Charlottesville, Virginia is a place of beauty and is capable of taking your breath away in seconds. I was thrilled to be asked to be the photographer for Holly & Spencer, especially when I saw where they were getting married. Ash Lawn Highlands is the guest manor for James Monroe and it is makes you feel like you are walking around in the “old days”. Holly & Spencer love history so this wedding venue was perfect for them.

The day went by SO quickly. I was actually surprised at the end of the day that I worked a solid 12 hours without realizing it. Holly and Spencer were surrounded by friends and family all day long. There was constant laughter and the girls dotted on Holly as the primped and prepped for the wedding. I really loved getting to know the bridal party. That is actually one of my favorite parts of a wedding day. Holly & Spencer spent time with me during the video chats and engagement session but I truly was able to see who they were when they were around their friends and family.

The girls got ready at a rustic cottage off-site of the venue that had a pool to swim in and enough food to feed an army. The boys played golf all morning and got ready at a house at the venue so they were ready to go at a moments notice! One thing I noticed at this wedding was the stunning details. Holly wore so many family heirlooms that I think she sparkled! From rings to bracelets, this girl was showered with love. Holly wasn’t the only one with a little bling. Spencer’s mother actually found him a watch with James Monroe in the middle of it! You can imagine how thrilled he was to receive it. I think I pretty much saw what he must have been like at Christmas as a child.

We were blessed with amazing light that day. I prayed we would be because this venue is more than a photographer could ask for. The golden hour came much sooner than I originally planned and graced us with an extra hour than expected, giving us extra time to snag a few more couple pictures.

One thing I love about Holly & Spencer is that they love being together. I mean that good, right? They just got married! It’s more than that, though. When you are with them you can feel their chemistry. They light up together and even though I asked them to snuggle and kiss a million times, they acted like it was the first time I had asked!

Holly & Spencer, I am thrilled with your pictures. Beyond thrilled…I texted my mom crying because I am head over heels for your wedding. Thank you! For being such a sweet, kind, and caring couple towards me. Your family and friends welcomed me with open arms and the wedding was such a fun time to be part of. I hope you guys are having the BEST time in Italy and Greece. Get a tan for me! We all know, I can’t tan so someone might as well soak up the sun. Love y’all!

If you would like to see Holly & Spencer’s engagement session….click here

Check out my website by going to heather-michellephotography.com

What a handsome gentleman! And the cutest flowergirl you could ask for…In the Monroe gardens. You two are picture perfect

I adored this setup. Maybe one day I will have to replicated it…wink wink. These lanterns were to die for! So simple yet so stunning.Rock on, Spencer!These two had an ice cream truck show up for their wedding! Talk about creative :)Happy honeymoon, lovebirds!