Rachael & Devinne: Annapolis Wedding

I feel so lucky to have been asked to photograph Rachael & Devinne’s June wedding on the eastern shore of Maryland in Annapolis. I’ve known Rachael since she was a little girl (I even photographed her Bat Mitzvah!) so I felt like a proud “auntie” seeing how much she’s grown and what a beautiful relationship her and Devinne have made for each other.

The two met in high school through a mutual love of sports and basketball. As they grew up they grew together even more. Their commitment to supporting who each other is as an individual is wise beyond their years and truly heartwarming to be in the presence of. They are committed to keeping family in the forefront of everything they do and their two families are clearly already well blended together in support of their relationship.

Since I moved to Colorado in 2017, it was really nice to be back in the greater DC area for a visit but it was also a fun change to get back to a humongous celebration! So many of my weddings in Colorado are on a smaller scale, it had been a minute since I’d had the opportunity to photograph one this large. I had a blast getting ready with everyone, enjoying the bay breeze as we did portraits, and the joyous energy everyone had throughout the reception. It was a true party!

Samantha & Tim's Flying Horse Ranch Wedding

Stop the press! Sam & Tim’s wedding at the Flying Horse Ranch was a showstopper! I’d never photographed at the ranch before and boy was I impressed! Beautiful views sweeping down to Pikes Peak, a stunning atrium for the ceremony, a cozy and beautiful barn for the reception…this place had it all. I even really enjoyed the open air dancing…which for a photographer can be a little tricky to photograph once the sun sets! I set up my lights for some extra drama and pizazz and had a blast photographing the dancing shenanigans of all of Sam and Tim’s wonderful guests.

The day started me in tears when Sam had a “first look” with her dad who had the most priceless look on his face when he saw his daughter just before she went down the aisle. Followed by Tim who couldn’t hold back his happiness at seeing his bride for the first time. The whole room was crying it was that sweet and pretty!

After the ceremony I had a blast with their bridal party taking photos in the vast landscape around the property. Then Sam and Tim further endeared themselves to me by (without hesitation) hopping the ELECTRIC fence to go get some stunning photos in the yellow wildflowers and around the lake. Talk about an adventurous pair! The jury is still out on if the fence was currently electrified or not, but we managed (somehow!) as if it were. (Side note: I’ve totally been pinned to an electric fence before by a jerk horse and it is NOT fun…so I’m glad all went well for us here!)

The reception was a blast. Everyone got in on the dancing, the s’mores, and the photo booth before lining up for the grand sparkler exit. I was surprised the event was issued a fire permit, given the prevalence of wildfires this summer, but the staff at Flying Horse followed protocol with the permits and gathered everyone in an area of concrete and rocks so that there wasn’t any danger. Thank goodness because it was certainly beautiful (and fun!) to shoot as they ran through! Check out the photos below and leave them some love in the comments.

Hannah & Jeff: The Osprey's at Belmont Bay

Just looking at Hannah and Jeff brings a smile to my face. These two are funny, silly, sweet, and most definitely in love. They’re such a joy to work with. Their Spring wedding at The Osprey’s at Belmont Bay was beautiful (despite the rain!) and the reception was one crazy party..complete with The Big Cheese, a grilled cheese food truck! Check out the photos below and be sure to leave a comment!