I'm a hopeless romantic who finds great joy in creating and capturing connection and beauty wherever I go.

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Rachael Mattio Photography

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Your engagement photos are the kick off to your wedding journey and will be something you cherish forever. If you haven’t considered DC for your engagement photos, then I hope I can give you a lot to think about! In this blog post, I will be providing all of the important tips and tricks for […]

DC Engagement Photos | A Guide to the Perfect Session

Weddings

Couple walking in front of Tidal Basin during DC Engagement Photos
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If you are anything like me, having your pup for every big life event is a must-do. Plus, who can refuse an excuse for family photos?!? However, as much as we love those furry friends, they can add a bit of chaos into the mix. So, if you are planning to have engagement photos with […]

Tips for Engagement Photos with your Dog

Engagements

Couple Looking Out Towards Water with Dog
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Old Town Alexandria Engagement Photos | Dillon and CK Dillon and CK’s engagement session is a mix of all my favorite locations for Old Town Alexandria Engagement Photos!  Coastal mixed with urban, there is no going wrong with this city as the backdrop. Not to mention, all of these locations are within walking distance of […]

Old Town Alexandria Engagement Photos

Engagements

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Close to our nation’s capital and known for an array of landscapes, a Northern VA Wedding is sure to be just as luxurious as it is convenient. Whether looking for chic city vibes or elegant southern charm, NoVA has what every couple needs for their wedding. Northern Virginia has the perfect mix of skilled planners, fantastic […]

A Guide to Northern VA Weddings

Weddings

Bride and Groom walking down stairs at a northern va wedding venue
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While it doesn’t get a ton of recognition, Richmond is, in my humble opinion, one of the best cities in America. This charming town has adorable boutiques, fantastic restaurants, and unforgettable museums just a fast walk away. Its proximity to some of the more major cities in the United States gives us all sorts of […]

Your 2023 Ultimate Guide for Hosting Richmond Weddings!

Weddings

bride and groom in grey suit walk through a grassy field Richmond Weddings
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At a venue that feels like it belongs in Gone with the Wind, a Rust House Manor Wedding carries the feeling of southern charm to every couple that gets married here. Located central to Leesburg, Virginia, this property lies on a nature sanctuary which makes a beautiful backdrop. Not only do you get access to the manor, […]

Rust Manor House Wedding | Leesburg Virginia

Weddings

Back of Rust Manor House
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A Shadow Creek Wedding is a celebration like no other. Tucked amidst the Catoctin mountains in Leesburg VA, the property provides a romantic backdrop for couples looking for an elegant barn-style venue. Upon arriving to the property, visitors will notice the miles of rolling hills and white picket fences that surround the equestrian-style barn. Along […]

Shadow Creek Wedding | A Romantic Leesburg Venue

Weddings

Shadow Creek Wedding Venue
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Your wedding reflects you and your partner and the realization of everything you’ve envisioned throughout your planning. If you have always dreamed of a barn wedding, consider Fox Meadow Barn in Winchester, Virginia. It is not too far outside of Washington, DC. Its beautiful facilities (equipped with plenty of year-round amenities) are perfect for the […]

Rustic and Elegant Day at the Fox Meadow Barn Wedding Venue

Weddings

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Your engagement photos should be an authentic reflection of you and your partner. After all, you’ll treasure these pictures for the rest of your life and maybe even for future generations. Whereas your wedding photos capture the magic of your one-of-a-kind wedding day, engagement photos are about capturing you as a couple, comfortable and natural. […]

Engagement Photos Richmond VA | Top Locations for Your Session

Engagements

man holding hands and leading his fiance through on monument ave Engagement Photos Richmond VA
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The Country Club at Wakefield Plantation in Raleigh, North Carolina, is an elegant country club wedding venue. With a variety of services, modern amenities, and a fantastic events team, couples can host the wedding of their dreams at this stunning Wakefield Plantation wedding venue.  About The Wakefield Plantation Wedding Venue 2201 Wakefield Plantation Drive Raleigh, […]

Wakefield Plantation Wedding Venue for Elegant Outdoor Luxury

Weddings

bride and groom walking hand in hand at their wakefield plantation wedding
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