What a day! There’s something so special about capturing the union of two souls, especially when it’s a couple as adorable as Dani and Connor. They met through a mutual friend during their college days at rival schools – Dani at UVA and Connor at Virginia Tech. Fast forward a few years, and they’re living in Michigan, sharing their love and home with their delightful dog, Wavey. Connor popped the question during a romantic hike on vacation, and so their wedding planning journey began.

Choosing to tie the knot in Virginia, where so many of their friends and family still live, felt like the perfect choice for them. They fell in love with Blue Hill Farm, and who could blame them? The stunning farm setting, complete with open skies, a charming farmhouse that doubles as a bed and breakfast, and a cute-as-a-button renovated barn, was simply made for weddings. With its resident dog and a plethora of chickens and parakeets, the place is pure charm! It’s definitely now high on my list of the best wedding venues in Northern Virginia!

Our day began with Dani and her girls getting ready in the farmhouse’s upstairs quarters. After donning her gown with the help of her maid of honor, her mother, and her new mother-in-law, Dani treated her bridesmaids to a “first look” on the stairs – and boy, was it sweet! The anticipation then built as we set up the real first look behind the farmhouse. The moment when Dani and Connor saw each other for the first time on their wedding day was priceless. They then exchanged private vows – just the two of them.

After a sunny portrait session, our furry friend Wavey joined the couple for some memorable photos. Wavey didn’t just feature in the pictures though – she starred in the ceremony as the adorable “flower pup”. The ceremony itself was a beauty, framed by a vibrant floral arch that contrasted magnificently against the rolling hills of Northern Virginia.

The reception was a splendid mix of outdoor and indoor revelry, partly tented and partly hosted inside the cozy renovated barn. The decor blended rustic country wood tones with bright florals, topped off with a personal touch of a calligraphed stone at each place setting. Wavey, while absent from the reception, was there in spirit – commemorated by a signature drink in her honor and her portrait on the can koozie favors.

Golden hour saw Dani and Connor sneak away for some additional portraits, giving us some of the most dreamy images I’ve ever captured. It also offered the couple some precious one-on-one time before the real party began. From their fun photo booth with a professional-looking sign made by a friend, to their custom “shot-ski” that kept the party going, the night was filled with laughter, dancing, cornhole games, and fireside chats.

As the sparkler sendoff approached, Dani and Connor shared a private last dance. Watching them twirl around the dancefloor, lost in their own little world, was the perfect ending to their perfect day. As a photographer, it was a privilege to capture their love story. Here’s to many more adventures for Dani and Connor!

Venue: Blue Hill Farm

Wedding Dress Designer: Wilderly Bride by Allure Bridal

Wedding Dress Boutique: Studio I Do

Bride’s Shoes: Kelly + Kate

Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie

Bridesmaids Robes: OliviaJaneCouture on Etsy

Suits: Men’s Wearhouse

Groom’s Watch: Shinola Detroit

HMUA: The Stylist Abroad

Invitation Suite: LovelyTemplatesCo on Etsy

Ring Box: WilliaCartain0 on Etsy

Florist: Frederick Flower Farm

Catering: N&M Divine Cuisine and Events

Guest Book: Redberry Guest Book on Etsy