As a child I was never much one for dress-up. Truth be told, I was a huge tomboy. I play-wrestled my brother (and won every time because he always 'cheated') and I got along with boys a whole lot better than most other girls. I had close girlfriends, too, but pretending to be a princess was never high on my imagination list. Instead, my older brother and I would pretend to be in combat, play video games together, and (in between fights) sit in a chair on Saturday mornings and watch cartoons with each other.
So it was a surprise when I had so much fun getting dressed up for a Cinco de Mayo styled shoot last year. Getting my hair and makeup done is not normal, but I loved it...and the pictures I had from that day were beautiful. When Kelsey, the venue manager at the brand new Historic Post Office wedding venue in downtown Hampton was looking for models for a styled shoot, I quickly volunteered Nathan and I for the task. Plus, a chance to tour a gorgeous architecture-inspired Hampton Roads wedding space is never a bad thing!
With my hair (a low chignon, which I've always wanted) and makeup perfected, I met my husband of almost 6 years in his suit and tie and we pretended like it was our wedding day all over again. He looked so handsome, I felt like a princess, and the whole day was a dream. As we held hands, held each other, and laughed during our time together it began to feel like a vow renewal and styled shoot in one. Maybe we didn't say our vows out loud (one day we will again, I'm sure!) but being in a wedding dress with my groom by my side is all I could hope for on a gorgeous Tuesday evening. Many thanks to all the amazing vendors (including my best friend...it was a dream to be in front of your lens!) who made me feel beautiful and in love all over again as the sun set in downtown Hampton.
Photography: Chelsea Anderson Photography | Venue: Historic Post Office in Downtown Hampton | Planning: Kelsey Ann Events | Dress: Ava Clara Bridal | Florals: Heart's Content Events & Design | Hair: Hair by Stephanie B | Makeup: Hailey with Dhalia Edwards
And we ended on their gorgeous rooftop space because...why not? Gah I can't wait to photograph weddings here next year! I am in love with downtown Hampton!
