There are memories from every wedding ingrained in my mind - moments I’ll never forget, sweet words said that will always stay in my mind. At Leonard and Elysse’s wedding, the best part of the day was that they are a family of three. Leonard’s precious daughter Karina was an integral part of the day from start to finish, when Elysse gave her special reception shoes or when she said special vows just to Karina, or when Leonard had a special dance just with his little girl. Karina, for her part, cried the whole way through the ceremony, and it was hard for anyone to hold tears back after seeing her joy come through in such a beautiful way.
It was my first wedding at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens, and the venue didn’t disappoint. Not only was the staff amazing to work with, all the gardens were fully in bloom - just wait until you see those pink roses! Theirs was one of my favorite wedding ceremonies ever, as they said their vows in front of the Perennial Garden fountain. Beyond that, I am absolutely obsessed with Elysse’s bouquet! Not only was it a cascading beauty, but she had worked since January to grow burgundy dahlia’s in her own garden just so she could incorporate them into her wedding. Plus, adding a sweet little flower comb in her hair tied the whole day (a day with details all about the flowers!) together. It was drop dead gorgeous from the first picture to the last.
Leonard and Elysse, I am incredibly grateful to you both. I am grateful for your kindness and understanding on your wedding day towards Nathan and me. I am grateful that I could be there to capture such beauty, but even more so the love that you three share. I am grateful to witness a marriage that is already well on its way to happily ever after. What an amazing day indeed.
Invitations: Vistaprint | Bride’s Dress: Maggie Sottero by Blush Bridal | Bridesmaid Dress: Lee’s Fashions | Menswear: Men’s Wearhouse | Venue: Norfolk Botanical Gardens | Day-of Coordination/DJ: Astro Entertainment | Flowers: Norfolk Wholesale Floral | Catering: Montero’s Restaurant | Cake: Michelle Wilson
