Sunset Crest Manor Wedding by Rachael Foster Photography

A rustic DIY barn wedding in Chantilly, VA

Caitlin and Mitchell’s romantic September wedding was at Sunset Crest Manor, an 82-acre estate tucked away in the rolling Virginia countryside. Caitlin and Mitchell met through a mutual friend over six years ago; they dated for several years, and when he was deployed to Iraq, they knew they were meant to be. Their celebration was infused with DIY details, heartfelt emotion and rustic Southern charm, including a reception in the barn under the glow of twinkling lights. Caitlin is a hairstylist, so she used her wedding experience to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for their guests. She’s a self-proclaimed bookworm, so she named each table after famous couples from literature and welcomed guests to the ceremony with a hand-painted sign that read, “This is where our story begins.” The bride and her family made and arranged many of the florals and other decorations. Before they exchanged rings, they passed them through the rows of guests for a “ring warming.” At the reception, Caitlin and Mitchell had their first dance under a wagon wheel chandelier while guests enjoyed signature cocktails. Following dinner, everyone was treated to a bourbon tasting and the s’mores bar. Rachael Foster Photography captured their charming Virginia wedding!