Renee + Ryan | Keswick Vineyards, Charlottesville, Virginia Wedding Photographers

He paced the room, circling the pool table, past the double french doors, and back to the bookshelf. Flipping the little yellow cards in his hands over and over, reciting and re-reciting his vows. For today, they weren’t just words on a piece of paper, but promises. They had to be perfect, as perfect as she is to him. He pulled them out again, moments before she approached him to tap him on the shoulder and say hello, and he thought about how lucky he was to be in this moment. And as he turned around and was able to see her as his bride, he realized he was far luckier than just in this moment, for she was his for a lifetime.

She stood before their closest friends and family, and read words from little blue cards expressing her vows for Ryan. To be quiet when needed, louder when necessary, to give him space in case of minor injury, to love him ferociously and give her heart to him. Yesterday, they were just words on a piece of paper, but today they were promises for a life together.

Renee and Ryan, we are so, SO happy for you both. Renee, it has been a true honor to be a friend of yours since middle school (MIDDLE SCHOOL), and to see you grow into the self-assured, thoughtful and wonderful person you are. It was no surprise to me when you found someone your equal in all of those regards. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of the day, it means so much to me. Have a BLAST in Mexico!- A

 

Ceremony + Reception: Keswick Vineyards

Catering: 20 South (fun fact: the general manager Jim was also a high school classmate of mine and Renee’s! The food was BEYOND AMAZING. Seriously, I’m still dreaming about the shrimp n grits!)

Florals: A New Leaf Florist + Renee’s Mom

DJ: Dj Derek Tobler

Cakes: Hot Cakes + Renee’s Mom

Dress: Wtoo by Watters at Betsy Robinson’s

Shoes: Calvin Klein

Hair: Event Hair by Lauren

 

Gorgeous gorgeous ladies!

Renee and Ryan chose to do a First Look and I am so thankful and happy they did. Not only are their First Look photos so intimate and beautiful, but we were able to get all of the family formals and portraits done before the ceremony even started! Renee and Ryan were able to enjoy cocktail hour with all their friends and family!

Because Renee and Ryan chose to do a First Look and had built in plenty of time before the ceremony, we were able to explore the absolutely gorgeous Keswick Vineyards to the fullest! We could have shot here all day!

EEEK. Renee, seriously.

Time for more bridal party!

We usually don’t post family formals, but I wanted to share these as an example of when a bride and groom really trust us to choose the best location for family photos. The lighting and backdrop was PERFECT here!!

A toast before the ceremony!

Following the ceremony, we were able to get more Renee + Ryan time during sunset. It was so wonderful having the ability to use the property and really have a ton of time for portraits! I’m OBSESSED with this one!

 

Hands down, one of my favorite wedding images ever. Ohhhh Charlottesville winery weddings, I adore you.

Renee and her mom did an amazing job of including decor and details that really reflected Renee and Ryan as a couple, while still being SO elegant and well executed.

Sigh. I truly do miss home. You just don’t see stars like that out in the city.