The Historic Post Office Wedding | Virginia Beach Wedding Photographer

Historic Post Office Wedding Venue in Hampton VA

Izabella and Khaiyom's Historic Post Office wedding in Hampton with two Richmond Ballet dancers was classic, romantic, and so much fun. The love story of Izabella and Khaiyom weaves together fate, culture, and a shared passion for the arts.

It's not every day that two hearts find each other across oceans and languages, but that's the story of Izabella and Khaiyom. These two met at a ballet school in Russia.

Izabella reached out to the school for help when there was a water leak in her apartment, and Khaiyom quickly volunteered to go help her! The two immediately formed a connection even though they didn’t speak the same primary language (I guess you could say they shared the language of love!)

ALSO CHECK OUT: Khaiyom and Izabella's Richmond Engagement Photos at VMFA

Their wedding day was a testament to their shared talents and connections. They crafted their big day as a work of art. Izabella and her dancer bridesmaids flawlessly did their own hair and makeup – a skill honed from their years on the stage.

As a twist, one of Izabella's bridesmaids had also ‘blossomed’ as a professional florist. Together, Lauren from Monarch Flower Farm, alongside the other bridesmaids, worked to create their own stunning bouquets. That morning, wearing their matching PJs, they also created the beautiful floral arch, which framed the moment the couple said "I do" and served as the perfect backdrop for their head table during the reception.

They celebrated the couple’s heritage and American culture in their love story. Khaiyom and his groomsmen wore hats as a nod to his birth country of Tajikistan.

The bride's mother carried bread she had baked down the aisle, a symbol of livelihood and warmth. The couple shared a taste of the bread, sealing their bond, and it was then covered in ceremonial cloth, ready to play a part in their journey.

A memorable moment was the Ukrainian tradition of the cloth ceremony. A beribboned floral wreath adorned Izabella's head, and an embroidered cloth lay on the ground. The couple walked to the cloth, where a tradition dictated that whoever stepped on it first would have the final say in household disagreements. Khaiyom helped Izabella take the first step, a gesture signifying their mutual love and respect.

Khaiyom used his knowledge of set design to create the large wooden escort display. Izabella prepared the guest envelopes with elegant lettering, sealed them with wax, and meticulously arranged them on the display. Izabella also made the guest favors herself.

As the sun set, the wedding party embraced their talents again. The wedding party made their entrance dancing with the sort of flair only skilled dancers possess. This was definitely the coolest wedding party entrance I’ve ever seen!

The groomsmen kicked off the celebrations, entering with a synchronized dance. The bridesmaids then wowed the guests when they all appeared, and eventually, the two groups came together for a spectacular dance. (Seriously, what a treat we all had getting a private performance from this talented group!!)

One of the day's most heartwarming moments came during the parent dances. Breaking from tradition, Izabella danced with Khaiyom's father, while Khaiyom shared a dance with Izabella's mother, encompassing a symbol of the unity of families.

Izabella and Khaiyom, what else can I even say about your amazing wedding day? I am obsessed with you two and absolutely had a blast photographing you, your family, and friends. I wish you both every success in life and in your marriage, and I send all my best for an eternity of happiness together!

Here are a few of my favorite images from Izabella & Khaiyom's unforgettable wedding day at the Historic Post Office.