Elizabeth Larson Photography

New Look to Website & New Blog - Elizabeth Larson Photography

2018-01-11T21:08:00.001-05:00

Two years ago, I made the decision to switch my website over to another web developer & host, Photobiz. This year, I decided to go with a new look for my website and to add a blog making everything seamless. So after 12 years with this blog, I'm saying goodbye. I admit I'm not completely letting it go - I have 12 years of memories on here! I started this blog a year after I moved from Virginia to North Carolina, so its a little bittersweet. Change is tough, but I see great things ahead. 2018 is the year of change for me. Lots of great things on the horizon & I'm so excited about them! Be sure to follow me on my new blog here and below is my new home page on my website. I love it!

2018 Winter Special - Wedding Collections

2018-01-08T14:56:00.000-05:00

Are you newly engaged or do you know someone who is? For the next two months, January and February 2018, Elizabeth Larson Photography is offering a special on all wedding day photography collections. Book a wedding between now and February 28, 2018 and you will receive (1) additional complimentary hour with any collection. Please contact us for details!

image © Elizabeth Larson Photography

2017 wedding + event professionals featured!

2018-01-01T11:02:00.002-05:00

2017 has been a fantastic year and I've had the opportunity to work with so many talented wedding & event professionals and at some really amazing venues. Thanks to many of you for the referrals & I sure hope I get the opportunity to work with you all again in 2018 and in years to come!

Burke Manor Inn & Pavilion

The Longhouse, Flowers by Gary, Knot Your Average Events {design, planning, coordination}

John Haskins for Triad DJ & Events

Blue Soda Cake Bakery

Corda Entertainment

King Family Vineyards, Floral Designs by Jacquelyn

Cake by Sweet Meg's

Moorefield Florist

A&A Disc Jockey and Photobooth

Kat with Dear Sweetheart Events

Jeanne Cusick of Cville Makeup

Western Steakhouse Catering

The Radio Narks {Booking Agent - Sam Hill Entertainment}

Floral Designs by Jacquelyn

King Family Vineyards, MS Events, Floral Designs by Jacquelyn, Dear Sweetheart Events

Josephine Butler Parks Center

The Garden Outlet

Happy Trails Horse & Carriage

Erin Finnegan {planning, coordinating} with Bobby & Kelly

Emma Key's Catering

Cake & All Things Yummy, Sophisticated Florals by Stephani e, Hauser Rental Service

Kathy Mooth Newsom {planning & coordinating} with Diane

California Fresh Catering

Jenn Ball {center} of Knot Your Average Events at Kennedy & Carl's Wedding

Lori Lacassagne of Burke Manor Inn & Pavilion

Adaumont Farm

Eat & Smile Catering

Delicious Cakes

Sophisticated Florals by Stephanie

Derek Tobler - Charlottesville DJ & Emcee

Oakcrest Catering

Rick's Flowers

Tiffany Rivera of Simply Breathe Events

Villa de l'Amour

Flowers by Gary

Rev. Elizabeth Edmunds

Southern Event Rental, Flowers by Gary, Knot Your Average Events, {cake & cupcakes - friend}

Andy Eversole Music

Burke Manor Inn & Pavilion

Moorefield Florist

Marcus of A&A Disc Jockey

Sam Frazier Band - including bride, Diane, who is also an incredible musician & vocalist!

Rev. Liz Grimes of All Faiths Wedding Officiants of the Triad & Jenn Ball of Knot Your Average Events

King Family Vineyards & Floral Design by Jacquelyn

Cakes by Rachel

Pike Productions

Adaumont Farm

The Garden Outlet

The Proximity Hotel

Emma Key's Catering

Laura & Jennifer of Knot Your Average Events

California Fresh Catering

Fred Lail & Gavan Douglas

Rick's Flowers

Kathy Mooth Newsom - Planning & Coordinating

Cakes by Rachel

Josephine Butler Parks Center, Simply Breathe Events, Eat & Smile Catering, and Rick's Flowers

Brandy Woodford & Carmen Hedrick {not pictured} Cupcakes - The Corner Farmer's Market

Marci of A More Beautiful You

The Team at Dear Sweetheart Events

Dinner at Home Catering

Rick's Flowers

Jenn Ball of Knot Your Average Events

Lori with Burke Manor Inn & Pavilion

Chase of K2 Productions

Signs by Katie Elizabeth Ray

Annette & Terri with Rev. Liz Grimes of All Faiths Wedding Officiants of the Triad, Flowers by Gary

Flowers by Gary

Sue McCain with husband Dave. Sue is now retired but the former owner of The Wedding Galleria by Bella and Bella Wedding & Event Planning. She helped plan & coordinate a friend's son's wedding this summer & I really enjoyed working with her again!

Moorefield Florist

Invitations by Exclusively Weddings

California Fresh Catering

Photobooth - Pike Productions

In The Garden at Burke Manor Inn & Pavilion

Adaumont Farm, Elizabella's Bridal & Formal Boutique, The Garden Outlet

Monte with World Tour Entertainment

Moorefield Florist

Villa de l'Amour, Laura Bray Hair & Makeup, Wedding Dress Me

Cakes by Rachel, Floral Designs by Jacquelyn

Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden

Ryan Shelton with Triad DJ & Events

TCS Event Rentals, Dreambuilder Productions

King Family Vineyards

In addition, I'd like to give a shout out to all of my assistant and second photographers from 2017! Thank you so much Anna Dixon, Jenny Viars, Sarah Kehl, Haley Aydelette, Terry Killebrew and Mark Bell. You all are the best!

Behind the scenes - Terry got this one of me at Sara & Bryce's DC wedding!

all images © elizabeth larson photography - 2017

Peace + Joy - Happy Holidays from Elizabeth Larson Photography!

2017-12-23T13:06:00.001-05:00

Peace + Joy = Love

Happy Holidays from Elizabeth and Terry at Elizabeth Larson Photography!

We are truly grateful for each and every one of you!

image © elizabeth larson photography - 2017

2017 weddings in review!

2017-12-22T07:20:00.000-05:00

2017 has been a fabulous year! We've documented fourteen weddings and one 50th wedding anniversary throughout NC, VA, SC, and DC. Its been a great run & I've truly enjoyed working with each and every one of these couples. And we will be featuring these weddings on the blog, if we haven't already, this coming winter!

all images © Elizabeth Larson Photography - 2017

Vernell + Brad - 2.18.17 - Pleasant Meadow Baptist Church - Loris, SC

Stephanie + Richard - 3.18.17 - 50th Anniversary - Paul J Ciener Botanical Garden - Kernersville, NC

Samantha + Corey - 4.8.17 - Burke Manor Inn & Pavilion - Gibsonville, NC

Hannah + Leland - 4.29.17 - Villa de l'Amour - High Point, NC

Kennedy + Carl - 5.20.17 - Private Family Farm - Hillsborough, NC

Terri + Annette - 6.10.17 - The Longhouse - Stokesdale, NC

Elizabeth + Josh - 6.24.17 - Private Residence - Greensboro, NC

Shannon + Brandus - 9.9.17 - Burke Manor Inn & Pavilion - Gibsonville, NC

Christine + Greg - 9.10.17 - King Family Vineyard - Crozet, VA

Sara + Bryce - 9.16.17 - Josephine Butler Parks Center - Washington, DC

Ashley + Michael - 9.30.17 - Adaumont Farm - Trinity, NC

Kevin + Rob - 10.20.17 - Proximity Hotel - Greensboro, NC

Diane + Jay - 10.21.17 - First Friends Meeting - Greensboro, NC

Lauren + Nathan - 10.28.17 - The Meadows at Walnut Cove - Walnut Cove, NC
{© Sunday Rein - I was 2nd photographer for this wedding}

Kelly + Bobby - 11.10.17 - Redeemer Presbyterian Church - Winston-Salem, NC

Amanda + Josh - Pilot Mountain State Park - Engagement

2017-11-27T12:42:00.001-05:00

Earlier this month, when fall color was at its peak, I got together with Amanda & Josh for their engagement session at Pilot Mountain State Park. It had started off as a foggy, gray day but grateful it was dry and relatively mild. As we hiked along the trail around the knob, the sun finally came out and the lighting was gorgeous. And because we scheduled for later in the day, we were there to witness a spectacular sunset! It turned out to be a beautiful day. We really lucked out!

These two will be getting married this coming May at JOLO Winery & Vineyards. You can actually see Pilot Mountain in the distance from the vineyards there, so it made for the perfect location for their engagement session. In addition they both have a love of the great outdoors - and Josh is a big fan of the mountains, after living in Boone for several years while at Appalachian State. I really enjoyed getting to know this fun loving couple more and I'm so excited about Amanda & Josh's upcoming wedding!

all images © Elizabeth Larson Photography - 2017

Ashley's Bridal Session - Adaumont Farm

2017-10-02T08:31:00.000-04:00

Now that Ashley is married to Michael, I can finally feature her bridal session here on the blog! We scheduled her session back in early June at Adaumont Farm, where their wedding was also held this past Saturday. I've been wanting to share these all summer & I finally can! Some of my favorites from that day are the ones of her on the swing. She chose one of these for a printed canvas, which was displayed at their wedding reception. Her gown, you may notice, is a very pale blush and I just loved her cowgirl boots! I've really enjoyed getting to know Ashley over the past year & I'm excited to know that she and Michael are going to be new neighbors, as they're building a house close by to my farm!

venue - Adaumont Farm
wedding dress - Elizabellas
cowgirl boots - Ariat
bouquet - The Garden Outlet

all images © elizabeth larson photography - 2017

Wanderlust: The Art of Travel Photography - John C Campbell Folk School Photography Workshop

2017-09-27T09:32:00.000-04:00

From November 12th through November 17th, I will be teaching a travel photography workshop at the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, NC. I'm looking forward to coming back to teach at this very special place again. The class is called "Wanderlust: The Art of Travel Photography" & its going to be so much fun teaching it!

The folk school interviewed me a few weeks ago, so that potential students and others could learn more about me as a photographer & and what to expect in class. They featured me on their blog along with a Q&A and several of my travel photographs. I've been meaning to share this all of September and here it is the 27th of the month already! You may read it here.

Its not too late to sign up for this class! And please by all means, if you know of anyone who may want to take it please share this with them. The ideal student is an intermediate photographer, however I'm willing to work with students just starting out in photography.

You may sign up here.
Learn more about the class here.

The folk school is in the southwestern part of the state {North Carolina}, but they get students from all over the country and out of the states too. I remember meeting a student from another class who was from New Zealand! It's a unique place, rather like adult camp. You can stay on campus in one of the houses or cottages & meals there are out of this world! I need to lose 10 pounds before November 12th!

© elizabeth larson photography - www.elarsonphoto.com

Tuscany, Italy - Montage 2009

Family Lifestyle Session - Mike, Kelly, + Girls

2017-09-24T19:43:00.000-04:00

Somehow I overlooked featuring Mike, Kelly, & their two adorable daughter's late spring session! And here it is officially fall already! We got together one evening in May at Guilford College in Greensboro where Kelly's dad is one of the tennis coaches. I've actually known Kelly for quite a few years now, as she was business partner with her now retired mother, Sue McCain, of the Wedding Galleria by Bella and Bella Wedding & Event Planning.

It was great seeing Kelly again and meeting Mike finally. And those little girls...absolutely precious! Such sweeties, we had quite a bit of fun! The campus offers up a nice backdrop & we had beautiful weather as we often do here in North Carolina in the spring. Fall is a beautiful time of year here too! And on that note, NOW is the time to schedule your session too - family, couples, head shots and more! Please contact us for additional info & to book here!

images © elizabeth larson photography - 2017

Shannon - At Home Garden Bridal Session

2017-09-11T08:44:00.002-04:00

Shannon and Brandus had a gorgeous wedding this past Saturday at the Burke Manor Inn & Pavilion, so I can finally feature her bridal session on the blog. We scheduled her morning session in mid-June in the garden at her parent's home in Burlington. Shannon looked absolutely stunning and I loved her dress with the lace & beaded bodice, satin skirt, and just a little bit of bling in her sash. Everything about her look was classic and elegant. She told me she was sold on the dress when she discovered it had pockets! Today I'm sharing a few favorites and can't wait to share from their wedding day too.

all images © elizabeth larson photography 2017

wedding dress - bridal mart
bridal bouquet - DIY from the garden

their engagement session from last fall can be viewed here!

Christine + Greg - Elon University Engagement Session

2017-09-08T08:56:00.002-04:00

Christine and Greg are getting married this weekend at King Family Vineyards! I can't wait! These two met as undergraduates at Elon University, so when they found out I live only 15 minutes from campus they were super excited to schedule their engagement session there. In early April, they drove down from Virginia and made a weekend of it. One of their favorite locations at Elon is the fountain in front of the Alamance Building, so we started off there. Its such a beautiful campus & we had such a great time. And Christine wore burgundy - a school color!

Like me, Christine is also from the Charlottesville area, so we had that connection too. Her family still lives close to where they are having their wedding this weekend & at one of my favorite Virginia vineyards. You can't beat the view there and the weather is going to be sunny and in the low 70's. So excited for these two & looking forward to seeing them again. Stay tuned for a blog post featuring their wedding in the coming months, if not weeks!

all images © elizabeth larson photography - 2017

Hannah + Leland - A Beautiful Spring Wedding at Villa de l'Amour

2017-08-30T07:46:00.001-04:00

Last summer I got together with Hannah and Leland at Grove Winery & Vineyards for their engagement session. We sure had a fun morning and I enjoyed getting to know them better! After planning their wedding with them starting last spring and into this past winter, I was so excited when their 4.29.17 wedding day was finally here!

It was a gorgeous day with no sign of rain. These two did a first look outside by the big iron gate which opens into the courtyard at the venue. With Leland's back towards Hannah, she walked up to him coming out from the building & tapped him on the shoulder. When he turned around you could see just how much in love he is with Hannah & she with him. It was so incredibly sweet to witness this!

Because the weather was perfect, they were able to have their ceremony outside in the courtyard by the tiered fountain. With three photographers documenting their day, we were able to get all angles of the ceremony! After they said their vows and had their first kiss, Hannah & Leland were pronounced husband and wife & they came back up the aisle as their guests threw colorful confetti at them!

And what an awesome reception Hannah & Leland had. From the introductions, to their DIY photobooth, and a fabulous sparkler exit at the end of the evening. Not to mention the music. Chase of K2 Productions did an incredible job of keeping everyone's interests and as a result, the dance floor was packed all evening. The personalized chalkboard was awesome and the cupcakes amazing! My favorite part of the day was when Hannah's uncle surprised these two with a hilarious song he wrote and serenaded them with at the reception. He's a professional musician, who has an amazing voice & plays guitar. This sort of thing makes a wedding so very special to a couple.

After enjoying a honeymoon traveling throughout Europe - Rome, Venice, + Scotland - Hannah & Leland reside in their new home in the Charlotte area with their dog, Ramsey, who was a special part of their engagement session too!

ceremony + reception - Villa de l'Amour

catering - Pepper Moon Catering

wedding cake + cupcakes - Blue Soda Cake Bakery

music - Chase of K2 Productions

hair + makeup - Laura Bray + Katie Veazey

officiant - Jacob Gaines

wedding dress - Wedding Dress Me

custom chalkboard - Villa de l'Amour {in-house artist, Nancy}

floral + decor - DIY

photobooth - DIY
wedding colors - shades of light blue & purple

a very special thanks to my assistant photographers -

Anna Dixon + Haley Aydelette

all images © elizabeth larson photography - 2017

Kelly + Bobby - Salem College & Old Salem Garden - Engagement Session

2017-08-18T07:31:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago we got together with Kelly & Bobby for their engagement session in Winston-Salem. I'd met with Kelly earlier this summer and just knew she was going to be fabulous & a real sweetheart to work with. Turns out, Bobby is too! These two are perfect together. They know how to have fun and to show love and affection to one another! They were so relaxed in front of the camera & really enjoyed themselves.

Winston-Salem is a special place for both Kelly & Bobby. They met through mutual friends at a party, fell in love with one another, and are getting married in this beautiful southern city. Bobby is in medical school at Wake Forest University and Kelly teaches language arts, history, & science at The Redeemer School + Presbyterian Church, where they'll have their ceremony this fall. Salem College is Kelly's alma mater and this is why they chose to do part of their engagement session there. We finished their evening session in the gardens at Old Salem.

We sure had a fun time and I can't wait for their wedding this coming November. I'm also excited to be working with Erin Finnegan, who moved from Winston-Salem back to Minnesota several years ago. I've known Erin for about 12 years and Erin used to work with Kelly's mother. Erin is helping plan the wedding & will be day-of coordinator. And I'm so very grateful for the referral!

All images © elizabeth larson photography 2017

thanks to Terry, my partner, for assisting!

Samantha + Corey - Burke Manor Inn Wedding

2017-08-07T09:29:00.003-04:00

When I first met Samantha and Corey last December, I knew they were going to be so much fun to work with! Fast forward to April 8th, when their wedding day finally arrived. What a gorgeous day it was with a light breeze and plenty of sunshine.

Arriving at Burke Manor Inn, I joined Samantha and her gals while they prepared for the big day in the bridal cottage. Sarah, my second photographer, met the guys outside in the garden for some pre-wedding photos. Rather than doing a first look, Samantha & Corey decided to do a first touch before the ceremony. What a sweet moment it was!

The ceremony was held outdoors in the beautiful garden under an arbor. When Corey saw Samantha for the first time as she came up the aisle with her dad, the look on Corey's face was priceless. And I loved the sand ceremony - Samantha is originally from Texas so they mixed sand from Texas with sand from Florida, where Corey is from. I've only seen this incorporated several times at weddings and I just love this idea!

Immediately following the ceremony a reception was held in the tented pavilion on the grounds of the inn. A fabulous meal was served buffet style. Dancing, cake cutting, & toasts followed, ending the evening with the bouquet and garter tosses. Everyone truly had a wonderful time at Samantha & Corey's wedding! They were definitely a fun couple & Sarah and I truly enjoyed working with them.

venue - ceremony + reception - Burke Manor Inn & Pavilion

music - John Haskins for Triad DJ + Events

catering - Saint Jacques at Burke Manor Inn

wedding cake + grooms cake - Publix Bakery

floral design - Lyn Moser Florals

officiant - Rev. Elizabeth Edmonds
wedding gown - Elegant Bridal
bridesmaid's gowns - David's Bridal
men's attire/tuxedos - Vera Wang
wedding colors - navy, pale blue, pale pink, cream
honeymoon - New York City

special thanks to Sarah Kehl, my 2nd/assistant photographer

all images © elizabeth larson photography 2017

Vernell + Brad - Winter Wedding in South Carolina

2017-08-01T19:20:00.000-04:00

Brad & Vernell's wedding was the first of 2017 for me & it was a great way to start off the year. It was a beautiful February afternoon the day of their wedding - mild, sunny, and in the low 70's, which is typically unheard of that time of year for coastal South Carolina.

Brad's son was his best man and the two groomsmen were his son-in-laws. Vernell's daughter was matron of honor, Brad's daughter was her bridesmaid, and her grandson, ring bearer. When I see couples with children, whether grown or not, I always think how special it is that they include them in the wedding party and/or give them special roles the day of the wedding.

The church had gorgeous stained glass windows and was beautifully decorated with candles, white florals, evergreens, & ferns. Brad & Vernell did not do a first look, however chose to see another another for the first time when she entered the church at the beginning of the ceremony. And it was worth the wait! The look on his face was priceless - Brad looked so incredibly happy.

After the beautiful ceremony, we finished the wedding party photos in the sanctuary and then a reception followed in fellowship hall. The reception was beautifully decorated too, with one of my favorite winter/spring flowers, hot pink camellias. The palm tree with the trunk made of pineapple was awesome and was a great focal point for the display of cheeses, vegetables, and fruit. I was excited to discover another friend had made a southern favorite - cheese & cayenne cookies. So good! The main course was barbecue, roasted chicken, and all the southern favorite side dishes. Everything was so delicious! A friend lovingly made their wedding cake too. And because the weather was so nice, Brad & Vernell requested couple's portraits outside towards the end of the reception and about an hour before sunset. Some forget how pretty natural winter light can be, but these two didn't!

What made this day extra special is that Brad is a colleague & a friend, whom I work with in coastal South Carolina at a studio specializing in academic/yearbook photography. I've also had the pleasure of getting to know Vernell too over the past several years. I was thrilled when they asked me to photograph their wedding and another friend & colleague, Mark, came to second shoot that day {I was just getting over a terrible cold, so in hindsight he saved the day!}. Although Brad is a retired school principle and administrator, he's become quite a talented photographer & has gone as far as purchasing a drone and now doing aerials at the schools and beyond. Vernell has shown an interest in photography too and helps out at school events {football games, proms, etc.}. Yeah, no pressure!

It truly was a great wedding & these two were so grateful their special day was documented by two trusted friends & colleagues!

ceremony + reception - Pleasant Meadow Baptist Church

all images © elizabeth larson photography - www.elarsonphoto.com

a very special thanks to Mark Bell for assisting/2nd shooting!

Emma's High School Senior Session - North Carolina Triad/Greensboro/Winston-Salem/High Point Seniors

2017-06-30T09:37:00.000-04:00

It was so much fun to get together with Emma a couple of weeks ago, with her mother joining her. Emma is a rising class of 2018 senior at one of the local high schools. We started off with a couple in-studio with two different backgrounds - a bokeh blue for one set up & then the silver sequins background for another.

Most seniors prefer the outdoor, on location sessions to the in-studio ones. Actually that was Emma's preference too, however we decided to do both to show other seniors what's available. Emma is in the band at her school & she was such a trooper when her mother suggested she include drum sticks in a couple of the studio shots. Cute!

We then headed outside to my neighbor's property, a winery & vineyards. They have a scenic lake and of course the vineyards which always make for a great backdrop too with all the different shades of green. The photo at the very bottom shows pure joy! Emma is so excited about her upcoming senior year & she's just starting to look at universities this summer. This young lady will do well for herself. She's smart, talented, beautiful, & has a great personality! We truly had a blast the day of her session.

If you are a rising class of 2018 or know someone who is, please pass this on! We have sessions starting at $150.00 ranging to $275.00+. We're based in the NC Triad but close enough to the NC Triangle & Danville, VA area, we'll consider coming to those locations too. Travel fees may apply. If a studio session is desired, you will have to come to us. We also have a beautiful outdoor location in the countryside and few other choices close-by. If you prefer an urban look, we can do that too - downtown Greensboro or Winston-Salem just a couple of ideas!

We have a few July dates available, however the calendar for July is almost completely full already {but we do have some Friday through Sundays opened}. August is a little more opened on the calendar and we're also booking fall dates once schools are back in session. Lastly, if you're vacationing in the Myrtle Beach area this summer {July or August} I can also book some late afternoon/early evening sessions there too {family sessions too!}.

Contact Us For Details/Booking Your Session!

all images © elizabeth larson photography 2017

Taylor + Chris - Revolution Mills Wedding

2017-06-14T07:11:00.000-04:00

Today, we are featuring Chris & Taylor's gorgeous Greensboro wedding! Taylor started off her day getting ready with her gals and the two mothers at the hotel, while Anna joined Chris and the guys for some fun candids. After making our way over to the venue, Taylor put on her dress with the help of her mother and maid-of-honor. Taylor and Chris then did their first touch together. It was such a sweet moment, as they read notes written to one other while holding hands around a corner.

The ceremony was held outdoors in the courtyard with about 150 guests in attendance. It was a warm, beautiful late summer evening. I loved how the couple's adorable dog, Olive, was their flower girl - she stole the show! Taylor's uncle officiated the ceremony, also making it very special for the couple. Taylor's mother did much of the planning and design alongside her dear friend Patti Stephens of Southern Soirees. These two have such an eye for detail and style. Taylor's college friend, Lauren, helped coordinate day-of. She was amazing! Such wonderful people - all of them! And a great team of vendors too!

The reception was held indoors, which is a beautifully restored early 1900's textile mill. It has exposed brick walls, high ceilings, tall windows, and original maple floors. The flowers and decor complimented the architecture of this unique space. Best of all was the dessert table! Krispy Kreme Donuts were served for dessert and the couple cut a small wedding cake, which Taylor's stepfather lovingly made for them. A delicious meal was served buffet style, dancing went late into the night, ending their day with a sparkler exit. After spending their honeymoon in Costa Rica, Taylor and Chris along with Olive, currently reside in Washington, DC. I recently completed their wedding album earlier this spring - so its been fun reconnecting with them again!

ceremony + reception - Revolution Mill Events Center

catering - Pepper Moon Catering

wedding cake - DIY {bride's stepfather}

dessert - Krispy Kreme Donuts

floral design - Farmer's Wife

details & design - Southern Soirees + DIY {bride's mother}
officiant - Rev. Thomas Sparks

coordinator - Lauren Wilson

music - Mike Marshall of Triad DJ & Events
hair & makeup - Katie Veazey & Laura Bray
transportation - Black Tie Transportation
accommodations - Greensboro Downtown Marriott
many thanks to Anna Dixon my 2nd photographer!

all images © elizabeth larson photography

Carol Marie + David - Richmond Spring Wedding

2017-04-24T07:32:00.001-04:00

A week from today, I will get to see these two again! Its hard to believe Carol Marie & David's wedding was almost two years ago - and even more unbelievable that I never featured their lovely wedding on my blog! Carol Marie & David are expecting their first child in June - a boy. I can't wait to photograph their couple's/maternity session in Richmond. I promise I will feature their session much sooner than I did with their wedding!

On that note, Carol Marie & David's spring wedding was held at a really cool place about 30 minutes outside of downtown Richmond, in the tiny town of Montpelier. An old school house has been restored and turned into an arts & education center there. They have a beautiful rose garden & patio outside which made for the perfect location for their ceremony. And on the inside where the reception was held, there's a spacious light-filled atrium surrounded by a hallway on 3 sides which features local artist's work. Such a great use of space!

Carol Marie & David did a first look which meant we were able to do most of the wedding party and family photos before the ceremony so they could enjoy the cocktail hour too. Then just the two of them joined me in the rose garden at sunset for the golden-hour light. I'm glad they agreed to do this. They slipped away from their reception just long enough to get beautiful images of them together. It was such a fun evening with a great couple. From an amazing dinner to dancing, departing in a sparkler send-off!

venue {ceremony + reception} - The Montpelier Center for the Arts & Education

officiant - Rev. Stephen Cowardin

DJ - Drew Walker

catering - Defazio's Catering

wedding cake - Sweet Fix

floral design - Designs by Ron

bride's gown - David's Bridal

groom's suit - Men's Warehouse

favors - wine glasses

Joe, Meredith, Baby A, + Grandparents: At Home Family Session

2017-03-29T13:15:00.000-04:00

Earlier this winter I had the absolute pleasure of photographing one of my former wedding couples, Joe and Meredith, their 6 month old daughter Baby A, and her grandparents. We met in the client's home for a 2 part session, which means we scheduled an hour session on one day and I came back for another hour session a week or so later.

Baby A is such a sweetheart and 6 months is such a cute age. She was just starting to sit up & was all smiles. What a sweet baby girl and I absolutely adore her parents! It was nice to see Meredith's mother and father again too. They are such good people & welcomed me into their home.

Joe & Meredith's wedding can be viewed here and we also did their engagement session a month or so before their wedding. Its been wonderful capturing so many of this family's important memories and we are already planning another session around Baby A's 1st birthday in August. I've enjoyed being back in touch with Meredith and Joe and hope that we continue to do so!

Catherine + Johnathon - O Henry Hotel Wedding

2017-03-13T08:52:00.000-04:00

Its never too late to feature one of our gorgeous weddings! Catherine and Johnathon's special day is no exception. Their day started out with me arriving at the O Henry Hotel, where Catherine & the gals prepped for the big day. Jenny arrived at the couple's home where Johnathon and the men were getting ready. We had time at the hotel for some photos of Catherine & her attendants for photos downstairs in the tearoom and sunroom before heading over to the church. Jenny captured some fun ones of Johnathon & his son Uriah and the rest of the guys at the house.

Catherine & Johnathon did not see one another until she entered the sanctuary with her dad at the beginning of the ceremony. But with much planning ahead we had more than enough time between the ceremony and reception for the remaining photos that needed to be done. We had originally planned to take photos of the wedding party in the church's beautiful gardens after the ceremony, however Hurricane Joaquin had other ideas. The wind & rain didn't stop these two from having a beautiful wedding filled with love and laughter!

Because we had planned and were ahead of schedule, Catherine & Johnathon along with their wedding party had enough time for a cocktail together at the hotel in the adjoining bar & restaurant, The Green Valley Grill, before they were introduced at their reception. These two, along with their friends and families, sure do know how to have a good time! What a great party they threw with the help of the DJ's, Chris and his assistant, of Triad DJ. I always love working with this company. They know how to get everyone out on the dance floor - young and young at heart! Which means more opportunities for us to get some fun action shots. I especially love the photo of Johnathon dancing with his mother - not your traditional mother-son's first dance!

Jenny and I truly enjoyed ourselves at this wedding. Such a sweet couple and wonderful families. We wish them many years of happiness!

ceremony - First Lutheran Church
Pastor Jay Hilbinger

reception - O Henry Hotel

ceremony music - Elegant Ensembles

floral design - Botanica Flowers

reception music & uplighting - Triad DJ & Events
catering - O Henry Hotel

wedding cake - Maxie B's

ceremony directors - Deborah Mitchum & Diane Vanderwerff

bride's gown - Justin Alexander via Divas Boutique & Bridal

bridesmaid dresses - Amsale Bridal

men's attire - Vera Wang
accommodations - O Henry Hotel

assistant/2nd photographer - Jenny Viars

all images © elizabeth larson photography

Johnathon + Catherine's engagement session can be viewed here!

Carmody + Alex: Adaumont Farm Wedding

2017-03-01T10:42:00.001-05:00

This morning, I've been looking back at my late summer weddings from last year. Carmody & Alex were one of my favorite couples to work with capturing their beautiful September wedding at the gorgeous Adaumont Farm.

We started off the day with Carmody getting her makeup on in the bridal suite and then putting on her fabulous one of a kind wedding dress! She looked absolutely stunning. Anna spent time down at the Hunting Lodge with Alex and his groomsmen while they got themselves together and then took some photos along the lake, out in the fields, & around the covered bridge. This venue offers such a variety of places for photos.

Carmody & Alex decided to do a first look, so we found the perfect location for this! We had Alex turn his back & Carmody walk down from the barn along the horse pasture's white fencing. She tapped him on his shoulder & when he turned around to see her, he truly was a happy man! They exchanged a kiss, hugs, and then gifts and then spent a little alone time together.

Because Carmody & Alex decided to see one another before the ceremony, we were able to do many of the wedding party and family photographs ahead of time so that they could take a ride in the carriage afterwards and then join in their cocktail hour with their guests. The ceremony was held outdoors under the pavilion overlooking the lake. We were all so grateful the weather turned out to be beautiful. Just a day before tropical storm Hermine had made it to land with lots of rain and wind!

Everything about their day was truly special. Carmody's daughter Payten played a huge role in the day as she was the flower girl. She was simply precious! Carmody's sister Caroline was her maid-of honor and her mother, Pam did all of the planning and the wedding design and flowers - the reception inside the barn looked amazing! Alex's dad was best man so it was all very family-oriented. And Carmody's dad & stepdad walked her down the aisle and both of them gave her away. Everyone came together to make their special day uniquely theirs. It will be a day to always remember!

venue - Adaumont Farm

wedding celebrant - Pastor Barry Darnell

bride's gown - Church Street Bridal
bride's brooch bouquet - DIY

flowers - DIY {Piedmont Triad Farmer's Market}

caterer - Country BBQ

wedding cake - Amy's Cakes & Candies

horse & carriage - Happy Trails Horse & Carriage

DJ - High Impact Entertainment

video - Elegant Imagez

wedding coordinators - Kay Underwood & Monica Johnson
ceremony music - Alek Ottaway & Greg Ottaway

special thanks to Anna for assisting/2nd shooting
all images © elizabeth larson photography 2016

Carmody's bridal session can be viewed here!

Winter 2017 Specials - Extended!

2017-02-28T12:45:00.001-05:00

We have had a winter special going on here at Elizabeth Larson Photography throughout January & February 2017. And we've decided to extend it for another month! If you book a wedding with us from now until March 31, 2017 we will include one extra hour complimentary with any level package of wedding day coverage! We must receive the agreement (contract) and the retainer on or by 3/31/17 in order to qualify. Please contact us for details!

Also don't forget we are offering specials for head shots throughout the month of March too. They are 20% off with rates starting around $150.00 before special. So if you opted for the $150 head shot then with the special its $120.00 - sales tax applies. You get 5 digital images with this special.

We are based in the Greater North Carolina Piedmont Triad but do travel. Travel for wedding day coverage is included in many parts of North Carolina as well as in the Charlottesville, VA area and the SC Grand Strand area since we are at these locations on a regular basis. Please contact us for details & additional information on our specials.

Sara + Bryce - DelFosse Vineyards & Winery Engagement Session

2017-01-11T08:55:00.000-05:00

Back in November, just before Thanksgiving, I got together with Sara & Bryce who will be getting married this coming September. We agreed to meet at the beautiful and scenic DelFosse Vineyards & Winery just west of Charlottesville. The fall color was luckily still hanging on, although this vineyard would be gorgeous any time of year! We did have a chilly but gorgeous late afternoon for their session. Hiking up the ridge and into the vineyards made for the best views. We had a fun time and the folks at the winery were ever so gracious. Although this couple is planning their wedding at Josephine Butler Parks Center in Washington, DC, DelFosse would make for an amazing location for a wedding! Not to mention their wine is fabulous - I took two bottles home with me. I look forward to planning with Sara and Bryce over these next several months and to photographing their wedding come September!

Winter 2017 Specials!

2017-01-05T15:03:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year to all! Please be sure to read our newsletter for our winter specials. You may follow the link here! Professional head shots through the end of March are 20% off, we have a print sale to all of our existing clients at 50% off, and for any wedding we book between now until February 28th, 2017 we will include a complimentary additional hour with any of our collections! Again, be sure to read our newsletter for additional details or you may contact us via our website - www.elarsonphoto.com.

Also in the news! Pictured below is one of our favorite images from 2016. Chris & Taylor were married on September 17, 2016 at Revolution Mill Event Center in Greensboro, NC. Their sweet fur-baby Olive was their flower girl in their wedding. As I update my website in the coming months, I will be adding an additional wedding gallery featuring Chris & Taylor's wedding. Stay tuned!

Shannon + Brandus - Lakeside Engagement Session

2016-12-30T08:46:00.000-05:00

Lake Mackintosh was the setting for Shannon & Brandus' engagement session last month. We were all thrilled we had a mild day and still touches of fall color that afternoon when we got together. Shannon & Brandus brought their adorable dogs along that day & they really enjoyed the park and the session just as much as their humans! It was fun getting to know these two better and learning a little more about their upcoming late summer wedding at The Burke Manor Inn. Looking forward Shannon's bridal this summer & to their upcoming wedding day in September 2017. It won't be long!