Virginia Beach Engagement Session | Virginia Beach Wedding Photographer | Harrison + Lauren

Virginia Beach Engagement Session | Virginia Beach Wedding Photographer | Harrison + Lauren

Harrison and Lauren have a decade of history between the two of them. They met as teenagers and soon became friends, which eventually led into so much more. When they were separated by several states and many hours of drivings they had to face a big decision: is this the relationship they had been waiting for? Both knew in their hearts it was, Lauren moved down, and the rest is history.

Lauren describes herself as easygoing, which proved itself to be so true on this evening as we met at a secluded spot on Virginia Beach (yes, they do exist!). Her personality is the perfect foil to Harrison's outgoing and goofy nature, although it doesn't mean she won't join in the fun - I even caught them breaking it down during their session! Together they kept each other laughing all night, and I can only imagine how joyful their wedding day will be…

What I Learned from the Royal Wedding | Business

What I Learned from the Royal Wedding | Business

Like millions of people all over the world, by 7am on Saturday, I was glued to my TV for the big event of the year - the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. My younger sister (who is getting married in a month!) came Friday to spend the night and watch with me since we've both been anticipating the day for quite some time - about as long as they've been engaged!

We oohed and ahhed over the details and followed closely along with the commentary all over social media. At the end of the coverage we turned off the TV, satisfied and delighted that we could watch such a special day. The wheels in my head immediately started turning since I live in the wedding world and I gathered some takeaways from the whole event. Here is what I learned!

1) Even the smallest details matter…

Intimate Wedding in Chesapeake | Chesapeake Wedding Photographer | Chris + Rebecca

Intimate Wedding in Chesapeake | Chesapeake Wedding Photographer | Chris + Rebecca

Marriage is a huge commitment. Marriage when kids are involved becomes a whole new matter entirely. When Chris and Rebecca said their vows, they did so before the typical friends and family...but they also had her three children by their side. It was the most touching moment of the day as the kids helped exchange rings, then plant a new family tree that will grow and flourish through the years as these two families are now one.

Their vision for their day, an intimate backyard wedding right on the water in Chesapeake, was a celebration of this close-knit feeling that would last as the sun set and the couple drove away (in a Viper, no less!). All Rebecca wanted was to feel like a bride, capture the love she had found in Chris, and relax on a gorgeous summer day on the Elizabeth River. She got it all and more. Together these two have the most natural and sweet interactions - it's a love you just can't fake, and a happiness that will last through the years…