If you've followed me for any length of time, you know that elopements have a special place in my heart. Weddings are beautiful and I will photograph them as long as I am able, but intimate ceremonies that capture the love between a bride and her groom with no other frills and additions are memorable in their own way. Sam and Lacey knew from the beginning that they wanted a simple, sweet way to begin their lives together, so they chose the Virginia Beach Courthouse as the location for their elopement, set a date, and booked me as their photographer to capture the memories forever.

It was near sunrise that we met in front of the courthouse before they signed paperwork. Both were excited and had all the nerves that a wedding day could bring without any of the added stress. Lacey had a small bouquet in her hands and an adorable invitation to a private dinner that evening to celebrate their new union with family and close friends. As the two relaxed in front of the camera, their personalities came out - his quiet but goofy, and hers reserved but easily amused by her groom...