Some moments in life seem to play out like a movie…they are so beautiful and the emotion is so strong that you can’t help but feel like you’re part of something bigger, something more important than yourself alone. Three and a half years ago I was photographing Victoria and Ben’s wedding. It was one of the biggest celebrations I’d worked on to date; I still remember how warm and exciting it felt to be in the midst of Victoria’s big Greek family when she wrangled them all with a “Let’s go! It is time to get married!” And off to the church we went!
Earlier this year, Victoria and Ben called on me for a maternity session, another huge chapter in their lives was beginning. And even more recently, they reached out again. This time, the generous couple wanted me on board for their daughter’s baptism. To journey with a family like this means everything to me. 🙂
When I arrived at their home I was met by the same familiar, smiling faces…only this time, they were also the faces of proud parents! I was with them as they prepared their baby daughter for a very important day in her life: her baptism. And as I got into my car to head to St. George Greek Orthodox Church, a new version of Victoria’s words played in my mind: “Let’s go! It is time to get baby Sia baptized!”
I always thought I loved photographing weddings. And I do, don’t get me wrong! But this day made me realize that what I really LOVE is capturing families who joyously celebrate tradition and life and love!

Seeing Victoria’s mother Zoe again was a special treat. She welcomed me warmly, and assured me that I’m part of the family! 🙂

It’s impossible not to like Jennie and Pat! These two are easy-going, fun, and extremely nice. Plus they have a very sweet couple of girls, Lexi, a 12-year old Rhodesian Ridgeback mix and Diamond, an American Staffordshire Terrier! I loved spending time with all four of them during our recent Virginia Beach engagement session! We split the shoot between First Landing State Park and the beach, soaking up the sun and the outdoors on a beautiful afternoon.
Jennie and Pat (one of Match.com’s great success stories!) are currently based in DC, where Pat is a Recruiter for the Army. They’ve spent many hours on and around the National Mall; going for runs there, or seeing a museum or comedy show nearby is regular Friday Date Night fare for these two. So initially it was no surprise to Jennie when Pat wanted to make a detour to the Mall last New Year’s Eve. The couple had dinner and paint party plans, but Pat just had to see the National tree first (despite the fact that they were running a bit behind schedule)! A quick metro ride later, they were standing on the Mall as they had so many times before. But this time was going to be different. As they looked at the glowing Christmas tree, Pat began to speak about how special this place had become to him and how much he loved coming there with Jennie…and then he was down on one knee! Jennie was as surprised as a girl can be! 🙂
I’m thrilled and grateful that I’ll get to be a part of Jennie and Pat’s upcoming wedding…my first in DC wedding! Woohoo! And spend some more time with them. I feel very lucky that I’m a part of their story now…

It’s hard to put into words how special it is when past clients ask me to capture new milestones in their lives. I photographed Victoria and Ben’s wedding in 2012 (shortly after relocating from Germany to North Carolina), and it was an absolute pleasure! So when she emailed recently to tell me they were expecting and to invite me to High Point for a home session, I was delighted…and quite moved!
Victoria and Ben are a beautiful couple, with a beautiful home and growing family to match. They’re waiting to find out baby’s sex, and they’ve decided to keep name possibilities under wraps…difficult to do when you have as close-knit a family as them! I’ll never forget her “Big Fat Greek Wedding” day! It was such a joy to see them surrounded by loving, excited relatives! I could notice that their family dynamic is similar to a Brazilian family (like mine!) so I felt quite comfortable in the mix! Just before we left for the church ceremony, Victoria wrangled her relatives with a “Let’s Go! It’s time to get married!” I will never forget that. So sweet!
Doing a home session is a treat when the setting is as elegant as this one was. Victoria and Ben’s house is a mixture of contemporary and cozy, with graceful crown molding and lots of texture and personality. But I have to admit, my favorite, adorable little thing of all was puppy Moma. Ahh! What a doll! She is only allowed on the couch and bed on special occasions…I’m proud that my visit qualified, as you can see from the photos! I wish them all the best as they welcome their new addition in a few shorts weeks. Thank you from my heart for including me in your next chapter! <3

Norfolk Wedding Photographer

When a couple can break into smiles (or joyous laughter) by just looking at one another, you know they’ve got ‘the real thing’ going on! And that’s Alannah and Gabriel to a ‘T’! It’s clear that these two enjoy nothing more than being in each other’s company. They have a natural, enthusiasm that is an absolute delight to behold…especially Alannah! She is so sweet and she has the best giggle! I’m still grinning, thinking about the time we spent together during their recent engagement session in Hillsborough.
The location Alannah and Gabriel selected is pretty incredible. If you’re unfamiliar with Ayr Mount, I encourage you to take a look at the website. This beautiful 1815 home is part of the Classical American Homes Preservation Trust, which aims to celebrate historic houses and their grounds. On the day of our shoot, the fall colors were just beginning to pop, and the light was divine! I loved getting to spend time with good people at such an important and picturesque site!
Alannah and Gabriel told me that they got engaged in New Orleans this summer. Ooh la la! Gabriel is from Louisiana, and he wanted to show Alannah where he grew up; he proposed the first night they were there, just the two of them. I love it when couples find ways to honor their pasts, even as they take big steps forward together. Life can get crazy sometimes…but when you’re able to share who you are and where you came from with someone else, that craziness is somehow lessened. I’m so happy for these two sweet and thoughtful individuals and thrilled about their October, 2016 wedding. Please enjoy these photos of a truly special husband and wife to be.

Ayr Mount Engagement Photos