Farm to Table Intimate Wedding | Commune | Neon District, Norfolk, Virginia | Norfolk Fine Art Documentary Photographer

I feel like I've waited my career to book a wedding at Commune in the Neon District of Norfolk.  That's not entirely fair, since it hasn't been Commune in that building for very long, but when you're talking about farm to table food and amazing lattes, time stretches out.  I couldn't have asked for a better wedding with which to kick off the 2018 season.  Good food - good company - an amazing couple like David and Shiela - what more could you ask for?

The weather was a dream, especially for March.  You never know what the weather will do in Hampton Roads, even when you’re looking at the forecast for the day you’re in.  When they call for rain, the sun shines and when they say it’ll be cloudy you find yourself drenched in rain.  We don’t always reach the temperature they call for and sometimes we go way above.  You really never know.  March has a tendency to bring snow out of the blue.  Instead, Shiela and David were gifted clear skies and warm temperatures.  

The couple got ready at their home in a neighborhood bordering my own, with their close friends, family, and their two adorable pups.  David was busy finishing some of their reception details when I arrived - complete with a spreadsheet seating arrangement in front of him.  I don’t think I’ve seen a more detailed spreadsheet in my life - these two had it together and the details proved it.

Getting ready can often feel chaotic, running around trying to get everything done before rushing out to the next thing.  It’s the excitement and anticipation buzzing about in the air giving everyone the jitters.

Shiela had told me that they were most excited about eating delicious food and dancing with their friends and family on their wedding day.  Every bit of the day was about having a good time with those closest to them, many of which traveled from quite a distance to be present.  As a military couple, you’re often moving around and not incredibly close (geographically) to family and friends so it’s quite the event when everyone that you care for and love the most comes together in the same room to share a meal, party together, and celebrate this moment.  I’m not sure if the two of them stopped smiling all day.

A semi-secret detail is that the sword that David is wearing belonged to his father and his grandfather before him.  Quite an honor to have such an heirloom by your side on such an important day and a perfect way to remember people so special to you.

Commune didn’t disappoint - the food was outstanding as always but the cupcakes were divine.  I know where I’ll be ordering my next birthday cake!

This was the first wedding that Andrea, my awesome intern this year, has attended.  There’s a couple of her images thrown into this mix.

Vendors:
Ceremony/ Reception Venue/ Caterer : Commune
First Look/ Family Formal Location : The Hermitage Museum & Gardens
Dress : David's Bridal
DJ : Astro Entertainment

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