In the heart of Newport News, there is a picturesque area by the fountains in the City Center at Oyster Point that I have always loved. The sidewalk goes all the way around the water, the fountains are beautiful and there is a gazebo that overlooks the whole area. I had the privilege to photograph my first City Center elopement there this summer, and it was so beautiful!

Joanna and Steven’s love for each other radiated outwards, so much so that even pedestrians walking by stopped to tear up and witness their marriage ceremony. The couple stood under the gazebo in City Center overlooking the fountains, which served as the perfect backdrop for their intimate elopement.

Their officiant, Chuck, is one of my favorites to work with during ceremonies – he is very professional but also hilarious. Chuck takes the time to learn about the couple before the ceremony and is sure to include personal references and quotes. In the case of Joanna and Steven, he shared some very funny words about love and the coincidence of National Cat Day. It so so sweet and special!

As an elopement photographer, my goal is to capture special moments throughout the ceremony as well as portraits of the couple that they will cherish for years. Joanna and Steven booked one hour of photography for their City Center elopement, and we were able to spend a good amount of time taking portraits around the fountains and surrounding areas.

While we were walking around the area, it was great to hear a little more about Joanna and Steven. Joanna is a librarian at William and Mary (cool connection as I’m am alum), and she actually found her wedding dress in a thrift store! Isn’t it super fun?! She also made the bouquet herself – I loved how the colors popped! The City Center at Oyster Point happened to have a floral LOVE sign up by the fountains too!