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As Wedding Photographers in the Hampton Roads area, we are always looking for ways to inform our Brides of different venues and vendors that we have had experience with and that we love. This is why every now and then we will be doing a Venue/Vendor Spotlight feature on our favorite Venues and Vendors.
Today I want to focus on what Particular Venue. The Smithfield Center. The Smithfield Center is located in Smithfield near Windsor Castle. The quaint little town makes a great backdrop for wedding pictures.
Before every wedding I try and do as much research as I can on the venue as I can. The lighting, the colors, and the over all feel. This way when I go in I have little surprises hopefully. Well unfortunately the Smithfield Centers website does this place no justice. I was a little worried going into it because from the little pictures the website offered, the place looked like it had no life.
Pleasantly I was surprised when we arrived. When you first walk in you enter a very nice hall that immediately opens into the Reception area. Once inside There are huge windows that bring in this beautiful soft light. This is great for pictures! They were smart when they built the room as the colors on the wall are neutral with beautiful white molding and pretty chandeliers. There is no ugly carpet just a pretty hardwood floor that would compliment any decor. I loved how open and spacious the area was.
I think the best part of the this place though is their deck. The two big windows are actually Glass doors where you can step out onto the deck and seat more people, set up games, cocktails, or as our wedding party did, just use it as another place to gather and hang out. The men especially loved it as they went out on the deck to smoke their cigars.
The backdrop is actually gorgeous especially at sunset. There are some pretty office buildings in the back and the Pagan River.
One of the buildings had this pretty clock tower that I made sure to incorporate in some of the final pictures of the bride and groom before the sun set.
So if you are a bride in the local area and are thinking about getting married near Windsor Castle be sure to Check out the Smithfield Center.
Don’t judge by their website go and visit. Their staff is lovely and accommodating and I think they are an excellent choice!
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We are particularly fond of this special couple! This was a wonderful day and beautiful venue….as well as beautiful photography! We enjoyed being at the Smithfield Center!
As the parents of the bride in the beautiful photos above, we can definitely second Ashley and Luke’s recommendation of the Smithfield Center for a wedding reception or other event that needs a spacious, visually pleasing setting. Courtney and the staff at the Center will do everything humanly possible to ensure that everything is perfect for your day. Don’t hesitate to check out the Smithfield Center…you’ll be glad you did! And Ashley and Luke: We LOVE LOVE LOVE the photography!!! (and the subjects!) 🙂
Thank-You Karen! Yes I think the Smithfield Center was an excellent choice for James and Sarah!