K+C | Married

"And her heart was the best part, it would always calm the storm for those who were afraid of a little rain." R.M. Drake

Kelley + Chris were married a day before their wedding invitation said they were going to tie the knot. There was rain. Lots of rain coming for Saturday. These two cuties said, let's just move the whole thing to Friday. This wedding worked because of their laid-back and easy-going demeanors. Plus we had a rocking team of vendors. Specifically, their wedding planner, Caitlin Krebs Events. 

It was so fun to be part of this wedding. They made us feel like family. I adore my couples, and I'm always sad after their wedding because I want to still work with them! (HINT: SIGN UP FOR AN ANNIVERSARY SESSION!) But really, I work with the most wonderful couples and this was no exception. 

Their wedding day was uniquely them. They DIY'd just about everything, including the venue itself! They were married on the family farm, but where the actual tent went was previously wooded. Chris and his family removed many trees, and planted grass to make the space for their party! You'll also see a couple of coffee influences...Chris sells the most amazing coffee (I got to snag a bag!) and they used it throughout as part of their decoration. 

Congratulations Kelley, Chris and Ted (Their adorable, hyper, and very large dog), wishing you all the best! 
 

A+M | Married

"After all this time?"
"Always," said Snape"

I'm so excited to share this wedding! Andrea + Marcos were amazing to work with and just as sweet as can be! 

They were married at the Holy Rosary Church, in DC and their reception was held at the Lorien Hotel and Spa in Alexandria, VA.  

All wedding days are hectic and crazy. I don't bother the bride when I come in to start shooting details. I have already told her to set them aside, so I can just grab them when I come in and start shooting. The particular room set up where Andrea and her girls were getting ready had a beautiful balcony with natural light, so of course I set up out there. After shooting for about 20 minutes, Andrea came out and handed me a towel. I admit, that initially I was perplexed. Was she worried I was going to get her details dirty? Was I flashing someone while I bent over in a dress? No. Sweet Andrea was worried about my knees! She wanted me to kneel on something comfortable. This is the kind of beautiful person she is.  

Every last detail of their day was perfection. Including their invitations. You see, Andrea is a major Harry Potter fan. What does a Harry Potter fan seal her wedding invitations with? Custom wax seals. Oh. My. Word. I was so in love.  And her cake topper? It said "Always".  Her MOH recited the famous lines in her speech (and the DJ played the Harry Potter theme music in the background). It was perfect. 

Their day was a mix of smiles, tears and delicate moments. Watching Andrea look at Marcos was like magic. It was electrifying. I always feel so incredibly blessed to be part of someone's wedding day. I don't feel like the photographer. I feel like family. And I love getting to know my couples and sharing in this special day.  

Andrea + Marcos, much love to you both, and I hope you are having a fantastic honeymoon! 

Vendors that made this day possible: 
Coordination by Kristin Corrigan
Florals by Erin Ward, The Little Flower Bud
Music by Julio Falcon, Black Tie Entertainment
Make-Up by Brigid Wilson
Hair by Julia Miller
Wedding Dress and veil: Paloma Blanca purchased at Love Couture Bridal
Invites from Minted


 

A+M | Married [Sneak Peak]

If you follow along with me on instagram then you'll have seen the copious gorgeous photos of Andrea + Marcos from their wedding day last week. I'm not quite ready to share the full gallery until Tuesday, but I thought i'd do a quick sneak peak of my favorites! Happy Sunday morning all, thank goodness it's not snowing!! 

Why you should do a First Look | Bridal Advice

First Looks are something that have become more popular over the last couple of years. I always felt on the fence for my own wedding (in 2 months!) about doing one. I'm getting married in a big church and the walk down the aisle is going to be so magical. I love the idea of walking down and Bryce seeing me for the first time. But I eventually decided on doing a First Look. 

Why? 

Your wedding day is as much about all your family and friends as its about you. For 99% of the day, you are surrounded by all these people who are so excited for you, to talk with you and give lots of hugs! Oddly, you get very little time with your new spouse.  A First Look gives you the opportunity to have 20-30min of time together, just the two of you, to take in the moment. I can guarantee, that emotion comes through the photos more than you think it will. It's incredibly touching. I cry at most First Looks. Just a little tear. I love it. 

There are other kinds of First Looks also. Recently I did a First Look with the bride's parents (individually), the bridesmaids and finally her groom. It was so fun to do this big reveal to all these important people. I know I'm doing one with my dad for our wedding. 

First Looks can take as little time or as much time as you would like. We can turn it into your portrait session, so I don't have to grab you later, or just a way to increase your bridal photos. 

Here are some recent "First Looks". Consider adding a first look to your wedding day timeline!