What a way to kick off 2021! Derek & Emily’s wedding at Hotel Covington on the second day of the year was such a joy to both celebrate and document! These two had waited a long time for their wedding day and with the year that 2020 was, it was almost a miracle that it came to be!

I actually got to meet these two when I photographed Emily’s best friend Sam’s wedding back in the summer of 2019! She tagged along on their engagement session and then was maid of honor in their wedding and Derek was also part of the bridal party! So, when Emily’s email came through right after Derek proposed, I was all kinds of excited to get to celebrate them!

2020 was a hard year. Especially for these two as they spent it almost entirely apart. Derek is in the military, which has meant a lot of long distance for them over the course of their relationship. And unfortunately, this last year was no different. Emily planned a lot of the wedding solo, with the help of her mom! And it turned out beautifully! Plus, we got to sneak in a last minute engagement session a few days before their wedding so that they could still savor that moment together before they became husband and wife!

Derek and Emily, thanks for letting me be the one document your wedding day! And for sticking it out with me twice in the freezing cold! Y’all made us feel so welcomed the entire day and watching the love you have for one another and for everyone in your circle is inspiring! I’m excited for this next chapter you get to walk into together! And just have to say one more time, congratulations!! You’re married!