When two doctors fall in love during their residency and manage to plan the most elegant, heartfelt celebration — you just know it’s going to be special. Chelsea and Sam’s Downtown Charlottesville Virginia Wedding was one for the books! Despite the forecast calling for rain all week, we were blessed with the most beautiful mid-October day. The skies held off until the very end. This gave us the perfect mix of soft light, laughter, and joy from start to finish.
Sam & Chelsea’s Wedding Day
Chelsea and Sam first met during their medical residency — which, having lived through Alex’s residency days myself, I know is no small feat! Somehow, in the middle of long shifts and unpredictable schedules, their connection grew. After two and a half years together, Sam proposed in the sweetest, most intimate way: inside their apartment surrounded by candles, cake, and flowers.
I had the joy of celebrating their engagement with photos along Skyline Drive last fall, so seeing their Downtown Charlottesville Virginia Wedding come full circle this year felt incredibly special.
The Ceremony at the UVA Chapel
Their ceremony took place at the UVA Chapel, a timeless and meaningful location since Sam now works at UVA. The day felt classic yet personal, beautifully accented with their soft lilac and pistachio green color palette. The delicate florals, bridesmaid dresses, and subtle greenery touches complemented the chapel’s stone architecture perfectly — a romantic nod to the season and the couple’s refined style.
Family played a big role throughout the day. Chelsea’s nieces and nephews completely stole the show as the flower girls and ring bearers! One of my favorite moments was watching the youngest flower girl hand flowers to guests instead of tossing them in the air and the youngest ring bearer blew kisses to everyone — absolutely precious! Those sweet, candid interactions reminded me why I love photographing weddings that are so deeply family-centered and full of personality.
The Party at the Wool Factory
After the ceremony, everyone gathered at The Wool Factory in downtown Charlottesville for the reception — a modern industrial venue that brought such a fun contrast to the traditional chapel setting. Between the exposed brick, tall windows, and greenery-filled accents, everything tied together beautifully with their lilac and pistachio green theme.
Chelsea and Sam enjoyed their cocktail hour with guests as the sun began to peek through the clouds. We snuck out just in time to catch an epic sunset moment — the kind that takes you completely by surprise after a cloudy day! That golden light felt like the perfect exclamation point on an already joyful celebration.
The evening carried on with laughter, heartfelt toasts, and a packed dance floor. I adored how they included their love for cats through their decor as you’ll see below. Haha! Chelsea and Sam made a point to be present with everyone — chatting, laughing, and dancing their way through the night. Their sparkler exit was the perfect sendoff, surrounded by all of their favorite people and the happiest energy.
From UVA Chapel Vows to a Sunset Celebration at The Wool Factory
Thank You!!
Chelsea and Sam, thank you for allowing me to capture your incredible day. From your Skyline Drive engagement to your elegant Downtown Charlottesville Virginia Wedding at UVA Chapel and The Wool Factory, every moment was so full of joy and intention. I’m so grateful to have witnessed your story unfold and to celebrate such a beautiful start to your marriage!
CONGRATULATIONS!!!
Thanks to the vendors who made this happen!!
Ceremony Venue: UVA Chapel
Reception Venue: The Wool Factory
Coordinator: Em Eliz Events
Photographer: Stephanie Messick Photography & Lyn Waldrop Photography
Hair and Makeup: The Posh Bride
Caterer: The Wool Factory
Florist: Secret Gardens
Baker: Cake Bloom
DJ: Lawton Lunce
Ceremony Music: Linda Hanson and Daniel Sender
Videography: Silver Streak Weddings
Transportation: A&A Limousine
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