Richmond Engagement Session | Ashley and Tommy

September 20, 2019

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“No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.” 1 John 4:12. This Bible verse spoke to me as I reflected on Ashley and Tommy’s engagement session that was centered on God and their love for each other. The National resonates with them for a multitude of reasons. They both have special memories individually of experiencing God’s love for them in that building. It’s also the very place that they met.

Let All That You Do Be Done In Love

It all started 4.5 years ago at Chapel’s Downtown location at the National. Ashley was shy and her friends pushed her to meet five new people during meet and greet. That’s when she met Tommy. He invited her to his birthday party, and from then on they cultivated a relationship deeply rooted in faith and love.

Everlasting Love

Ashley and Tommy found a perfect match in each other. They complement and accept each other’s quirky and unique personalities. According to Ashley, Tommy encourages her to face her fears and conquer them. Tommy admires the way Ashley listens to him and encourages him to follow his passions. She even encouraged him to apply for a job that was out of state without any hesitation. Having unconditional trust in God and each other is a pillar for an everlasting marriage.

Faith, Hope, and Love

When it was time for Tommy to take their relationship to the next level, he enlisted Ashley’s friends to help with his proposal. Tommy planned an elaborate surprise engagement at the VMFA with the help of Ashley’s friends and coworkers during Fourth of July Fireworks. It was a spectacular and explosive proposal, and of course, she said yes!

No Longer Two But One

In 2020, the two will become one. Ashley and Tommy have been long distance for almost 3.5 years. Every distance traveled and heartfelt goodbye is becoming harder and harder. They are most looking forward to waking up with each other underneath the same roof. Enjoy some of my favorite images from their meaningful engagement shoot at The National! Looking forward to their wedding day next year as we celebrate their perfect unity.

Richmond Engagement Session, Engagement Session at The National, Fan Engagement Session, Nicki Metcalf Photography

VENUE | The National & Chapel

I'M NICKI

I see the beauty in imperfect things. As a Christ-follower, faith is central to my life, work, and connections. I am fueled by joy, known for my bubbly and sunny disposition, and always with a warm hug. Imperfect beauty inspires my love for all things vintage, abstract art, and real love stories. I love moments full of grit and emotion; life off the beaten path; stunning views along the shore; and the juxtaposition of New York grunge and laid back Cali-vibe.

As a mother of two, I am very familiar with how quickly life’s most important moments fly by too quickly. I will calmly and seamlessly guide you through frames that will endure. I strive to capture your memories with one-of-a-kind images full of meaning. I cannot wait to connect with you!

I bring all of these elements to my time with my couples. With over a decade of experience in the industry, I know how to gently guide you through poses that are natural and beautiful. The transition into this sentence doesn’t make sense. Throughout your day, you will feel the love from those there to celebrate
you two.
When I’m not photographing weddings, I enjoy long walks in the neighborhood with my husband, my kiddos Tuxie and Sunny, and my labradoodle Hokie.. Also, I am a huge dog-lover! I’m pretty sure heaven is full of dogs. I can’t wait to connect with you, and yes, your pup is always welcome here!