For Erika and Jeremiah, choosing Copper Hall in downtown Richmond wasn't just about finding a beautiful venue, it was about celebrating their love in a place that perfectly reflected their appreciation for history and timeless elegance. The 1920s Classical Revival building, with its marble columns and soaring coffered ceilings, provided the perfect backdrop for their August 2024 wedding celebration.
A Step Back in Time
Walking into Copper Hall feels like stepping into a different era. Originally built as the Mechanics & Merchants Bank in 1920, this Manchester neighborhood gem has been beautifully restored while maintaining all of its original architectural details. The 12-foot windows filled the space with gorgeous natural light throughout the day, and those marble columns created such dramatic photo opportunities.
Getting Ready in Historic Style
Jeremiah and his groomsmen prepared in the main hall area, and I loved being able to capture them against the backdrop of those incredible coffered ceilings. The contrast between their modern formal wear and the 1920s architecture created such a timeless feeling.
An Intimate Ceremony
The ceremony took place in the main hall, with Erika walking down an aisle flanked by those stunning marble columns. With about 60 guests, the space felt perfectly intimate while still allowing everyone to appreciate the grandeur of the historic venue. The original bank vault served as an unexpected and unique backdrop for their vows.
Their vows were heartfelt and personal, and you could see the emotion on both their faces as they exchanged promises. The acoustics in the hall were perfect, every word carried beautifully to their guests without needing amplification.
Film Photography Magic
Erika and Jeremiah opted for my film add-on package, and I'm so glad they did! The combination of the historic venue and film photography created something truly special. I shot their getting ready photos and ceremony on Kodak Portra 400 with my Mamiya RB67, which gave us those beautiful, creamy skin tones and that classic film look that just can't be replicated digitally.
Reception Under the Chandeliers
As evening fell, Copper Hall truly came alive. The elegant chandeliers cast the most romantic glow throughout the space, and we were able to capture some incredible dancing photos with the historic details as the backdrop. The 2500 square feet gave everyone plenty of room to celebrate while maintaining that intimate feeling.
The original architectural details really shone during the reception, every corner of this venue photographs beautifully. From the intricate ceiling work to those marble columns, there wasn't a bad angle in the entire space.
Golden Hour Magic
Just before sunset, we snuck outside for some quick couple portraits in downtown Manchester. The exterior of Copper Hall, with its Classical Revival architecture, provided a stunning backdrop, and the August golden hour light was absolutely perfect.
We also took advantage of some of the nearby historic streets for a few more shots. There's something magical about the combination of Richmond's historic architecture and that warm evening light.
The Perfect Historic Venue
Copper Hall provided everything Erika and Jeremiah wanted for their wedding day: history, elegance, and character. The venue's unique features, from the original bank vault to those incredible marble columns, gave us so many opportunities for creative and memorable photos.
The fact that this building has been lovingly restored while maintaining its original 1920s character made it the perfect choice for a couple who appreciates both history and timeless style.
Amazing Couple, Perfect Day
Erika and Jeremiah were an absolute dream to work with. They trusted my vision completely, were up for anything during our photo sessions, and just radiated joy throughout their entire wedding day. Their love for each other and appreciation for the historic venue made my job easy and so enjoyable.
A Celebration to Remember
Erika and Jeremiah's Copper Hall wedding was everything a downtown Richmond celebration should be: elegant, historic, and full of character. Getting to document their special day in such a unique venue, especially with the addition of film photography, created images that truly capture the timeless nature of their love story.
Congratulations, Erika and Jeremiah! Thank you for choosing me to capture your beautiful wedding day and for trusting me with the film add-on package. Your love story deserved nothing less than the elegance of Copper Hall, and I'm so honored to have been part of your celebration.
For wedding photography in Richmond's most beautiful historic venues, visit stephen.photography. I'd love to help tell your love story with both digital and film photography options.