It was a cool, crisp autumn afternoon at Fenton Inn, in Roseland, Virginia. It was quiet, but the sounds of rejoice were soon to come as Chauntey and Jason become one in marriage.
Chauntey and Jason met on Match.com. It was destiny, as right as Chauntey was about to delete her account, she got a 'wink' from some guy named Jason, and she crassly thought, let's see what this guy wants. Turns out, they got along pretty well!
They chatted for a bit on the app, before they began texting. Texting lead to calling, and a week and a half later, they met in person. Their first real date was on November 10, 2016. Jason had just finished running the Richmond marathon and could barely move. But he was insistent on going out! They ended up having dinner and seeing Step Brothers in theaters. They both had an amazing time, and it's as they say: the rest is history!
The day began with the bride and groom getting ready with their friends and family. Chauntey wore a beautiful white dress, and Jason was looking dapper in a navy blue suit. For portraits Chauntey rocked a burgundy shawl, fashionably matching Jason's vest and tie. We took a few portraits before the ceremony.
Chauntey's brother walked her down the isle, carrying their late father's work helmet as a token of remembrance. It honestly felt that their father's spirit was there with us that day, both in the tokens they carried (Chauntey having fastened his cufflink to her bouquet), and in the love and remembrance of him they shared of him throughout the day.
I'm tearing up just writing this!
Her brother gave her away, and the ceremony began with a "take 2!" (as it was a second marriage for them both), officiated by her sister. They had both written their own vows, and share them joyfully with laughs and tears of joy. Family and friends cheered as they exchanged rings, and shared their first kiss as husband and wife!
After the ceremony we proceeded to take portraits, starting with a big group photo of the newlyweds and their entire host of guests, and continuing with family and friend groupings.
After this, the sun was setting perfectly for gorgeous golden portraits of the bride and groom. "Look into the distance, majestically!"
After portraits, it was party time! The reception was held at the Devil's Backbone Brewery. It had a cool, rustic sort of vibe, and the food looked amazing. And just look at that cake - isn't it cute?!
There reception was pretty relaxed. There was a cake cutting, but aside from that people just danced, socialized, and had fun.
Finally, as the moon rose high in the sky, people slowly began trickling out, until only a few stragglers were left. Clean up time began, and I packed my bags and wishes Chauntey and Jason a fun and safe honeymoon. It was a beautiful, relaxed wedding in gorgeous western Virginia, and I couldn't have asked for a nicer, loving, couple to work with.
Good luck to you guys in all your future adventures! - Check out more photos here!