Katie and Evan

It was a beautiful and incredibly warm afternoon celebrating Katie and Evan’s wedding at Skyland Resort in Luray, VA. On what was the hottest day of the year, 85 of their closest friends and family gathered to witness this incredible couple tie the knot. Skyland Resort nestled in the heart of Shenandoah National Park, provided the perfect backdrop for this nature-loving couple’s special day.

The day began with Katie and Evan getting ready surrounded by their closest friends and family. The excitement in the air was contagious, with laughter and heartfelt moments filling the rooms.

Katie had a touching first look with her father, joined by her mother for a truly special moment. She also shared a joyful first look with Evan, showcasing the humor and love they share. These small, personal moments are always some of my favorite to capture.

The ceremony took place with breathtaking views of Shenandoah National Park as the backdrop. One of the most memorable moments? Katie’s grandmother served as the flower girl, charming everyone as she walked down the aisle.

The bride’s father escorted her to the altar, where Rev. Minoo Kim, a pastor from St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church in Burke, VA, officiated a heartfelt service. A unique touch to the ceremony was Katie and Evan offering communion to their guests after serving each other—a meaningful nod to their faith and their beginnings at Methodist seminary.

The reception at Skyland Resort was a celebration to remember! The bridal party and newlyweds made a grand entrance, followed by a series of heartfelt dances, including an impromptu “Dancing Queen” performance by Katie and her mother.

Guests enjoyed a delicious meal, and the wedding cake—adorned with cardinal toppers—was a sweet nod to Katie’s love of birds. As the sun set, the evening transformed into a dance-filled celebration under the stars.

As the evening’s festivities continued, Katie gathered all the single ladies for the classic bouquet toss. With cheers and laughter filling the air, she tossed her beautiful arrangement, expertly crafted by Lockhart Farmstand, high into the crowd. It was a lighthearted and fun moment that brought smiles to everyone’s faces—and one lucky guest walked away with the bouquet, much to the delight of the crowd!

More obligatory dancing at their beautiful venue!

The day ended with a magical bubble exit, sending Katie and Evan off to begin their married life together. It was an honor to capture their love story in the stunning setting of Skyland Resort, one of the most breathtaking wedding venues in Northern Virginia.

A big thank-you to the talented vendors who brought Katie and Evan’s wedding day vision to life:

• Day-of Coordinator and Decorator: Twelve19 Events (Breanna Carter)
• Florist/Floral Designer: Lockhart Farmstand (Jamie Lockhart)
• Wedding Dress Designer/Boutique: Brooke’s Bridal and Ball
• Wedding Rings: Sacramento Jewelers
• Engagement Ring: Brilliant Earth
• Bridal Jewelry:
  • Earrings: Simone Marie Designs
  • Bracelet: Natural Power and Magic
  • Necklace: Chlorophyll Jewelry
• Perfume: Mango Skin from Arielle Shoshana
• Invitation Suite: IYHTV Designs
• Makeup Artist and Hair Stylist: STV Bridal (Samphois Vickers and Team)
• Ceremony Music: Pastor Jan Phillips
• Reception Music: DJAntPike (Darryl Carter)
• Wedding Cake/Desserts: Buttercream Dreams LLC (Carrie Ashton)