Tag Archives: fall
Hartsell Wedding
I arrived at Barren Ridge Vineyards a few moments before the bride and groom. And I’m glad I did. Otherwise, I would have missed the arrival of the soon-to-be-wed couple who casually strolled in the back door, wedding dress in hand, wind blown hair and beaming, relaxed contentment settled into their eyes. At first sight of their freshly decorated tables they both became vocally excited and thrilled that it was here. Their wedding day was finally here.  They rushed to different rooms to change and in a few short moments they were embracing and celebrating once again. The wind carried the time away as we wandered around the hills and vines of the vineyards with a Dalmatian in tow. Their family joined and later their friends and before we knew it the sun left the sky and guests enjoyed an epic first dance, a wonderful gourmet meal, smooth wine, toasts, stories, and lots of dancing. Congrats and cheers to you both, Amy and Kelly!
Cupcakes & Cake: The Cupcake Company | Dress: Kathleen Temple, Tailor | Custom knitted shaw: Knitting Savant |Caterer: TASTE. | Florist: Joy Shank Coakley of The Weekend Florist | Venue: Barren Ridge Vineyards
Whistleman Family
I’m convinced the Whistleman boys wake up with sneakers on because surely they hit the ground mid-sprint each morning. What a pleasure it was to meet up with these two fast-paced bundles of energy…and the parents that keep up with them(!) for a family mini-session on Storybook Trail. The sun was low in the sky and kept saying good night as our session continued. But I managed to get some shots and a decent workout. Successful evening.
Jen and Shawn
Jen and Shawn’s friends and family gathered and filled the yard of a family home just outside of Harrisonburg on a very fall-like September Saturday. Brothers, sisters, aunts and uncles chipped in to help with to-do lists while kids ran and screamed and laughed. The cows watched the day unfold as the grey skies turned to blue and two lovers became one family. It was a perfect backyard gathering complete with mason jars, barbecue chicken, glow sticks, soft blankets and a glowing fire. Cheers to you, Jen and Shawn….and to many more lovely evenings, just like this one.
Dylan & Kelly {mini}
Wes & Ava {mini}
Ava is no stranger to the photo-game. (and here) When I was asked to do a session with her and her daddy, I was thrilled. We met in my studio because the weather was downright nasty outside. One thing became apparent very quickly, Ava looooooves her dad.
Eliza {mini}
Every time I photograph Eliza, I’m pleasantly surprised by the growth of her personality. On this particular day, Eliza warmed up to me quicker than ever. *yesssss* At the end of our session her mom gave her a plate of chocolate chip cookies for the first time ever! Eliza wasted no time in taking one single bite out of each and returning them neatly to the plate. Ha! Kids do the cutest things!
Amanda
I first met Amanda at The Lady Jane during her First Friday exhibit. I walked in expecting wall art but was pleasantly surprised to see her little floral masterpieces. Arrangements that spruced up used food jars and donned a price tag labeled with a mere $5! The jars were modestly personalized with a ribbon or decorative string and each bouquet had a little birdie, a sparrow. Amanda owns a small floral business called Sparrow’s Floral Design and she has been keeping herself very busy lately. One look at her work and you’ll know why. I was thrilled when she asked me to do a session with her because she “just really needed some headshots” …nothing fancy. But after a few moments with her, the room softened. As the sun stretched it’s evening light, her personality poured out through laughter and all her awesome facial expressions, many of which, I have reserved just for her viewing pleasure. Ha! I really enjoyed my evening with Amanda and I look forward to working with her in the future!
Hughes Family {mini}
When Ashley asked me to do photos of her family for a second time, I was pumped! The first session was last spring and involved massive storm clouds and chickens. Now, here it is fall and her babes have grown so much! We met at the park for a mini-session filled with beautiful sunlight, homemade cookies and a warm blankie for Daddy. Haha! What fun these guys are!
The kids took off to play with their Dad so I grabbed Ashley for a few solo shots in the remaining sunlight. What a beauty she is!
Sydney & Alison {mini}
It took all of about five clicks of my shutter for these two sisters to get used to me and my camera. As the session went on, they became more and more comfortable being their silly self in front of me. So many giggles echoing through the branches. What fun it was to watch their unique personalities shine through! 
Brandy Somers Photography 