Picturesque Wedding at Cloverdale Barn

Kendra and Tyler’s October wedding at Cloverdale Barn in Winchester, Virginia, is proof of two things.

First, an engagement session is a must! This couple got some pre-wedding photo practice during their session (which you can view here), and it made such a difference. By the time their wedding day arrived, everyone felt relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera, and we already knew how they liked their photos taken.

Second, the work you put into planning your wedding photos really pays off! This was one of the smoothest-flowing weddings we’ve ever had. Everyone knew what was expected, Kendra and Tyler communicated their priorities clearly, and I had everything I needed to capture their day confidently. The best moment? When they said, “You’re the photographer—you know what’s best.” I LOVE that kind of trust!

Cloverdale Barn is such a sweet venue. It’s perfect for couples who love a rustic feel, but those weeping willows add an incredible touch of elegance. I can see so many different ways couples could make this space their own!

Kendra and Tyler had a clear vision for their photos. Family portraits and couple shots were their top priority, and they wanted the day to feel natural and unforced. We skipped getting-ready photos and structured their six-hour timeline to feel relaxed while still capturing all the must-have bridal party and family photos—and left plenty of time for enjoying the day.

One of our favorite aspects of their wedding was the “sunset” color scheme. The florals featured peaches, pinks, and oranges that blended beautifully with the reception decor, and the gentlemen wore navy blue suits, which are always a favorite look. There were so many special touches throughout the day—from the memorial table and custom wine bottles to a worship-filled ceremony, to-go-box treats for guests, a bridal party made up of close family, and even pizza for dinner!

We loved photographing this day and will look back on it so fondly. Sometimes, at jam-packed weddings, it’s easy to miss the small, meaningful moments—but this wedding allowed us to slow down and capture them. From the ring bearer sitting at the picnic table before the ceremony, to the sky at the exact moment Kendra and Tyler exchanged rings, to the reception viewed from outside the barn, these little details made the day truly special.

Kendra and Tyler, thank you for letting us be a part of your day! We’re obsessed with your photos and hope you are too.

Here are a few (ok, a lot) of our favorites from their 600+ photo gallery.

Vendors

Venue: Cloverdale Barn — cloverdalebarn.com 

Photographer: Rachel Dodson Photography — (That’s us!)

Florals: Danielle Leonhardt

Hair & Makeup: Staci Witsman Beauty

DJ: One & Done Events — oneanddone.events 

Dress: True Bride VA — truebrideva.com

Suits: The Black Tux — theblacktux.com

Catering: Claudio’s Pizzeria — claudios-pizzeria.com

Servers/Bartender: Classie Sassie Mixerz

Coordinator: Joy Orr (from The Refinery)

If you’re planning a wedding in the Shenandoah Valley and looking for timeless, genuine, and intentional photography to match your special day — we’d love to connect. At Rachel Dodson Photography, we specialize in classy, refined weddings with a timeless feel, crisp whites, natural colors that pop, and a relaxed but intentional photo experience. Reach out to me (Rachel) today so we can chat about your vision and craft a photo plan that supports it. Let’s make your wedding day as calm, beautiful, and unforgettable as you hope it will be.