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We met them for the first time in Laguna Beach, CA for their engagement session. We quickly fell in love with these two. Their story, their smiles, their joy…. we loved it all. After seven years together, Matt and Samantha became husband and wife on Saturday!! As we started shooting their day, I walked into the hotel suite, hugged Sam and then asked her how she was feeling. Her immediate response was “I’m just ready to see him”. This is understandable… especially for these two. Every moment counts. They don’t have much time together in this season of life because of Matt’s training and Sam finishing law school. Talk about a BUSY schedule!! They have a lot going on right now and so the moments that they do get to share together are so precious. Their first look was enough to draw tears. The way Matt embraced Sam after seeing her for the first time was so powerful.
He just couldn’t stop saying how beautiful she was and she couldn’t get a word out because she was holding back the tears. This was such a joyful moment!! After a few minutes of hugs, kisses and more hugs, Matt prayed with Samantha. I can’t think of a better way to begin their wedding day together!
Friends came in from all over to celebrate alongside of these two and it was quite the celebration! The weather was absolutely perfect and the day went off without a hitch…. and that’s all thanks to Anna Burke Events! We couldn’t have done this day alone and we’re so thankful that Anna had everything under control.
I don’t think Matt and Samantha ever stopped smiling over the course of last Saturday. Watching their joy automatically made me happy! Michael and are so honored that we were able to capture this amazing day. It’s not officially wedding season and this was such a wonderful way to kickoff the season!! Enjoy some of my favorites!!
Sam’s wedding dress has such a cool backstory! It was donated to her by Brides Across America! This is such an amazing organization that donates wedding gowns to military wives!
LOVED these Kate Spades!
Stunning Sam!
You’re such a classic beauty!! 
Love this!!
The time has come….
Such sweet moments!
He couldn’t stop staring at her:) …. This is Michaels shot by the way. I’ve got to give credit where credit is due!
And then I took a risk and we shot these on the side of a highway… and they were worth it! 
FAVORITE! 
And this is Michael’s angle…. I’m so proud!!! Love this!
Another Michael shot…. is it just me or is my husband pretty good at this? :)
Of course we had to find some blossoms! Thank goodness for well manicured neighborhoods! 
I love this! Such joy!!
Time to get this bridal party together!!
Wowsers! It was a full house!
Love this detail shot from Michael’s point of view!
These “scream and shout” shots seem a little more intense when swords are involved! Ah!
Look at that smile! 
She’s getting MARRIED!!!
Married!!!
I’d say they’re excited!
The Mr. & Mrs.!
Quick shot with the flower girl and ring bearer!
And then we snuck out for golden hour!! On golf carts! 
Canvas worthy!
The light! It was perfect! 
Ceremony | The Pavilion at Brambleton Regional Park
Reception | The Pavilion at Brambleton Regional Park
Florists | Diana Campbell at Jerry’s Flowers
Dress | Bella Sera Bridal
Dress Designer | Allure Bridals
Shoes | Kate Spade
Bridesmaids | Weddington Way Designer: WTOO
Groomsmen | BLACK by Vera Wang
DJ | Chris Laich Music Services
Coordinator | Anna Burke
Hair & Makeup | Jordan K Winn & Co.
Invitations | Ann’s Bridal Bargains
Favors | Yummies Candy & Nuts
Catering | Famous Dave’s BBQ & Great Blue Heron Catering
Thanks for reading!
— Katelyn
MORE RECENT POSTS
There has never been a year quite like 2020. It started off so normal, so simple and so carefree. Then, March/April hit and it felt like everything was turned upside down!
Another month. I had forgotten just how fast it goes when they are this tiny. One minute they are in 0-3 month clothes and the next you’re unpacking 6month options!
How is it MARCH already in 2021?! This year is flying by and we’re getting closer and closer to the beginning of wedding season! At least we are here in Virginia! It’s my honor to get to introduce you to some of our KJ Students who are doing the hard work of educating themselves and growing their businesses! My hope is that their stories and advice will be an encouragement to anyone wanting to grow and feel confident before wedding season picks up!
Welcome to a brand new installment of KJ Student Spotlight!! It’s always a good day on the blog when we get to introduce you to some of our students and share their wins and advice!!! These three students have taken courses, watched Youtube episodes, are KJ All Access members, use our templates and have invested in themselves time and time again in order to grow their businesses! They deserve this recognition!!!
Here it is! Post one of twelve! I’m committing, once again, to blogging my favorite images each month of Everett’s first year and I’m excited about it because I know from past experience that this is truly the BEST motivation and accountability to stay on top of family editing!!
It’s hard to believe I’m writing this… my fourth birth story in four years. I’ve given birth in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. Just typing that makes me tired….. and so grateful…. unbelievably grateful. These last four years have been the best and hardest of my life. We cherish being parents and welcoming a new baby is hands down the most incredible thing we have ever experienced in our 18 years together. I’m so excited to introduce you to our newest member of our family and tell you the story of how he came into this world!
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