The beautiful moments of these two exchanging vows was precious, especially seeing their little girls eyes light up when they were pronounced husband and wife. Their wedding was held in a picturesque garden setting with the rain falling down behind the happy couple as they exchanged their vows just inside the threshold of the contemporary barn.



Jay and Kyla came into my life years ago as clients wanting some photos of their little girl, Macy. After building this relationship over the years, I was so thankful they asked me to photograph their big day. Well, their big day finally rolled around and it was a perfect storm, literally. These two embraced their day full of heavy thunderstorms like a boss. As we arrived on site at their getting ready cottages tucked away in Quinton, Virginia, we were greeted by strong winds, dark skies and moisture in the air. They were so relaxed given the circumstances. You could tell their sole focus was each other, not the weather.


First Look was surrounded by teary eyes, windy conditions and a few lightning strikes in the distance. Most of all, it was a beautifully intimate moment between the two, Jay's eyes perking up when he turned around to see his gorgeous bride. We headed to the venue about 15 minutes away; traveling through a monsoon. Once we arrived at the private venue, which is a large estate nestled in the middle of Mechanicsville countryside, we were greeted by fragrant florals, a live painter setting up her art station, serene rain, and giant oak trees.


The time finally came for Jay to lay eyes on his stunning bride walking down that isle towards him. First glance at Jay, I saw him with tears in his eyes trying to hold himself together. Next, I saw Kyla, heading down the aisle. She looked stunning in her elegant and flowing white gown, while Jay looked dashing in his sleek tuxedo. As they said their "I do's," the love between them was palpable, and it was clear that they were meant to be together. There were many smiles, laughs, tears, and serious moments shared during this ceremony.


After the ceremony, we headed out in the light rain and took some stunning photos of the newlyweds, with the garden and estate providing the perfect backdrop. The bride and groom were full of joy and happiness, and it was a true honor to be able to capture their special day. My favorite part- post ceremony when we do bridal portraits and the bride and groom are giddy, whispering to each other and all smiles. It is truly one of my most looked forward to moments from these big days.


The wedding day was finally coming to a close and I was truly impressed with how well everyone embraced the torrential downpours and last second ceremony changes due to this. The bride and groom had exchanged their vows inside a brand new and modern barn with both large rolling doors open, surrounded by their closest family and friends who had braved the elements to be there with them on their special day.


Congratulations Jay + Kyla. Here's to many, many years.


Vendor List:

Planning/Designer Kathy Ripp

Venue: Oakley Hill Estate {Mechanicsville, Virginia}

Hair: Brooke Gormus

Cake Baker: Capital One Bakery

Wedding Dress: Tiffany's Bridal

Stationery/Calligraphy: Truly Engaging

Live Painter: RND Illustrations {Nicole}

Florist: Kathy Ripp

Ring: Jared's

DJ: DJ Steve’s Mobile DJ Service

Catering: Autumn's Catering & Cafe

Officiant: Jennifer Moss

Mens Suit: Mens Warehouse