I think that part of being a “good” wedding photographer is ensuring that you make the couple you’re working with feel comfortable in front of the camera. This, as you can imagine, leads to more natural images and sparks chemistry throughout their session. And the easiest way for a couple to be comfortable in front of the camera is for them to know and trust their photographer! So when I first started in the wedding industry many years ago, I believed that the only way to get to know one another/build that trust was by doing an engagement session. But over the years, my mindset has changed drastically.

Take Monica and Chris, for instance, who were married in a gorgeous Chesapeake Bay Beach Club wedding this spring. These two currently live in Los Angeles where Monica is getting her Masters Degree at Berkeley — but with their families residing here in the DMV, they wanted to be married back where they truly call home. Being out on the west coast, we didn’t have the opportunity to meet in person before the big day so we technically met on their wedding day for the first time. I say technically because we’ve Skyped and emailed countless times…. and don’t even get me started on how much I love stalking their dogs on social media… so these two felt like anything but strangers! Both greeted me like an old friend and were even thoughtful enough to bring me a bag of Baci — on THEIR wedding day! — after learning of my love for baccio gelato!

But it was at their first look where I knew I had truly found my people. An adorable Newfoundland puppy was waiting to walk by, so as to not interrupt their photos, when Chris asked to pause their interaction so they could pet the dog. Anyone who knows me knows that my husband and I would do the exact same thing — we often joke that we got a dog just so we can pet other dogs without being awkward =P

Monica and Chris, I truly couldn’t have asked for a pair of more gracious and generous “strangers” to spend the day with! You two are such a joy and, like Jordan said during his speech, I cannot wait to watch your lives through the Instagram accounts of your dogs and imagine you doing activities along with them :) :) We can’t wait to have you back here on the east coast!

A huge thank you to these vendors for making Chris & Monica’s wedding amazing! And to Erin Schrad Photography for being an awesome second shooter!

Ceremony & Reception Venue | Chesapeake Bay Beach Club
Coordinator | Jillian with Elle Ellinghaus Designs
Rentals | White Glove
Invitation Suite | Minted with Wild Hearts Calligraphy
Calligraphy | Just Ink on Paper
Hair & Makeup | Behind the Veil Beauty
Florist | Rhonda Kaplan
Cake | Kupcakes & Co
DJ | Events Beyond Expectations
Bridal Boutique | Bridal Galleria
Dress Designer | Romona Keveza
Jewelry | Haute Bride
Groomsmen Attire | The Black Tux