Where do I even begin? I have known Carson and Grace both for years, before they were ever a couple. I was there to photograph their proposal when he got down on one knee at sunset at the Norfolk waterfront and she said yes. I was privileged to capture their engagement session and her stunning bridal portraits...but all this paled to the honor of being the one to capture their wedding day. Being with them was like being with old friends, and watching their love grow throughout the years has been a beautiful thing to witness.
On the morning of their wedding, Grace was reminiscing about the first few years of their relationship, which started as a friendship. But both of them knew they would be married when she was just 15 years old - and as friends turned into more than that, it became more obvious by the day that they would be together forever. Almost every single person who talked during the reception got teary-eyed talking about Carson and Grace and their integrity, faithfulness, and love. It was an amazing testament to the kind of people they are and the marriage they will have.
The wedding itself blew me away with its elegant details from start to finish, a beautiful reflection of Grace's classic style. Lush bouquets with crimson red amaranthus perfectly offset her all-over lace wedding dress with gorgeous sleeves and buttons for miles. The reception, an incredible setup from The Main Event by Emily, had timeless pitchers filled with blush roses and eucalyptus, sitting atop books that have endured through the ages. With each element coming together perfectly, it was truly a gorgeous day.
Carson and Grace - seeing you two finally become husband and wife was one of the great joys of my year. You two are an incredible couple, both by yourselves and now together. I look forward to many years of friendship and seeing how God will work in your lives as you begin this next journey together.
Planning, Design, + Florals: The Main Event by Emily | Bride's Dress: Maya Couture | Bridesmaid Dresses: David's Bridal | Hair: Barry's for Hair | Makeup: Artistry by Margaret | Menswear: Jos. A Bank | Ceremony: Historic St. Luke's | Reception: Smithfield Center | Cake: Harmony Woods Baked Goods | Catering: The Dinner Plate + From the Hearth Pizza | DJ: Music Makes You Happy
Don't be fooled by the straight face...Carson was beyond excited to see his bride.
Grace, you are just STUNNING!
See if you can recognize one of the guys in the bridal party...I happen to think the one on the far left is pretty cute ;)
And after those incredible bride and groom portraits with glowy light and so much love, we headed over to a gorgeous and lush wedding reception.
Not only did they serve amazing pizza, they reserved a few gluten-free servings just for us. And oh how we enjoyed them!
Before the sun went all the way down, we snuck outside for a few final sweet bride and groom portraits.
Congratulations, Carson and Grace!