Valerie and Sam, where to begin?! First thing to note is that yes, this is a real couple, and no, they are not in fact models hired for a wedding magazine.

When Val first reached out to discuss their wedding day plans, I immediately searched up Ardenwood Historic Farms and started to envision all the dreamy photos we were going to capture. Shooting at a new venue is always challenging, but it also brings such a unique mixture of nerves and excitement that I always welcome.

I photographed their engagement session a few months prior, so the anticipation for their day had definitely been building. When I first saw Val put her dress on I was really and truly speechless. She was a vision. A goddess in a Martina Liana dress - a dress seemingly created with her in mind. A friend did her makeup, she did her own hair, and the vibe in her hotel room that morning was so relaxed and carefree. I knew it was going to be such a beautiful, go-with-the-flow kinda day. My favorite.

Sam and Val met up for their first look at Ardenwood and it was full of feels. Their love is such a contrast of sweet and spice, steady yet passionate. I could fill this whole album with moments captured of Sam just quietly watching Val in awe. The day ebbed and flowed exactly as I expected, filled with touching moments and contagious laughter. Also, this sunset shoot was one photographers can only dream of. Hope you enjoy this recap as much as I enjoyed capturing it.

Makeup: Adria Jeremy (friend)

Floral: Bloomsbay

Venue: Ardenwood Historic Farms

Dress: Flares Bridal + Martina Liana Bridal

Video: Trevor Hooper

DJ: DJ RyanO