This past Sunday Gia and Drew were married at the beautiful Trump Winery in Charlottesville, Virginia and it was the most gorgeous day imaginable! The forecast was calling for rain, but as I pulled up to the Albemarle Estate where Gia and her girls were getting ready, it turned into a perfect grey, Fall, not-too-chilly day…and as I did a little portrait location scouting prior to heading up to the getting ready room, I knew already that this was going to be one for the books…

From the gorgeous gardens to the adorable tiny Trump chapel to the breathtaking views of the vineyards, everywhere you looked was a pretty picture. Gia planned out the day perfectly…it was romantic and cozy and everything an October wedding should be. The french blue and grey color palette was perfect, the florals were gorgeous, and the string lights hanging above long tables in the Vintage Hall made for the most beautiful family style dining experience for their guests. 

But even more than that, Gia and Drew are some of the sweetest, most fun loving people I have ever met. They’re the kind of people that you immediately feel welcomed by and secretly wish you were best friends with. From the moment I walked into the bridal suite, Gia was all smiles and so full of joy that her wedding day was finally here! Drew is so kind and funny and I love how his love for Gia is so evident. I felt connected to them from our very first meeting, when I learned that Gia lost her father this past year. I lost my dad too soon too and know how it felt to not have him present on my wedding day…but I love how Gia honored him in so many ways on their day and how it really felt like he was there and a part of the celebration. She saved a seat for him in the chapel and shared the bottle of wine that he picked out for her to open on her wedding day at the reception. Tears were flowing, but there was also so much joy. I know he would be so proud!

Gia and Drew, thank you so much for having me be a part of your wedding day! It was truly an honor to get to capture these memories for you! Also, thank you for being so good looking…you made my job so easy! I hope you enjoy reliving the day and looking through my favorites!  

Credits – Venue: Trump Winery | Photography: Annamarie Akins | Second Shooter: Brittany Claud | Hair and Makeup: Elle Style Studio | DJ: John Dolan | Catering: A Pimento Catering | Cake: Sweethaus | Florals: Hedge Fine Blooms | Gown: Austin Scarlett from Kleinfeld NYC