smithfield winery

Smithfield Winery Wedding | Smithfield Wedding Photographer | John + Lauren

Smithfield Winery Wedding | Smithfield Wedding Photographer | John + Lauren

John and Lauren are two wonderful individuals, but together they clearly make each other better. Both were a little nervous as they got ready to see each other one one of the prettiest days of the year, but their expressions and excitement at the first look were all worth the wait. They instantly relaxed, completely confident in their choice of their forever partner. Lauren’s smile could not have been bigger, and John treated her like the princess she is all day long.

The Smithfield Winery is one of the best wedding venues in Hampton Roads. The modern but rustic interior makes everything and everyone look instantly gorgeous, and beautiful natural light flows in from all angles. Everly After Events made the space absolutely perfect, with elegant florals, copper chargers, and cute little touches like a fun DIY photobooth and dog treat bags for guests with furry family members at home. If the day was beautiful the night was even more so, twinkle lights and all. Customized donuts and a harpist who played some of the prettiest wedding music I’ve heard were just the cherry on top of a stunning and memorable day…

Best of Weddings 2018 | Business

Best of Weddings 2018 | Business

Being a wedding photographer was not something I grew up even knowing I wanted to do. It wasn’t until I met my brother’s wedding photographer, who has five kids and a thriving business, that I made up my mind to pursue this as a job. At the time I thought that maybe it would grow. Maybe it would become a part time thing that I could justify doing while caring for kids. Maybe, maybe, maybe.

Yet here I am, almost 6 years later, a wedding photographer for the best people I can imagine. It is an honor to be the person who captures the most special day in their lives. It’s amazing when couples ask their friends and family to put down their phones and be present in the moment, because they trust me to capture everything important. It’s a gift that I can give not just the couples, but their families, children, and grandchildren. What an honor. It is never lost on me.

Smithfield Winery Wedding | Smithfield Wedding Photographer | Kenny + Mackenzie

Smithfield Winery Wedding | Smithfield Wedding Photographer | Kenny + Mackenzie

For a long time Kenny and Mackenzie didn't look twice at each other. He was just the guy who worked for her dad, and she was away at college. But on one fateful day several years ago Kenny made a trip to visit her and they began to fall in love over Mellow Mushroom pizza and rich conversations. Eventually they would begin dating, get engaged, and buy a house together, but they never could have predicted any of it would happen when they first laid eyes on each other.

Their wedding day was uniquely gorgeous and absolutely relaxed from start to finish. They had the privilege of being the FIRST wedding at the Smithfield Winery and after seeing the setup, I know brides will be flocking to this stunning new venue! Blush peonies were the highlight of Mackenzie's all-wood bouquet (no, I'm not kidding!) and her dress was simply amazing, with all-over lace and a train that stretched for miles. Beyond that, these two took the most of every opportunity for pictures (I counted at least 4 separate times we took bride and groom portraits!) and they prioritized fun and comfort over stress on a day that flowed smoothly throughout…