If you’re seeking a beautiful ballroom, The Virginian Hotel is a dream. A Virginian Hotel wedding would be even more amazing. It’s right in the heart of downtown Lynchburg and is steeped in history. Built in 1913, the hotel was designed by Verus T. Ritter with five stories, arched windows, an ornate lobby with 30 foot ceilings and marble stairs with wrought iron railings. The hotel actually struggled through the 1960s before it was closed. In 1972, the building was reopened as a dorm for Lynchburg Baptist College, now known as Liberty University and in 1983, the upper floors were converted into low-income housing with the first-floor spaces used for storage.

In 2014, the hotel underwent a complete renovation. Many of the original elements remained and a great care was taken to restore and enhance the building. Today, it meets rigorous preservation standards and offers modern amenities, while maintaining its historic characteristics. The grand ballroom, where many weddings are held, is gorgeous with its marble staircase and white columns. It’s really a great space, especially for larger weddings as I believe it can hold up to 500 for a reception.

I had the opportunity to capture a styled shoot, wedding inspiration, there as part of  a benefit in 2021 which raised funds for the YWCA of Central Virginia. The organization aims to empower women, children and families. They have a domestic violence prevention program, a sexual assault response program and a women’s residential housing program. They also operate Church Street Bridal which offers designer gowns at vastly reduced prices. The funds from Church Street Bridal benefit the YWCA. Other Lynchburg locations featured during the shoot include Firehouse 4 and Atelier Studio.

Here are some of my favorites:

Vendors:

Venue: The Virginian Hotel

Planner/Designer/Cake Design/Food Styling: Love is in the Air

Florist: Rosefield Farm and Flowers

Furniture Rentals: Happily Ever After

Stationery: Melissa Spence Designs

Hair Stylist: The Salty Blonde Spalon

Makeup Artist: Southern Beauty by Jess

Cocktails/DIY/Favors: Hill City Bride

Dresses: Church Street Bridal

Organizer: Amative Creative

Event Team Manager: Tina Lane Events