That's what Tonya and Marc were looking for when we met to discuss their wedding in August 2021. For their special day, they knew what their priorities were - to be surrounded by their closest family, to have their vows captured, and to have a variety of photos with those they loved the most!

I was so thrilled to be the one to do all those things and more for them on their wedding day. I met with them in August of 2021 for their wedding in April 2022 - definitely always best to book far in advance! I spent months getting ready, planning their family portraits, and just getting so excited for their big day.

Small and simple is always a classic and beautiful way to go, especially when the venue picked is as stunning as Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens in Richmond VA!

Tonya looked absolutely stunning in her lace wedding dress.

She was also sporting a very special, sentimental item - a ring from her grandmother. How sweet!

Marc was dressed in a complimentary grey with blush boutonniere made of wood - how neat is that??

His groomsmen - his two sons - were dressed similarly and stood by his side as he said "I do"

The Vows

I always struggle not to cry when the vows are being said. It was doubly hard not to break into tears while hearing Tonya & Marc's love being expressed in their own words, especially when Tonya started crying! So beautiful, I still get chills!

They were surrounded by their amazing family every step of the way. Every single person was so nice and so welcoming to Chris and I as we captured their moments together. There were lots of laughs, lots of smiles, and lots of love!

Marc loves the Love sign that the Botanical Garden houses and knew for sure he wanted a photo there. His wish was my command!

and of course I love the little details. The wooden guestbook that they can hang, the corresponding chocolate kisses and sign, their rings, the cake - there wasn't a part of this wedding that wasn't perfect!