Miles, Sarah, and Elizabeth // Suffolk, Virginia, Photographer

Miles and Sarah have been such good friends to us for such a long time. Nathan and Miles' friendship goes back all the way to elementary school, so it was natural for us to spend time with them when I moved into the area. Sarah is a sweetheart, and an amazing hostess - she throws the best parties, and I look forward to them every year!

I was absolutely overjoyed when Sarah and Miles told us they were expecting little Elizabeth (though we didn't know who she was at the time). Time flew by, and a few weeks ago she came into the world, beautiful and dainty, stealing the hearts of her mommy and daddy, and everyone else around.

I had the privilege of spending time with little Elizabeth in the hospital, and again in their home when she was only a few weeks old. Newborn lifestyle sessions aren't something I do often, but seeing Miles and Sarah, the way they look at Elizabeth, and the way they look at each other, just melted my heart. I'm so proud to be a friend to both of them, and I'm officially claiming the title of 'honorary aunt' to Elizabeth. She is beautiful, and I can't wait to get to know her as she grows.

Richard & Christina // Hampton, Virginia, Elopement Photographer

A few weeks ago, I shot my second elopement this year (you can see the first one here)! That was pretty exciting for me, considering I didn't even KNOW there is a space for elopement photographers, and back in the summer I started talking about wanting to shoot one. What I love about elopements, or at least what I know so far, is that ALL the pressure is off. If the wedding starts late, or early, it doesn't matter. There's no rushing around and finalizing all the details because it comes down to just two people, in love, forever.

On the day of Richard and Christina's wedding, it was drizzly and miserable outside. Since we were going to take some portraits afterwards with their combined family, we decided we would just delay the portion until a much prettier day. So a couple weeks later, I met three of them and spent some time commemorating their growing family.

Richard and Christina, thank you so much for letting me be one of only two witnesses on your special day. Thank you for allowing me into your family over the course of a few weeks. I hope that your excitement at being married continues for the rest of your lives.

After a rainy day on their wedding, we were ready for some good weather for family portraits!

Can you tell she's excited to be married?!

Stephanie's Bridal Portraits // Oak Grove Lake Chesapeake Photographer

This day was every photographer's dream! Stephanie and Tim have been married since May, but she wanted a full set of bridal portraits to gift to her family, as well as keeping some for herself. When she asked me if Tim could come along for a few pictures, I just smiled. I got time with both of them during a perfect fall day at sunset, with nobody else and no other timeline to adhere to. And I was overjoyed!

First of all, can we talk about Stephanie's dress? It was incredible. The bodice is beautifully woven, and petals make their way all down the train. Her hair and makeup was done to perfection! And her bouquet...she made it at home, by herself, that morning. Everything came together perfectly for her portraits. Even though it was cold, Tim kept her warm with his hugs (and his jacket, on occasion), and Stephanie looked like a glowing bride despite the wind.

Tim and Stephanie, I can't thank you enough for spending time with me on a chilly fall day. You two are such a beautiful picture of what marriage is after the wedding - an amazing friendship that continues to unfold each day. I can't wait to see what life brings your way!

Hair and Makeup: Major Tease Designs