Documentary Wedding Photographer in VA | Charming & Historic Wedding at Birkby House

Written By Sheridan Thews
The bride and groom sit on the steps of Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Photograph was taken with a Holga 120CFN. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold

If you’re recently engaged and beginning to plan your wedding, one of the first big decisions is choosing the perfect venue—and Birkby House in Leesburg, VA, is one of the most charming options in Northern Virginia. As a documentary-style wedding photographer based in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area, I’ve had the joy of capturing weddings here, and it’s the kind of place that blends historic elegance with warm, romantic charm.

View my other blog posts to get inspired by more weddings. 

Limited Availability | Request Photographer Information
The bride and groom walk through a sparkler exit at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. The groom is wearing a black suit. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold

Why Couples Love Birkby House

Nestled in the heart of downtown Leesburg, Birkby House offers a unique balance of history and intimacy. The 18th-century home features beautifully manicured gardens, cozy courtyards, and timeless architecture that provide countless backdrops for stunning photographs. Whether you’re dreaming of an outdoor garden ceremony or an intimate reception under the stars, Birkby House sets the stage for a celebration full of character.

One of the best parts of a wedding at Birkby House is the versatility—it feels private and romantic, yet it’s located just steps away from the charm of downtown Leesburg. Couples and guests can truly enjoy a full experience: from cocktails on the patio to wandering the historic streets for portraits.

The bride and groom walk through the back patio at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. The groom is wearing a black suit. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride smiles at the groom inside Birkby House. The couple is wearing traditional Chinese outfits in red. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride smiles while getting ready at a room in Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride shows a surprised face while getting ready at a room in Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride smiles while getting ready at a room in Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The table setting in reception space at Birkby House. The centerpieces are colorful flowers inside a vase. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride and bridal party spend time on the balcony at Birkby House before the ceremony. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride and groom share a last dance in the reception space in Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. The groom is wearing a black suit. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold

The Beauty of Candid, Documentary Photography at Birkby House

Every couple wants to look back at their wedding photos and feel the day all over again. My candid, documentary approach to wedding photography allows me to capture the real emotions and natural interactions that unfold throughout your wedding day. At a venue like Birkby House, with its lush gardens and intimate gathering spaces, there’s so much beauty in the unposed moments—your family’s laughter during toasts, the quiet joy during your vows, the celebration as your guests dance under the night sky.

The timeless backdrop of Birkby House pairs beautifully with documentary photography, creating a gallery that feels authentic and elegant—like your memories were preserved on film.

The bride and groom share a dance in the reception space in Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. The groom is wearing a black suit. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
A guest smiles at the camera during cocktail hour at Birkby House. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride and groom share a last dance in the reception space in Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. The groom is wearing a black suit. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride sits on the lap of her bridesmaids on the patio at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The place setting features white plates, gold silverwear, orange pink napkins, and floral card placements. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The wedding cake sits on a simple white stand. The wedding cake is white with pink flowers. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The reception space at Birkby House features white linens, chivari chairs, orange pink napkins, and chandeliers. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The reception space at Birkby House features white linens, chivari chairs, orange pink napkins, and chandeliers. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride smiles at the groom during the outdoor ceremony at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride smiles at the flower girl along with her bridal party at Birkby House. They are standing outside on the patio. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold

Planning a Birkby House Wedding

Birkby House is an excellent choice for couples planning a Northern Virginia wedding. Its location makes it easily accessible for guests traveling from Washington, DC, Maryland, and throughout Virginia. The venue can accommodate both small, intimate gatherings and larger celebrations, and its historic charm means you won’t need much added décor to make the space shine.

If you’re recently engaged and searching for the right venue, it’s worth adding Birkby House to your list of must-visit locations in Leesburg.

The bride smiles at the flower girl along with her bridal party at Birkby House. They are standing outside on the patio. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
A bridesmaid smiles while getting ready at Birkby House. She is wearing a light pink robe. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride and groom share a kiss at the end of the ceremony at Birkby House. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The groom stares at the bride during the ceremony at Birkby House. The groom is wearing a dark suit with a pink tie. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
Guests spend cocktail hour on the back patio infront of the reception space at Birkby House. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride and groom smile during cocktail hour on back patio at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring tulle and sequins. The groom is wearing a black suit. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride hugs her brother while in a room at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Then men are wearing gray suits. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride smiles with her bridesmaids outside at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Bridesmaids are wearing light pink gowns. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride and her mother wait to walk down the aisle at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. The mother is wearing a light pink gown. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride and groom share a kiss during the reception at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. The groom is wearing a black suit. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride smiles while sitting in the grass at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride holds her bouquet while standing in a hallway at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown and veil featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold

Ready to Capture Your Wedding Story?

Your wedding day is more than a series of posed photos—it’s a story full of fleeting, once-in-a-lifetime moments. As a documentary wedding photographer in DC, Maryland, and Virginia, my goal is to capture those moments honestly and beautifully, so you can relive them for years to come.

If you’re planning your wedding at Birkby House—or anywhere in the DC, Maryland, Virginia area—I’d love to be part of your day. Let’s connect and talk about your vision for your wedding photography.

The cake cutting table setting at Birkby House. Photograph was taken with a Holga 120CFN. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride and groom dance during the reception at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Photograph was taken with a Holga 120CFN. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride and groom smile while standing on the balcony at Birkby House. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. The groom is wearing a dark suit. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The groom dances during the reception at Birkby House. The groom is wearing a dark suit. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
The bride runs around Birkby House after the sparkler exit. The bride is wearing a gown featuring lace, tulle and sequins. Photograph taken by wedding photographer in northern VA, Sheridan Mangold
Ready to Discuss Packages | Inquire Today

Plan Your Dream Wedding with me!

If you're considering a wedding in the DC, Maryland, or Virginia area, I'd love to capture the magic of your special day. My documentary-style approach ensures that every candid moment is beautifully preserved, creating a timeless record of your love story. Contact me today to discuss how we can make your wedding dreams come true.

Want to View a Full Gallery? | Inquire

Other Favorite Photos From This Wedding

Vendors List

Looking for a wedding photographer to capture your dream wedding? Inquire below. Sheridan Mangold Photography is located in DC, but has traveled to several locations around the DMV.

Let’s Discuss Your Day!

 

Looking for a documentary wedding photographer in the DC, MD, or VA area to capture your wedding? Click below. Sheridan Mangold has also traveled to many destinations throughout the US, the Caribbean, and Europe.

Sheridan Thews
Next

Documentary Wedding Photographer in DC | Romantic Coastal Wedding at Rehoboth Beach Country Club