Hey, there! My name is Dana Arnold and I am a wedding photographer based out of Monterey, California. When I did live in Norfolk Virginia, I booked some amazing weddings and some of my favorite Virginia Beach Wedding Photography happened here at The Gala 417. I was so excited when Chyna and Keith hired me for their wedding, and agreed to fly me back out when they rescheduled their wedding after I moved to California. Their theme was tropical and reminded me of a minimal Hawaii type of wedding.
Each time Chyna and Keith had to change their wedding date, they got new wedding invitations. I loved the creative idea of the wording for each one. It felt right to put them together in order with some cute details to showcase just how 2020 was for many couples!
When I entered The Gala 417, I saw right away that Chyna was so relaxed. In fact, she was learning how to do a Tik Tok dance to “Fancy Like”. It was a blast watching her and her friend nail it (after several attempts) and just seeing how chill she was! Chyna was ready and in her dress is plenty of time to capture some fun and personable portraits of her in her dress all around The Gala 417.
I want to add a bragging right, because I got the man who “doesn’t smile” to smile for some photos and that alone should be one reason why a coupe would hire me! Keith is so handsome and we all love it when he smiles!
Wedding Party Photos
I personally feel like the wedding party does not get enough credit. Just imagine a wedding without your best friends by your side fetching you drinks, food, and keeping a smile on your face during such a stressful (yet rewarding) day. Chyna’s girls and Keith’s guys were such a pleasure to work with! Each one was always so kind, started a conversation with me, kept up with my personality, and saved my life from a car! Ha! Seriously though, these gals and guys were so fun to work with!
Virginia Beach Wedding Photography
Chyna and Keith have been planning this wedding for a very long time, way back since before they hired me in 2019. Now, their day is finally here and I got to capture some beautiful photography for them on their wedding day. From the moments during their ceremony, to some fun exit shots with glow foam sticks. It’s weddings like this one here that just bring me joy!
Want to know one of my favorite photos from this day? Chyna wanted a large group photo of the nurses and another of the fireman that Keith work with. These two serve their community by Chyna being a Pediatric Nurse and Keith as a local Fire Fighter. Both jobs are so important and save lives. It’s why I love serving those who serve and protect. I get to capture moments for them that they will forever Cherish. I mean, just look at these group photos! What a fun bunch!
Now, let me show you some of my personal favorites of Chyna and Keith that I took on this sunny day! A day that was actually supposed to be rainy and stormy all day, but we got so lucky!
Wedding Reception
it’s time to party!! Both the bride and groom did not hold back on delicious food being served (my vendor meal was the best- the pasta is so good)! The DJ kept everyone on the dance floor and even a guest member came up and danced with me while I was holding my camera. I am pretty sure he danced with every guy and girl there was. He was my favorite!
Chyna and Keith, your wedding was spectacular and I would fly out over and over just to capture that wedding again. You two are perfect and getting to be the one to photograph your wedding day is such a blessing. Congratulations on your wedding day and I wish you both the best!
Dress: Here and Now Bridal Tux: Men’s Warehouse Florals: DIY. Invites: Vista Print Rings/Bands: Adele Diamonds Catering/Wedding Planning/Venue: The Gala 417 Desserts: Shortcake’s Sweets DJ: Boardwalk Entertainment
I love it, I had a smile on my face the whole time I was reading your blog. I felt like I was back at The Gala getting ready for the big day again! I can’t wait to see the rest of the pictures, you captured our wedding perfectly and beautifully.
I am so so happy you love it! Your wedding day was truly amazing. I loved every minute of it!
Dana,
You took awesome pictures, the facial expressions you captured are priceless, reminding us what a great time we had at Keith and Chyna’s wedding! I can’t wait to see the rest of the pictures. It was such a fun wedding!
And, you are right…the man that doesn’t smile, you captured lots of smiles!
Thank you,
Karen (Keith’s mom)
Hey, Karen! Wow! What an honor to get a comment like this from the mother of the groom. I appreciate you so much and thank you! This wedding was amazing!