This day was so special. Bailie and I go wayyy back. We grew up in church together, and her family was one of my closest friends. Bailie got a great job in North Carolina after graduating from VCU and shortly after met her future husband! Jarod and Bailie met at work while Jarod is a police officer and Bailie works in the forestinics labs (doesn’t this already sound like a TV show?!)

There is something so honorable and special about a close friend asking you to photograph such a monumental event. Yes - it was a week day and yes - it was out of state, but I didn’t even flinch! I wouldn’t miss this wedding for the world (and this was before I knew what a stunning venue they had)!

The Bradford is one of the most elegant and functional wedding venues that I have had the privilege of working at. From the moment you drive down the driveway, it’s absolutely breathtaking. I found Bailie and her bridesmaids finishing their final touches in the bridal suite on the third floor. The vibe was calm but so joyous! The guys were hanging out in the groom's suite - shooting pool, having some drinks, and cracking jokes!

Prior to walking down the aisle, Bailie shared a special moment with her dad seeing her for the first time and it was the sweetest! Guests were all seated on the side lawn of the main house. The ceremony was set up beautifully down to the tiniest of details. I did find myself with a tear or two running down my cheek while Bailie walked down the aisle. Seeing someone you’ve known since childhood taking steps towards her groom completely caught me off guard in the best way. Brian, the bride’s dad, also took the role as the officiant at the wedding. No tears, but it was a close one. ;)

Then it was time for the party to begin! Mexican food, yummy smores, and a boppin’ DJ on roller skates...need I say more?! From the moment Bailie slipped into her wedding dress to the final exit, she was GLOWING. The looks that Jarod and Bailie gave one another was a perfect illustration of infatic love. As the night was winding down, I couldn’t help but reflect on all of the perfect details that Jarod and Bailie put together. To top off the big day, their closest friends and family cheered them off as they drove away in newly wed bliss! Antigua - here the Dodds come!