I met Ally way back when we were in college…probably about six years ago! We were young, smart, intellectual and discussing the problems of the world in one of our International Studies courses with Dr. Frueh. I don’t remember what exactly connected Ally and I besides our major, but I’m now guessing it was her spunky personality and my outgoing tendencies. 🙂

When Ally contacted me last year about photographing her wedding, I was beyond flattered to hear from a former Bridgewater fellow. She admitted to being a “long time stalker” of my photography and was excited to inquire. We talked on the phone almost immediately and I just knew we had to work together. She also spells her name the same way we spell our daughter’s name, so that was an added plus! Ha!

Even though Ally and Chris were actually married in March, they still celebrated with a large reception at home with friends and family two months later. Ally’s mom graciously hosted the party at her home…complete with a big white tent, beautiful flowers, lovely catering, and all the awesome details that any couple could want. For being the only non-ceremony wedding I’ve photographed, I have to say it was probably one of my favorite events to attend.

Please enjoy Ally and Chris’ backyard reception in Alexandria, VA. I’m pretty sure you’ll enjoy it as much as I did. 🙂

Chris might win for best groom shoes! Rolled up pants and boots. 🙂

Love these next two of Ally and her mom. Just a little bit of emotion that day…

First look time!

Ally wanted to visit the high school where she and Chris met for their fun and formal pictures. Definitely an awesome idea!

I’m pretty sure these two share lots of laughs together. 🙂

Chris loves skateboarding and it’s one of the things that first attracted Ally to him…so glad they decided to include that in their pictures!

Chris showing off some of his skills…haha. 🙂

Ally got a little choked up remembering that this was where it all began for them…

This was no typical “backyard reception”. The paper pom poms were a HUGE project for Ally. I heard it took about five hours for these suckers to get hung…and they looked fabulous, along with the other details…

An octopus wall art piece as a guest book? There’s a first time for everything!

S’mores bar!!! I love s’mores. 🙂

Ally, thank you so much for being so excited about your photography and for giving me that responsibility. I’m so glad your wedding brought us back together after many years apart. I’m also glad you were a faithful stalker of my photography and I hope it’ll bring us back together someday in the future. CONGRATS to you and Chris! I know you guys are going to have so much fun together. 🙂