The night Rachel met Jeff, she told her friend she was going to “marry that guy”. And although she knew it, even then, it took a while for things to fall into place. And once it fell into place, it took a while to get them in the same place (and maybe for Jeff to convince Rachel to move to Buxton). But now that they are here, together, after seven years, they are finally making it official this September. Although, if you ask Rachel, it was official the first night they met.
I met Rachel while working at Daydreams Boutique in Charlottesville. We spent many a day modeling prom dresses (we were in a couple commercials for Daydreams!), re-arranging the front windows, eating arch’s frozen yogurt and Zazu’s, and listening to 106.1 the corner on the tiny radio. It was always a blast, and when I moved away to go to JMU and she moved to Buxton, I was sad we wouldn’t get to spend as much time together anymore. Getting to go to Buxton to photograph their engagement session was so much fun for me. A chance to get away, and a chance to reconnect with amazing friends. I love the life they have together in Buxton. Rachel and Jeff own their own kayak tour and ice cream shop called Fatty’s Treats and Tours, and Rachel still works at the Buxton Daydreams Boutique too. If you’re in Buxton, stop by both! And grab lunch or dinner at Shipwreck Grill next door! Rachel and Jeff took us on a kayak tour (make sure you check out the video at the end) and it was AMAZING.
Rachel and Jeff- I’m SO happy for you both. Thank you for an amazing time in Buxton. It was just what I needed to feel refreshed and relaxed. You guys are the best! - A
We started the session at the church they are getting married in- it overlooks the sound and has these beautiful little walkways that were awesome for exploring!
Rachel, you are so so gorgeous.
LOVED how they wore black and red as an homage to the hurricane colors. Living where they live, hurricanes are a very real reality and a big part of their lives. It was a way to tie that in without being too obvious.
Their last outfit was a subtle nod to their daily life. Maxi dresses, board shorts, t-shirts, and the beach. It’s who they are at their core, and they wanted photos that represented that easy, beach life they love so much.
Definitely one of my favorites!
And then… we went KAYAKING! My friend Claire came along to help me out and soak up a beach day! That’s her and Rachel!
The sun had just dipped below the horizon, and although I don’t usually do silhouette photos, this is so pretty I’m posting it!
I filmed this little video clip while Jeff and I (I use the term “I” loosely, Jeff definitely was rowing the entire time during this hahaha) were coming around the corner to the sunrise. Seriously, if you have a few hours to spare, DEFINITELY go take a tour with Fatty’s – it was gorgeous! Click the image to see the video!










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