A fall wedding at the gaines Estate in Fayetteville, WV
This fall, I had the honor of photographing Kate and Bo’s unforgettable wedding at The Gaines Estate, one of Fayetteville, WV’s wedding venues. Listen, when I say the vibes were immaculate, I mean it. Think killer dance moves, nonstop laughter, and the kind of love that radiates out and pulls everyone into its orbit.
If you’re considering The Gaines Estate for your wedding, let me tell you right now: it’s a yes from me.
What Makes The Gaines Estate So Special?
The Gaines Estate is basically Fayetteville’s crown jewel when it comes to wedding venues. It’s historic, it’s classy, and yet it somehow still feels like home. With its gorgeous indoor spaces and sprawling outdoor lawns, it’s the perfect backdrop whether you’re going for “elegant soirée” or “let’s boogie until the DJ tells us to leave.” (Spoiler: Kate and Bo went for both, and they nailed it.) Want to know what I really love about the Gaines Estate? It’s not a MF barn.
Highlights from Kate & Bo’s Wedding
Okay, real talk: this wedding was one for the books. From the second I arrived, I could feel the love these two share—not just for each other but from everyone who showed up to celebrate. Their ceremony in the estate’s sprawling field was heartfelt and beautiful, but the reception? That’s where the magic happened.
My favorite moments
Right time, right place.
Immediately following the ceremony, everyone did a parade walk to cocktail hour. Knees to chest, I ran around to track Kate down and capture the sweetest embrace with her bestie.
Kate looked like a literal goddess in her wedding dress, but also love that she paired something so elegant with Vans. My kinda girl. Bo wasn’t too shabby either—10/10 on that classic suit, sir.
The speeches. The folks that Bo and Kate have in their corner absolutely adore them. I felt like I had known most of these folks my whole life, they were that warm and full of life. The speeches closed with a bridesmaid bringing out posters of their dogs. K+B were stoked to see their fur babies (sort of) at their wedding, so when they got the posters in hand, I told them to start howling like dogs and they did. lmfao.
Kate’s dance floor dress change. A green mini dress? Yes please.
Why The Gaines Estate Is My Jam
Good light
Classic and modern
Space for activities
Timeless
Not a barn
As a West Virginia wedding photographer, I’ve been to my fair share of venues, and The Gaines Estate is always a favorite. It’s got that perfect mix of charm and versatility, whether you’re into quiet, intimate moments or all-out celebrations. Plus, it’s not a barn and in West Virginia that’s a rarity. Also, the owners are kind and fab and their day-of coordinator Ally is a gem.
Planning Your Wedding at The Gaines Estate?
If you’re dreaming of a wedding at The Gaines Estate in Fayetteville, WV, let’s connect! I’d love to capture your day and create a gallery as beautiful and joyful as Kate and Bo’s. If you're priorities are making memories at your wedding and want a documentary style photographer to ride a long with you to capture all the real moments, get in touch.