There are countless ways couples celebrate their wedding journey, from engagement sessions to bridal showers and rehearsal dinners. Yet, some traditions carry a little more mystery, heritage, and fun. One such Southern custom is the bourbon burying ceremony, a playful superstition meant to ward off rain on the wedding day. On a quiet February morning, exactly one month before their March wedding, I had the joy of photographing a couple’s bourbon burying ceremony at Blue Valley Vineyard in Delaplane, VA.
The vineyard’s sweeping mountain views and rows of vines created a beautiful backdrop, even in the stillness of winter. This gathering felt both intimate and timeless, blending sentiment with laughter as the bottle was placed into the earth.
What is the Bourbon Burying Wedding Tradition?
The bourbon burying tradition is a beloved ritual in the South, and it’s one couples often embrace for both superstition and fun. The idea is simple: one month before the wedding, the couple buries a full bottle of bourbon, placed upside down, in hopes of ensuring clear skies on their wedding day. While some may take it to heart, others see it as a lighthearted way to honor heritage, invite good luck, and mark the countdown to marriage with something memorable.
A Blue Valley Vineyard Bourbon Burying Ceremony
Blue Valley Vineyard is known for its panoramic mountain views and lush vines, making it a sought-after location for weddings in Northern Virginia. Even in February, when the vines rest and the air holds a crisp chill, the setting is undeniably romantic.
During this bourbon burying, the couple laughed together as they carefully chose a spot for their bottle, enjoying the process as much as the anticipation of digging it up a month later. Afterward, we spent time wandering the vineyard grounds for portraits. The dramatic Blue Ridge backdrop paired with the rows of vines offered the perfect mix of editorial and sentimental images, an authentic reflection of this milestone in their story.
Why Include a Bourbon Burying in Your Wedding Journey
A bourbon burying is more than a superstition, it’s an experience that enriches the wedding season in several ways:
- Sentimental: It builds anticipation and creates a memory you’ll carry into the wedding day.
- Playful: The process naturally invites laughter and a little joy in the midst of planning.
- Photogenic: With a vineyard or estate setting, it becomes a meaningful portrait opportunity.
- Unique: It adds a touch of heritage and tradition that feels personal and unforgettable.
Blue Valley Vineyard in Delaplane, VA
Nestled in the heart of Northern Virginia wine country, Blue Valley Vineyard offers more than just a wedding venue. Its expansive mountain vistas and vineyard rows make it a breathtaking setting for any pre-wedding celebration, whether an engagement session or a bourbon burying tradition like this one. The landscape offers a blend of elegance and authenticity, allowing couples to create timeless images in every season.
FAQs About Bourbon Burying Ceremonies
How far in advance should you bury bourbon?
Tradition says exactly one month before the wedding day.
Do you have to unearth the bottle on the wedding day?
Traditionally yes, though couples can adapt the custom however they wish. Some enjoy sharing a pour with their wedding party after the ceremony, while others save the bottle as a keepsake.
Can you do a bourbon burying at any venue?
Many venues are happy to accommodate the tradition, but it’s always best to ask in advance to confirm.
Ready to book a Virginia Wedding Photographer?
From bourbon burying traditions to engagement portraits and wedding day celebrations, every part of your journey deserves to be remembered with intention. If you’re dreaming of your own vineyard session in Northern Virginia, inquire with a Virginia wedding photographer today to begin planning your unforgettable experience.
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