Erika + Christian’s wedding – October 10, 2010

It was a gorgeous day for a memorable wedding date. I spent 10-10-10 with Erika and Christian at their lovely wedding at Belle Haven Country Club in Alexandria. I got to spend more time with Erika than I do with most of my brides. We did a fabulous bridal portrait shoot about a month before the wedding at Oxon Hill Manor. I loved having time to focus on making really interesting portraits—something that I don’t always get time to do on the wedding date. Since the bridal gown was under wraps until Christian saw her at their first look on the big day, I wasn’t able to blog the photos until now. But I had a few I really liked so I’m including them here. And talk about bling! Take a look at Erika’s wedding band. Wow.

There were a few highlights of their wedding day in my mind. Before the ceremony, Erika’s mother had a prayer for her daughter than included the girls in the bridal party laying hands on her. Everyone was crying by the time it was over and of course, it made for some wonderful photos. I also loved Erika’s dance with all the important men in her life in lieu of the traditional father-daughter dance. Everyone kept cutting in until she ended up with her new husband! And one of my favorite photos was the late evening balcony shot of the two of them. I admit, I stole if from my friend Michael Connor and I believe in giving credit where it’s due. Holding the light behind them and shooting with me the whole day was the fabulous Ricky Carioti. And I got to work with one of my fav DJs Aaron who kept the party rocking!

Those who helped make the day special:

Hair and Makeup: CityGirl Salon De Belleza – Mara Fontanez

Flowers: Floral Specialties

Wedding and Reception: Belle Haven Country Club

Videographer: 5 Star Media Productions

DJ: Aaron at Chris Laich Music Services

Cake: Cheesecake Etc.