeup (she’s a professional hair stylist and makeup artist), but her mother’s as well!
See what I meant about perfection? Deneice, it was hard to believe anyone could look so stunningly gorgeous!Then came one of the most incredible moments of the day, when Deneice’s mom tucked Deneice into her veil and they both realized, this was it. She was about to marry the man she loved, surrounded by the people she loved. There was much laughter, and there were more than a few tears.
These four grew up together in Bolivia, so of course they were a key part of the wedding day!Just across the hall, John got ready to celebrate with his groomsmen.
And with his mother, who absolutely could not have been more proud of him.Once everyone was dressed and ready, it was time for the ceremony inside a magical little courtyard bedecked with ivy and blooms.
It was like a fairy tale wedding under the sunshine.
How beautiful are these bouquets?!Formal family portraits are always a given at weddings, but I love grabbing a few extra, relaxed family pictures when there’s time!
And the bride and groom portraits on that afternoon? Deneice and John, you two were stunning together!After everything else that was so pristine, their reception was every bit as beautiful as you would expect! Simple, rustic, elegant, and soft.
Deneice’s mom made the cake!
Love.For the rest of the night, the dance floor stayed pretty busy as the guests kicked off their shoes and danced!Partway through the reception, Deneice and John realized something had been left behind — the sparklers for their grand exit. So we quickly improvised, took some test shots, and realized it would work: we asked the guests to turn on their phone flashlights and point them straight at the camera for the exit. The result? It looked almost exactly like sparklers!Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs. Aguiar! We wish you two every blessing in your life together!

~ Laura

Vendors:

Venue: Alwyngton Manor
Bride’s gown: Monique Lhuillier, purchased at The Collection
Bride’s veil: Vera Wang, purchased at The Collection
Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Bridesmaid dresses: Monique Lhuillier
Hair and makeup: By the bride
Groom and groomsmen’s tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse
Flowers and decor: Advantage Plant Design
Coordination: Erena Manis and Aletha Power
Photography: Laura Yang Photography