Pernell & Maggie // Downtown Hampton Wedding Photographer

When I walk away from weddings, I honestly feel a little sad. Yes, I just spent a beautiful day with two people who love each other (and my husband/second shooter by my side). Yes, I just captured portraits that will be printed and hung on walls or put on mantels for years to come. And yes, I just jumped in on the Wobble during dancing. But it feels strange to leave two people who have become so dear to me, even though I know I'll be in touch with them long after their wedding day.

I remember feeling this way exactly when Nathan and I left Pernell and Maggie's wedding. The day couldn't have been more perfect. The bridal party was a blast, the families were a pleasure to photograph and work with, and of course, Pernell and Maggie are so obviously meant to be together. So I'm not surprised that walking away was a little bittersweet.

From the moment I stepped in, all through her time getting ready with her ladies, to the end when Maggie danced the night away, she was a relaxed bride from start to finish. Her face lit up when the minister pronounced her and Pernell husband and wife at last and although she would only get a short break until she was back in the classroom on Monday, her excitement at spending her future with the man beside her was infectious.

Pernell and Maggie, thank you for letting me not just into your day, but into your lives. You both have a special connection with each other and the people around you. Keep laughing, keep dancing, and keep holding each other close as you walk into the next phase of your journey together.

Click here to see their Windsor Castle Park engagement session.

Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Wedding shoes
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Wedding shoes & bridal bouquet
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bridal details
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bridesmaids getting ready
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bridesmaids getting ready
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bride getting ready
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bride getting ready

Maggie chose to get married in the same church her parents did over 40 years ago.

Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Wedding ceremony
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Wedding ceremony
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bridesmaids in navy dresses
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bridesmaids in navy dresses
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bridesmaids shoes
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bride
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Groom getting ready
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Groomsmen
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Groomsmen
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bridal party
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bridal party
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bridal party

We'll just start with one of my favorites, because this girl is simply gorgeous.

Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bridal portrait
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bride & groom portraits
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bride & groom portraits
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bride & groom portraits
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bride & groom portraits
Poquoson-Virginia-Wedding
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Bride & groom portraits
Tabernacle UMC Wedding in Poquoson, Virginia | Wedding ring shot
Crowne Plaza Hotel in Downtown Hampton | Bride & groom portraits
Crowne Plaza Hotel in Downtown Hampton | Bride & groom portraits
Crowne Plaza Hotel in Downtown Hampton | Bride & groom portraits

After a wonderful time of portraits with the newlyweds, the reception started!

Crowne Plaza Hotel in Downtown Hampton | Wedding reception with coral and white flowers
Crowne Plaza Hotel in Downtown Hampton | Wedding reception
Crowne Plaza Hotel in Downtown Hampton | Wedding reception

Of course they had to play the shoe game...I'd say they did pretty well ;)

Crowne Plaza Hotel in Downtown Hampton | Wedding reception shoe game
Crowne Plaza Hotel in Downtown Hampton | Wedding reception

After the cake cutting and other formalities, the DJ got the guests on their feet to DANCE!

Crowne Plaza Hotel in Downtown Hampton | Wedding reception
Crowne Plaza Hotel in Downtown Hampton | Wedding reception
Crowne Plaza Hotel in Downtown Hampton | Wedding reception

Congratulations, Maggie and Pernell!

Crowne Plaza Hotel in Downtown Hampton | Bride & groom portraits

Maria Grace Photography

My name is Maria, and I am a wedding and family photographer based out of Hampton Roads, Virginia, but I am always excited about traveling. I love families who truly enjoy spending time with each other and living life together. I love couples that are looking forward to their wedding day because they are so excited to finally be married to.