The adoration I have for this couple is beyond words. Sometimes you just get incredibly lucky to be blessed with sweet souls to work with like Craig and Nicole. Even with looming rain clouds they kept their spirits high for their big day. We knew that we would have very few opportunities to work outside, and when we did it would need to be quick. Everyone was so lovely to work together and make this a dream come true event. Everything truly fell into place despite a few moments of monsoon like weather.
Between the wonderful vendors, an incredible second shooter, Hannah hofheinz, at my side, a picturesque little corner where we took advantage of dry ground, and a wonderful couple to celebrate this was just a dreamy wedding all around.
I met Nicole in college at WVU, we may not have known one another well, but I think we secretly respected each other from afar, because we were both those over achieving, involved in just about everything kind of ladies. We grew to become friendly acquaintances working at The Mountainlair Student Union and crossing paths at events. I always thought so highly of her. I actually had the chance to film her on a few occasions as the videographer for Dancing with the Mountaineer Stars where she showed off her dancing skills.
When she called to ask me capture her big day I was beyond honored.
Nicole is from Moorefield, WV, attended West Virginia University, and currently works for the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation. Craig grew up in both Preston County, WV and Oakland, MD. He attended the University of Maryland for his undergraduate degree and is currently getting his MBA from West Virginia University. He works for EQT Midstream.
I love Nicole and Craig’s love story. It is SO sweet and all about second chances. They met in Morgantown, and had their first date at Black Bear. The date went well, who doesn’t love burritos and great conversation? The problem is then no one called. Unfortunately, there was a bit of miscommunication. Craig thought Nicole didn’t like him and vice versa. So fast-forward 9 months later…Craig moved to Morgantown, he touched base with Nicole to see if she’d like to grab coffee. Nicole agreed but more than anything said she wanted to know why he didn’t call. Well, after quickly clearing up any misunderstandings on their second “first” date they hit it off and never looked back.
Nicole and Craig chose the perfect backdrop for their big day at Crosskey Vineyards in Mt.Crawford, VA. Not only did this location boast gorgeous backdrops for the couple, but the entire staff was just wonderful.
They also specifically chose April 19th in honor of Nicole’s grandparents anniversary, which couldn’t be sweeter in my opinion.
On that note, their entire day was truly about celebrating their union as husband and wife in the company of friends and family. It was a beautiful affair. Even when we had to forego our evening bridal portrait session due to dreary weather I love that Nicole suggested going around to capture each table with the bride and groom. I feel they’ll cherish those moments and photographs always. Such a special idea that I would highly recommend to all of my couples.
Nicole and Craig did a beautiful job making their day a wonderful celebration of their love story. Between sweet sentiments like heartfelt letters to one another, Nicole carrying pieces of her grandparents with her down the aisle, the gold and blue cross/rope ceremony made from wood and rope from both of their families properties, to Craig and his mother’s first dance kicking off the reception …the day was nothing short of wonderful.
Thank you both so much for inviting me to share in the fun and capture your beautiful memories for you. It was such an honor and I hope you’ll enjoy looking back on these moments for many many years to come.
You are such a beautiful couple!
Oh, and be on the lookout for their wedding video! It was such a pleasure working alongside Mountain Memories and I have no doubts it’s going to be a stunning final product.
Wedding Coordinator : Nikole Taylor with Crosskey Vineyards
Florist: Mountain Laurel Marketing
DJ: Christain Lane of Music
Photobooth: Photobooth of Charlottesville
Videography: Mountain Memories
