A Modern Appalachian Wedding Story full of heart | WV Wedding Photographer
Being a WV wedding photographer means I get to see this state in ways most people don’t. The small moments, the honest ones. The laughter that shakes loose in the hills. The kind of love that belongs here.
Emily and Monty’s wedding felt like a love letter to all of that.
They told me from the start they wanted something that felt folky, old-school Appalachian. The kind of day that honored where they’re from but still felt modern. Real. Present.
They pulled it off without even trying.
Modern Style
Emily wore a Cinq dress that felt like it was made just for her. She has that effortless kind of style that doesn’t need to announce itself. She got ready with her girlfriends at The Ruffner (because their wedding venue doesn’t have a getting ready space, -10 points there JQ).
I now recommend the Ruffner to every single one of my Charleston, WV wedding couples. Beautiful light, calm space, just the right mix of vintage and refined. It set the tone for everything that followed.
Outside, the ceremony space was simple and intentional. Lisa with Beautiful Beginnings designed something I have never seen before. A single tree adorned with flowers. It didn’t need more.
A man who shows up and ain’t afraid to cry
Monty cried at least ten times that day. Maybe more. The kind of emotion that catches you off guard but makes you love him even more. He’s present in every moment, genuinely loving his friends, and utterly, madly in love with his wife. The kind of man who makes everyone around him feel seen and cared for. 10/10 best groom of 2025 (no shade to my other grooms - but Monty wouldn’t have DARED to hide in the back watching football on his phone like some of you other hooligans.
Appalachian Spirit
There’s something about the way people love here. It’s unpretentious. Deep. Emily and Monty wanted their guests to feel that. To experience the best parts of West Virginia. The food, the music, the way time slows down when you’re surrounded by people who know you.
It wasn’t about a perfect timeline or a Pinterest board. It was about feeling it all while it was happening.
That’s the kind of story I want to keep telling.
presence, not perfection
If you’re planning a wedding in West Virginia that feels like this one [modern, fashion-forward, and value driven] I’d love to be your wedding photographer.
[Contact me here] to see if your date is open.
Vendor Shoutout
Photography: The Breiters
Dress: Cinq
Venue: The Ruffner (getting ready) JQ Dickinson (ceremony/reception)
Florals/Design/Installation: Beautiful Beginnings
Planning: Krista with WonderWall Events
Videography: Lady Mountain Films