It’s amazing how some people enter your life and an instant connection is formed. That’s the perfect example of my relationship with Riette.  We met a few year’s ago at a Showiteer (website platform) networking event and although we didn’t know each other she came up and started a conversation.  We chatted about photography, the food, more photography and other random things.  I knew a few people at the event and so did she and while I have a habit of clinging on to the people that I am already familiar with, I am so thankful that she started a conversation.

Fast forward to earlier this year, I put out a request in one of our Facebook networking groups for a second shooter from Brittani and Jered’s wedding and while I hoped Riette would respond, it took her about a day.  I immediately invited her to join me.  I knew Riette had a great portfolio of work because she had recently won first place in the Shoot and Share photography contest in one of the categories! The wedding day was awesome and I repeatedly told one of my friends, Lacoya of Hello Love Events, how similar our shooting styles were, so similar that I had a hard time figuring out which photos were hers and which ones were mine and that’s perfect when shooting a wedding with someone else.  We’ve worked together a few times since then and I heard about Chris more and more each time.

When Riette and I met for lunch one day, I realized that Chris was the one for her because she was talking about moving to Charlotte, NC one day as Chris had recently moved there himself.  Before I knew it, Riette told me they were engaged and I couldn’t be more happy for my friend and although I wanted to know badly who she was selecting for her wedding photographer, I didn’t want her to feel pressured so I didn’t ask!  A few weeks later Riette called and wanted to discuss her wedding and ultimately asked me to be her photographer!!!

I met up with Chris and Riette last weekend and while it was my first time meeting Chris, I knew instantly he was a great guy.  We did a portion of their engagement session at the VMFA in Richmond and they showed me where they had their first kiss and where he proposed.  Chris and Riette set up a picnic in the spot of the proposal and later walked around the street where Chris lived for more photos.

I love that I have bonded with each of my bride’s this year in one way or another and Riette is no exception.  I’m am looking forward to documenting their first day as husband and wife in the next few weeks! Here are a few of my faves from their engagement session: