Allie Strouse
- Jan 21, 2018
- 3 min read

Rebecca + Zach | The John Marshall Ballroom Wedding | Richmond, Virginia

True to form for Virginia weather, the temperature this past Saturday was a moderate 61 degrees and sunny. It was the perfect weather for a downtown Richmond wedding!

The Fitz Family are close friends of Allie's family and we've spent many special occasions with Rebecca, her parents, and I (Brad) have even gotten into some innocent "groomsmen mischief" with her brother a few Decembers ago ... story withheld to protect the innocent. We've loved getting to know Zach a bit over the years. When they hired us for their wedding, we jumped for joy knowing how much fun their wedding would be, and how great the images turn out with such a beautiful couple!

The bridesmaids took over the lower level bridal, two-bedroom apartment suite at the John Marshall Hotel. When we arrived, BRIDEface Richmond was doing final touches on makeup while the girls were sipping mimosas and calmly talking.

The groomsmen suite was on the third floor and perfect for the men. There was an explosion of clothing, Chick-Fil-A, and Yeti tumblers that lend itself to a homey, welcoming feel. Compared to the bridal suite, it was a much different, albeit fitting vibe with loud music, suave black suits, and lots of laughter.

We got started with details shots. Becca had the most beautiful jewelry that included a necklace of her grandparents' handwriting, borrowed rings and bracelets from her mom, and the sweetest ladybug broach. Zach had the traditional bowtie, shoes and belt that completed a classy, manly look.

Once everyone was ready, it was time for portraits! We were anxiously awaiting the chance to shoot in a downtown, urban environment, and the city-scape did not let us down. The girls went around the left side of the John Marshall as Brad took the guys around the right side. The bridal party was cracking themselves up as we shot against brick walls and explored alleys.

The ceremony took place in the historic Second Presbyterian Church which served as a perfect backdrop for Becca's timeless dress and fur shawl. Zach looked dashing in a classic, understated black suit with shoes shiny enough you could see your face in them. Guests enjoyed the sounds of the 19th-century pipe organ, and before too long the couple was exchanging vows. At one point, the pastor asked them to turn and face the back of the room so they could feel the love of their family and friends. Zach exclaimed "Oh I'm feelin' it!" which was met with laughter from all in attendance.

The John Marshall Ballroom played host to the reception with its big marble atrium and large crystal chandeliers. Guests and vendors alike dined on steak, salad, and so much more. First dances were had and then it was time to party to the sounds of EastCoast Entertainment band, Klaxton Brown. All night, they cranked out classic Motown, R&B, and Top 40 of all decades backed by multiple horn players, multiple keyboardists, and powerful female vocals. Becca was smiling ear to ear as multiple "dance circles" formed around her and avowed non-dancer, Zach, was seen several times dancing cheek to cheek with his bride.

Zach and Becca exited down the grand staircase in a shower of bubbles while family and friends cheered and wished them well. The night felt like it could have gone on forever which is the sign of a truly great party. We wish you the best Becca and Zach! Don't forget to bring us back some crab cocktails from Jamaica!