Viola and Hannibal’s Wedding at Airlie Pavilion in Warrenton, VA – Wedding Photographer in Washington DC, Maryland

For some couples, love is fireworks from the beginning. That special someone walks in and they just know that’s the man or woman they are going to spend the rest of their lives with. For other couples, love is something that comes upon them so softly, they aren’t sure when they went from an endearing love to a romantic love. Viola and Hannibal are a couple that can say they’ve been friends forever. Since 2012 they’ve worked together for their church building committee, and over their years their love has grown from kindred spirits to soulmates.

The change was so natural for this couple that they never had an official first date, in fact, Hannibal may say that they were dating from the beginning. Throughout a wonderful engagement they enjoyed each other’s company on long rides over the historic Route 66, served at church together, and grew together. On New Year’s Eve in 2016 Hannibal proposed in a way only he could – by taking the love of his life out to dinner, then having the waiter bring a check with the proposal written on it.

We at Judah Avenue love hearing these love stories, and nothing beats the moment we finally get to catch up to the couple in person, which we did at their wedding at the Airlie Pavilion in Warrenton, Virginia. Viola was all smiles as she was surrounded by her friends and family as they eagerly pitched in to help her do her hair and makeup. Her beautiful, two piece gown hung in the window, waiting for her to step into it. When she did, she was the definition of grace and elegance. We snapped as many photos as we could of her surrounded by her loved ones, clearly moved by the emotion of the moment. Viola’s father had passed just a few months before, and she was looking forward to her wedding, when she and her family could turn their mourning into joy, and truly walk through the healing process.

Meanwhile, Hannibal also got ready for the celebration surrounded by his friends and family. As with Viola, it is clear to see the love and expression on everyone’s faces as they help him dress in his royal blue suit – the perfect complement to Viola’s gown.Friends and family had already gathered around the pavilion, awaiting the arrival of the wedding party. As they each began to arrive, tears of joy flowed freely as there were many congratulations and well-wishes spread to the families.The procession itself was beautiful, with angelic flower girls spreading the way for the bride, musical tributes being played, prayers, scripture readings, and the vows being powerfully exchanged between the bride and groom.

After the ceremony, we had the privilege to photograph the couple as man and wife for the first time – which we heartily did over the grounds of the pavilion. Everywhere this couple stood, they looked like they belonged together. But that was just the beginning. After we snapped some memorable photos, the real celebration began. The entire pavilion had been beautifully decorated in honor of the couple, and it wasn’t long before friends and family began flooding in through the doors, quickly filling all the empty chairs.

The regal cake stood in the corner of the room, as the celebration was filled with speeches, toasts, prayers, dancing, and even the youngest of the group getting in on the action. Happy tears flowed freely, and hugs and blessings were given to both the bride and groom by everyone in the room. With the DJ putting on everyone’s favorite music, the dancing and celebration lasted long into the night. Finally, the couple was sent off to begin their new journey with sparklers and with countless friends and family showing them the love and support they deserve.

We would love to thank you all 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 wish to extend our most sincere 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 engaged and looking for a wedding or engagement photographer in 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