Sam + Kim [Central VA Wedding]

Sam and Kim…I could gush quite a bit about these two! I’ve known Sam for seven years, ever since our college days, and I’ve always respected his authentic love for God. I consider Sam a bit of a “mountain man” in the best sense of the word…he’s an adventurer at heart, and I’m glad he found a lady who can share in his passions for outdoor activities. I clearly remember a group of us friends sitting around the lunch table at college, often mesmerized by Sam’s entertaining stories…like about the treasures he’d find while diving head-first into dumpsters. Kim, a total sweetheart, is the perfect match for him. These two both work at the local ER; Sam’s an EMT, and Kim is a nurse. In fact, it was exactly twelve months ago that Sam noticed Kim’s photo hanging on the “incoming employees” bulletin board. Adorable, right? In the following months, their friendship and love grew over hiking, star-gazing, and canoeing. Sam recalls thinking, “I can’t imagine what else I’d look for…Kim has the important qualities.”

After picnicking under a sprawling tree in June, Sam was about to pop the question…but the mood was killed by a family with seven children who each wanted their photo taken on the tree swing. Finally, a peaceful moment came, and Sam asked Kim to be his wife.

These two are both incredibly genuine and truly care about the people around them, which was evident at their rustic wedding in Virginia last month. Their closest friends and family gathered at sunset to watch them exchange vows in front of a barn that looks like it belongs in Montana—love it! Guests enjoyed barbecue, delectable cupcakes, mingling around a fire, and homemade soap as favors. Followed by dancing. Lots of dancing. Kim and Sam know how to throw a party, let me tell ya. On a crisp fall night under glowing stars, they danced their hearts out and celebrated their love.

A heartfelt “thank you” to Brett Hastie for joining me; he captured some excellent candids of Sam and the guys getting ready and endless sweet moments throughout the day.

Quite clever highlighting these words, Brett...and notice the magazine down below, y'all. Very fitting.  The mirror with steam adds a neat touch. A sweet moment before the ceremony, as Sam's parents prayed for his marriage.  When Sam and Kim laid eyes on each other at their first look, it was one of the sweetest moments I’ve ever witnessed between a bride and groom. Sam couldn’t stop admiring Kim’s beauty and stunning dress, and Kim lit up every time her eyes connected with his. Because they chose a first look, we photographed portraits of the two of them for over an hour! I’m so thrilled with their stunning images…I don’t believe they've never modeled! One of my favorite shots Brett took! Contrary to popular belief, grooms often still tear up even if they choose a "first look." The walk down the aisle is still super emotional!  I was standing smack dab in the middle of hundreds of sparklers, and I was just waiting for my dress to go up in flames!