I love it when I have the opportunity to photograph a wedding for a friend, former student or BOTH! And so when the day finally arrived for Emma’s wedding to Zach, I was pretty pumped! They had an intimate Virginia mountain / valley wedding at Zach’s parents’ home in the western part of Virginia. It was a gorgeous start to the day and yes, the weather was going to change, but it barely phased these two!
It wasn’t my typical full wedding day coverage so I started with hugs and a little time with Emma and her bridesmaids and praying. Then I photographed Zach right before their first look!
Ahh what a sweet moment it was too!
After their first look, we spent some time taking some romantic couples’ portraits on the property. We could see the clouds building, but no rain yet! In fact, it was so pleasant outside for a July day.
Emma and Zach were so at ease on his parents’ property, just enjoying the day and each other. They’ve enjoyed each other’s company since they first met. In fact…
In Emma’s words, this is how she describes how they met for the first time… “Zach and I saw each other for the first time in an Art Class at JMU. He was the only boy in the whole class and I noticed him, but was too shy to talk to him.”
“We ended up reconnecting years later on Hinge. Our first date was a picnic on Skyline Drive, the day before the Governor declared the stay at home order for Covid. We hit it off right away and had a very unique dating experience during quarantine. There was nothing else to do except go on outdoor adventures and visit family.”
“We got to know each other quickly and authentically. We were thankful that there weren’t the bells and whistles of impressive date nights, instead just meaningful conversation and memories being made. We are so excited for this next chapter together!”
Later in the evening, Emma’s maid of honor would even recount how Emma texted her on their first date with the words, “I’M GOING TO MARRY THIS GUY.” I think they both knew right away on that first date…an outdoor adventure, of course!
So after their portrait time together, we photographed the bridal party portraits. You couldn’t ask for a ssweeter and more supportive group!
And they were all ready to be there beside Emma and Zach, come rain or shine!
We could see the clouds building and it looked like a good chance we were going to get a storm, with ark Sky confirming it. But there was enough time to get everyone seated and get going!
The ceremony began with florals and music and guests happily greeting one another.
Once Emma walked down the aisle, they began their ceremony.
Not too far in, the storm began to move in and the wind picked up, so everything had to move under the tent.
As we all assembled under the tent, Emma and Zach said their vows before God, their family and friends.
And then they sealed it with a prayer and a kiss! And then…there was a gorgeous rainbow!!!! A double rainbow, at that! Wow!
After the rainbow and family portraits, the reception began with dancing under the tent. It was cozy and romantic!
Zach also danced with his mother and Emma with her father…always one of my favorite moments of the wedding day!
Then the Best Man and Maid of Honor toasts revealed to everyone the character of these two newlyweds and just how much they have in common as well. They were some of my favorite toasts ever, full of witty puns and all!
Everyone danced the night away, celebrating Emma and Zach!
Congratulations!
Congratulations Emma and Zach! I’m so happy for you both. God bless your marriage!
Keep scrolling for more highlights from their wedding day. And thank you to these wonderful folks who helped make their day so special:
Florals: C and C Designs | Hair and Make Up: Sara Dodson | Wedding Gown: BHLDN | Menswear: J Crew | Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie | Catering: Take Out 250 | Desserts: Duck Donuts | Reception Decor: Divine Events
Michelle with Lieb Photographic is a Northern Virginia Wedding Photographer a Charlottesville Wedding Photographer and Photographs destinations worldwide. To see more weddings and engagement sessions in the Leesburg area, view the Leesburg Wedding Venues page. If you’d like to explore some of my favorite wedding venues in the Virginia and Washington D.C. areas, view the Wedding Venues page.
