Long before COVID-19 micro-weddings became a common reality of life, Emily connected with Hunter and I about capturing her and her Qiang’s intimate elopement. We had captured Emily’s professional headshot a few years before, then her UVA Graduation session, so when her and Qiang got engaged, we were her first thought! At the time, the plan was just for her, Qiang, and their officiant to meet us somewhere in the Blue Ridge Mountains to be married. After all, they’d be celebrating sometime in the following 12 months with all of their friends and family, either here in the US or back in China! But as the months rolled on and it became obvious that it would be quite some time before travel between US and China OR large wedding celebrations were safe again, their plans started to change. If this would be THE wedding day, they needed a space where they could host just a few of their closest friends that they’ve made since moving to Charlottesville.

That’s where the Gardens at Waterperry Farm came in. This gorgeous property had the mountain backdrops that Emily and Qiang had originally envisioned, but was also the perfect space to host an intimate wedding of 12. But even the immense beauty of the garden was overshadowed by Emily dressed in her simple-yet-elegant wedding gown! When Qiang laid eyes on his bride-to-be for the first time, standing in front of the reflecting pool, he understandably couldn’t hold back the tears that came to his eyes.

Emily + Qiang,

It’s been such a fun journey with you two! From your professional headshot to your graduation photos, and now this stunning wedding day! You two certainly pulled off a micro-wedding elopement for the storybooks. Although it was certainly a warm afternoon, all that Hunter and I will remember is the beauty of the gardens, and of the two souls who were married in their midst. Oh, and we’ll also remember how cute Lulu looked all fluffed up and ready for her close-ups! We’re so grateful we had the opportunity to walk alongside you during this time, and know that someday soon you will be able to celebrate with your friends and family from across the world!

With love,
Sarah + Hunter

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A huge thank you to the incredible creative team!

Photographers: Hunter and Sarah Photography
Venue: Waterperry Farm
Bride’s Shoes: Nine West
Bride’s Jewelry: Dior
Engagement Ring: Jared
Wedding Bands: Cartier
Floral Design: Hedge Fine Blooms
Catering: Tavola
Cake: Cakes by Rachel
Videography: Rachel Curry Films
Hair & Makeup: Glo-Out Glamour Bar

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If you’d like to learn all about the Hunter and Sarah wedding photography experience, or reach out to us about your own upcoming wedding, head over to our wedding website HERE!