Heritage Hunt Golf and Country Club Wedding: Ruth + Al

He loves to cook and he loves the water.  She's not a good cook and she doesn't like the water.  And they met through an online dating site that neither were completely serious about using.  Al's 3-month free subscription was almost over when he saw Ruth's photo and thought she was cute.  Ruth saw Al's "wink" but wasn't sure if she wanted to wink back.  With her hand on the mouse she debated her decision, but that decision was made for her by a co-worker who came up from behind and pushed Ruth's finger down on the mouse button, because she thought Al was cute.  

After a few messages back and forth, they had their first date at Starbucks.  Outside.  In the middle of a hot and humid Virginia summer.  At the only table without an umbrella.  Every time Ruth glanced away, Al took the opportunity to wipe the sweat from his brow, hoping she wouldn't notice.  But she noticed everything.  And her initial impression was that he was cheap and sweaty.  Coffee at noon and he didn't even ask if she was hungry!

She left their first date thinking they had a great conversation but still felt a discord.  Thankfully, her cousin convinced her to to go on another date with Al.  Their second date was at a restaurant.  Indoors.  With air conditioning.  And the conversation was full, and their appetites were satiated.  

He loves to cook and she loves to clean.  They both love to go camping, travel, watch movies and play Wii and Xbox.  Together, they have found their harmony in each other's lives.  

I started with Ruth and the girls as they got ready at her and Al's beautiful new home...

While I was with Ruth, Noah was capturing the guys as they hung out at Marsh Mansion.

I say it every time...I love first looks.  Ruth and Al were both nervous as they waited to see each other.  Leading up to their wedding day, they had even talked about who might cry.  Ruth was certain it would be Al.  But Ruth's eyes welled up with tears of joy as she watched her husband-to-be take in the sight of her.

Ruth, you are so beautiful...

This oak tree?  Uh-mazing!  I was so excited when they told me they rented golf carts so we could head out onto the course for sunset photos!

There are times when I get emotional during weddings - the vows when the bride and groom become teary-eyed; loving speeches during receptions... - but the emotion is usually a sweet happiness marked with a smile.  This is the first time I actually cried.  Ruth lost her father a few years ago to cancer, and her brother walked her down the aisle and stood in during the traditional father/daughter dance at the reception.  And as the song played and tears spilled from her eyes, I could see how much Ruth missed her dad, and how she wished he could have been there to watch his little girl get married.

Ruth and Al, I'm so happy that you have found each other, that you have pledged to take care of each other, and that you make each other laugh and smile.  Thank you for the honor and joy of allowing me to capture your wedding day, and for the happiness that comes from calling you friends!

2nd Photographer: Noah Hayes
On-site coordinator: Susan Naugle
Venue:  Heritage Hunt Golf and Country Club / Marsh Manor
Hair/Makeup: Kate Ricasa
Flowers: Brad Toombs with Vintage Florals
DJ: Anthony Puentes of Kingdom Muzik Pin It