Mackenzie and TJ’s Northern Virginia Barn Wedding

Mackenzie and TJ tied the knot in a picture perfect Northern Virginia barn wedding that was full of personal touches, happy tears, and so many heartfelt laughs.

Set against the rustic charm and rolling hills of Purceville, Virginia, their day blended classic country elegance with a tropical twist.

Their Northern Virginia barn wedding was the perfect celebration of who they are: high school sweethearts who have grown up, grown together, and supported each other through college, long distance, and all the beautiful chaos of life.

How It All Started

Mackenzie and TJ’s love story began the summer before sophomore year at a mutual friend’s birthday party. A few months and a shared history class later, they were inseparable. Their first official “date” (with parents as chauffeurs!) was at Starbucks for a little pre-calc and a lot of butterflies. TJ asked Mackenzie to be his girlfriend just before Homecoming that October and the rest, truly, is history.

They stuck together through college, even from different states (Tennessee and Ohio), before moving back to Northern Virginia and building their life side by side.

The Proposal

Mackenzie and TJ are the kind of couple who find magic in the little things. They start their days with lattes and end them with wine, mojitos, or a new IPA. They love exploring local coffee shops, breweries, and wineries…and if there’s a trail to walk or a pup to bring along, even better.

TJ popped the question along the scenic waterfront at National Harbor. Mackenzie was totally surprised it was disguised as his mom’s birthday dinner! After a walk (with multiple fakeouts because of nerves), he finally asked the big question. Nearby, TJ’s sister and her husband were hiding to snap photos, and both of their families were waiting at the restaurant to celebrate.

Game nights are serious (and competitive) business. They love playing cards and board games with friends and family, and college sports are always playing in the background (Go Vols! Go Buckeyes!).

They’re also big on travel and adventure, especially if it takes them to Hawaii. With TJ’s family stationed there for a few years, Hawaii has become their happy place. Hiking, surfing, beaching, and devouring poke bowls from Foodland? Perfection.

From belting “Fancy Like” and doing the official dance at TJ’s sister’s wedding, to attending country concerts (TJ’s now a fan thanks to Mackenzie), these two love finding joy in the everyday.

Their Wedding Day

Their Northern Virginia barn wedding was full of genuine moments and sentimental touches. From the handcrafted details to the emotional first look, it felt like a celebration years in the making. Mackenzie and TJ made sure it reflected everything they love: nature, simplicity, fun, and the people who’ve supported them since that very first history class.