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I equip purpose-driven entrepreneurs and photographers to turn their story into connection—and their gifts into lasting impact.

hey friends, i'm katelyn

We were watching the weather channel just like the rest of the East Coast this entire past week. I honestly think that the Weather Channel people secretly LOVE Hurricanes. It’s so exciting to them. It’s like they try not to act all giddy while talking about projections and wind speeds but secretly, their nerdy sides LOVE having a big storm to follow! Well, I’m all for a good storm too…. just not when it’s going to impact a wedding day. One of the sweetest couples to date got married this past Saturday and we had been hoping all week that the rain would disappear but it didn’t…. and you know what…. IT WAS TOTALLY FINE!

Caitlin never emailed me in panic mode… she never showed stress or worry even while it poured during hair and makeup and she could see it through the window… she never even showed hesitation about getting her dress dirty. I was shocked and honored at the same time. It’s almost like she knew that if she just trusted me, she would still have beautiful pictures and I cannot express how amazing that feels on a wedding day!! Ray and Caitlin were amazing and their wedding day was an absolute blast. Family, friends and guests celebrated with them for hours and hours despite the weather and it was perfect!

Their pup Cooper was the ring bearer and one of their good friends officiated the ceremony. The rain cleared for about 5 minutes and we had a chance to get the two MAIN shots I really wanted (with the overlook and the vintage truck). And if their day wasn’t already awesome enough, then Caitlin’s Maid and Matron of honor toasted…. BRIDESMAIDS style. The whole room was dying of laughter.

And then of course there was the surprise finale… you can’t forget the FINALE! It was amazing! Ray and Caitlin heard the POPS happening outside of the venue and so they rushed to the edge of the pavilion and SURPRISE! Ray’s dad had a fireworks show for them!!! I scrambled and had just enough time to capture some of my FAVORITE fireworks shots to date!!

Before we left the house, Michael told me I should bring my rain boots and I’m so glad I did. I wore them ALL day…. AND they matched the bridesmaids dresses! I wish I could say I planned that! :) Michael and I felt so honored that we were the ones entrusted with capturing the memories of this day!! I’m so excited to share Ray and Caitlin’s big day with you!!

And ps. You may recognize a past KJ couple in these pictures!!! Michael and Laura, you two are just the best and such a joy to spend time with too!!! Love you guys!

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Gosh, Caitlin you are seriously stunning!

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Headphones in watching a video from Ray! The sweetest thing!

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Cooper got a last name change too! :)

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Just. the. sweetest.

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This porch was our saving grace!!!

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No rain for a few minutes?! We took as mainly portraits as humanly possible!

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This is an Irish Bell (right) that was a part of an Irish bell tradition during the ceremony!

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Surprise! Fireworks!!!!

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Dress Store | Posh Bridal

Dress Designer | Martina Liana

Venue | Shenandoah Woods

Coordinator | Jenny Keen

Catering | The Early Katering Company

Hair + MakeUp | SAS Studio & Salon

Florals | Rick’s Flowers

DJ | Marc Augenbraum DJ Services

Entertainment Services | Y.it Entertainment

Videographer | Michael & Laura Photography

Guest Cinema Service | Story Mix Media

Invitations | Minted

Photo Booth | Tip Top Photo Booth

To view other 2015 weddings, click HERE!

To view their engagement session, click HERE!

To view what equipment we use, click HERE!

A Teal Inspired Shenandoah Valley Wedding in Luray Virginia by Katelyn James Photography

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I’m a photography educator, business builder, podcaster, and entrepreneurial cheerleader, I equip entrepreneurs to create a business and life they love—all while being a wife and momma to four, plus one in heaven.

Hi, I'm Katelyn

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