This always remains
Even as the world spins itself apart
‘Cause I remember them days I waited so patiently
For God to bring someone who’s gonna be good to me
And then He blessed my soul

Jessica and Cory’s Hermitage Museum and Gardens wedding in Norfolk was by far a true family day! I have been looking forward to this day since I got the email inquiry and sat over Panera coffee with these two. Jess point-blank told me she could only picture me shooting her day and I was FLOORED. I mean, she is a talented photographer herself and knowing she could choose ANYONE meant the world. I’d later go on to find out it wasn’t just the images, but the reason behind why I love photographing weddings that brought us together. Over her planning process we have gone from friendors to FRIENDS and I am so thankful for that!! They held their wedding at the place they had their first date and held a private last dance under the art exhibit they had their first kiss.

This entire wedding was an outdoor affair, my favorite kind, but with that comes the need to prepare for inclement weather. Jessica and Cory weren’t sweating it and said they’d figure it out if that day came, well it came. The week leading up to it the forecast changed so much it would give you whiplash! One day it would be a torrential downpour and the next you had 20% chance! It was so difficult to prepare but with an incredible team of vendors, it came together smoothly! I have to give a shout out to Jamie Leigh and her team because they hustled SO hard to get this to come together!! I arrived where Jessica and her girls were getting ready as they were finishing hair and makeup and got to work. The house was bustling with girls and pups, who all were SO full of sunshine the completely grey skies couldn’t dampen their spirit. After the most emotional first look and gift exchange with Jessica’s parents we headed out to the Hermitage Museum for the rest of the festivities. I was thrilled that it ended up not raining (we ever had SUNLIGHT at the reception which no one had seen in four days!!) and a special ray of light during her bridal portraits. They had their ceremony under the large tree where she had always wanted it, guests ate family style such yummy food from Montero’s catering and danced under a clear tent (so fun!) all night long!

It is so clear after spending a short amount of time with these two that they are a joy to not only each other, but to others. During their toasts, Jessica’s maid of honor said it best ” When it comes to friends I always say: I’d rather have four quarters, than 100 pennies but you my friend are a $100 bill” and it’s true! I am a firm believer that life brings us people to walk with, not necessarily complete our walk for us. That person to cheer you on, carry you sometimes, be slow with you and sprint with you, and navigate detours with. That is Jessica and Cory, they are proof that the universe will completely push two people together WHEN it is right.

 

 

 

 

Vendors

Coordinator – Jamie Leigh Events 

Catering – Montero’s 

Donuts – Amazingly Glazed Donuts 

Cake- Rachel Bakes 

DJ – Atlantic Digital Entertainment 

Shuttle – Orange Peel Instagram

Make up – Dhalia Edwards 

Hair – Stephanie B. 

Florist – Roost 

Photography – Erika Mills Photography

Lighting- Stage Right Lighting

Wedding Attire – Studio I Do

Officiant – Michael Simeone

Stationary – Paper Dolls Design 

Venue – Hermitage Museum and Gardens

Linens – Waterford Event Rentals 

Rentals – Distinctive Event Rentals 

View their Carter Mountain Orchard engagement session here