The Epitome of Elegance: 5 Virginia & D.C. Locations for "Old Money" Engagement Photos
- Caitlin Loftus
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
If you are new here, welcome to the Anthemion Aesthetics blog and to our signature series, The Dish! Whether you are searching for a delectable new dish to try or you are a dish yourself seeking the latest scoop, we are here to dish out all the details on ways to elevate your everyday. This week, we are looking at five stunning locations to capture engagement photos that are the absolute epitome of elegance.
First off, I owe you a massive apology for the radio silence over the last year. If you're new here... please just disregard that and assume I post with flawless regularity! In reality, my ADHD brain completely short-circuited trying to juggle getting engaged, buying our first house, and planning a wedding all at once.
For those of you I haven't met yet—hi! I'm a stay-at-home somm and cat mom to Remy and Rocco. I am on a mission to trick our suburban colonial into thinking it’s an English country manor—don't tell the house. As someone with ADHD who is a serial hobbyist, I really just needed a creative outlet to share life’s beautiful moments and all the mistakes made along the way.
It has been an absolute whirlwind, but the dust has finally settled. I am so incredibly happy to be back in this space and cannot wait to share everything we have been working on.
Before we dive in, let me start with a quick confession. I am unapologetically, hopelessly addicted to period pieces. If Julian Fellowes wrote it, produced it, or even just looked in its general direction, I have watched it. And do not even get me started on Pride and Prejudice or Bridgerton.
Naturally, this love for classic romance heavily influenced my own wedding planning. I’m still firmly in my 'bride era' after seeing our engagement photos, I’m truly obsessed with how they turned out. Our incredible photographer, Casey Ripp, flawlessly captured the moody, timeless aesthetic I was dreaming of. Going through that process served as a wonderful reminder that when you want an engagement session that feels less like a trendy photoshoot and more like a spread in Vogue or a still from a classic film, the setting is absolutely everything.
There is an undeniable allure to the "old money" aesthetic. It offers a quiet luxury characterized by historic architecture, refined style, and an effortless sense of grandeur. If you are newly engaged and searching for the perfect place to take pictures or even host your wedding, securing the right environment sets the entire tone. Sadly, we lack the sprawling, 500-year-old ancestral seats of Europe. (Pesky things like "the Revolutionary War" and "not having a monarchy" really put a damper on our castle inventory.)
However, you can still find places that perfectly capture that aristocratic essence right here, without needing to cross the Atlantic, you just have to know where to look. While I can’t promise a brooding Mr. Darcy will emerge dripping wet from a nearby lake during your session, I can promise these five D.C. and Virginia locations will make you look like you casually inherited a shipping empire.
Whether you are stepping in front of the camera for an editorial engagement session or hosting a full luxury wedding weekend, these five historic venues provide an unparalleled, aristocratic backdrop for your love story.
1. Virginia House (Richmond, Virginia)
Steeped in history and dripping with romantic charm, the Virginia House is a spectacular Tudor manor that was quite literally dismantled in England, shipped across the Atlantic, and reassembled on a hillside overlooking the James River. The stone facade, leaded glass windows, and lush, terraced gardens provide a moody, historic atmosphere straight out of a classic novel. It is the perfect location for couples who desire English countryside romance without the international flight.
2. Dover Hall (Goochland, Virginia)
If your vision leans toward an opulent English country estate, Dover Hall is an extraordinary match. Located just outside of Richmond, this sprawling 38,000-square-foot Tudor-style manor is majestic in every sense. From the striking wood-paneled library and two-story ballroom to the cobblestone courtyards, every inch of Dover Hall radiates regal sophistication. Photos taken here feel akin to a royal portrait session at a private European
château.
3. The Estate at River Run (Maidens, Virginia)
Perched high on a bluff overlooking the James River, The Estate at River Run is a gorgeous example of Georgian Revival architecture. For those who appreciate grand sweeping columns, wrought-iron gates, and spectacular river views, this estate is unmatched. The interior boasts stunning checkerboard marble floors and crystal chandeliers, embodying Southern elegance and classic high-society charm. It serves as a flawless backdrop for an upscale, editorial engagement shoot.
4. National Portrait Gallery (Washington, D.C.)
For the couple that desires a more cultured, architectural take on the old-money aesthetic, the National Portrait Gallery in D.C. is an iconic choice. Housed in the historic Old Patent Office Building, it features beautiful Greek Revival architecture. The soaring vaulted ceilings, dramatic staircases, and the stunning light-drenched Kogod Courtyard offer a sleek, sophisticated environment. It is ideal for couples who want a chic, elegant vibe that highlights art and incredible architectural lines.
5. The Larz Anderson House (Washington, D.C.)
Tucked away in the prestigious DuPont Circle neighborhood, the Larz Anderson House is a breathtaking example of Gilded Age splendor. Built in 1905 to host high-society diplomatic gatherings, it offers unparalleled luxury. I hold this location especially close to my heart because it is where John and I did our engagement shoot. Every room we walked into, our jaws hit the floor and we just stood in awe.
For $800, you can rent the house for an hour and have the entire place completely to yourself with just you and your photographer. I have absolutely no regrets about our decision. Sweeping marble staircases, intricate tapestries, gilded moldings, and a magnificent walled garden make it an exquisite backdrop. Even if you are not taking photos, I strongly recommend just visiting the house during their regular museum hours if you are ever in the D.C. area.
All of the breathtaking imagery featured throughout this post was captured by the incredibly talented Casey Ripp, and you can explore more of her beautiful work on Instagram or inquire about booking your own timeless session directly through her website.
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