A Busy Photography Season Comes to a Close

I’ve been taking time to reflect on just how full this past year truly was. From back-to-back portrait sessions to numerous weddings, it was a season marked by long days, creative fulfillment, and meaningful connections. Being a wedding photographer during such an active year is both exhausting and deeply rewarding and it’s couples like Savannah and Graham who remind me exactly why I love what I do.

An Intimate, Faith-Based Beginning

Savannah and Graham chose to begin their marriage in a way that felt intentional, intimate, and deeply rooted in their Christian faith. Their wedding day wasn’t about production or scale—it was about being right in the eyes of God and committing to one another with purpose. As a wedding photographer in Central Virginia, documenting moments like these is incredibly meaningful to me. Their quiet, just-us ceremony was a beautiful reminder that intimate weddings often hold the most powerful emotions.

From a Bonfire Meeting to Marriage

Like many modern love stories, Savannah and Graham’s began unexpectedly. They first met on Facebook during COVID and ended up hanging out by a bonfire—never imagining it would lead to anything more. What started casually turned into something steady and lasting. Graham proposed on Christmas morning, just the two of them, before celebrating with family later that day. Their journey from a chance meeting to marriage is a perfect example of how the most meaningful relationships often grow naturally and without pressure.

A Couple Built on Faith, Family, and Everyday Joy

Savannah is easygoing and friendly, qualities that shine through instantly. She works as a nurse and enjoys cooking, yoga, swimming, walking, and cozy nights binge-watching Netflix. She’s very close with her three siblings, and family plays a huge role in her life and marriage. Graham is casual, hardworking, and a natural leader. He works for VDOT and owns a hardwood flooring company, spending his free time hunting, being on the water, and caring for their dogs.

And there are plenty of dogs—eight, to be exact. Two labs and six hunting dogs named Gunner, Hazel, Patches, Annie, Spooky, Bandit, Jug, and Rowdy. Their favorite place to be is at home, playing with the dogs and enjoying the life they’re building together. They also love nice dinners, NASCAR races, trips to Nags Head, and spending time with their families.

What they value most about being newly married is simple and profound: doing life God’s way, enjoying each other’s time, and laying a strong foundation as they save for their first home.

Why Intimate Weddings Matter

I’ve seen firsthand how intimate weddings allow couples to slow down and truly be present. Savannah and Graham’s story is a perfect example of how meaningful, faith-centered weddings don’t need a crowd to feel significant. These quieter celebrations create space for authenticity, connection, and moments that feel deeply personal—exactly the kind of moments I strive to capture through my photography.

Looking Ahead to a New Season

After this busy season, I’m stepping into a new one with gratitude and renewed creativity. Stories like Savannah and Graham’s are the reason I continue to document love in all its forms—from intimate weddings to lifestyle portrait sessions across Charlottesville and Central Virginia. Slower seasons allow room to reflect, and reflections like these reaffirm why preserving real, intentional moments matters so much.

If you’re planning an intimate wedding, elopement, or simply want photos that feel natural, meaningful, and true to who you are, I would love to connect. You can view my portfolio and learn more about my approach at Kimberly Jade Forbes Photography

If my work resonates with you, I invite you to reach out and start the conversation—I’d be honored to tell your story next. Follow me on Instagram and Facebook!