On a day when the temperatures rose to a heat index of around 105 degrees, I was completely and literally melting, but Matt and Niki showed no signs of feeling the heat. Their ceremony and reception were held at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, Virginia. Niki and Matt’s attention to details, touching ceremony and entertaining reception were totally worth enduring the hottest day of the year. I’m especially impressed with Niki – she was an extremely gracious hostess to everyone. She must have stashed ice packs underneath her dress somewhere because it was seriously scorching hot, but she was just as cool as a cucumber. I had a blast second-shooting for Becky Waurio of Toute Ma Vie Photography and she has some gorgeous pictures on her blog, so please go take a peek!
Here’s how things looked from my point of view (by the way, I’m trying something new…bigger images!):
The reception was held on the lawn in the rose garden.
Niki and Matt provided beautiful folding fans (and bottled water) to the guests, and they really did come in handy.
Perfect hair and makeup, and you’d never know how hot it was that day by looking at her.
I had a lump in my throat during most of the ceremony, especially during the memorial. And during the vows. And when Niki’s parents gave her away. Okay, so I’m a big softy.
But as touching as it was, there were plenty of joyful smiles and laughter as well.
The tented reception was near the museum building.
Upon their entrance to the reception, Niki rocked this purple-sequined cap. Too cute!
They transitioned into a sweet, loving first dance…
And then back to party-mode again!
Congratulations and best wishes to Matt and Niki – you both are too sweet and too cute for words. Wishing you a lifetime of joy together! And thank you Becky for having me along for the ride!
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