The best stories, you know, they’re never told in a straight line.
Some stories are, sure, but not the best ones. The really good stories, the ones that speak to your soul and open up a new part of yourself that you never even knew was there, they have twists and turns, subplots and anticlimax, intriguing tangents that create just enough space for the real magic to happen. Katie and Joe share this kind of story, and it all started over an icy pop in the spring of 2008. While promoting her a cappella group’s spring concert in the quad at James Madison University, Katie offered Joe one popsicle, but he helped himself to two, or so the story goes. Thinking this guy was a bit rude for taking two, Katie labeled Joe in the back of her mind as the Guy Who Took Two Popsicles, but thought no more of it. At least not until they would meet again at a party almost a year later.
Something sparked at that party, and the Guy Who Took Two Popsicles quickly became the Guy Who Stole Katie’s Heart. But if you remember, the best stories are never told in a straight line. There would be trials and adventures and rising action and conflict and resolution. Katie and Joe’s story took its twists and turns, but five years after that first popsicle run-in, Joe would take Katie back to that first setting on a visit to their alma mater, JMU, and as the sun set over the town, Joe turned the page, hoping he knew the first word of dialogue to come. Of course, Katie said “Yes!” and their story became even more beautiful.
Katie and Joe’s wedding day was just as beautiful as their love story. The details were perfect and the day went off without a hitch, but the reason I loved this day wasn’t because of Katie’s incredible gown or the drool-worthy florals. This day was flawless because even if dress had been two sizes too big or if the flowers showed up drooping, I’m beyond confident that Katie and Joe still would have been glowing beyond words. These two knew that their day was so much more than just a beautiful party, but really a celebration of the start of the most exciting, exhilarating, difficult and wonderful chapter of their already incredible love story. K+J, it was such an honor to get to witness your day and your love. I wish the absolute best for you and hope that through all of the plot twists ahead, you’ll look back on these photos and see the beauty of the beginning!
Introducing: Mr. and Mrs. Scott
Katie’s dress took my breath away!! 
Swoons for days over these Badgley Mischka’s! 
Flawless and she’s not even dressed yet. Knew it was going to be a good day 🙂
A little bridesmaids selfie, of course!
Time for the dress!
Katie!!! Oh, girl.
Things get real with daddy-daughter first looks 🙂
Absolutely gorgeous, Katie. Looking more beautiful that Grace Kelly herself.
THIS is why first looks are priceless. 
At this point I was teary-eyed! Such a beautiful moment and I’m so glad that Katie and Joe chose a first look for their day.
WOWEE.
Gosh, y’all make my job entirely too easy.
Magic veil moments are my love language.
Favorite bridal portrait of all time. All time!
Paired with my favorite groom’s portrait? I think so. Joe has the BEST smile!
Magic magic magic.
Get ready to swoon over some incredible florals!
Lookin good, boys!
Gorgeous ladies and glowing fall light. Can’t be topped.
Most certainly a bride worth admiring.
It couldn’t have been a more beautiful fall day!
Love this shot from Hannah!! Yes for first kisses!
One happy married couple.
A quick portrait session with Katie’s fabulous fur coat? Yes please!
You two are a classic love.
Photos from Katie and Joe’s parent’s wedding day. So darn special.
Is any wedding really complete without a cigar bar?
Congratulations, Katie and Joe!!! And so many thank you’s to the people who made the whole day possible:
Venue » Rust Manor House
Wedding Gown » Alita Graham
Men’s Suits » Blacktux.com
Hair and Makeup » Premier Hair and Make-Up
Florist » Rang Floral Designs, b. mingled
Caterer » Blue Heron Catering
Bakery » Edibles Incredible
Invitation Designer » Kelly Sharon
DJ » Lauren Bobby
Coordinator » b.mingled
Videographer » One and Done Events
Second Shooter » Hannah Walczuk
Based in the DMV, I travel often for weddings and stories in the mid-Atlantic and all over the world: I’ve photographed love from Delhi, India to Bloomington, Indiana, and everywhere in between.
I’m here for the couples who believe in rich colors and wild and care-free love. If that sounds like you and your wedding, I think we should be friends! Click below to say hello and learn more about what it’s like to work together. I can’t wait to hear from you.
Based in the DMV, I travel often for weddings and stories in the mid-Atlantic and all over the world: I’ve photographed love from Delhi, India to Bloomington, Indiana, and everywhere in between.
I’m here for the couples who believe in rich colors and wild and care-free love. If that sounds like you and your wedding, I think we should be friends! Contact me to learn more about what it’s like to work together. I can’t wait to hear from you.
