The anticipation was palpable as the wedding day for J & J unfolded under the radiant summer skies. Despite initial concerns about the sweltering heat (I mean… last day of May in gorgeous suits?! I was sweating for the grooms in advance!), Mother Nature had other plans, bringing cool temperatures and low humidity for the celebration!
As vendors and friends bustled around the picturesque Shadow Creek Wedding venue, getting everything ready for the joyous occasion, the wedding party soon arrived, brimming with excitement. J & J’s decision to get ready together set the tone for the day, allowing them to share in the thrill of slipping into their sharp suit jackets and slipping the final touches into jacket pockets! Their pocket boutonnieres couldn’t have been more of a special touch!
Their infectious joy and anticipation to officially become husbands radiated through the air, creating a palpable energy that would carry on throughout the celebrations.
Soon, the wedding party joined the couple, and I had the pleasure of meeting this delightful group – a collection of J & J’s favorite people who were not only there to support them but also to lend a helping hand.
This wedding party was a true reflection of the couple, full of laughter, enthusiasm, and a genuine desire to ensure everything ran smoothly. Not only did they make portrait time so much fun, but they also were there every step of the way to make the day easier! From coordinating tasks to finalizing reception decor to enjoying the dance floor celebrations, this crew was down for it ALL!
As the guests began to arrive, J & J welcomed them with a lively social hour on the patio and lawn of Shadow Creek.
Similar to a cocktail hour, this was the perfect opportunity for loved ones to mix, mingle, and indulge in delectable snacks and fun lawn games! This added such a warm and welcoming touch to their day and made the kickoff of the celebration with their loved ones that much more special! Adding a unique touch, the couple had set up a table where guests could stash their funny hats for safe keeping until it was time for the German Wedding March during the reception. (More on this in a minute!)
When it was time for the ceremony, the grooms took a moment to freshen up, anticipation building as they prepared to walk down the aisle.
J & J’s dear friend, who had the privilege of living with them for a few months in the past, officiated the ceremony, offering a deeply personal and insightful perspective on the couple’s relationship.
The grooms opted for a unique setup, with the celebrant standing in the middle of the aisle, allowing them to stand side by side, facing their guests. This arrangement created a truly intimate and immersive experience, enabling the guests to witness the grooms’ reactions as they heard their friend’s heartfelt words, while also allowing the couple to see the faces of their loved ones.
As the ceremony unfolded, the grooms turned to each other and exchanged their personally written vows, sealing their union with a joyous declaration of love and commitment.
J & J’s Shadow Creek wedding continued in a flurry of festivities, with guests enjoying cocktails and lawn games on the patio before heading inside to their dinner tables.
Embracing the J’s love for plants, the couple had thoughtfully included pet-safe greenery as the centerpieces, offering guests the opportunity to take them home at the end of the night. This personalized touch exemplified the couple’s dedication to creating an event that was not only beautiful but also inclusive and meaningful (Even for the furry family members at home!).
As the reception kicked off, the guests were treated to a series of heartfelt toasts, celebrating the newlyweds. Then, it was time for the much-anticipated German Wedding March! Led by one of the groom’s family members, the guests eagerly snagged their silly hats and linked arms, filling the air with a celebratory atmosphere as they danced around the stunning indoor space of Shadow Creek. The guests then circled up around the grooms who took the floor for their first dance as a married couple, surrounded by their loved ones.
Soon, their moms joined them for parent dances, and as they danced to I’ll Stand By You surrounded by so much support, you better believe that I was grabbing for the tissues in my lens bag.
As the sun began to set, casting a soft, gorgeous glow, I had the opportunity to whisk the grooms away for a series of portraits.
Now is a great time to mention that one of the grooms was nursing a recent ankle injury… and when I say it was rough I mean… I’m not sure HOW he made it through the day if I’m being honest. After dancing arm in arm with their loved ones, he somehow made it outside to enjoy the light blue and pink skies and rolling Virginia hills!
These two happily posed and smooched their way through sunset photos, their unwavering joy and love radiated through every frame, creating a truly breathtaking set of images. (I mean that sky tho!!!) Even with a nearly broken ankle, these cuties brought it in front of the camera!
As the newlyweds returned to the reception, the dance floor was already in full swing, with guests eagerly indulging in music and libations. It was clear that J & J are deeply loved by their nearest and dearest, and their guests were more than ready to celebrate the couple’s union with enthusiasm.
From the moment I arrived at Shadow Creek, I knew this would be a wedding day that would stick with me for a long time.
Filled with joy, sunshine, and an abundance of hilarious hats, J & J’s celebration was a true reflection of their love – relaxed and surrounded by the people they cherish the most.
Throughout the day, I was struck by the couple’s unwavering commitment to creating an event that was not only beautiful but also deeply personal and inclusive. From the thoughtful centerpieces to the German Wedding March, every element of the day was imbued with the couple’s unique personalities and a genuine desire to make their guests feel celebrated and valued.
As I look back on the memories captured at this Shadow Creek day, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude. Not only was I honored to witness the union of two incredible individuals, but I was also inspired by the way they chose to commemorate their love – with infectious laughter, heartfelt emotion, and a steadfast dedication to cherishing every moment as a couple!
I so hope you enjoy scrolling through J & J’s beautiful wedding day!
But first… a quick thank you to their amazing vendor team:
Venue: Shadow Creek | Catering: PIGS | Floral Design: Rick’s Flowers | Reception Entertainment: Dream Day DJs
Thank you, J & J! It was such an honor to photograph your wedding day!
35mm Scans:
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