Matt & Madeleine

TWO YEARS. That’s how long 10.10.2020 was marked on my calendar for Matt & Madeleine! It honestly felt a little surreal when the day finally arrived. The leaves were just beginning to turn, and the sky was overcast but thankfully, the rain held off. After two years of planning plus a global pandemic to contend with, I’d say these two deserved a perfect day – and that’s exactly what they got!

Matt and Madeleine were married on waterfront family property in St. Mary’s City, MD, with their closest friends and family in attendance. Family played such an important role in their wedding day. Madeleine is the youngest of three daughters, and her dad joked about finally being done paying for weddings – as a mom of two girls myself, I can totally relate to that! Madeleine’s mom was putting on her veil through tears, as did Matt’s mom as she helped him with his boutonniere.

Speaking of tears – JUST YOU WAIT until you see Matt’s reaction during the first look AND as Madeleine walked down the aisle! This groom was totally melted into a puddle both times at the sight of his bride, which just goes to show that a first look definitely does not take away from the “aisle moment”. I’m so glad that they did a first look because it allowed us to accomplish the majority of their portraits before the ceremony even started!

One of my favorite parts of each wedding are the best man and maid of honor’s toasts – I always learn something new about the couple. I knew that Matt and Madeleine met at Towson University, but I did NOT know that Matt is apparently extremely skilled at watersports. As the story goes, he totally impressed Madeleine’s family by being able to hold his own during a family boating trip early on in their relationship! Let’s just say that if I was being measured up by my ability to wakeboard … it probably wouldn’t go well!

The father-daughter dance was definitely a highlight of the evening, when Madeleine and her dad broke into a carefully choreographed dance of hit songs that had everyone applauding. Another highlight was the cake cutting, which was cut with a sword that had belonged to Matt’s late grandfather. He passed away 16 years ago, but this was such a sweet way to honor him!

What I will always remember about this day is how kind-hearted Matt and Madeleine both are, and what a joy they were to work with. I can’t believe 10.10.2020 has come and gone, and thank you SO MUCH for having me along for the ride! Enjoy Jamaica!