My first wedding of 2019 was a little different than most and we all know I love different weddings! This particular wedding was a traditional Vietnamese engagement ceremony with American wedding elements added.

I first met Kori and Nhan in the fall of 2018 and fell in love with them in the 15 minutes we spent together. They had their engagement portraits taken with me in their American wedding attire because they didn’t think they could afford me as their wedding photographer. After some time had passed, I got a message from Kori telling me she just had to have me as her wedding photographer. Did I tell you how much I adore this couple? I was so excited.

Fast forward to the day of their engagement ceremony. They just purchased their new home in Manassas and it was the perfect location for their ceremony. I had previously photographed an engagement ceremony so I knew what to expect but not speaking Vietnamese always makes for tricky timing knowing what will happen and when. Good thing I am a good guesser and her videographer helped me know when to stand in certain places.

Their wedding took place in the beginning of January. Don’t let their portraits fool you. There was snow on the ground, it was spitting rain all day, it was freezing, and by the end of the day, I couldn’t feel my toes. Kori and Nhan are such troopers walking through the snow, standing in the snow and posing. I don’t know how Kori did it with her bare shoulders!

Kori had three dresses for her wedding day. Her traditional Vietnamese dress, her surprise dress, and the dress to wear to the reception which is the dress in her engagement photos. She really wanted to have a first look with Nhan. After the ceremony was over they both changed clothes to get ready for their reception. Little did Nhan know she would be wearing a different dress. She wanted something he hadn’t seen and wanted to surprise him. Their first look was so cute because he didn’t really know why we were having a first look and the first thing he said to Kori was, “Hey that’s a different dress!” It was too cute.

I adore this couple and was so honored to be part of their special day.

To view Kori and Nhan’s engagement session, click here.
To view more recent weddings, click here.

Sarah Botta is a Northern Virginia based newborn and wedding photographer whose work can be described as organic, natural, and timeless. Sarah specializes in capturing people’s stories and building connections with each client to help tell their story. Her residential newborn studio is located in Woodbridge, VA where she photographs newborns ages 4-12 days new.

Sarah has photographed over 55 weddings across Virginia and Maryland from rustic barn ceremonies to elaborate golf course receptions. Her natural timeless style shines brightest with outdoor locations. Sarah is available for travel and is passport ready.