Brides & Weddings Magazine Find the Wedding Professionals You'll Love.
By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher, Brides & Weddings
Bakeries
A beloved name in the region for decades, Cakes by Happy Eatery continues to shine as a wedding favorite. Couples rave about their cakes not only for their beauty, but for flavors that “guests remember long after the reception.” Known for creativity, consistency, and warm, family-centered service, the bakery delivers designs that range from classic elegance to playful artistry. Each cake is crafted with care, and couples often share that working with the team feels “like planning with friends who genuinely want your day to be perfect.”
Dana’s Cake Shoppe
Dana’s Cake Shoppe is known for desserts that “taste even better than they look.” With six consecutive Best of Weddings awards and a place in The Knot Hall of Fame, clients say Dana “creates cakes that guests still talk about months later.”
Lucy Q’s Cakery and Candy Shoppe
Lucy Q’s brings a sense of joy, imagination, and pure artistry to every wedding cake. Known for bold flavor profiles and visually captivating designs, the shop blends whimsy with refined technique. Their nomination highlighted the bakery’s signature approach: “Every cake tells a story — and she treats each couple’s story as if it were her own.” Couples consistently praise Lucy Q’s ability to translate inspiration into edible art, delivering creations that are “as memorable to look at as they are to taste.”
Classic craftsmanship meets modern creativity at Baden’s Bakery, where every cake is produced with a deep respect for tradition and a passion for detail. Brides described Baden as “a perfectionist in the best way,” noting that even the smallest elements — sugar blooms, piping, flavor balance — are executed with thoughtful precision. Known for reliability, sophistication, and beautifully structured tiers, Baden’s Bakery stood out for cakes that “felt timeless, elegant, and impeccably made.”
Miretti Desserts continues to impress with elevated European-inspired designs and luxurious flavor combinations that set them apart. Their entry emphasized an unwavering standard: “Dessert should be an experience.” Brides and grooms praise Miretti for creating cakes that feel couture — sleek finishes, sculpted elegance, and layers that taste “like something from a fine patisserie.” Their work blends artistry and refinement, earning them a well-deserved Weddy distinction.
Consultants, Coordinators, and Planners
Heartfelt Events (Elizabeth Kim)
Elizabeth’s clients described her as meticulous, visionary, and authentic. One wrote, “Elizabeth is so personable, you’re not getting a coordinator, but a friend,” while another shared how she “refined and clarified every vendor contract… her ability to create the ambiance and vision of the family is a talent beyond expectations.”
Glorious Weddings & Events, LLC
Planner and author Alyssa Glorioso is celebrated for bringing “teacher-level organization with a calming energy.” She excels in multicultural weddings, and couples praise her for “making us feel supported in blending our traditions.”
Forever Moments (Brittney Poole)
Brittney’s calm presence left a lasting impression. “She was always one step ahead and had very clear communication,” a bride wrote, adding, “I never felt like she was stressed, which made me feel unstressed.”
Love Wedding & Events (Ofe Cox)
Ofe’s colleagues often praise the team’s integrity and detail-oriented leadership. One vendor shared, “Ofe is a shining light in the wedding industry… a delight to work with as a vendor as far as her organization, her command of the timeline, and her interactions with the guests and venue.”
With more than 25 years in the industry, Terry’s reputation for grace and precision is well earned. Her nomination simply stated: “Our experience sets us apart… weddings are family legacies, love stories, and once-in-a-lifetime moments.”
Cassidy Dawn’s blend of warmth and structure resonates deeply with clients. One couple shared, “We didn’t have to worry about anything — it all just flowed perfectly,” while another recalled that when the rings were forgotten in the suite, the team “had them ready at the altar before we even had a chance to panic.”
Couples praise Island Creek Events for weddings that are “polished, personal, and calm behind the scenes.” Their coastal-inspired style is matched by an ability to “run a wedding with total precision while still making it feel effortless.”
Nominators describe Jami as “a planner who brings both artistry and structure,” known for “timelines that leave nothing to chance” and “flatlays and calligraphy that make every detail feel intentional.” Her events are praised as “beautiful because they tell the couple’s story.”
Kylie is praised as “the planner who becomes family.” Clients note her “attention to design, food and beverage, vendor communication, and every behind-the-scenes detail,” sharing that she “puts her whole heart into every wedding, no matter the size.”
A boutique offering beauty, florals, cakes, décor, coordination, signage, and gifts, JoJo is praised for “treating every wedding like it matters.” Clients say, “She creates with heart — and it shows in every detail.”
Nominators call Karla “the calm in every storm.” When unexpected issues arise, “she problem-solves instantly,” and couples share that she “supports you long after the event — she truly cares.”
Clover Hill Events shines for its exceptional attention to detail and heartfelt client care. As one nomination beautifully stated, “Cloverhill excels in the details and client connections — everything from the first detail to the last is always absolutely perfect. And done with grace, charm, and a smile.” Couples praise Tara Staley for creating wedding days that feel effortless, polished, and deeply personal, with a level of service that reflects genuine warmth and professionalism.
Sleeping Bee Designs
Vendors love working with Sleeping Bee because “the day runs smoothly, every time.” Their communication is described as “clear, kind, and consistent,” creating weddings that feel “organized and joyful.”
Catering
A trusted family-owned business since 1981, Helga’s Caterers is known for exceptional food, thoughtful planning, and warm hospitality. From intimate gatherings to large celebrations, their team brings decades of expertise to every detail. As one client shared, “Helga’s made our event unforgettable — they cared for our guests like family.” Their commitment to quality and service continues to make them a standout choice for couples across the region.
Dance Lessons
Bella Joy Ballroom
Instructor Syreeta Eubanks receives glowing praise from couples who say she “made our first dance possible — and beautiful.” Students describe her as “patient, fun, and able to teach even two left feet.”
Fred Astaire Dance Studio Richmond
Couples call the instructors “kind, encouraging, and incredibly skilled,” with routines that “WOWed our guests.” Even beginners say they left with “a dance we were proud of.”
DJ & Entertainment
A three-time Weddy winner, Firedog continues to elevate celebrations. “We go beyond playing music — we create meaningful, memorable experiences,” they shared, noting their custom video montage that blends photo booth memories with recorded messages.
One nomination summed it up: “The dance floor was packed all night… our guests are still talking about it.”
With more than 20 years in the industry and over 100 five-star reviews, he is known for making the planning process “enjoyable and stress-free.”
Entertainment & Catering, Inc. (ACi)
ACi offers planning, DJs, karaoke, big-screen musical features, clowns, catering, and more. Nominators call them “experienced, insured professionals who handle everything from music to entertainment with ease,” and note that their breadth of services “takes the stress out of coordinating multiple vendors.”
Fleming Design and Sound
Praised by industry peers as “the best sound company we’ve ever worked with,” Fleming Design and Sound brings technical excellence and customer-focused service. Their mastery of live and reception audio ensures guests “hear every word and never leave the dance floor.”
Live Musicians
Atoka String Quartet
Known for custom arrangements that match a couple’s story, nominators say Atoka “elevates every moment” and that the ensemble “added a level of grace and beauty we didn’t know was possible.”
Jarrett Laskey Classical Guitar Services
A preferred vendor at many venues, Jarrett is described by couples as “romantic, elegant, and unforgettable.” His classical guitar performances “set the perfect tone for our ceremony.”
The Onyx Ensemble, by Harmony of Virginia
An all-female group offering harps, strings, woodwinds, piano, and vocals. Couples say their sound is “stunning” and that their custom-curated setlists “made our ceremony feel like a film score.”
Florists
Praised for luxury-quality silk florals, Bloom Couture was described as “professional, responsible, and a reliable part of the vendor team we count on.”
Designs by Janice
Designs by Janice begins with a free consultation and builds from there with personalized attention. Clients say Janice “really listens,” making flowers that “feel completely us” and “turn our ideas into something more beautiful than we imagined.”
Johnson’s Florist & Garden Center
Florists are often praised for artistry, and Johnson’s is no exception: “Their designs took my breath away,” one couple shared. Clients appreciate the “helpful, knowledgeable team” and arrangements that “exceeded expectations.”
D Fleur Couture
Specializing in modern, chic florals, D Fleur Couture is known for “elegant, luxurious floral design” and “show-stopping tablescapes.” Couples appreciate the “fresh, elevated look” the studio brings to every event.
Hair & Makeup
Her nomination captured her generosity: “She had finished for the day, but unpacked again just to give the mothers a beautiful, soft makeup look.”
Brides love her holistic approach. “She brings a calming presence on the wedding morning,” one wrote.
Known for elevating beauty with skill and intention, Krizia is described by nominators as “a certified artist who uses top luxury brands and delivers a flawless, long-wear look every time.” Clients praise her as “professional, dependable, and the makeup artist I always refer.”
Swept’s bridal parties describe the team as “calm, positive, and unbelievably talented.” One nomination reads, “They did everything they could for me — above and beyond.”
Photo Booths
Photographers
Danielle Towle Photography
Danielle encourages couples to be themselves, earning reviews like “she made us so comfortable we forgot the camera was there.” Her work is praised for being “emotionally rich and full of real connection.”
Twenty years of experience shows in every frame. “Holly listens and makes the couple feel exceptional,” one client wrote, noting her turnaround time: full galleries delivered in just a week.
Rodney Bailey Photography
With more than 25 years behind the lens, Rodney Bailey is known for “capturing moments you didn’t even realize were happening.” Clients describe his style as “authentic, emotional, and beautifully unobtrusive.”
Vadym Guliuk Photography
Vadym is known for “creative, cinematic photographs and videos,” including dramatic fire portraits that couples describe as “works of art.” His films are praised for being “emotional, stunning, and beautifully paced.”
Officiants
Julie is known for heartfelt delivery. “Her words brought tears to my family’s eyes,” said one bride.
Ronald has officiated more than 1,400 weddings and is known for treating each one as meaningful. He shares, “Every ceremony is a gift,” and his nomination notes that “all fees go to cancer and first responder charities,” reflecting his commitment to service.
Transportation
For more than 35 years, American Limousines has provided wedding transportation with professionalism, precision, and calm expertise. Clients highlight their “exceptional service, immaculate vehicles, and punctual, reliable chauffeurs” who keep logistics smooth on even the most demanding wedding days.
Travel Planning
Honeymoon planning begins with listening, and nominators say Beth Drummonds “took our budget, needs, and dreams seriously.” Couples love how she creates “the perfect trip without pressure,” making her a standout in personalized travel planning.
Venues
Nominators describe the experience at Laurel Hill as “warm, welcoming, and incredibly supportive.” The event director “walks families through every detail” and “takes pressure off parents and couples,” while the culinary team delivers food that guests “raved about for weeks.”
Clients highlight the team for being “calm, professional, and absolutely wonderful with children,” creating an environment where “the adults could finally relax because everything was handled.” The venue’s scenic backdrops and dependable coordination make it a favorite.
Landfall Lodge is Winchester’s hidden gem, offering more than 200 acres of natural beauty and total privacy. Couples love its serene pond, silver maple trees, wildflower meadows, and the charming vintage ’57 Chevy truck that makes photo sessions unforgettable. With an island pergola, panoramic views, and timeless rural elegance, “Landfall Lodge creates an outdoor wedding setting that feels truly magical.”
The Yellow Barn at Shenandoah Caverns
Set in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, The Yellow Barn offers modern rustic charm with warm wood details, twinkling lights, and newly renovated spaces that couples love. With room for up to 300 guests and three-day access, it’s designed for relaxed, memorable celebrations. As one bride shared, “The Yellow Barn gave us the perfect blend of beauty and comfort — it felt like the wedding we always imagined.”
Pinstripes offers a unique blend of celebration and play. Nominators highlight its “beautiful terrace overlooking the C&O Canal,” “scratch kitchen,” and “all-inclusive approach that makes planning easy.” Couples love the ability to “bowl, play bocce, and celebrate all in one place.”
Nominators highlight the team’s “warmth, professionalism, and grace under pressure.” Couples consistently praise Melissa Cherpes, sharing that “she made our wedding day feel effortless and joyful from start to finish.”
Regularly named one of the region’s most romantic venues, L’Auberge Chez François offers an elegant country setting and celebrated cuisine. Guests describe the experience as “magical,” with “garden views and a team that treats your celebration with real care.”
A romantic blend of vineyard views and rustic charm, 8 Chains North Winery offers couples a serene setting surrounded by rolling vines. With flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, the winery is known for warm hospitality and effortless elegance. One couple shared, “Our guests were swept away by the scenery — it felt like a destination wedding without leaving Virginia.”
Specialty Services
A Celebration of Craft and Care
Each winner of the 2026 Weddy Awards will receive a digital badge to display on their website, social media, and marketing materials. This badge serves as a clear signal to engaged couples that they are working with trusted, vetted professionals recognized by both their peers and the clients they’ve served. It’s more than an award; it’s a mark of excellence that couples can rely on as they plan one of the most meaningful days of their lives.
