It never ceases to amaze me the way God has a way of answering prayers on our hearts, things that we may not be actively praying for, but are hoping for nonetheless.
Case in point: early June, I casually mentioned to my husband that I would love to document an elopement one day. I’ve loved the intimacy of the small weddings I’ve had the honor to photograph, and I knew the spontaneity of an elopement would make that experience even more special to be part of.
And then comes an email from Rachel. Such a sweet email, in fact, that I thought it may be a hoax. How could it be that a bride in Fairfax finds me in Charlottesville and thinks I’m the one to photograph her elopement? Let’s just say when I realized she was indeed real, amazingly kind, and had such a unqiue love story with her fiance, a million thank yous were sent up to Him that day.
Mid-June, after a month of being engaged, Rachel and Stephen decided that a traditional large wedding wasn’t for them. By June 28, they were surrounded by their closest family and friends as they exchanged their vows and began their life as husband and wife. Seeing how their families came together to give them such a special wedding day was a beautiful thing. From the looks of it (gorgeous ceremony site, beautiful bouquets by Sweet Root Village, delicious gourmet food) no one would have guessed it had all come together in a week.
Rachel and Stephen, the love and happiness you two share is oozing from every image, and I’m so grateful I was able to be part of your special day. All the best to you and your sweet family as you venture into this new chapter of your lives!
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Susan Thorson - These pictures are beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing them. We pray all of God’s deep blessings on Rachel and Stephen.
Susan (and Doug) Thorson
Bethanie Mintz - WOW! What beautiful photos! And it looks like it was a beautiful day as well! And in the end YOU ARE MARRIED! Congratulations! We share in your joy and elation! May God richly bless you both as you start your lives together! Thanks for sharing these with us!
Martha Weaver - These pics are as beautiful as you are, Rachel! You look like a bouquet of white gardenias and sunshine. Best wishes and loving prayers for a blessed married life together with your love, Stephen.
Uncle David - The photos are beautiful. Congratulations!!!!
Angela, Jim, Hannah, Olivia, Isaac and Emilia Sadler - Rachel, it seems like yesterday you lived with us in Naples, Italy and visited us in Brussels, Belgium. We love you and are so happy for you and Stephen. Jesus is shining through both of you. We love the photos. They capture your special day so eloquently and reflect your style which is classy, creative and beautiful. We move to England in August. Please bring your family for a visit. Much love, the Sadler Family
Hosanna - I am so glad the Balls found you to capture this special day, for you have a special gift to show the joy that was their that day. Thank you!!!!
Lindsey Zovko - Thank you for your kind words, Hosanna! Their joy was infectious, and it was awesome to be able to capture that in camera.
Laura Briggs - These are beautiful pictures of a joyful, grace-filled couple. Thanks for sharing.
Dawn Opie - Rachel,
You look absolutely stunning, and so elated! I love the photography, capturing your most special day. We are so happy for you all. God’s richest blessings on you!
The Opies