Brooke first inquired just a few weeks ago and as soon as we hopped on the phone, I knew their wedding day would be so special. With any hope of a big celebration out the window thanks to COVID, Orlando was determined to still find a way to make their wedding day special. And what he came up with was absolutely PERFECT.

Brooke’s grandparents owned a beautiful piece of farmland for decades, where so many of her childhood memories took place. Her family sold the farm years ago, and I’m sure the new owners were surprised when they got a call out of the blue from Orlando – asking if they could get married on the property that was so special to Brooke and her family.

The new owners graciously agreed, and so once the plan was set, Orlando let Brooke in on the surprise! They would be married on a Monday morning with just their parents and Orlando’s grandmother in attendance, under the oak tree that held so much significance to Brooke.

When the day finally arrived, the weather was perfect – which is unusual for August in Maryland! As their parents carefully installed a few decorations, I couldn’t help but feel like we’d been transported back in time, when weddings could be planned in a matter of weeks without all the pomp and circumstance.

There is so much beauty to be found in simplicity, and Brooke and Orlando’s micro wedding is a perfect example. The two exchanged vows under the oak tree, while their parents each performed a short reading.

After the ceremony, we had plenty of time for hugs and portraits around the property. Turns out, the old dirt road where Brooke first learned to drive was the perfect location for portraits, and we had to take a few by the old barn which still features a mural painted by Brooke’s family!

This was an absolutely beautiful morning, and I’m so thankful to have been a part of it. Brooke and Orlando, thank you so much for having me and congratulations!