A Mountain Wedding at The Seclusion: Blake & Aaliyah in Lexington, VA

Blake and Aaliyah Bowen’s wedding at The Seclusion in Lexington, Virginia, was a stunning mix of mountain serenity and timeless celebration. Surrounded by rolling hills, open skies, and rustic-luxury architecture, their day reflected everything The Seclusion is known for—intimacy, beauty, and cinematic backdrops at every turn.

A Venue with Breathtaking Views

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Seclusion offered a setting that felt both peaceful and grand. The property features multiple buildings designed to flow seamlessly together—bridal suites above the main venue, a separate groom’s lodge across the way, and wide-open ceremony and reception spaces framed by panoramic mountain views. From morning prep to golden-hour portraits, every angle felt designed for storytelling on film.

A Couple Defined by Ease and Grace

Blake and Aaliyah’s personalities brought a calm, easygoing energy to the day. Despite some timeline setbacks, the couple’s relaxed attitude kept everything grounded. Once Aaliyah began her walk down the aisle, the mood shifted into complete focus—the moment everything came together. The groom’s emotional reaction as she approached remains one of the standout memories from the film.

Capturing the Mountain Light

The film’s tone leaned into the natural beauty of the mountains. The soft lighting and open-air scenery gave the visuals a sense of peace and depth, allowing the film to breathe with every scene. Among the standout moments were a sunlit shot of the couple walking hand in hand with the sunlight streaming through the trees, and the ceremony recessional framed by the mountains—two scenes that perfectly embodied The Seclusion’s cinematic potential.

Overcoming the Day’s Challenges

Every wedding has its hurdles, and this one came down to timing. The day ran behind schedule due to delays early in the prep process, but flexibility and teamwork ensured nothing was missed. With a strong vendor team and an adaptable mindset, the day unfolded beautifully once the ceremony began.

A Heartfelt Reaction

The couple’s love for their final film was clear. Their feedback was filled with gratitude, and it sparked a continuing connection—Jade Films was later booked to film the groom’s brother’s wedding in Louisiana through family friends. It’s a testament to how meaningful storytelling and attention to detail build lasting relationships beyond the wedding day itself.

What Made This Wedding Unique

While the Bowens’ wedding followed a traditional format, the mountain scenery and natural light made it stand apart from others. The Seclusion’s location—private, scenic, and intentionally designed—added layers of depth and atmosphere that can’t be replicated in more urban or indoor venues.

Advice for Future Couples Planning a Mountain Wedding

• Build in time for the unexpected. Timeline flexibility is key when working with travel, mountain terrain, and weather.
• Let the scenery shine. Choose colors and décor that complement the natural surroundings rather than compete with them.
• Trust your team. When timelines shift, experienced vendors will ensure every key moment is still beautifully captured.

If you’re dreaming of a mountain wedding with cinematic views and authentic emotion, Jade Films captures love stories that honor both the couple and the setting.

Photos: Benjamin McLean Photography