Grant & Rachel

Last year we shot Grant’s sister's wedding, and Grant was actually her videographer. So we quickly got to know him and we LOVED his spirit and energy. When he reached out and told us that he was engaged, we were SO excited. Despite knowing I'd be 37 weeks pregnant, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to be there to capture these two! We delayed my maternity leave and we are SO glad we did! They planned the most beautiful wedding on a friend’s property here in central Virginia, just outside of Lynchburg. Every detail was so thoughtful and intentional, and both families jumped in to help make the day so special.

Grant and Rachel said so over and over again that they wanted this to be a big party that was just a lot of fun as they celebrated their story and what God has done! Every detail of the day was put through that filter. I don't think either of them stopped smiling the whole day!

Rachel's dad, who is deaf, performed the ceremony in ASL. I don't think I've ever seen something so beautiful as Grant and Rachel not only speaking their vows to one another, but signed it as well. It felt as if their whole body and being was committing themselves to the other. It was an incredible thing to witness.

They decided to do a first look before the ceremony to have a private moment to pray together. They allowed us to sneak them away after the ceremony for husband and wife portraits, sunset portraits, AND one final shot after it got dark with the starry skies behind them. Here’s the secret, though: It’s not just about the photos! As Grant said later on in the night, "I've really enjoyed these little pockets of photos to get away and have a private moment." It’s as much about reconnecting as husband and wife, and being reminded what the day is really all about, as it is about getting those amazing golden hour photos!

It was such an honor to be there to capture their memories. We know that the Lord has some incredible plans for the two of them and we cannot wait to see them unfold.