Vendors:
Host & Photographer: Nicole Colwell Photography
Cinematography: Rachael Curry Films
Planning: Adriana Marie Events
Venue: Great Marsh Estate
Florals: Love Blooms DC
Rentals: White Glove Rentals
Paper: Every Little Something
HMUA: Beauty by Sue
Ring: Susie Saltzman
Accessories: Heart of Gold Designs
Dress + Veil: Elaya Vaughn
Lab/Sponsor: Photo Vision Prints
Suzie and Patrick…. How do I even begin to describe them? I love how the wedding day, and also the rehearsal dinner in this case, you can learn so much about a love story in a small span of time. For Suzie and Patrick, listening to bits and pieces of who they are individually and as a couple from family and friends, proved how madly in love they are to one another.
But looking back, that discovery for me happened when we recorded their letters on the wedding day. Both Suzie and Patrick unknowingly wrote to each other about the day of their engagement, and what monumental day it was. They both had tears of joy reading those letters to the camera. And I had tears of joy just editing and weaving it all together as one.
Not only is their love story beautiful, but the wedding day at Farmington Country Club in Charlottesville, VA, was just as romantic. It was the same place Suzie’s parents were married 33 years ago! It was also a special place to Suzie because she used to go there as a child and explore the grounds. When we were taking a few shots next to the old ice house, Suzie told us that she used to play in that very spot as a child. It was sweet seeing her with her new husband in a place that she had known for so many years, but now coming back as a different person and starting fresh memories together.
There was live music all evening, a beautiful sunset filling the sky and casting a soft light over the mountains, and loved ones full of joy for the newlyweds. It was a grand day, and I was incredibly honored to create a film that commemorates their story. But no matter how much goes into making a film or how beautiful the day may be, the people – the couple – are what shine through and make it truly, the most magical. And my heart is happy knowing they can look back and listen to those letter readings, or their vows to each other – for the rest of their life.
Congratulations Suzie and Patrick!
Vendors:
Venue: Farmington Country Club | Wedding Coordinator: Just a Little Ditty | Photo: Jason Keefer Photography | Makeup: Rouge 9 | Florist – Floral Images Design Studio | Musicians: Bent Mountain Trio, The Adrian Duke Project | Stationer – French Penn Calligraphy (Alex O’Brian) | Dress – Ines Di Santo | Event Rentals – Stone Gate Rentals and MS events | Lighting – Blue Ridge Lighting | Videography: Rachael Curry Films
–
It doesn’t get much more romantic than meeting across seas with the person you will spend your life with. For Emma and Will, they met in 2009 at the most romantic setting of all – La Rochelle, France. Even though they were both attending University of Richmond at the same time, they had never met prior to their trip studying abroad! Emma was actually dating someone else at the time, but Will developed a crush on Emma during their stay in France. Fortunately for Will, Emma broke up with that boyfriend 2 years later and immediately Will took his chance and pursued Emma. 😃
If meeting in France isn’t dreamy enough, their proposal gets even better! Will snuck Emma away on a celebratory getaway trip to Charlottesville, VA. They stayed at a beautiful farm and when he woke her up at sunrise, he proposed in the fields!
Ok, so by this point, Emma and Will’s story doesn’t seem like it could get more beautiful. But then! The day of their wedding!!! First, it took place at Tuckahoe Plantation in Richmond, VA where they’re from. Tuckahoe Plantation is Thomas Jefferson’s childhood home — it is absolutely magical! The multiple gardens of vegetables, herbs, roses, zinnias — had my heart right then and there! The entire wedding was outdoors, so having abundant plants and beauty surrounding the landscape was an incredible atmosphere.
The ceremony took place among the rows of crepe myrtles in the back with the sun shining through. Emma is a 4th grade teacher and invited her class to the wedding!!! They all sat on blankets at the very front. It was absolutely adorable to see their reactions! Even more adorable was the ring bearer – Emma and Will’s little fur baby! She stole the show!!
The reception was also outdoors – on the front lawn with string lights and chandeliers overhead. No tent, no ceiling, just the moon and stars! I loved that all of their vendors were local to the Richmond area including the caterers who brought their very best pizza, tacos, doughnuts and more! It was a lively bunch of family and friends, so the celebration was a festive one! Especially with the live band creating a joful atmosphere. What a wonderful evening!
We were so honored to be there to capture the moments of their day, and wish them the very best. Congrats Emma and Will!
Vendors:
Reception and Ceremony Venue-Tuckahoe Plantation | Wedding Coordinator-Colleen Cook (CCS Events) | Photographer-Nicki Metcalf | Desserts-WPA Bakery, Pearl’s Cupcakes, Sugar Shack Donuts, Smart Cookie Kitchen | Florist: Photosynthesis | Caterer: Boka Taco Truck, Sourdough PIzza Co Truck, Growlers to Go | Musicians: Ninja Strings (ceremony, cocktail hour) and Klaxton Brown Band | Stationer: Wedding Paper Divas | Officiant: Ernest Irby | Dress: Rue de Seine Bridal (from Everthine) | Tux: Indochino | Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo
They first met at a friend’s house to play board games. She was winning, so he flicked her game piece off the board, got up, and walked out of the room. The rest was history! They have been together for 10 YEARS since!!
By coincidence, Tenee’ and Mike both are originally from Stafford, VA (now live in Florida) and went to high school just a few miles down the road from where I went to school! Tenee’ and I were able to meet up a year before the wedding for a Starbucks date since we were in the same area. Not only do we have Stafford in common, but Tenee’ is a fine artist professor! Not that that’s my job, but I’ve always dreamed of teaching a few college classes one day. So talking to her and getting to know her was so much fun!
The day of the wedding, there was such a peace at Sorella Farms. The steady breeze gently carried the changing leaves to the ground, and the light was absolute perfection. The unique, handcrafted charm of Sorella Farms matched Tenee’ and Mike so well. You could not have asked for a more perfect day!!
With Tenee’ being an artist, the design for decor and florals was STUNNING! There were flowers hanging from the barn’s beams, antique suitcases with vintage clothes, antique china, and my favorite, the dessert table 😃 Macaroons on handmade cake stands decorated the table around the amazing cake by Angela Hudson.
The thing I loved most about their wedding day was the constant flow of happiness and emotion from Tenee’ and Mike. With Tenee’ coming down the aisle (to Jurassic Park’s theme song!!), Mike lost it! It was the sweetest thing I’ve seen. Even with being together for so long, there was not a moment they weren’t over the moon for one another in sheer bliss.
We had such a wonderful day with them, and were so honored to be a part the celebration!
–
Luke and Rachel’s story and togetherness is so lovely, genuine, and meant to be. It’s been one of those weddings where I knew going into it I would be crying the day of because of how sweet they are. The letters they wrote to one another sum up just how romantic their love is, and might make you shed some tears even if you’ve never met them in your life! A line from Luke’s letter to give you insight into these two: “And now I know I loved you long before I said the word, before I knew what it meant, and long after language stopped being enough to express my feelings for you. For our love beyond love. And when I realized that, I realized that Rachel, you truly are my soulmate.”
They met the winter of 2011 at an ugly-sweater Christmas party. Both of their friends begged them to go with them, eventually they agreed. When arriving to the party, Luke asked a friend to introduce him to people there. When Luke looked around the room as to who he wanted to meet, his eyes landed on Rachel, pointed her out and said “I want to meet her“. Sounds to me a lot like love at first sight 😃 They exchanged numbers that night and had their first date the next night! When you’ve met the one, there’s no time to lose 😉
When I received an email inquiry from Luke, I immediately knew these two were special. He said that he wanted to surprise his fiance with wedding videography for their wedding!! How adorable!! If that wasn’t sweet enough, one week later he told me that his brother actually called him and said, without even knowing Luke was surprising Rachel with videography, that HE wanted to gift them both with wedding videography! What a return in blessing!!!
The day of their wedding was nothing short of pure bliss. There was excitement in the air as we drove up to Bluemont Vineyard. A bright, sunny day with gigantic views of luscious vineyards, orchards, and surrounding mountains. What better place to celebrate two special people as this romantic venue!! There were tears of joy in every special moment of the day – the First Look, ceremony, speeches, even the dances!
We loved being a part of their sweet day and were honored to capture all of the memories made that day!
Vendors:
Venue: Bluemont Vineyard | Coordinator: Amy Thunnel / Bluemont Vineyard | Photography: Nugen Media | Cake: Cakes by Marida | Florals: Rick’s Flowers | Caterer: Savoir Fare Limited | DJ: Norman Voss | Dress: Enzoani Blue | Tux: Men’s Wearhouse | Videography: Rachael Curry Films | Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie
–
Recently graduated and bright-eyed for the future, they had no idea when they started their first job out of college in 2010 they would be meeting the person they would spend the rest of their life with!
Cass and Dave both graduated in the same class at the University of Mary Washington, but didn’t actually meet until their first day at their new job together. At work, Dave was the silly one, and Cass was the organized one who, as they put it, “actually got the work done.” Quickly, they became great friends and grew closer together as the years went on. When they were dating, Dave’s friends nicknamed Cass “The Rock” because she always balances his silly side. In turn, Dave inspires Cass to be more carefree – making them the perfect match together.
Driving up to Upper Shirley Vineyards on the wedding day had me feeling excited. Bright and clean pea gravel roads surrounded by crops and vineyards led the way to the venue, and with a warm-but-not-hot, breezy day – August doesn’t get much better than that in Virginia!
We were so excited Cass and Dave requested aerial coverage because this place is BEAUTIFUL from above! Upper Shirley Vineyards is situated on the James River across from a beautiful wildlife refuge site with lush greenery. It’s such a private, romantic, and peaceful setting for a wedding. With clean lines and southern architecture, Cass and Dave’s aesthetic perfectly matched the setting.
The ceremony was outside overlooking the water, with subtle acoustic instruments playing as guests started to arrive. Looking back, the ceremony was my favorite part of their wedding day because it matched them so well. They had fun quotes spoken by their aunt and uncle, one of which was from “When Harry Met Sally.” The officiant told the story of how they met, and then spoke a few words Cass and Dave had written about one another. Lastly, they wrote joint vows which they recited together in unison, which was SO fun and unique.
Everything about their wedding was carefully planned and put together. It felt like there were little bits and pieces of surprising entertainment that matched their personality in each part of the day. Best surprise of all – Dave’s band came out to play a set during the reception! Everyone loved it and it was a great performance at the end of the night.
We were honored to be a part of Cass and Dave’s celebration and to contribute a film that commemorates the exciting day it was! Special thanks to all of the amazing vendors involved that made their day so special 🙂
Vendors:
Venue: Upper Shirley Vineyards | Planner: Maggie Richard | Photographer: Audrey Rose Photography | Dress: Amy Kuschel from Annalise Bridal Boutique | Bridesmaids Dresses: Lula Kate from Bella Bridesmaids | Hair & Makeup: Avenue 42 | Florals: The Proper Petal | Videographer: Rachael Curry Films | Rentals: Rent-E-Quip | Groomsmen Attire: Aspetto | Invitations: By Invitation Only | Band: Bachelor Boys | Officiant: Rev. Melody Porter | Invitations: By Invitation Only | Band: Bachelor Boys | Officiant: Rev. Melody Porter
—
It started with a humble prayer when Ruth was 14 years old. She asked her Sunday School teacher to pray with her – that she would find a godly husband when the time was right. As she waited patiently through the years, she wrote letters to her future husband. Little did she know there was a boy who’s parents in Barbados were praying for a godly wife for their son. 14 years later on March 5th, 2015, that same Sunday School teacher was led to introduce her to Jamaal. That day, God spoke to Jamaal’s heart that Ruth would be his wife. Fast forward two years and here we are – the day they are married!
A quiet Tuesday morning on the river with a light drizzle of rain, but not just any day…. The day that 14 year-old Ruth’s prayer was fulfilled for good! There were deer grazing the forests and sounds of crickets as I pulled up to the park. Even though it was lightly raining, I rolled my windows down as I drove in because there was something beautiful about the mist, fog, air. I spent some moments just walking and enjoying the scenery to capture. Later I came to find the beautiful Ruth getting all ready for the ceremony!
In the hallway, Jamaal waited with his friends before the ceremony. He never stopped smiling as he was waiting! I caught a moment with Jamaal to speak to the camera about how he was feeling, and he spoke from his heart as if he were talking to Ruth. Ruth did the same when she was done getting ready, it was such a beautiful moment!
But the moments that inspired me most were the speeches given by both sets of parents. Each described how God led them to pray for their son/daughter’s future husband/wife. They also spoke of the work of God in each Ruth and Jamaals life growing up. What great testimonies!
It was such an honor being able to capture the story of Ruth and Jamaal. I can only imagine the places they will go and things they will witness in their journey as husband and wife. Congrats to Ruth and Jamaal!
VENDORS
Reception Venue:
The Woodlands at Algonkian
Photographer: Brittany Drosos
Videographer: Rachael Curry Films
Cake: Tysons Cake
Caterer: Great Blue Heron
Band: The Original Moonlighters
Dress: Befitted Tailoring
Linens: CC Linens
—
I knew Marie back in high school and when she reached out to me about doing wedding videography for her and Kyle’s wedding, I was so excited! She’s such a sweet person, and a fabulous artist herself! She also does wedding photography, so she knew the name of the game when things started to roll on her wedding day! 😃
Their wedding took place at Mount Ida Farm, with the reception in the Event Barn. The ceremony took place overlooking a beautiful pond surrounded by rolling hills of vineyards – it was so picturesque! I loved the little ring bearer and flower girl holding the “Here Comes The Bride” sign – since Marie is also a school teacher, it was sweet having small children there to celebrate with her and Kyle. All of the details and destinations chosen for their day matched Marie and Kyle so well, it was a joy to capture!
They had a great vendor team that made their day incredible!
Venue: Mount Ida Farm and Vineyards
Photographer: Kacie Deale
Videographer: Rachael Curry Films
Florist: Hedge Fine Blooms
Coordinator: Logan Powell
DJ: 20 South Productions- Mark Allen
Cake:Patricia Slebonick
Dress: Ava Laurenne
Tux: Tuxedo by Sarno
Bridesmaids Dresses: Adrianna Papell
–
Kelsea and Brian were ALL smiles on their wedding day (and probably all the time)! They were bubbling over with laughter and joy–the rain showers couldn’t even stop them from smiling! When it’s the day to marry your favorite person on the earth, I don’t think anything could have held back their joy. And that’s what I loved so much about these two.
What also stuck out to me about Kelsea and Brian is how great of friends they are together. They are seriously madly in love, but at the same time, they are silly together. There’s a child-likeness about the two of them that I love – the joy, the laughter, it’s freeing and contagious!
The story of how Brian proposed to Kelsea gives me such a happy feeling! They live in Richmond, VA , and they like to take walks around the Museum District, and always stop to hang out outside the VMFA. This is special to me because my husband and I used to do the same – evening walks around the VMFA just enjoying each other’s company and the cute little city. Brian planned a sweet picnic with just Kelsea at the VMFA. He also hired a photographer to take photos of the proposal. She was completely surprised when he bent down on one knee!
We had the opportunity to make a Documentary Feature Film for Kelsea and Brian that focused in on their love story – in longer length. We loved incorporating details about their journey – pulling from the amazing toasts that were made by the Best Man, Maid of Honor, and Father of the Bride (total tear jerker toast by the way). Their vows were also a genuine addition to their love story!
We couldn’t be happier for Kelsea and Brian, and are overwhelmed with joy that we got to work with such a sweet couple to tell their story. Enjoy the film!
VENDORS:
Ceremony: River Road United Methodist Church
Reception: Tuckahoe Woman’s Club
Wedding Coordinator: Debbie Miller with Sunshine Events
Photographer: Shelley Bordner
Cake: The Mixing Bowl Bakery
Florist: Flowers by Zoie
Caterer: Garnish Catering
Organist: Ed Schutt
DJ: Steve Mueller
Officiant: Rev. Bill Jones
Dress: Bridal Elegance
Suits: Joseph A. Banks
Bridesmaid dresses: Bridal Elegance
—
Kati and I were serendipitously connected back in June, just ONE month before their big day! Kati is an amazing artist and actually knows my sister which is how we were connected! One day I was on Instagram and saw my sister post a picture of a painting that one of her friends made for her. I thought it was lovely and started following the artist that had created it, and lo and behold, it was Kati! When Kati saw that I was a cinematographer, she reached out right away because she had actually been praying for God to lead her to someone who could shoot their day! Isn’t it crazy how God brings people together in just the right time?!
Kati and Josh first met at a friend’s wedding rehearsal (I love when people meet through weddings, it’s kind of ironic!), where they got to know each other and begin their relationship. Four years later, July 22nd, Kati and Josh were married!
With Kati being an artist, you can only imagine the goodies she planned for their gorgeous wedding day. She handmade all of the gold leafed name cards, designed everything herself (invitations, seating chart, table numbers, etc.) and had huge canvas wrapped paintings on display at their reception. What a treat to attend such a momentous, meticulously crafted event!
Holly Chaple designed all florals and when you watch their film, you may just be blown away when you see the ceremony site!! I know I was! The veil of white curtains nestled between rows and rows of pine trees that leads into the ceremony site was absolutely magical. The altar located in front of an arbor filled with peonies, dahlias, and everything heavenly and gorgeous was all set as the center focus where they would say “I do”.
Poplar Springs Inn in Warrenton, Virginia, is one of those places hidden away that everyone should make a trip to visit (they also have a spa and restaurant with amazing food!). The landscape is beautiful with long stone walls and archways shaded among gigantic century-old trees. The setting perfectly matched Kati and Josh because they both exude a sense of timelessness in their character and relationship. What better place than a romantic historic Inn to celebrate the marriage of these two!
VENDORS:
Venue: Poplar Springs Inn & Spa
Photographer: Abby Jiu Photography | Lisa Ziesing
Videographer: Rachael Curry Films
DJ: Make It County Entertainment
Floral and Design: Holly Chapple
Stationary: Sara Kate Couture
Makeup: Makeup by Kevan
Hair: Styled By Anna Fazio
Wedding Story: Wedding Story Writer