When Marco landed in Virginia just a few short weeks ago, he was about to embark on a whirlwind adventure that started with meeting Lydia’s family for the very first time, even though they were getting married in less than a month! Marco is from Peru, and he met Lydia when she followed God’s calling there without any intention of leaving with a husband. Their joy over God’s goodness and all their answered prayers was the main theme of the day, and it’s what made their wedding over-the-top beautiful.
Because of their unique circumstances, Marco and Lydia chose to have two receptions - one directly after their ceremony so the whole church could celebrate, followed by an intimate family dinner at Norfolk Botanical Garden, with the added bonus of portraits all around the beautiful end-of-summer blooms. My favorite part of the day was their first look. Lydia promised she would make him cry, but Marco had no idea she meant to record special messages from the friends and family who couldn’t travel internationally but still wanted to be a part of his special day. Between the videos playing on his phone, their special song in the background, and seeing his beautiful bride dressed in white, tears were quickly rolling down his face.
With rose gold details galore, two different grand exits (streamers and glowsticks!), and loads of sun-soaked portraits, Marco and Lydia’s day was heartfelt, memorable, and filled with joy from beginning to end.
Marco and Lydia, there are no words to explain how happy I am for you both! Seeing your story is just another confirmation that God’s timing is the best, and we can trust Him to answer our prayers in the best possible way. Enjoy each moment as husband and wife, and know that the best is yet to come!
Invitations: Vistaprint | Dresses: David's Bridal | Suits: Men's Wearhouse | Hair: Tint Salon (Kristen Edgar) | Planner: Chae Kinsey | Ceremony: Colonial Baptist Church | Reception: Norfolk Botanical Garden | Catering: Montero’s Restaurant | Videographer: Dogwood Visual
Lydia chose to have their first look inside so their song could play over the loudspeakers when Marco turned around…and it was so worth all the thought and effort she put into that moment!
It blew me away that Lydia’s dad built the ceremony arch himself! What a beautiful addition to the wedding!
With the ceremony and reception #1 finished, a smaller group headed to Baker Hall at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens…but not before some gorgeous portraits with that amazing light!
We couldn’t leave the Gardens without taking advantage of the last bit of sunset light!
Congratulations, Marco and Lydia!
