Maymont Fall Wedding | Richmond Wedding Photographer | Josh + Kayla

Maymont Fall Wedding | Richmond Wedding Photographer | Josh + Kayla

A wedding day hurricane is not something I would wish on anyone, but if there was a bride who could handle the bad weather it was Kayla. We talked a few days before her wedding and she calmly told me that their backup plan (get married and party anyway!) would be intimate and meaningful just the same. When Hurricane Matthew blew back out to sea we knew the wedding was on in full force, but watching her maintain joy and excitement in a difficult situation is just a small testament of the person she is. And with Josh as her encourager, biggest supporter, and best friend, these two could take on anything with each other by their sides.

Kayla was the epitome of a bride creating a beautiful wedding day that also completely fit her and Josh's personalities. Seeing each other before the wedding for a first look was a decision Kayla made when she realized that her sweet, introverted husband-to-be would love the chance to have a moment of calm before the nerves set in. Her selflessness was evident the moment she made that decision, and it continued on from there...

Adventures on the Gorge Destination Wedding | West Virginia Wedding Photographer | Derek + Madison

Adventures on the Gorge Destination Wedding | West Virginia Wedding Photographer | Derek + Madison

When you hear the phrase "destination wedding," West Virginia is probably not the first location that comes to mind - but this was one unforgettable day! With an amazing spot like Adventures on the Gorge, it's no wonder Madison and Derek spent not just one day but the whole weekend kayaking, white water rafting, and adventuring with friends and family as they said I do. Family came from Texas, Virginia, and all over the country to this amazing location to celebrate the union of two lives becoming one.

With sunflowers and deep maroon bridesmaids dresses, Derek and Madison's day kicked off a beautiful fall season on the mountains of West Virginia with a ceremony overlooking the New River Gorge and trees lining the hills behind them. These two have been together for so many years that their love was comfortable and familiar, yet exciting and joyful at the same time. It was on a beautiful September day that they officially became family, but it was obvious that their unity was strong as they walked into marriage.

Virginia Beach Courthouse Elopement | Hampton Roads Elopement Photographer | Sam + Lacey

Virginia Beach Courthouse Elopement | Hampton Roads Elopement Photographer | Sam + Lacey

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...