Photo by Carol Barker Wyatt

For couples seeking a breathtaking backdrop, Lake Anna offers a colorful setting for any wedding – from saying “I do” to bachelorette parties or waterfront dining with the wedding party. There’s nothing quite like a Lake Anna sunset boat tour, a unique photo session by the shore, or a private ceremony overlooking the peaceful waters… Lake Anna offers it all.

Read the full Lake Anna Wedding Magazine here.

Photos by Sarah Houston McGuckin

7 Stunning Waterfront Wedding Ideas to Say “I Do” With a View

Water has long been a symbol of life, purity, and endless possibilities, making it a perfect theme for a wedding at Lake Anna. Whether you envision a chic, minimalist wedding with cool blue tones or a rustic, nature-inspired celebration, water can serve as the central motif that ties everything together.

1. Choosing a Water Wedding Theme Perfect for Lake Anna

Lagoon Love: Think of lush greenery, soft blues, and serene water elements. Decorate with floating candles, lanterns, and soft fabrics that mimic the gentle waves.

Luau: Embrace tropical vibes with bright flowers, tiki torches, and a festive atmosphere. Perfect for couples who want a lively and colorful celebration.

Sailors and Mermaids: A playful theme featuring nautical stripes, anchors, and seashells. Ideal for couples who love the sea and want a whimsical touch.

Camping by the Lake: Rustic charm with tents, bonfires, and cozy blankets. Personalize the experience with a theme like “Camp Jennifer + David” and add elements like s’mores stations and lantern-lit pathways.

2. Make it Wet: Incorporate Water Into Your Day

Add a splash of fun to your wedding by incorporating water elements. Whether it’s a symbolic gesture or a playful activity, there are many ways to bring water into your celebration.

Signature Drinks: Serve a custom drink menu with water-themed names, like the “Blue Lagoon.”

Water Balloon Surprise: For a fun twist, swap the traditional cake smash for a playful water balloon toss.

Dockside Plunge: End your ceremony with a daring jump off the dock, symbolizing your leap into married life.

Beachside Bonfire: For an evening reception, gather around a lakeside bonfire and enjoy the calming sounds of the water.

3. Boats, Canoes and Paddleboards

Incorporate the lake into your wedding festivities by planning water-based activities for your guests. Whether you’re hosting a pre-wedding adventure or adding a fun element to your reception, Lake Anna’s waters are perfect for making memories.

Sunset Boat Tour: Treat your guests to a scenic tour of Lake Anna at sunset, complete with refreshments and music.

Bachelorette Party on the Water: Rent a boat or paddleboards and spend a day on the lake with your bridal party.

Canoe Adventure: Arrange for guests to paddle around the lake, taking in the serene beauty and perhaps stopping for a picnic on a secluded shore.

4. Frame Worthy Photo Ops

Lake Anna offers endless opportunities for breathtaking wedding photos. Use the natural scenery to create unforgettable images that capture the essence of your big day.

Pleasant’s Landing: A stunning location with expansive views of the lake, perfect for both posed and candid shots.

Jumping in the Lake: For adventurous couples, capture the fun with a post-ceremony jump into the water, clothes, and all!

Canoe Photos: Paddle out into the lake for a romantic, secluded photo session that showcases the tranquility of the setting.

Sunset Photos: The golden hour at Lake Anna provides a magical backdrop, with the soft light reflecting off the water and creating a dreamy, romantic atmosphere.

5. Water Themed Desserts

Bring the water theme into your dessert table with creative, water-inspired treats.

“Under the Lake” Cake: A multi-tiered cake decorated with water-inspired elements like seashells, sand, and waves.

Sea Glass Candy: Edible “sea glass” made from sugar adds a beautiful and unique touch to your dessert offerings.

Mermaid Macarons: Delicate macarons in shades of blue and green, with shimmering dust to mimic the look of scales.

Blueberry Tarts: Mini tarts filled with fresh blueberries and topped with whipped cream, echoing the colors of the lake.

6. Incorporate Fall Colors

Fall at Lake Anna offers its own unique beauty, which can enhance your wedding’s theme and ambiance.

Fall Foliage: Incorporate the rich reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn leaves into your décor. Use them in your bouquet, table settings, and even as natural confetti for your exit.

Monochromatic Colors: Using different shades and hues of the same color can offer a gorgeous (and simplified!) way to decorate for your wedding. Blues, Greens or Pinks are great monochromatic color choices matched with shades of white and black or gray.

7. The Perfect Forever Last Touch

End your wedding on a high note with a memorable send-off that leaves a lasting impression on your guests.

Sparkler Exit: Line your guests along the water’s edge and light sparklers as you make your grand exit.

Boat Departure: Sail away from your ceremony on a decorated boat, waving goodbye to your guests.

Dove Release: Symbolize peace and love with a dove release as you say your vows or make your exit.

Fireworks Display: End the night with a spectacular fireworks show over the lake, lighting up the sky in celebration of your love.