As a New Branch Farms Wedding Photographer we naturally captured the heart of this beautiful wedding celebration at New Branch Farms, where Jacob and Jess celebrated seven years of friendship, adventure, and deep love surrounded by their closest family and friends.

From emotional private vows to heartfelt family moments and a sparkler exit under the night sky, every part of their wedding reflected who they are at their core: joyful, genuine, adventurous, and deeply rooted in the people they love most.

A Love Story That Began at JMU

Jacob and Jess first met in 2018 while attending James Madison University through a mutual friend. Shortly after graduating in 2019, the two officially began dating — and over the years, life would take them all over the world together.

With Jacob serving as an officer in the Army and Jess working as an ER nurse, their relationship has been shaped by both sacrifice and adventure. The military brought them across the country and even throughout Europe, fueling their shared love for exploring new cities, trying new restaurants, traveling, working out together, and taking walks with their beloved golden retriever, Finnley.

But beyond the adventures, what stood out most throughout their wedding day was simply how much they enjoy being together.

Jess shared that Jacob is “the calm to my storm,” always patient, steady, and willing to say yes to just about any adventure she dreams up. Jacob described Jess as passionate, thoughtful, and someone who makes life anything but dull. Together, they truly radiate best-friend kind of love — the kind that feels effortless, safe, and full of joy.

The Sweetest Proposal Story

Their proposal story could not have been more thoughtful.

At the time, Jacob was stationed in Kansas while Jess was still living in Virginia Beach. Jess’s bridesmaids invited her to dinner in East Beach before casually suggesting they walk to the shoreline to catch the sunset — one of Jess’s favorite things to do.

What she didn’t know was that Jacob had secretly flown in and was waiting nearby.

As Jess walked along the beach, Jacob surprised her and proposed while a hidden photographer captured every emotional moment. But the surprises didn’t stop there.

When Jess went to FaceTime her mom afterward, she realized her family and closest friends were actually gathered at Back Deck — one of Jacob and Jess’s favorite places in Virginia Beach — waiting to celebrate with them.

Honestly, it was the perfect reflection of who they are: intentional, family-centered, and full of heart.

A Wedding Day Full of Elegant Farmhouse Charm

Jess described herself as more of a “neutral color girl,” loving timeless simplicity over trendy palettes. Their wedding design beautifully reflected that vision through soft champagne tones, white roses, greenery, and elegant understated details.

One of the reasons they chose New Branch Farms was because it perfectly blended the rustic farmhouse atmosphere they loved with a refined elegance that fit their vision so well.

From the stunning ceremony arch to the beautiful veranda spaces and open-air pavilion, the venue created such a romantic backdrop for the entire celebration.

Even the sentimental details carried deep meaning throughout the day.

Jess wore her grandmother’s original wedding band, carried a bouquet adorned with her late grandmother’s brooch, and the couple included a cigar holder that once belonged to Jess’s late grandfather during cocktail hour. Those quiet heirloom moments always carry so much beauty and weight on a wedding day.

Emotional Moments Throughout the Day

Rather than a traditional first look, Jacob and Jess chose to share a private first touch and exchange personal vows around the veranda corner without seeing one another beforehand.

It was one of the sweetest moments of the entire day.

The anticipation, emotion, and sincerity between them was incredibly moving and allowed them to slow down and really soak in the meaning of the day together before the ceremony began.

Their ceremony itself felt deeply personal, especially with Jess’s uncle officiating the wedding.

And later in the evening, guests were surprised with a special mother-and-bride dance that honored Jess’s mom in such a meaningful way.

Every part of the day felt intentional.

Incredible Vendor Team

This wedding came together beautifully with the help of an amazing vendor team:

• Venue: New Branch Farms
• Videography: Flower & Oak Films
• Catering: Twisted Fork Catering
• Cake: Smallcakes Smithfield
• Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey
• Groom Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
• Invitations: VistaPrint

And we also have to give a huge shoutout to our incredible associate photographer Kelly and second shooter Liam, who both did an absolutely phenomenal job capturing this day so beautifully. We were so proud of the way they served Jacob and Jess with excellence, care, creativity, and intentionality throughout the entire celebration.

FAQ About New Branch Farms

Where is New Branch Farms located?

New Branch Farms is located in beautiful Smithfield, Virginia and offers a peaceful countryside setting with elegant farmhouse charm.

What makes New Branch Farms unique?

The venue beautifully balances rustic and elegant aesthetics, making it ideal for couples who want a timeless wedding day with both refined and relaxed elements.

Does New Branch Farms have indoor and outdoor options?

Yes! One of the reasons Jacob and Jess chose the venue was because of its versatility. The property offers outdoor ceremony spaces, covered pavilion areas, and beautiful backup options in case of weather changes.

Is New Branch Farms good for wedding photography?

Absolutely. Between the open fields, elegant architecture, veranda, ceremony arch, and golden sunset light, the venue photographs beautifully from every angle.

Thank You Jacob & Jess

Jacob and Jess — thank you both so much for allowing our team to be part of such a meaningful and joy-filled day.

Your love for one another is genuine, steady, adventurous, and deeply rooted in friendship and family. Watching the way you cared for one another and the people around you throughout the day was truly beautiful.

We are so excited for the life ahead of you both — filled with new adventures, new places, long walks with Finnley, and so many memories still to come.

Congratulations again, Mr. & Mrs. ❤️

To contact us about your wedding, click here.