VA Mountain Wedding | Annie and Mat

Back in June I first blogged about getting to meet Annie and Mat when I worked on their engagement session. I felt truly honored to be a part of that day, Mat had just completed a 17-hour drive down from Canada to be with Annie, whose family hosted the shoot on their gorgeous property in Afton. We all spent the morning together, with Lily (Annie and Mat’s pup) joining in for several photos before scampering off to play in the woods. And at the very end of the session, Annie’s folks stepped into frame for a few pictures too. Watching this loving family from behind my lens was a special gift, so it was a treat to find myself in Afton again recently…this time witnessing Annie and Mat join their lives as husband and wife.
Those who have read my blog in the past know how much I love emotional weddings…and this was one for the books! There was so much love and laughter during the ceremony, and many, many happy tears. Witnessing moments like these is why I do what I do. And I got to spend time with pup Lily again! She was a big part of the day, hanging out with her mom as she got ready for the ceremony. And during the reception, Lily had a wag and a smile for everyone as she basked in all the love and attention! Very sweet. Of course we included her in the portraits too. 🙂
Milestones in our lives come and go; we gather the ones we love around us, and we mark time with these big turning points, these ceremonies and rituals. Even amidst the joy of the most loving celebration, there is often a longing for the ones we’ve lost along the way. Annie, I know how much you wanted your mom to be with you on this day. And I also know that wherever she is now, she is immensely proud of her strong, beautiful (inside and out) and kind daughter. You and Mat have such a beautiful future ahead of you. I feel grateful to know you, and I wish you the very best.

I hope you enjoy this selection of photos from Annie and Mat’s day the way I did capturing them! Thanks Sarah Nyanjom with Wedding Realized for being so wonderful to work with. Also, thanks Sarah Der for capturing their wedding with me!

VA Mountain Wedding

Vendors:

Coordinator: Sarah Nyanjom with Wedding Realized / Florist: The Faded Poppy / Stationary: Minted / Cake Artist: Paradox Pastry / Catering: Hot Cakes Gourmet and The BBQ Connection LLC / Ceremony music: Gene and Gayla Mills / Reception music: Bob Mednikov with AAA Disc Jockeys / Hair and Make-up: Moxie Hair and Body Lounge / Wedding Dress: Blush by Hayley Paige from Wildflower Bridal / Veil: Wildflower Bridal /Bridesmaids dress: RenzRags on Etsy / Groom and Groomsmen’s attire: Black Tux