July in Maryland can be so unpredictable! This year it was unseasonably mild but the weekend of Chris and Cait’s wedding we were dodging thunderstorms.  It started pouring right as the wedding party arrived at the UMD Garden Chapel , but stopped long enough for to take bridal party portraits outside. After the ceremony we were able to take family photos before it started sprinkling again. By the time we arrived at Mrs. K’s Tollhouse in Silver Spring for the reception, it had stopped again so that I could take Chris and Cait into the beautiful gardens for portraits. How fitting that Cait loves stormy weather and the skies after  a storm cause the flowers, trees and grass to look so brilliant. It all worked out perfectly!

But enough about the weather because this wedding had everything going for it. Caitlin was stunning in her gorgeous gown and lovely veiled cap. Christopher was cool, calm and collected but clearly so in love with his beautiful bride. Both of their families were joyful, accommodating and friendly. Cait’s cousin sang the most beautiful rendition of Vie en La Rose I have ever heard (turns out his background is in opera). Seriously, I had tears in my eyes – it was unbelievable. Cait thoughtfully gave me a seat at one of the family tables and I had a lovely time getting to know her aunts and uncles as well as enjoying a delicious dinner by Mrs. K’s. Everything from the sweet and hilarious toasts, to the song Cait’s dad wrote for her that they danced to, to family who had traveled (some very far) to be there…I loved every second of it.  Surrounded by such support and love with Christ as the center, I know the new Mr. and Mrs. Smith are starting off on a firm foundation that has only set them up for a successful and joyful marriage.

Thank you Chris and Cait for inviting me to be part of this special day. I am so honored to know you and wish you all the best in the days and years to come! XO

Hair & Make Up | Stacie Snyder       Bridesmaid Dresses | Union Station      Cake | Creative Cakes       Floral | Robin’s Nest Floral

Reception Venue | Mrs. K’s Tollhouse    Ceremony Venue | Garden Chapel, UMD