Smithfield Winery Wedding | Smithfield Wedding Photographer | Kenny + Mackenzie

Smithfield Winery Wedding | Smithfield Wedding Photographer | Kenny + Mackenzie

For a long time Kenny and Mackenzie didn't look twice at each other. He was just the guy who worked for her dad, and she was away at college. But on one fateful day several years ago Kenny made a trip to visit her and they began to fall in love over Mellow Mushroom pizza and rich conversations. Eventually they would begin dating, get engaged, and buy a house together, but they never could have predicted any of it would happen when they first laid eyes on each other.

Their wedding day was uniquely gorgeous and absolutely relaxed from start to finish. They had the privilege of being the FIRST wedding at the Smithfield Winery and after seeing the setup, I know brides will be flocking to this stunning new venue! Blush peonies were the highlight of Mackenzie's all-wood bouquet (no, I'm not kidding!) and her dress was simply amazing, with all-over lace and a train that stretched for miles. Beyond that, these two took the most of every opportunity for pictures (I counted at least 4 separate times we took bride and groom portraits!) and they prioritized fun and comfort over stress on a day that flowed smoothly throughoutโ€ฆ

Albemarle Estate Anniversary Session | Charlottesville Wedding Photographer | Brad + Lauren

Albemarle Estate Anniversary Session | Charlottesville Wedding Photographer | Brad + Lauren

Maybe I'm getting old, but time seems to move faster and faster each year. It's hard to believe that Brad and Lauren got married over one year ago, and two years before that we met for the first time to capture their engagement session. When they contacted me a few months in advance (because she is a planner, through and through!) about an anniversary session at the same place it all began, I was thrilled.

Here's a little sneak peek, though, into what makes this couple so special. Rather than simply asking me to drive to Charlottesville for their pictures, they added on a special lunch at the amazing C&O Restaurant, inviting all their wedding vendors as a 'thank you' one year later. I have never heard of this before, and I was simply amazed at their generosity. It was such a fun chance to reconnect with what now feels like old friends, with Brad and Lauren at the top of that list. We all feel a little sad when the wedding day is over, so to continue that relationship (even though they live hours away!) is an incredible blessingโ€ฆ

Introducing the NEWEST Team Member! | Business

Introducing the NEWEST Team Member! | Business

I never thought I would say this about myself, but I like working alone. I thrive when I can make my schedule, decide my task list, and check it off when and where I want to. Before Willow came I worked all over Hampton Roads, from one coffee shop to the next, and now that she's here the flexibility I have is a beautiful thing and what I always dreamed of. I never factored other people into my business and always thought I would run this by myself.

Over the years I have seen many other solopreneurs bring on part-time team members to do everything from social media to blogging to editing images and everything in between. I was curious how it worked and began to envision myself hiring someone in the future as my business grew. The only thing I came back to, though, time and time again, was that if I were to hire anyone I would want it to be in my family. I didn't know how this would work or when and if it would happen, but I hoped the time would comeโ€ฆ