It was a scorcher of a day. Black clothing and 85 degree temps don't always feel like a winning combination. The heat couldn't stop the fun at this beautiful wedding. They tied the knot at the Historic Mankin Mansion outside of Richmond, VA. Everyone had a great time, and I want to thank Meghann for filling her newsletter with the engagement shots we took a couple weeks ago. I hope you guys have a great time in St. Lucia..

Renata and Erich were married at Cape Charles at her parent's home which was designed and fashioned as an Italian Villa. Renata's mother is not only a beautiful Italian woman but a fantastic painter. My grandmother was an oil painter who had work commissioned by various businesses in Texas where she lives. I always notice art when I enter a beautiful home. I felt comfortable and right at home with this family. Renata's sister is very good friends with Laura Gentile, a bride I photographed two plus years ago. I remember Laura and her 20's vibe. I have numerous shots on my website of she and her husband. I love weddings done at family homes. Renata is a woman that knows what she wants, and she communicated her thoughts through a beautiful design and layout. I was moved by her toasts, and her grandmother's poem nearly brought me to tears. I miss my grandmother so much, and photographing the bond between grandparents and brides is something else. I have been able to capture three very moving moments over the last month. Thank you guys for the honor of spending a day with you both. I wanted to mention that the couple danced to an instrumental song of George Winston. My wife and I enjoy listening to jazz and new age when we cook. George is fantastic and we listen to Winter into Spring quite a bit. Thank you Nate for helping with my various lighting rigs. I hope you picked up something. Here are some:

I typically like to photograph weddings as if I was a fly on the wall. I photographed the Cambodian wedding of Sophia and Saroun in Richmond, VA yesterday, and I had such a wonderful time. It always amazes me when two huge families come together as one. The couple was so showered with love from the time the day started until the finale. There were three outfit changes, numerous cultural events, and plenty of love to fill the hearts of each and every guest. It truly was an unreal event to be a part of. Thank you both for treating me like family. Just think, I ate jellyfish for the first time last night. I want to thank David Abel for assisting me. Here are quite a few of my faves: