A Winterham Plantation Wedding: Brittany + Rand

Brittany and Rand’s Winterham Plantation wedding was gorgeous! I don’t want to jinx anyone, but my brides have been soooo dang lucky when it comes to the weather! (knocking on wood now…)  The forecast called for rain all afternoon, and not a drop fell until everyone was under the big, white tent at the reception.  And, even then, it was just a short drizzle.  I’m so thankful that rain didn’t put a damper on (pun intended!) this special day and that Brittany and Rand were able to celebrate their wedding day outdoors at Winterham Plantation.  If you like the colors pink and gold, this wedding is right up your alley!  The attention to detail was perfect, and the entire day turned out wonderfully.  

I LOOOOOOVE the invitations!  The colors and script are beautiful!

And what a great job Greenhouse Florists did on the florals.  They were exactly what Brittany had imagined!

Aaaaaaand the dress.  The.  Dress.  It was a lot of dress to wear, and it fit Brittany perfectly!

There’s the blushing bride!  Brittany and Rand celebrated their wedding at Winterham Plantation on June 21, 2014.  However, the evening prior, the two participated in a sealing ceremony at the LDS Temple in Washington, D.C., being the reason for this date on her robe!  (More on the sealing ceremony at the end of this post…)

These sweet bridesmaids were so kind and helpful!  I always enjoy being around the bridesmaids before a wedding and seeing how they love the bride…their friend.

 

It’s time to put on that dress!

Brittany’s first look with her father.

The entire day was relaxed, and it was so nice to take care of all the photos prior to the ceremony.  The bridal party got together for their photos as well.  Don’t they look amazing!?!

The handsome groom.

Then it was time for portraits with the bride and groom.  This is always one of my favorite, and most important, parts of the day!

My absolute faaaaavorite image from the day…

 

We couldn’t forget to include the flower girls!  …and it’s totally fine that one of them wouldn’t look.  She was still a cutie!

Wedding time!

Brittany was blessed to have a step-father who was a significant part of her life, as well as a biological father.  Her step father walked her to the back of the aisle where she was then passed to her biological father for the rest of the walk to the altar.  Such a sweet blessing to have more than one father figure in her life!

I think she’s happy!  The new Mrs. Gold!

Now, let’s talk details.  Lots of pretty pink, gold, and sparkly details… Check it out!

Looking at the raspberry lemonade is making me thirsty!

Party time!

These first dance images are so sweet.  You can clearly see just how in love this couple is.

We can’t leave out dances with the parents!  Love these!

A monogrammed cake-topper.  Brittany is a girl after my own heart.

The couple, along with friends and family, danced into the evening.  They laughed and loved together for hours.  It was truly a special day, and I am honored to have been a part of it!  But there’s more!  I couldn’t possibly tell the whole wedding story without sharing a little bit about Brittany and Rand’s sealing ceremony at the Latter Day Saints Temple in Washington, D.C. the evening before.  Only certain individuals were allowed in the temple, but I was ready and waiting for them at their exit.  Have a look!

Immediately following the ceremony…

Such a grand venue for a wedding!  How could you NOT stop to take a few photos!?!

 

Congratulations, Brittany and Rand, and Happy Friday, friends!

M xoxo

Venue: Winterham Plantation

Photography:  Michelle Renee Photography

Food:  Goodrich Gourmet Catering

DJ: Mike Thompson

Florals:  Greenhouse Florist

Cake:  Jackie Wallace

A Winterham Plantation Bridal Session: Brittany

Brittany’s Winterham Plantation bridal session was so much fun! The beautiful bride, her mother, and her sister met me at the venue to spend some time capturing some special moments in her wedding gown. It was perfect light and a perfect backdrop for this lovely lady’s session. Take a look!

 

Gorgeous florals!

Don’t you just love the beading on this dress?!?!

Some of my FAVORITES!

 

Brittany, you are stunning.

And when the sun is going down behind a barn across the street…. Take advantage!

Happy Tuesday, friends!  To see Brittany and Rand’s engagement session, click here!  And don’t forget to check back soon for Brittany and Rand’s Winterham Plantation Wedding Post!

M xoxo

A West Manor Estate Wedding: Shelby + Ryan

Oh. My. Goodness. I’m so in love with Shelby and Ryan’s West Manor Wedding that took place this past weekend in Forest, Virginia. Not only was the day utter perfection, but I was completely honored to be a part of this day. Shelby, like Natalie, used to babysit my oldest son when he was smaller. I have had the pleasure of watching her transform from a high-school student into a secure, beautiful, young woman, and I couldn’t be more proud to call her a friend.

West Manor was stunning. From manicured grounds to the estate house…it was gorgeous. Friends and family scattered about the property, preparing for Shelby and Ryan’s special day. These two are so very loved, and everyone who was a part of the day was eager to ensure the day went off without a hitch.  Grey and yellow (and Ryan’s love for baseball) was woven into every nook and cranny of their day, tying every aspect of their wedding together perfectly.

On the arm of her father, Shelby walked the manicured lawn, lined in greenery, towards the man she loved.  Together, they stood on the steps of the manor house, surrounded by their closest friends and family, and promised each other forever.  To sum it up, I’m smitten with this wedding.  In a major way.  And I cannot wait to share it with you all!

Shelby and Ryan…

I think all that know you two could attest to the fact that we knew this day was coming from the moment you two met.  I haven’t spent much time with you, Ryan, but I felt like I knew you even before I met you.  I was lucky enough to get some inside scoop from Shelby’s mom. 🙂  And Shelby, what can I even say?!?  My son loved you from the beginning, and I can’t thank you enough for all the moments you shared with him and for taking care of him when I needed.  I am so very honored to have been a part of your day, and I can only hope that these images leave you with the feeling you felt this weekend at the altar every time you look at them.  Best wishes and happiness always.  Much love, M 🙂

 

You may as well take a seat.  This is a loooong post.  I just couldn’t narrow it down any more!   Take a look!

That.  Dress.  Thank you, Maggie Soterro, for such things.

And those rings!  Ryan… two thumbs up.

Honestly, I’m in love with all the details of the day, so just enjoy…

Gah!  The florals. Love Is In The Air has seriously hit a home run with these.  LOVE.

There’s that blushing bride!

What a cute idea for a gift!  The wifey shirt is adorable!

Pretty ladies!

I think this was one happy bride… don’t you think?

Bridesmaid selfies!

 

Melt.  My.  Heart.  A first look with Dad.

 

 

She’s ready for Ryan!

Capturing the groom’s first look at his bride-to-be is always special.

Shelby and Ryan chose to make the foot-washing ceremony a part of their wedding day.

For the first time…. Mr. and Mrs. Kindt!

Ok… so, I could  probably go on forever about how in love I am with this next series of images.  Instead of blabbing through it, I’ll let you see for yourself…

How cute are THEY?!?  Thanks to Pinterest for this one!

Shelby did not have a full bridal portrait session, so we made time after the ceremony for a few shots of the bride.  Completely stunning. 

My FAVORITE!

And then it was time for portraits with the bride and groom.  This is one of my favorite parts of the day, for obvious reasons!

   

As I mentioned, West Manor is per-fec-TION.

We can thank Love Is In The Air for this cake as well!  If you are a bride-to-be, CALL THEM.

To go with the baseball theme, the couple incorporated these details into cocktail hour.  How cute!??!

Seating assignments…

The happy couple and then their dances with their parents.  You could feel the love.

   

No lie… this cake was probably the BEST wedding cake I have ever had.  EVER.

And there is always time for a few minutes of sunset portraits!  It’s always worth it!

Love, love, love, love, LOVE!

Happy Wednesday, friends!

Venue: West Manor Estate

Photography:  Michelle Renee Photography

Cinematography:  Colin Hornbaker/Ahavah Weddings

Dress: Maggie Soterro

Shoe Designer:  Unknown

Makeup Artistry:  Studio Style Spa

DJ: Tony Camm

Florals:  Love Is In The Air

Cake:  Love Is In The Air

A Rural Hanover, Virginia Wedding: Natalie + Casey

Natalie and Casey’s Hanover County wedding day was gorgeous! The weather was perfection, and every detail of the day was beautiful. Natalie and Casey prepared in separate parts of Chamberlayne Baptist Church and the atmosphere was calm.  Natalie and Casey had been together for years, and this day seemed a natural progression in the course of their relationship.  Having known Natalie for many years…as she was my first son’s primary babysitter when he was young…there was no doubt that Natalie was where she was meant to be, with who she was meant to be with.  And that meant there was no cause for nerves.  Her heart was full of love, and all she wanted to do was become Casey’s wife.  Casey, too, was calm and ready for this moment.  He had spent years waiting for this day, knowing all along that it is where they would end up.

Their families and friends surrounded them with love and support as they poured out self-written vows and promised each other forever.  Natalie, Casey, and all their guests started the evening at the altar but ended it on the dance floor.  They danced.  They laughed.  And they cherished the family and friends who had come to share this special day with them.

Natalie and Casey,

Like the two of you, I have waited for this day for a LONG time!  And I can’t tell you how honored I feel to have been a part of this special time in your lives!  Thank you so very much for having me.  I wish you many years of love and happiness together.  Michelle 🙂

 

Love these invitations!

And the jewelry!

Natalie wore some special family heirlooms on an ankle bracelet on her wedding day.  It’s always fun to see the way couples incorporate meaningful items into their wedding days.

And who doesn’t love some Toms?!?!  Especially some pink, sparkly ones!

There’s the beautiful bride!

Always so special to see the groom’s face as he watches his bride walk towards him.

Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Sipe!

Check out these pretty ladies… Totally loving the pink and grey!

One of my FAVS…

The handsome, Mr. Sipe.

All the fellas!

That’s one good-looking bridal party!

This is still always one of my favorite parts of a wedding day…portraits with the bride and groom.  Whether it’s a First Look or after the ceremony, PLEASE make time for portraits!

It’s time to party!

These simple, exquisite details transformed the reception tent…

A delicious cake by Richmond’s very own Ukrop’s bakery!  Yum.  As always.

The happy couple enjoying their first dance

They danced the night away with friends and family and couldn’t be more excited to be husband and wife!  Loved the sparkler exit with extra long sparklers!

Congratultions, Natalie and Casey!

To view Natalie and Casey’s engagement session, click here.  For Natalie’s bridal session, click here.  Have a Happy Monday, friends!

M xoxo

Photographer:  Michelle Renee Photography

Church: Chamberlayne Baptist Church

Reception Venue:

Dress: Bliss Bridal

Shoe Designer:  TOMS

Stylist/Makeup:  Shear Innovations (Tara)

DJ: Ryan Sipe, Groom’s Uncle

Florals:  Coleman Brothers

Cake:  Ukrop’s Bakery

Caterer:  Brock’s BBQ

Transportation:  Crown Limosine

Wedding Coordinator:  Danielle Nogle, Bride’s friend

A Sunday Park Engagement: Jamie + Aaron

We ignored the weather forecast that was calling for rain and headed to Sunday Park for an engagement session anyway. And I’m sooo glad we did! I can’t tell you enough how much I adore that overcast, evening light, and we took advantage of every minute.  Jamie and Aaron are planning and October wedding and recently purchased a home close to Sunday Park, so this location was a perfect choice to document the love and life they share!
Jamie and I work together as case managers for mentally ill clients, and I was so very honored to be asked to take some engagement photos of her and her fiance.  I love it when my photography job overlaps with my personal relationships!  And let’s be honest… if you know Jamie, you know she’s super fun and funny, so I knew that the man she was choosing to marry would be just as awesome. And he was. We were determined to beat the rain (which we did just in time), and I’m thrilled with the results. Take a look!

Gah!  Seriously.  Should we just stop here?  I’m in love.

Jamie.  You. are. beautiful. 

Some of my favorites!  LOVE THESE!

More of my favs.  These show Jamie’s personality so, so well.  What a fun…and totally in love…couple!

Those eyes!

And that smile!  You two are adorable.

Congratulations on your engagement, Jamie and Aaron!  And thank you so much for including me in this special time!

M xoxo

A Hanover Battlefield Bridal Session: Natalie

I love my brides. Every. Single. One.  And I always love bridal sessions. Not only do I love my brides and their families, but as I’ve mentioned in prior blog posts, I also love feeling like a VIP when I have the honor of seeing a bride in her gown and accessories before the wedding day. Yes, it’s horribly difficult to not share these images right away, but it’s oh-so-fun when I finally do have the opportunity to reveal them! So, enough of the chatter… take a look at this gorgeous bride for yourself!

Natalie and her sweet mama met me at Totopotomy Creek Battlefield in Hanover County for the session. She looked amazing. Obviously.

Aren’t the pink florals gorgeous!?! A big shout out to Coleman Brothers Flowers for such an incredible job!

 

Love this one!  Natalie has a stunning smile!

Some of my absolute favorites from the day…

Natalie, you look radiant!

It’s always nice to have such a variety of backgrounds in such a small space.  Although, it does make it hard for brides to choose their favorite images.  But I would say that’s a good problem to have!

We all loved these trees with pink blooms.  Matched her bouquet perfectly!

Happy Sunday and Memorial Day Weekend friends!  And stay tuned for Natalie and Casey’s wedding post coming up soon.  To view their engagement blog post, click here!

M xoxo

A Vintager Inn Wedding : Katie + Gage

Katie and Gage’s Vintager Inn wedding was another first for me. As in, the first time I had shot at this venue. And when I tell you I have the best job in the world, I’m not. even. joking. I love every wedding I am lucky enough to be a part of, and honestly, I always fall head-over-heels for my couples too! They are, by far, the best part of my job. Katie and Gage were no different.

The forecast had called for rain. But we weren’t discussing it.  Not the week before. Not the day before. Not even the morning of the wedding. Because Katie and Gage had their hearts set on an outdoors ceremony, and everyone who was part of their magical day was determined to make that happen. So, we figured that ignoring the forecast was the best option! Fortunately, the Big Man upstairs was also part of this master plan, because the rain held off, and the day was as perfect as everyone had hoped it would be.

Every aspect of Katie and Gage’s wedding day fell into place perfectly.  From the wood, lace, and burlap details to the exquisite florals by Jeff’s Flowers.  It was all stunning in every way.  But still, aside from the gorgeous venue, the cooperating weather, and the sweet and simple details, the best part of the day was the group of people who came to celebrate the love shared between Katie and Gage.

Leading up to the wedding there was laughter and there were tears.  And there was love.  A whole lot of love, all of which was poured out on this couple who was preparing to say their “I Do’s.”  Their family and friends surrounded them with encouragement and support the entire way, and there was no doubt that everyone in their lives were just as sure of the love they shared as Katie and Gage were themselves.

Katie rode in on a horse and carriage with her father.  She walked on his arm to meet her groom, and there, surrounded by those that had impacted them and loved them most, they promised forever.  A forever together, through ups, downs, and everything in between.  And they couldn’t have been happier!

Everyone made their way to the rustic reception location and enjoyed fantastic food from Smoke BBQ, meaningful toasts, and fun on the dance floor.  But enough from me… take a look for yourself!

 

I don’t know about you, but I love the colors Katie chose to accent her wedding day.  And thank goodness for thoughtful bridesmaids who bring a newspaper from the day of the wedding.  LOVE this idea!

Katie wore her mother’s shoes on her wedding day.  So special!  And these florals!  What?!?  Gorgeous.  Jeff’s Flowers did a fabulous job!

The gorgeous gown from Ava Clara. Katie was very ready to become Mrs. Collins!

There’s always time for a selfie with the blushing bride!

It’s wedding time!

Pure joy.  Melts my heart!

Can you tell Katie’s friends love her?!?!  And yes, you may recognize this beautiful bridesmaid on the right.  Whitney was one of my 2013 brides.  LOVE her and the opportunity to see her on Katie’s special day!

I so enjoy seeing the special ways brides incorporate meaningful friends and family into their special day.  Katie wore this pin on the inside of her gown.

Katie’s grandmother was unable to attend the wedding, but thanks to an iphone and modern technology, she didn’t have to be too far away!  Gotta love FaceTime!

The final touches…

Ready for her groom.

 

Even when there is no First Look, we take advantage of the time before the wedding by shooting the bride with her bridesmaids.  I gotta tell ya… I LOVE these images.  These ladies are not only beautiful on the outside, but on the inside as well.  I came to adore each of them.  Thanks to all of you for making my job so easy and fun!

And here’s our handsome groom with his mother.  Another sentimental time during a wedding day.

The very proud parents!

You guys clean up pretty well!  Looking good!

This guy is ready to see his bride!

Katie and Gage exchanged letters before the ceremony.  Not. a. dry. eye.  Not one.

What an entrance!

Love the daddy/daughter moments!

Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Collins!

This is one good-lookin’ group of people.  And so, so fun to be around…

 

And then it was time for portraits.  I am so thankful when couples leave amble time for these portraits.  We are able to move around the venue and take photos in multiple locations.  These will be cherished for years to come.  Thank you, Katie and Gage, for trusting me and making this part of your day a priority!  I hope you love them as much as I do.

 

The Vintager Inn is gorgeous!  The rustic, barn feel is perfect for a reception!  Take a look here…

And, can we give Katie’s cousin a hand for making this cake?!?  Beautiful on the outside and delicious on the inside.  Perfection!

Party time!

The First Dance.

And dances with their parents.  Gets me every time!

Can’t forget those sentimental toasts and cake cutting…

And they danced well into the night….  A beautiful day for a beautiful couple.

Happy Thursday, friends!
M xoxo

Venue: The Vintager Inn

Photographer:  Michelle Renee Photography

Dress: Ava Clara

Shoe Designer:  Unknown.  Bride wore mother’s wedding shoes

Makeup Artistry:  Samantha McDonald, Makeup Artistry by Sam

DJ: Jason Fox

Florals:  Jeff’s Flowers

Cake:  Michelle, Bride’s cousin

Caterer:  Smoke BBQ

 

 

 

A Maryland Cherry Blossom Engagement: Alessandra + Ben

I’m not sure HOW I haven’t had any cherry blossom engagement sessions until this one. I mean, after seeing just how beautiful the cherry blossoms were, I totally understood why couples wait until they are in bloom to do their session.  Alessandra and Ben were determined to have a cherry blossom engagement session, and I’m so glad they were!  I felt like I was on the set of Snow White with all the lush greenery and gorgeous blossoms around us.  It was perfect.

Alessandra and Ben met when she accompanied a college roommate to a party at Ben’s house.  Since then, they have been inseparable.  And now, they are planning a fantastic summer wedding.

How cute is this little family!?!

The beautiful bride-to-be!

 

And her handsome fella!

Some of my favorites!

Love, love, LOVE!

Another favorite!

This neighborhood in Maryland had a TON to offer in terms of locations for shooting, and there were cherry blossom trees EVERYWHERE!

 

Love this simple, classing, stunning ring.  Good  work, Ben!

 

 

 

 

Congratulations, Alessandra and Ben… and Happy Wednesday, friends!

M xoxo

A Vintager Inn Bridal Session: Katie

By far, the hardest part of my job is keeping the bride’s bridal portraits a secret until after the wedding. It’s complete torture. So, when I spent some time with Katie (and her sweet friend and MOH) at her wedding venue a few weeks before her big day for this session…and I saw how absolutely AMAZING Katie looked in her gown…I knew I was in trouble. I have been dying to share these with the world, and today I get the chance! Yay!

Katie’s Vintager Inn bridal session was utter perfection.  Take a look…

Simply beautiful.

I want to take a minute and give Flowerama in Richmond, VA a huge “thank you” for their awesome work on Katie’s bouquet.  If you need a florist, PLEASE call or visit them and ask for Kelli.  She will take great care of you!

One of my absolute favs…

And how perfect is THIS?!?  The venue has separate spaces for the bride and the groom to prepare on their wedding day.  Here, Katie is in front of the bride’s getting-ready space.  Love it!

Another favorite.  But let’s be real…there are a TON of favorites.

Katie.  You are gorgeous!  Gage is one lucky fella!

Happy Monday, friends!  And if you want to see the full blog post from Katie and Gage’s Vintager Inn wedding, be sure to follow my blog to be notified when posted!  Visit the couple’s engagement blog post here!

M xoxo

A Clifton Inn Wedding: Kathryn + Brian

Kathryn and Brian’s Clifton Inn Wedding could not have been more perfect! The weather was gorgeous, the venue was to die for, the details were exquisite, and the couple was ridiculously in love. As a wedding photographer, that’s all you can ask for! What an honor it was to be a part of their day.

The Clifton Inn overlooks the beautiful mountains in Charlottesville, Virginia.  This was the first wedding I have photographed at this particular venue, and I gotta tell ya’…I’m in love.  I knew that every. little. detail. of the day had been hand picked by Kathryn and Brian…and I knew that they had exquisite taste…but still, the results exceeded any expectation I could have had.  Kathryn and Brian planned an intimate event that was ultimately a gathering of those they held nearest and dearest to their hearts, and it was apparent in every aspect of their wedding day that the day was about love.  Not just the love they shared together, but love for their friends and family…as well as the love they were shown in return.

Kathryn was calm and full of grace as she cherished her time preparing for her groom.  Her best friends, sister, mother, and grandmother showered her with affection and support as they helped her into her stunning gown and put on the last accessory.

In similar fashion, Brian and his fellas prepared for this special occasion not too far from the main house.  Brian was all smiles and ready to meet his bride.

On a wooden patio, overlooking the stunning Virginia mountains, Kathryn walked arm-in-arm with her father to promise her forever to the man she had fallen in love with several years ago.  She walked towards a bright-eyes, excited, humble groom who stood amongst his closest friend, ready to promise his bride forever.  They knew each other inside out and they made each other better.  Together, they were ready to take on the future.  Hand-in-hand and completely in love, they said their “I do’s.”

They spent the rest of the evening celebrating their wedding day with all of the friends and family who had come from near and far to share this time with them.  There were cocktails, amazing food, delicious cake, lots of dancing, and an extra dose of laughter.

Kathryn and Brian,

Words don’t seem like enough to express just how much I have enjoyed getting to know you both.  Your warmth and kindness are apparent in all that you do and say, and it is no secret why your friends and family adore you as much as they do.  You are two of the most genuine individuals I have had the pleasure of knowing, and I look forward to our couples session in the upcoming months.  Any reason to hang with you again works for me!   Wishing you many years of love and laughter.  Much love, M. xoxo

 

Check out Kathryn’s killer shoes.  LOVE.  THEM.  The perfume, too.  I may just have to get my own…

Kathryn wore her grandmother’s rings on her right hand.  How special!

Vogue did a fantastic job with these stunning florals.  Gorgeous.

Kathryn’s wedding dress was as equally as gorgeous.  And this monogrammed hanger was a nice touch to the day as well.

J. Crew and Coach.  Enough said.

The natural, window light in the Clifton Inn’s bridal suite allowed for perfect “getting ready” photos.  Kathryn did her own makeup for her wedding day.  It was perfect.

Kathryn’s aunt stopped by for a quick kiss and well-wishes before the ceremony.  Love this shot.

The bridesmaids, mother, and grandmother of the bride made sure Kathryn was ready for her groom.

There’s something about a sister’s love…

And mother/daughter moments…

And then there is grandma.  Melt my heart.

Kathryn.  You are stunning.  Inside and out.

Every woman needs her girlfriends.

Don’t you love these bridesmaids gifts?!

Final touches.

Brian was ready for his bride and looking as handsome as ever!

Wedding time!

She so loves her daddy, no matter how grown up she is.

Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Wilson!

One BIG, happy family!

A fun AND good-looking bridal party…

One of my favorites.

We took a few minutes before bride and groom portraits to capture some bridal portraits of Kathryn.  Simply radiant.

   

And then it was time for portraits with the newlyweds!

Kathryn.  Serioulsy.  Gah!

 

Party Time!  Don’t those signature cocktails look delicious!?!

And this reception design.  It was love at first sight for me.

The first dance.  Look at these two lovebirds…

Daddys and daughters.  Love.

And mothers and sons.  Love this too.

The rest of the evening was spent sharing in toasts, drinks, dancing, laughter, and love.

Happy Sunday, friends!

M xoxo

Venue: The Clifton Inn

Photographer: Michelle Renee Photography

Wedding Dress Designer: Romona Keveza

Bride’s Shoe Designer: Bagdley Mischka

Bridesmaids Dress Designer:  J. Crew

Bridesmaids Shoe Designer:  Coach

Band:Jazz Ensamble

Florals: Vogue

Cake: The Clifton Inn