Heather and Chris – Wedding at the 2941 Restaurant in Falls Church Virginia – Wedding Photographer in Virginia, Maryland, Washington DC

The life of a wedding photographer is never a dull one, and this summer we have certainly been busy! For all the weddings we have the joy of being a part of, we have to say that each one is completely beautiful and unique in its own way, and every bride is clearly the pride of her family. Heather and Chris’ wedding day was full of intimate moments and a wistful monarch butterfly release. 

According to an American Indian Legend we found on Google, if anyone desires a wish to come true they must first capture a butterfly and whisper that wish to it. Since a butterfly can make no sound, the butterfly cannot reveal the wish to anyone but the Great Spirit who hears and sees all. In gratitude for giving the beautiful butterfly its freedom, the Great Spirit always grants the wish. So, according to legend, by making a wish and giving the butterfly its freedom, the wish will be taken to the heavens and be granted. The butterfly symbolizes new beginnings, freedom and happiness.

We were thrilled to be able to spend Heather and Chris’ special day with them in Falls Church, Virginia where we kicked off the day with Heather as she prepared for the big moment. Friends and family were gathered around her as she got her hair and makeup done, and were there, having been given a very warm reception by mama B, as we affectionately called Heather’s mom, and the rest of the family.

From the moment we met Heather, it was evident how much her and Chris were in love with each other – although, according to the story as we remember it, it wasn’t exactly love at first sight. The couple met at work, and it took several different times of Chris asking her out before Heather finally agreed – a decision she thinks is one of the best decisions she has ever made!

The idea of a love that is given time to grow and nurture from friendship is so romantic to us and that backstory is just what we needed to get goosebumps during the ceremony. After tearfully reading a beautiful love note from her soon to be husband, Heather was fitted into her gown, and she immediately looked like royalty.

Meanwhile, Chris, too, made ready for the big ceremony surrounded by his own friends and family. Together they laughed and celebrated with custom made tumblers for each of the groomsmen, and Chris himself looked dashing in his pinstripe suit. Then, it was time to begin!

Our wedding planner extraordinaire Troy of TRoyal Events hard at work behind the scenes unfolding the magic of the day!

The day was perfect for an outdoor wedding, with blue skies and luxurious sunshine and excitement in the air, all the guests gathered around, eagerly waiting for the arrival of the bride. Adorable little flower girls who looked like little angels sprinkled the path with rose petals, and the entire crowd waited in eager anticipation.

Chris couldn’t hold back the tears when he saw his beautiful bride being escorted up the path, and in a beautiful moment it was clear just how much love and respect he has for his bride. No one could hold back the tears as the couple lovingly exchanged their vows, and even the bride herself needed a second to compose herself.

Butterflies were released in a unique gesture of celebration, then it was onto the real fun! We photographers snapped as many photos of the newlyweds surrounded by their companies as we could, and managed to get a few shots of the reception hall before it was filled with the guests.And a little bit of naughtiness to lighten the anticipation that was in the air. This one found us and gave us something to snap lol

A regal cake stood proudly in the corner, and staying true to their unique nature, the couple asked that the guests write wishes for them on little tickets to fill into a jar. We can only imagine the well wishes and blessings this couple was given by all their friends and family.

Guests of all ages had a blast as the afternoon wore into evening. Speeches, dances, fun, and games filled the air, as laughter and happy chatter hummed throughout the entire hall.

Thank you so much for allowing us to be a part of your special day, it’s clear that you are going to have many, many beautiful years together, and all of us here at Judah Avenue want to extend our congratulations! If you are a guest who just wants to say hello to us you can do so on our instagram page @judahavenue or if you are engaged and looking for a wedding or engagement photographer in the Washington dc, Maryland and Virginia area, you can connect with us at (240) 643-4708 or make an appointment to visit our studio at 718 Cloverly Street, Silver Spring, MD 20905. Our email is info@judahavenue.com