From start to finish, it was obvious that Alex and Ellen are much beloved by their friends and family. I lost count of how many people (besides the amazing vendors) helped make their day memorable – from a last-minute reception venue change to all the hard work her mom poured into each detail, these two are certainly blessed by the people who will surround them for the rest of their lives. A relationship that started at Longwood University has blossomed into a love that will forever be remembered on a beautiful wedding day in Poquoson.
Ellen chose to not just have one but TWO first looks – first with her dad, a tear-jerker if I ever saw one, and then with her groom, a touching tribute to the two most important men in her life. As she gripped her dad’s arm and walked down the aisle to say yes to the one she has built a new life with, everyone knew that the life she already had would not be soon forgotten.
The reception brought so much fun and a whole lot of nautical wedding details – complete with anchors, a bench to be signed instead of a guestbook, and even a raw oyster bar to keep guests happy before the food was served. After a day full of emotions the dancing took off into the night, and Alex and Ellen exited with sparklers and the memory of a wedding day that ranged from excitement to tears to laughter at each special moment.
Alex and Ellen – I loved your beautiful day, and I loved watching your relationship take the next big step. Keep firm on the solid foundation of God, your family, and the love you celebrated just a few days ago. Have so much fun in the Bahamas!
Click here to see Alex and Ellen's sun-soaked engagement session.
Click here to see Ellen's downtown Yorktown bridal portraits.
Planning + Florals: Mann + Wife | Ceremony: Emmaus Baptist Church | Reception: Private Home in Poquoson | Bride’s Dress: Celebration Bridal | Menswear: Joseph Abboud Formal | Hair: Tamra Bouska | Makeup: Color Works by Lauren | Catering: Southern Brides on a Budget + Oysters Rock | DJ: A-List Events | Cake: The Grey Goose
Alex and Ellen sent each other gifts and letters that morning...pearl earrings, a watch, and sweet words started the day out right!
Meanwhile, the men got ready as the ceremony inched closer together...I'm so thankful to have a husband and second shooter who can capture these moments while I spend time with the ladies!
Can we just talk about the back of her dress...and the FRONT of her dress?!
One of the sweetest moments of the day was when Ellen and her dad had their own first look...oh just look at those tears!
After their first look it was time for her groom to see her for the first time...
The bridesmaids and groomsmen waited inside and burst out as soon as we were ready for them...it was such a fun group!
You know you're a Poquoson bride when you have to wear boots at portrait time!
After all the portraits we headed to the church where Ellen spent a few cherished minutes with her family and best friends before she said I do...the portrait on the right are some of her family members from years and years ago. Ellen wore the same bracelet as the woman pictured at her wedding, an heirloom that has been passed through generations.
After the ceremony they drove off in a navy blue vintage 1934 Pontiac. Love it!
Their reception was everything nautical and navy blue and adorable.
I love that Ellen got a print of her bridal portraits to display at the reception!
Since all the groomsmen, along with Alex, were on Longwood University's baseball team, bats had to make an appearance at the reception!
The water, the light, the couple...everything was gorgeous at sunset!
There were tears at their first look, and the father/daughter dance was no different...
After a nightof dancing, Alex and Ellen exited with sparklers and style!
