Heather and Manny’s Mankin Mansion Richmond wedding day had everything—summer heat, surprise thunderstorms, sweet moments, and an unforgettable party. They were married at the beautiful Mankin Mansion right here in Richmond, and if we needed a reminder that summer had officially arrived in Virginia, this day delivered it.

The heat rolled in early, and we could feel a storm brewing. But thanks to perfect timing (and some smart planning), everything worked out beautifully. Heather and Manny opted for a first look, which was a lifesaver. We were able to capture their private vows during the first look, portraits and wedding party, and family formals before the ceremony began. They were so emotional and sweet with each other—Manny’s reaction when he turned around was the kind of moment that reminds you why we love what we do.

And because it was hot, we built in intentional breaks so they could cool off between portraits. Mankin Mansion has some beautiful shaded areas, and it made navigating a summer day a little more manageable. Right before the ceremony started, the clouds rolled in, and we knew the rain was coming. Michael ran to grab umbrellas just in case, and within seconds after the ceremony ended, the skies opened up in a torrential downpour. But the timing couldn’t have been more perfect—everyone had just made it inside the tent for cocktail hour.

Downpour to Dance Floor – Mankin Mansion Summer Richmond Wedding

While cocktail hour is usually out on Mankin’s patio, the storm shifted plans indoors—and honestly, it only added to the fun. Heather and Manny hid away in a little room to themselves right after the ceremony, and the moment they closed the door, the rain came down in sheets. Guests grabbed umbrellas and made their way to the tent, and soon the music started, drinks flowed, and the party was in full swing. Heather & Manny joined the cocktail hour in the tent shortly afterwards.

One of the most fun parts of the day came during the speeches. Instead of jumping straight into toasts, each person’s introduction partnered with a little walk-up song—like a sports game! It made the moment feel celebratory, not formal. Each toast was short and heartfelt, and Manny’s brother had the whole tent in tears. Truly one of the sweetest speeches we’ve heard in a long time.

Vendor Dream Team & Unique Reception Details

Heather and Manny had such a great team of vendors. Frank from Bunn DJ Co. crushed it on the dance floor as always, Mosaic Catering served up a delicious meal, and we got to work with Tilden from Lexa Visuals for the first time—we can’t wait to see his video. Everyone involved helped the day run smoothly, even with all the weather curveballs.

And the reception itself? So fun. They skipped the traditional cake and had a donut table that spelled out their last name with fresh donuts refilled throughout the night. It was a huge hit. We also ran into some old friends, Karen & David, which always makes a wedding even more special. The whole evening had this joyful, relaxed energy that just made people want to stay and dance.

A Sweet Sendoff at Mankin Mansion

As the night wrapped up, Heather and Manny shared a private last dance under the twinkle lights on Mankin’s patio. It can be tricky to coordinate a private moment like that at the end of the night, but their DJ rolled a speaker outside, which made it easy to get all the guests out of the tent the other way. It was quiet, romantic, and the perfect closing moment to a day full of love and laughter. They ended with a sparkler exit and a getaway car from Mankin Mansion’s collection, which felt so classic and celebratory.

Heather and Manny, thank you for trusting us with your day. It was such a joy to be part of it—and even with summer storms and soaked shoes, it couldn’t have been more perfect.

Enjoy a few of our many favorites below from this Mankin Mansion Summer Richmond Wedding. Congratulations!

Want to see more of Heather & Manny? Here’s their engagement session!