Rummer and Zach’s June summer wedding at River Farm was a breath of fresh air—joyful, vibrant, and completely alive from beginning to end. River Farm in Alexandria, Virginia is already a venue that feels natural and familial, but on this day it was bursting with color, movement, and personality in a way that felt so uniquely them.

I had the absolute pleasure of second shooting this wedding alongside Matt Schmachtenberg, and honestly, being a second photographer on a day like this is such a gift. There’s a kind of creative freedom that comes with being a second photographer. I got to run around, observe, anticipate, and chase the fleeting moments that happen in between the big ones.

The morning of R & Z’s wedding started with the kind of energy that you just know it’s going to be a really good day. Everyone was in the best mood — uncontrollably laughing, buzzing with excitement, and fully soaking in every moment as the final touches came together. There was such a lightness in the air, the kind that makes everything feel effortless and fun.

One of the highlights of the morning (and honestly one of the funniest wedding moments I’ve ever photographed) was a prank Rummer pulled on Zach before the real first look. Instead of Rummer tapping him on the shoulder, Zach’s best friend stepped in — fully committed in a wedding dress and veil. When Zach turned around, the look of absolute shock on his face quickly turned into uncontrollable laughter as everyone burst out laughing around him. It was such a perfect reflection of the joy and playfulness that defined the entire day.

Rummer and Zach leaned fully into color and vibrancy, which felt especially fitting for a June celebration overlooking the Potomac. Their first look under a canopy of pink flowers was absolutely gorgeous! 🌸 They chose to read their vows privately to each other, and it was incredibly sincere and heartfelt. Everything else faded away and it was just the two of them, fully present with one another before they walked down the aisle.

Their colorful florals popped against the lush greens of River Farm, guests arrived dressed to celebrate, and the whole day carried this undercurrent of excitement. That sense of closeness showed up everywhere—friends greeting each other like family, quiet check-ins between Rummer and Zach, and laughter breaking through the formalities of the day.

One of my favorite parts of the day was observing and connecting with Rummer and Zach’s guests. They were so expressive in their outfits, and everyone looked so unique — each person bringing their own energy, color, and personality into the celebration. It truly felt like a reflection of the couple themselves: vibrant, welcoming, and full of life.

The celebration unfolded effortlessly into the evening, with music, movement, and that golden summer light that makes everything feel a little more magical. It was one of those weddings where you’re constantly aware that something meaningful is happening, and you just want to hold onto it a bit longer.

Rummer and Zach’s wedding was a reminder of why I love photographing weddings in the first place. Not just for the beautiful details or the stunning venue, but for the energy of a day when people gather with intention, to witness love and celebrate it fully. Being part of it—even from behind the scenes—was such a joy.

Huge thanks to Matt Schmachtenberg for having me along for the ride, and to Rummer and Zach for throwing a wedding that felt as good as it looked.