The forecast was calling for rain all week, but nothing could get in the way of Ally and Alec’s excitement for their wedding day! They started dating and fell in love in high school, so they had been waiting years for this moment…when they would finally get to promise forever to each other. The morning of the wedding on my way to Portsmouth, I kept checking on the forecast…and the rain kept getting pushed later and later into the evening…everyone was so excited when the sun stayed out all day! This was such an answered prayer!

After photographing their engagement session, I knew how much I loved this couple…they are laid back and so much fun to be around! They don’t let little things bother them, but their photos were important to them. Ally is a kindred spirit of mine, because she also lost a parent at a young age. I think that really gives you an appreciation for each day…it teaches you to give out love more freely and to live life with so much gratefulness. And the Lord in his goodness is able to bring beauty even from the darkest moments and that truth was so forthcoming on their wedding day. I always ask couples what their favorite thing about each other is, and I loved that Ally talked about Alec with so much appreciation for who he is as a friend and supporter through the good and the bad. Alec shared that he loves how kind and passionate Ally is…and they both love that they are spontaneous and get up and do the things they dream about instead of just talking about them…and I think that comes from appreciating each moment! Their wedding day was such a beautiful reflection of that and of who they are as a couple and I’m so excited for them as they start this new chapter of life together!

Enjoy a few of my favorite moments! 

Photography: Annamarie Akins | Second Shooter: Brittany Claud | Event Planning: Sterling Dawn Events | Venue: Portsmouth Women’s Club | Hair and Makeup: Stephanie Mcdonald | DJ: Surf and Sound Events | Catering: Montero’s | Cake: Cake Delights | Florals: Kelly Gish Floral Designs | Gown: Essence of Australia from Maya Couture