Wedding Stories are a periodic feature checking in with past wedding couples to gather some reflections on their wedding day and their photos. Alessandra and John had a wonderful two-day celebration in Virginia. Their ceremony was held at Good Shepherd Church in Alexandria, VA, with a reception the following day at Potomac Point Winery in Stafford, VA.  Their favorite moment was also one I will never forget! 

Looking back on it, how would you describe your wedding day? What are some of your lasting memories?

Our wedding was a wonderful, blissful wedding weekend. We decided to get married on a Friday afternoon with our families present. On Saturday we had a traditional reception with dinner and dancing, everybody was invited to celebrate with us! It was a great way for us to really enjoy the time with our company and each other. 

Was there a real moment captured in your wedding photos that you are especially glad to have now? What is the story behind it and why are you glad to have it?

My favorite moment captured was the ribbon wrapping. I had no idea this was a family tradition for my wife’s family but it really was a lot of fun and Stephen captured that moment really well. It highlighted the purpose behind our wedding, which was two families joining as one. We were both happy that our families were able to be part of our special day.

Do you have a favorite image from your wedding photos? Which one and why?

I think my favorite image that was taken is actually one of the more simple photos. Alessandra and I were standing in front of a brick faced tunnel. It is truly an artistic shot but also symbolic of how relationships and marriage are a journey and we’ve only just begun ours. It reminds me of the adventures we still have ahead.

Have your wedding photos helped shape your memories of the wedding?

I wouldn’t say the photos shaped my view of the day however I will say they captured the essence of the day. The pictures really told a story about the day from the moments leading up to it and the intimate times we shared. The pictures also did a great job of highlighting how much fun the day was for both of us.

Have you printed and displayed any of your wedding photos? If so, why was that important to you?

We have ordered lots of prints and made photo books of our photos. This was especially important to share with our family and friends who could not attend our wedding. Sharing our favorite memories with them was a priceless gift. It made it a little easier knowing that although they wouldn’t be there to witness our vows, see our first dance or send us off, they had the photos which captured all the big moments and everything in between.

Do you have any advice for couples getting married or anything you wish you knew back when you were about to wed?

Relax! Weddings are stressful but don’t let the stress ruin your moment. Once the day arrives there isn’t anything else you can do to effect what already happened. Just enjoy the day with your new spouse and family. Plus it will probably be something you can look back on later and laugh. Maybe. Also, try to pause and take in the moments because the day goes by really quickly.