Wedding Photographer in Charlottesville, family and senior portraits, Photography

New blog

2011-10-07T12:11:00.000-04:00

Brand new blog, please visit www.dominiqueattaway.com/blog

Being in love

2011-10-04T08:06:00.000-04:00

Thank you Stephanie and John for being my "muse" and sharing your love with me.

Hope and Eric were married at Pippin Hill Farm yesterday!

2011-10-02T12:47:00.000-04:00

Hope and Eric were married at Pippin Hill Farm yesterday. What a magnificent venue! I will be posting more on the gorgeous details of this vineyard later on. I just wanted to give Hope and Eric a quick peek before they left for their honeymoon.

Enjoy the beautiful beaches of the South Pacific!

Pre wedding meeting at Pippin Hill Farm

2011-09-30T09:17:00.000-04:00

I always like to meet several times with my-bride-to be before their big day as it is important to communicate details of their day and to just get to know each other.
SO yesterday I met with Hope and Eric who will be getting married this week end at Pippin Hill Farm. This venue is magnificent, full of amazing little details and gorgeous views.
While I was waiting for them, I could not help taking some photos since I had my camera in the car.

It was also a perfect time to practice their dance!

Hope and Eric, I can't wait to photograph your wedding!

Featured on Elizabeth Anne Design blog!

2011-09-29T21:14:00.002-04:00

I am so honored and flattered to have Susan and Timo's wedding featured on Elizabeth Anne Design's blog.

Meghan and Justin were married last Saturday in Richmond

2011-09-28T14:34:00.002-04:00

I had the best time documenting Meg and Justin's wedding day! I always feel like I write the same things on my blog but it is true, I have the nicest, most fun and easy going newlyweds and families!
I loved being a part of their day. It was also so much fun to catch up with two couples that had me previously photograph their weddings.
Meg and Justin had their ceremony at the Cathedral of Sacred Heart in Richmond, which was absolutely breathtaking. It was a true princess wedding! The reception was held at Hermitage Country Club.
Of the hundreds of photos, here are a few that caught my eye.

Meg, Justin, I hope you're having a fabulous time in Hawaii!

Love that photo!

Meg's dad had the most profound toast, there was no dry eyes in the room, including mine.

Happy Honeymoon!

How to make wedding photography more fun, have a photobooth!

2011-09-21T11:53:00.000-04:00

It is always such a treat to be a guest at a wedding! Thank you so much Crissa and Billy Jack for the fabulous time we had.
We set up a photobooth, and what fun it was!
Music from Earth Wind and Fire, "September" was a perfect fit for this memorable evening.
Enjoy!

Amand and Tony's wedding slideshow

2011-09-15T14:01:00.000-04:00

Here is Amanda and Tony's slideshow. The song is from Wilco, "you and I". Please go buy it if you like it. Enjoy!

Rita and laura were married in New York!

2011-09-14T14:56:00.001-04:00

I had the pleasure to photograph this happy wedding last week end in Nyak, NY at the feet of the Hook Mountain. This emotional wedding day was intimate and full of love and affection. Thank you Rita and Laura for having part of your wedding day.

Beautiful Family Portraits

2011-09-13T11:43:00.001-04:00

Such a fun energy during this photo session.Super sweet family!

Meghan and Justin's engagment photos in Richmond

2011-09-12T10:50:00.000-04:00

Meghan and Justin will be married in a couple of weeks in Richmond. Excited to document their big day.

Cardinal Point for Flavor magazine

2011-09-08T16:17:00.000-04:00

This past Summer I had the pleasure to do some work for Flavor magazine. Here are some photos from our shoot with Tim from Cardinal Point. Make sure you stop by, have a drink and say Hi. He is super fun and his wife is part of the Derbie Dames. How cool!

Amanda and Tony were married at Veritas on Saturday

2011-09-08T14:15:00.000-04:00

Please make sure you look at the photos from Amanda and Tony's first look a couple of posts down.
I loved photographing their wedding so much love, happiness and beautiful little children.
many wonderful personalized details (that I will post later).
I wanted to give them a quick peak.
Awesome vendors: Couture design for flowers, Carpe Donut, Cakes Unlimited, The Moon Rats for music.

Sofia will be a year in a couple of weeks so instead of a wedding cake they had a birthday cake. Love that idea.

Daddy-Daughter dance.

More adorable children portraits

2011-09-07T16:20:00.000-04:00

These little cuties were on the run for almost the entire time we met... I know their mom has lots of energy as she was my son's 7th grade teacher:)
Enjoy!

LOVE this one. It says it all. It is the end:)

Pretty little ladies

2011-09-06T12:44:00.000-04:00

Catching up ....I love when Fall is around the corner, I get to see all my favorite families for portrait session and see how the children have grown from last year.

I just love all the vibrant colors.

First look of Amanda and Tony at Veritas

2011-09-04T11:04:00.000-04:00

I could not help but posting those as soon as I look at them this morning. I love doing "First Look".
Amanda and Tony got married at Veritas yesterday. What a fantastic day! so many more to come....

Congratulations you two! So much fun getting to know your families.

Elana and Rich got married at Ash Lawn!

2011-09-01T20:31:00.000-04:00

I know I have been absent for a while. The reason being is that my computer crashed and since Apple could not fix it they replaced my 24" with a brand new 27" so life is good and I am back in editing.

I had the most delightful day documenting Elana and Rich's wedding day at Ash Lawn.
A pimento catered the delicious meal , Couture Design for the flowers and Acme Swing Co entertained guests with swing music the whole evening.

I was telling my husband the other day how much I love Jewish weddings! They are filled with so many traditions, lots of dancing and songs and such deep happiness.

That day, it was supposed to storm, but it waited until everyone was under the Pavillon.

Susan and Timo wedding slide show

2011-08-17T15:01:00.001-04:00

Here is Susan and Timo wedding day. Music is from Madeleine Peyroux. The song is from Serge Gainsbourg. I was so happy to hear his music during Susan and Timo's wedding.
Thank you John!

beautiful children portrait

2011-08-15T20:42:00.000-04:00

I have known this family for few years and I LOVE seeing the children grow. I always feel so fortunate to be part of people's life... and we eventually become friends.

I love Charleston!

2011-08-12T10:46:00.000-04:00

Here are some vacation photos from Charleston, South Carolina. We love that town... the smell of the Ocean, the great restaurants, the gorgeous beach of Sullivan Island, we used to live there and we miss it so much!

Susan and Timo are married!

2011-07-22T18:13:00.002-04:00

I had the best time documenting this international wedding with so many personal touches and too many delicious details that I will have to do another post....and most importantly the sweetest people! It also reminded a bit of my own wedding, I love the atmosphere of multi culture celebration and hearing Serge Gainsbourg is always a treat!
Susan and Timo got married at Susan's parents home and what a magical setting it was!

Barbwired orchestrated their day, Keswick Hall Catering served succulent food, Pat's Floral design designed luscious bouquets and Mark Allen provided entertainment for all and Hot Cake baked a delicious cake.
Other vendors: FDS tent and Festive Fair .

Susan's dress was exquisite!

Love the personal touch from Pat's.

Love the presentation pots!

Yes...that is "Amore"

Congratulations you two! Thank you for having me a part of your wedding.

Deborah and Gregory were married at Rodes Farm

2011-07-20T10:04:00.001-04:00

Deborah and Gregory got married on July 9th in at Rodes farm. It was a lovely and intimate family affair.
Amy from Blue Ridge Floral provided the bouquets and fresh flowers. Claudia Gibson catered the event with delicious and colorful food.

Deborah and Gregory wanted to see each other before the ceremony. I always enjoy doing those first look shots and I particularly enjoy seeing the groom's face when he sees his bride for the first time.

I love that they read to each other.

ring shots

2011-07-19T13:58:00.000-04:00

Playing with lavender with wedding rings. Which one do you like better?

Sarah and Daniel's slide show

2011-07-13T12:46:00.000-04:00

Here is Sarah ad Daniel's lovely wedding slide show. The music is from their first dance- Ray LaMontagne, "Let it be me". As usual if you like the music go buy it on amazon.com
Thank you John for the complementary shots!

Harvest Moon at work

2011-07-12T09:33:00.000-04:00

Here is another part of the series behind the scene. This time around is with Harvest Moon Catering.
I have worked numerous times with this great team of people and each time, I am always impressed with their work. Their food always looks fabulous and tastes even better. Last week, I was there to photograph an event they were catering for Martha Jefferson Hospital. Here is what they have to say about this magnificent event.

"Harvest Moon would like to thank Martha Jefferson Hospital for allowing us to partner in this new growth in the Charlottesville Community. We were pleased to cater the 1st of a sequence of opening events to welcome the new MJH. It was a wonderful venue, feeling more like a luxury hotel than a hospital as the colors and feel were relaxing and comforting. Our spread included a blackened mahi with grilled pineapple salsa, beef carving station, crab salad micro-martinis, bacon wrapped dates, heirloom caprese skewers, and a strawberry, pecan, Gorgonzola and spinach salad in endive leaf, as well as an assortment of antipasti and desserts.

Harvest Moon's approach to an event of this magnitude is focused on how to empower the team in all the elements of production and design. Behind the scenes the items are prepped in the kitchen before arriving to the venue, transported, meticulously displayed, and the Front of House staff is on site to make sure the guests are well tended. We love the vendors we work with just as much as our own team. At the MJH event, HMC had the pleasure of working with some of our favorite vendors including Festive Fare, Dominique Attaway, Pat's Floral, Blue Ridge Lighting, John D'earth, and Dickie Morris with Just a Little Ditty. It takes all of these people working harmoniously to have an event that feels so well-executed and HMC is thrilled to have been a part of the team. "

Prep talk before starting.

Sarah and daniel were married last Staurday at the UVA Chapel and had their reception at the UVA Alumni Hall

2011-07-08T15:10:00.001-04:00

Congratulations, Sarah and Daniel, you are married!

Such a sweet, loving, romantic and easy going couple. Here is the documentation of their wedding day. It is always so difficult for me to choose just a few photos to post, so I don't and post a lot:)
This is for you Sarah and Daniel , I hope you are relaxing and enjoying your honeymoon.

Sarah and Daniel got married at the UVA Chapel and then had their reception at the UVA Alumni Hall. Sarah got ready in a fantastic house they rented for the week end in Belmont. After the ceremony we took some pictures around the UVA grounds and gardens. Hedge did the gorgeous flowers for the ladies and Derek ftom DJ Tobler provided non stop dancing through out the night.
The delicious "Peach melba cake" comes from Horse and Hound.

Boys will be boys.

Who says only girls can catch the bouquet?

I love couple who takes initiative. I just asked them if they did not mind sitting and just like that, they laid down and gave me this super romantic shot....I think.

Morven Garden

2011-06-28T21:45:00.000-04:00

Meet Michelle and Marie, the gardeners extraordinaire!

Last week I put my clock at 6am to document what those two lovely ladies have been creating for the past year. I met them while covering an event for PBS and I thought their story was so interesting that I wanted for them to be on the blog.

Here is how it all started in Michelle's words.

“When Thomas Jefferson imagined his ideal Academical Village, he emphasized the importance of agriculture in higher education. Jefferson used his gardens as a living laboratory at Monticello, where he experimented with 330 different vegetables and 170 fruit varieties. Over 200 years later, Jefferson’s values of agriculture are being reexamined at Morven Farm. In 2001, philanthropist John W. Kluge gave this 7,379-acres to the University of Virginia Foundation for educational and charitable purposes.

Last October, a group of aspiring young agrarian UVA students set their sights on a one-acre plot which was once organically cultivated for John Kluge, and began developing plans for an educational Kitchen Garden. For students and community members who want to learn where their food comes from on a real-world scale, the Morven Kitchen Garden presents an opportunity for leaning by DOING.

This summer, the garden is managed by recent UVA graduate, Michelle Rehme, UVA ’08 grad Marie Schacht, and two amazing UVA student apprentices: Judith Yang and Rowan Sprague. Along with helpful volunteers and visitors, these ladies have turned field once filled with weeds and trees into a productive garden – which is now bustling with all sorts of veggies, herbs, and flowers. The majority of the produce goes straight back to UVA students – through a unique student CSA program in which students sign up and get a weekly box of produce.

Learn more about the Morven Kitchen Garden by checking out the blog: http://morvenkitchengarden.wordpress.com/

Or even better, come out for an early morning and get your hands dirty in the garden!”

If you are bored this summer, pay them a visit. They would love your help and it is so peaceful int he morning.

Beautiful one month old baby girl portraits

2011-06-22T12:07:00.000-04:00

I love being part of my clients life! That is the beauty of being a photographer, one of the best part of my job is seeing everyone growing and changing. I have known this family for few years and it is so touching to meet this adorable new little addition to the girls!
Meet Harper!

How to make a wedding cake?

2011-06-16T22:14:00.000-04:00

Meet Rachel from Cakes by Rachel!
She does scrumptious cakes! She studied at the Cordon blue cooking school in France and was the Chef at the Clifton Inn for many years and now she makes delicious cakes and raises sheep!

A few weeks back , I spent the day with her as this is part of my series "behind the scene".
I had no idea it took so long to make a weeding cake. It is a 4-day process.
day-1 :bake the cake and let it cool-
day -2: make filling and put the layers together
day-3: do the frosting and put the cake together
day 4- decorate and deliver

I learned a few things about making a cake you have to be very very patient and precise.

Unfortunately, I could not photograph the delivery part as I had a wedding that weekend. But here is one of my favorite cakes, decorated that Rachel did for Alexandra and Jeremy over a year ago.

Rachel uses local ingredients and whenever possible organic products. She also makes vegan cakes. I tried the chocolate one....yummm.

She delivers all her cakes in this amazing protection case for traveling.
You need baking goods, make sure you call Rachel at 434-960-5872!

PBS Fundraiser at the Morven House

2011-06-14T12:33:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure to photographer this lovely fundraiser at the Morven House for PBS. Gorgeous floral arrangements by Couture Design and succulent catering by l'Etoile, wines by Mountfair Vineyards and beer by Star Hill.
Governor Baliles was the special guest.

Wonderful review!

2011-06-09T07:57:00.001-04:00

I am not one who enjoys doing self promotion. Actually it is one of the hardest thing for me to do in having a business. If I only could just take pictures:)
So here goes my bragging, the other morning I woke up to this wonderful review that Caitlin, who got married at Pollak Vineyards back In May wrote on weddingwire.com, without my asking. Our jobs as photographers is so rewarding!

"Dominique is truly amazing. She is as talented as she is patient - as stealthy as she is creative! Our May 2011 wedding was a very good day - but Dominique made it great. Her photos are stunning - they captured the event in an easy, spontaneous, seemingly effortless way. Dominique also has tremendous stamina, and outlasted all of the guests! I could not possibly recommend her and her work highly enough."

Thank you Caitlin!

engagement photos in New York

2011-06-07T18:42:00.000-04:00

I spent the past week end in New York. I love that city... so much energy. I need my New York fix a couple of time a year.

Elana and Rich are a such a sweet couple. We really got to know each other before their big day. I am excited about their wedding in August.
We walked for about 2 and half hours. We went from the Belvedere castle to the Bethesda in Central Park. Then we took a cab to the High Lane- newly renovated railing, transformed in a lovely pathway, we finally ended in the west Village by going through the MeatPacking District.

Lovely wedding at Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens in Richmond

2011-06-01T21:17:00.000-04:00

I had the pleasure to photograph this lovely and intimate wedding a couple of weeks ago. It took place at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens in Richmond. Leslie and Brent were so easy to work with.

I love Brent's look when he saw Leslie arriving before the ceremony.

Everyone walking together to go get married!

Yummy burritos

2011-05-27T16:24:00.001-04:00

We love burritos! It gets the boys eating their veggies. Ingredients: spinach,endemame,rice,corn, black beans, veggie chicken ( or the real stuff), cilantro and fresh avocados.

Bon appetit!

Children's portraits on the UVA grounds

2011-05-27T10:50:00.001-04:00

Precious little children!

Martha Jefferson Golf Tournament at the Glenmore Country Club

2011-05-26T19:06:00.000-04:00

Here are some photos from the Martha Jefferson Golf Tournament at Glenmore Country Club. Gorgeous day and successful fund raiser!

Pollak vineyards wedding

2011-05-24T11:19:00.001-04:00

Going to back to blogging after few weeks of absence due to computer crash. I always double back up my images but never did my user files- lesson learned! It has been like staring over and during May, busy month for photographer, it has been be challenging but life goes on and beautiful photos have been taken at the meantime:) Except lots of posts coming this week on weddings, events, children portraits, family photos, cake making...

I want to start with Caitlin and Jared's wedding that took place at Pollak Vineyard on May 14th. The rain did not stop us from taking fun filled pictures. Iris, part of the Barb Wired event team orchestrated this lovely event with style and grace. Floral images designed gorgeous flower arrangements, the Batesville Store catered the event and Abbey Road, a Beatles cover band made sure everyone was up and dancing.
It was such a delight to be Caitlin and Jared's photographer. They were so easy going and happy the entire day, never worried about a thing ...pure love and happiness!

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Thank you FTD tent for the perfect lighting.I think that night I shot 95% without flash!

The power of "shout"

Mother's Day gift idea

2011-05-05T09:43:00.000-04:00

What are you getting your wife or your mom for Mother's Day? Bill gave his lovely wife a gift certificate from dominique Attaway photography. If you want one, please call me 434 806 7263 or email me at domiattaway at gmail dot com.

Blue Ridge Oyster Festival

2011-04-28T13:20:00.000-04:00

We had a fabulous week end. The Blue Ridge Oyster Festival was a success and we had friends and family in town to share it with! Delicious food from The Rock Barn, awesome wine from Cardinal Point and beer from Starr Hill and Devil's backbone.

So proud. It is a wonderful thing to see an idea becoming a reality.

Here are some photos of this fun event.

Fun Family portraits

2011-04-27T20:48:00.000-04:00

I had the pleasure to photograph Jen Fariello, talented Charlottesville photographer and her family last week. Fun times, see for yourself.

This is my favorite. Everyone is so happy.

Laura and Jim's UVA wedding slide show

2011-04-15T10:42:00.000-04:00

The music is from Van Morison, "crazy love". If you like it go buy it on amazon and support the artist.

50th Anniversary celebration

2011-04-12T13:59:00.000-04:00

I am only going to say say one thing, because the photos speak for themselves. I WANT THAT!!!
I had the best best time with this family at Keswick Hall. They could not have been nicer, one of the sweetest people I have ever met.

those little guys ran the entire time...and never in the same direction.

except here.

Avery's Bat Mitzvah

2011-04-11T20:07:00.000-04:00

Avery had a her Bat Mitzvah last week. What a sweet girl and fun party!

The DJ did some fun games for the kids.

Behind the scene of weddings- Episode 1- With Amy from Blue Ridge Floral design

2011-04-07T20:34:00.000-04:00

I have decided to start this serie on what happens behind the scene at a wedding. So please, if you are a vendor in the event or wedding industry contact me t 434-806-7263 if you want to document how you get ready before a wedding. It is a free service:)

I spent a Friday morning with Amy from Blue Ridge Floral Design (434.361.9218) to document how a florist gets ready for a wedding.
When you see how fabulous the environment in which Amy works, you can understand how she gets her inspiration for her gorgeous bouquets.

Meet Amy!

Amy gets most of her flowers locally, from her garden or from Florence at Pharsalia but sometimes she has to order flowers from California or Florida.

This is Merlin, Amy's right hand when it comes to design and put together beautiful floral presentation.

I have seen so many brides being in awe when they saw their flowers. Here is what Amy has to say about Laura's wedding last week.

"Laura told me that when she walked into Alumni Hall she wanted to see a sea of white flowers- My challenge was to make the reception hall a spring wonderland- the drama in the spring whites came from the different textures and shapes and variety of flowers. For the branches we had flowering pear and cherry and bridal wreath- In the flowers we had hyacinth, ranunculus, anemones, tulips,wax flower, hydrangea and roses and dendrobium orchids. As a floral designer, I look forward to spring! Every week, the flowering branches change. For my weddings next week, I will be using flowering plum, crab apple, red bud, viburnums and ash. In one week, those trees will be fading away, and the next round of trees and
bushes will be coming. Soon, the lilacs, deutsias and mock oranges will be taking center stage."

Final product at the rehearsal party at the Colonnade club.

Happy bride on her wedding day.

photobooth fun

2011-03-29T18:15:00.001-04:00

Some photobooth fun.
Lesson learned: Next time, duck tape the camera and make my tripod not movable:)

And yes Harvest Moon mashed potatoes with gruyere are that good!

Laura and Jim got married at the UVA Chapel and had their reception at the UVA Alumni Hall

2011-03-29T17:49:00.000-04:00

One word to describe Laura and Jim's wedding: FUN.
Here is a tiny preview. I hope you guys have a fabulous time in Argentina!
Flowers by Amy at Blue Ridge Floral Design

Delicious food by www.hmcatering.com

Singing on the way to the Chapel....

One of my favorite -Right after exiting the church after just being married.

Food!

2011-03-22T14:27:00.000-04:00

When I come back form my first home ( France), I always get motivated to cook.
Did not make the brioche but got it at Albemarle bakery in Chralottesville. For you Nutella lovers, it is a perfect match!

Stuffed tomatoes are delicious, healthy and easy to make. Cut the top and empty the tomatoes ( leave about 1/2 inch). I stuffed them with what I had in my fridge: cooked quinoa, veggie sausages ( obviously you can use the real stuff), sauteed onions and zucchini, cheese. Topped with bread crumbs and cheese. Bake for 25 mn in 350 degree oven.

Wedding Ring shots

2011-03-19T17:24:00.001-04:00

Some of my favorites 2010 Wedding rings shots.

Wedding is next week

2011-03-18T17:05:00.000-04:00

Laura and Tim are getting married next week. Excited... first wedding of the year!

Trip to Lyon, france

2011-03-17T11:23:00.000-04:00

I am back at home after a week of traveling to France. I had fun playing tourist in my home town, Lyon ...and of course photographing food.
I had the best time catching up with my oldest and dearest friend and seeing my mom.

There is something magical about the sunset up in the air. I also discovered how powerful it is to listen to music with headphones.

photography of a sweet baby girl and her family

2011-03-03T15:10:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I had the privilege of photographing this happy family. Each time I photograph a newborn, I always forget how small they are... how touching it is to see her siblings and family react around that little baby.

Event I photographed for Martha Jefferson a few weeks ago

2011-02-24T13:21:00.000-05:00

This event for Martha Jefferson took place at the new Outpatient Center on Pantops. Dickie Morris did a fabulous job at transforming the reception area into a magnificent reception Hall. Harvest Moon catering once again provided delectable cuisine and lovely flower arrangements..

Are you looking into having your wedding in Charlottesville?

2011-02-23T09:23:00.000-05:00

If you are looking into having your wedding in Charlottesville, check out the Hook this week. Here is a link to the online magazine in case you cannot find it on the stands. Check out page 28:)

Apple tart, oysters and yogurt..bon appetit!

2011-02-16T11:32:00.000-05:00

There are few things I wanted to post.
My new favorite snak: Greek yogurt-honey and crushed walnuts.

Apple tarts: My boys devoured those, which is why I always make them by 2.
Easy, simple and pure "delice". Puff party sheet (frozen from Pillsbury or Trader joe's), apples mixed with lemon juice and sugar. You can brush the pastry with egg wash to make me pretty and golden. Bake at 400 degrees for 25 minutes.

Do you like oysters? we do. We had an oysters roast the other day and it is so much fun. We used to do it a lot when we lived in Charleston, SC.

Best 2010 Wedding featured on Charlottesville Wedding blog

2011-02-16T10:41:00.000-05:00

I am happy to say that some of my 2010 weddings have been featured on the Charlottesville Wedding BLog part 1 today. Thank you Claire!

I love those guys!

2010 was fabulous!

2011-02-09T17:38:00.001-05:00

Here are some of my favorite photos from my 2010 weddings. Thank you to all my wonderful couples who made my job so easy. Because of you, I got the WeddingWire Bride's choice Awards for the 2nd year in a row.

I love what I do, so let's make 2011 even more fabulous!

I love my French platters

2011-02-08T09:05:00.000-05:00

... and what was inside was not too bad either.
My mom would call that a "gratin de pates"but I think in the States, it would be called a fancy Mac'n Cheese with mushrooms and spinach.
I am terrible with recipes as I never follow them and rarely (apart from baking) I use measuring instruments.
So here are the ingredients:
Pasta (1/2 lb), bechamel sauce (melt butter, salt+pepper, add flour and thin it with milk to make a creamy sauce), sauteed mushrooms ( 3boxes- I use chanterelles and portobello and whte caps), sauteed baby spinach. Put everything together. Cover with shredded Gruyere and some bread crumbs.
Very satisfying on a cold winter night.

Time to get back to blogging

2011-02-04T14:19:00.029-05:00

I think the reason I can give really for this long silence is just pure and simple:needed a break. I had decided that January will be a month of no obligations. After a super busy past 6 months I thought it was time for relaxation so I took a trip down to Miami to visit with friends. It felt so good to disconnect from the cold winter we've been having here in Virginia ( without snow to top if off). Here

are pics to warm you a little.

We had a lovely lunch at The Releigh, a hotel in Miami Beach.

My friends.

My friend Karine is personal chef in Miami. If you live in the area and need catering for private dinners and small parties, you must contact her here. She offers catering with a French flair, delicacy from Bordeaux, cannelets and many other specialties.

Lovely Wedding at The Jefferson in Richmond

2011-01-06T10:33:00.000-05:00

Happy new year everyone! I am a bit late on this post as I was without a computer for 2 weeks (which was the perfect break).
Karen and John got married at The Jefferson in Richmond last December. It was such a sweet family event. I met Karen and John at their niece's wedding back in October (see pics on the blog).

I love that her grandson walked her down the aisle.

Their sons gave the most touching and delightful speeches.

Fun PBS event with the Derby Girls

2010-11-30T10:45:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I photographed an event for PBS and the Roller Derby Girls were there to provide great entertainment. The Event Company orchestrated the event and Ken from Couture Design (823-4942), fabulous floral designer, created perfect lighting decoration. Matt from Carpe Donut baked yummy doughnuts.

Kissing Miss Virginia's feet.Those girls are AWESOME!

Gorgeous family portraits

2010-11-23T16:05:00.000-05:00

I love this family!
Mom can be proud! Not only her children are gorgeous but they are so well behaved and willing to please their mom for holiday photos:)

Adorable baby girl

2010-11-23T15:56:00.000-05:00

Caroline was so easy! She smiled almost the entire time and was very happy to crawl all over the Rotanda and the UVA gardens.

Easton is 4 weeks old

2010-11-22T12:20:00.001-05:00

I spent last Friday morning with Easton and his mom....such a sweet baby boy! Easton's mom made me realized why there were so many October babies,...the snow storm 2010:)
Enjoy his sweet face.

More family fun portraits

2010-11-22T08:30:00.001-05:00

This is my 4th year photographing this family and we are now friends. We met at Cardinal Point Vineyards for the yearly Oyster Roast. This color photos are straight out of the camera, they have only been sharpen for web use. The sky was magnificent that day.

...and Windsor makes three

2010-11-19T15:13:00.000-05:00

July 2010

Now

Botherly love

2010-11-19T09:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a peak at little boys having fun on a perfect Fall day in Charlottesville.

Big and Happy family

2010-11-18T09:00:00.001-05:00

I have been photographing Rachel's beautiful family for the past 3 years but it was the first time we got together with her parents and sisters. It was so wonderful to see them so close....made me miss my family. We met at the beautiful Montfair resorts.

Sweet baby girl pictures

2010-11-17T21:26:00.000-05:00

See how precious Alexis is?

I love that newborn have that natural instinct to follow their parents.

kateri and Seth's wedding slide show

2010-11-17T13:06:00.000-05:00

Here is their slide show. I wanted to use the Stevie Wonder song they used to exit their ceremony (great idea) but it did not work as well as I thought so I used Amos Lee, "Sweet pea". As usual, if you like it go buy it on amamzon.
Enjoy!

Michelle and Ryan are the runner ups from the Charlotesville Free Wedding Project

2010-11-11T14:35:00.000-05:00

Jack Looney put together this spectacular event, The Charlottesville Free Wedding Project. He brought together many vendors who donated their time and services for the winner of the contest on November 5th. Mountfair Vineyards, Harvest Moon,FDS Tents, Blue Ridge Light Forms, Festive Fare, Star Hill Brewery and Pat's Floral Design decided to extend their generosity to the Runner up couple, Michelle and Ryan, who got married the next day at Mountfair Vineyards on November 6th. I was honored to document their special day. Michelle and Ryan were most thankful and appreciative to everyone about their glorious day! Their happiness was contagious and their love palpable.

Pats flowers were left form the day before and they looked gorgeous.

They had a candy table I thought was a cute idea....keeping the children busy:)

Michelle's bouquet, along with the bridesmaids were designed by a family member.

Gorgeous sky that day.

I love this shot. It was taken after the ceremony. The temperature had dropped about 20 degrees and those girls were freezing!

I thought the lighting was just magical.

Intimate wedding at the Inn at Old Virginia in Staunton

2010-11-10T09:51:00.000-05:00

I wanted to share some photos from a small and sweet wedding I photographed a couple of weeks ago. It was my first visit at the Inn at Old Virginia and what a lovely place it is!

HOLIDAY CARDS TEMPLATES...TAKE YOUR PICK!

2010-11-05T15:49:00.000-04:00

Here are the holiday cards templates I am offering this year.Hope you like them.
They are 5x7's flat can also be made in folded.

had to put my boys.

Family portraits in black and white...for a change

2010-11-05T09:27:00.000-04:00

I met this new family a couple of weeks ago and since it is what you do with a 2 and 1/2 little boy, we ran around all over:) He is a cutie. I love the classic feel of the black and white in those, well actually they are my sepia.

I love his look, precious.

family portraits in Northern Virginia

2010-11-04T15:58:00.000-04:00

The past couple of years I have been going up to Northern Virginia to photography this new family. Erin has grown up so much since last year that I almost did not recognize her. She was on the move the entire time, always to go in the street. So cute.

2010-11-04T13:08:00.000-04:00

These guys are good friends. Another gorgeous setting at sunset with a fun group. I love pushing the limits with my camera. These photos were taken between 6:30 and 7pm.

Beth and Josh's Wedding slide show

2010-11-04T09:56:00.000-04:00

Here is Beth and Josh's wedding slide show. The wedding was at Ash Lawn. The music is from Madeleine Peyroux. I love her voice.
Enjoy!

More family portraits

2010-11-02T16:58:00.000-04:00

I love those guys! We met on a beautiful and picturesque private farm in Nellysford. The light was just perfect.

Kateri and Seth's wedding at Montfair Resort

2010-11-01T15:47:00.000-04:00

I love love love love Kateri and Seth's wedding! Everyone was just so jovial . They chose to get married at Montfair Resort, which is just breathtaking at this time of the year. Ken from Couture Design ((434) 823-4942) did an exquisite job with the flowers. The Rock Barn provided delicious food.

I think this was the first time I photographed such a large bridal party. The colors were so vibrant!
As I said, everyone was genuinely happy and ready to have fun. Even when the power went down, they managed to have an amazing party with an awesome play list on their ipod- with some of my favorites- Michale Franti and Stevie Wonder. One guest had a generator and another one had 300ft of cords in his trunk which allowed for light outside and music. Perfect example that you should never let little details (even elecricity) bug you on your wedding day! Make the best and create the best memories.

Kelly and Steve's wedding slide show

2010-10-27T14:19:00.000-04:00

Here is Kelly and Steve's wedding slide show. I love their classic and elegant style and I thought this song from Etta James, being timeless would fit perfectly their pictures.

I love this time of the year for family portraits.

2010-10-27T14:11:00.002-04:00

I photographed this family last year, but this year Emily's little sister joined us with her own family.

love this!

2010-10-26T18:07:00.000-04:00

May 2009

Now

I was so thrilled when Hallie contacted to photograph little Joseph. Another amazing part of my job is to be part of my clients' life. I absolutely love this!!!
This little boy was laughing the entire time. His smile is so contagious!

More family portraits

2010-10-26T14:08:00.000-04:00

It is always a different dynamic when teenagers are involved, but those guys were troopers:)
I really enjoyed our Sunday morning outing last week:)
Here is a peak at a few.

Looking for a videographer for your wedding

2010-10-22T08:23:00.000-04:00

I worked with Josh Gooden back in August for Brittany and Brandon's wedding and he put together a great film.You can see it here

Beth and Josh's lovely wedding at Ash Lawn

2010-10-21T16:26:00.001-04:00

I loved the simplicity and natural of Beth and Josh, such a sweet couple! Claire Goodman performed a ceremony filled with tenderness and humor. Harvest Moon took care of the wonderful decor and also catered the event. Rachel from cakes by Rachel was responsible for those delicious cakes. Amy Webb from Blue Ridge Floral design assembled the beautiful bouquets and flower arrangements.

Last minute advice from Claire.

Lauren and John Adam's wedding slide show

2010-10-21T11:24:00.000-04:00

Here is the slide show from Main Street Station wedding in Richmond. "You are the best thing"is from Ray Lamontagne. I think it fits Lauren and John Adam's wedding perfectly. If you like the song, please go buy it on amazon.

Another beautiful senior portrait session

2010-10-20T12:09:00.000-04:00

I have been so lucky this year to photograph teenage girls that are simple, pure and naturally beautiful. Alexis exemplifies that trend.

A fun portrait session on a beautiful Fall evening

2010-10-19T17:25:00.000-04:00

I love this time of the year and the sunsets are just gorgeous here. Here is a quick pick at another beautiful family! I photograph them a couple of years ago and I love to see how the children change...and they are also my neighbors:)

Meet Evie: Most adorable baby girl

2010-10-18T16:59:00.000-04:00

I love spending time with Evie and her mom. She was so easy and loving! I got my baby girl fix. Love those cheeks.

Fall portraits in full bloom

2010-10-15T12:29:00.000-04:00

I love this family! We've been meeting for the past 3 years and each time their pictures are so expressive and lively, they speak for themselves. A great example that the subject makes the photo. Thanks you for sharing your moments with me!

This is probably my favorite photo of the moment. Need I say more!

Children portraits at the UVA Lawn

2010-10-14T14:37:00.000-04:00

Last week I met with the Mom of those beautiful children for a photo session.