flutterphoto blog

Flutterphoto wins another WPJA Award!

2011-09-09T19:11:00.002-04:00

"Every year WPJA hosts the largest wedding photography competitions in the world judged by panels of award-winning photojournalists and designers. Competitions, which are held quarterly and open only to WPJA members, are part of the association’s commitment to upholding the highest standards in wedding photojournalism. Membership in WPJA requires rigorous standards in technical skill, aesthetics, and best business practices."

Theresa has won her first award with the image below; featuring Soyeon and Gokhan's wedding. The image placed 7th in the category for Ceremony.

Ayanna & Herb - Viva Love in Las Vegas

2011-06-22T15:07:00.000-04:00

We were excited to spend a few days in Las Vegas for our most recent destination wedding of Manhattan sweethearts, Ayanna and Herb.

Ayanna rocked some impressive bridal details and attitude to match. Herb was possibly the coolest groom ever, even as he struggled with his bow tie, despite helping hands. When Ayanna walked down the aisle, she absolutely glowed with that killer smile or hers. The ceremony was marked by countless laughs and a few tears as well. The reception kicked off at dusk and the lively party brought good food, sweet music, and wild moves to the Spanish Trail Country Club

Terri & Phil Melt Away the Snow

2011-04-14T16:02:00.001-04:00

Springtime color is at it's height this week as the glowing green baby leaves contrast with a clear blue sky, not to mention the tulips and dogwoods that are just now unfurling. This is obviously THE time for engagement sessions around here; when most couples venture out in droves to the Cherry Blossoms in DC; when young love is celebrated against the perfect backdrop of new foliage and flowers.
Being the early birds, Terri and Phil proved that no matter what season you choose for your engagement session, it will always be a day commemorated in pictures of a time when love blossomed in a couple about to get married.

location: Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

Renna is a Cutie Pie

2011-03-16T02:15:00.001-04:00

This is little Renna. At six and a half months, she's quite the adorable baby girl.
Her world is filled with simple joys, everyday wonder, and most of all, love from her parents.

Kelli & Tim - Chicago Winter Warmed by Love

2011-02-24T19:57:00.001-05:00

Winter's chill thawed momentarily as Kelli and Tim heated things up with kisses and hugs just outside the Art Institute of Chicago. The modern museum perfectly complimented this couple's style and they themselves became a work of art. Later this summer, they'll exchange vows against Chicago's majestic skyline.

Remembering Satchi

2011-02-12T15:28:00.000-05:00

Satchi,
From the moment we brought you home, you eagerly joined our family pack and charmed us with your fluffy face. You constantly impressed us with your intelligence and amazed us with how hard you worked for the tiniest treat. Your beautiful tail and soft furry ears always told us exactly how you felt but not more so than that expressive gaze. We will miss that butt wag that greeted us at the door, that comical stretch and yawn routine, and of course, that nuzzle that wriggled it's way into our hearts.
You were such a playful and spirited girl, always willing to fetch the stick no matter how big or where it was tossed. You lived an adventurous life and loved us unconditionally.
We were shocked when your health failed so suddenly and it was heartbreaking to say goodbye.
Over the past week, we've watched as your footprints melted away but your nose prints remain on the glass. We still catch glimpses of you as our mind's expectations lag to realize that you're gone. We were lucky to have you in our lives and will miss you dearly.

Parents Fall for Their Baby Boy's Cute Routine.

2011-01-06T16:03:00.001-05:00

Loving parents Christina and Chris embrace their new joy in life; baby Trysten.

Theresa and Elie ♥ Aruba

2010-12-06T16:31:00.015-05:00

An island gem of windswept trees, waveless beaches, outback adventure, and party vibe, Aruba is perhaps the perfect wedding destination for any couple wanting to ensure an unforgettable experience to everyone on their guestlist.
For one couple in love, Aruba will always have special meaning.
Together in bare feet on the ethereal edge of land, sea, and sky, Theresa and Elie joined hands and hearts to mark a romantic new beginning for a beautiful life together.

Hair and Make-up: Carla Pressley
Venue: Aruba Hyatt Regency Resort and Casino - Travel Channels Top 10 Caribbean Resorts
Event Planner - Margie Gurion

View their Engagement Photos from July - Tudor Place

Lauren & Rob - Two Hearts Take a Hike

2010-08-13T19:58:00.000-04:00

A couple Sunday's ago, Theresa and I decided to go on a hike at Great Falls. We set out for Section A of the Billy Goat Trail, despite a warning sign of the strenuous 1.7 mile rocky stretch ahead of us. It certainly was a tough hike but we were rewarded with some spectacular views of the canyon carved by the Potomac River. Seeing this landscape reminded me of a previous visit to this area for the fun engagement session of an adventurous young couple.

The energy of rushing waters is culturally known as a draw for lovers. For their photo shoot, Lauren and Rob chose to visit Great Falls Park. As you can seen from the pictures, they were obviously both confident scrambling across jagged rocks (in flip flops!), playing footsie on a clifftop, and stepping into the darkening woods. They happily stuck together throughout the hike; a good omen for their upcoming marriage.

Theresa & Elie - Love Grows in a Summer Garden

2010-07-08T13:33:00.002-04:00

It was a peaceful morning in Georgetown when we met up with Theresa and Elie for their engagement session. We were graciously granted private access to the gardens of the Tudor Place, a 5.5 acre estate rich in American history dating back to the Federal Period. Theresa and Elie looked so great together among the intimate and manicured garden spaces, only natural and reflected light were called for. Congratulations on your engagement, Theresa & Elie!

Cathy and Qui - A Wedding Come True in Orange and Blue

2010-06-22T03:00:00.001-04:00

This wedding was so delightful. It reflected perfectly the couple's penchant for vibrant color and playful fun. The pictures say it all.
Cathy and Qui, best wishes for a cheerful life together!

Bride and Groom preparations: Ritz Carlton
Wedding and Reception: 2941 Restaurant

Cathy and Qui - Love in the Air

2010-06-18T02:05:00.000-04:00

Cathy and Qui are a sweet and playful couple I met a while back on a perfect spring morning along the Alexandria waterfront. They brought along a big orange balloon that beamed in the sunshine. Right away, I began to shoot some pictures as they held on to the string and let the balloon lift their spirits.

Trisha & Sam- wedding at the Fairmont Hotel, DC

2010-04-19T21:12:00.000-04:00

Trisha and Sam had a fun and photogenic wedding at the Fairmont Hotel. As the dress hung in the backlight of a window, the pink petticoat glowed through. Springtime blossoms of the same color were blooming in the courtyard and also repeated in the cake's decor. The attending family and friends did readings at the ceremony and heartwarming toasts at the reception. After dinner, the revelry on the dance floor went on late into the evening.

venue & cake: Fairmont Hotel
flowers: Sidra Forman
music: Chris Laich

Chicago Illuminated

2010-04-07T17:09:00.000-04:00

"Windy City" engagement session

2010-04-07T00:47:00.001-04:00

I recently took my first trip to Chicago to meet up with engaged couple Lindsay Ann and Jake. They welcomed me and offered some good places to create photos.
The wind was biting cold that day but they kept each other warm with hugs and laughter. When the winds whipped up too ferociously, we decided to take the shoot to their place. When Theresa and I return to Chicago for the wedding, it will be summertime and the City will be ours.

Alejo

Alejo's WPJA international photo contest latest winning images

2010-03-08T13:41:00.001-05:00

The winners of the Q4 2009 international photo contest were just announced and I was thrilled to see two of my images were awarded!

"The Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA) is a professional organization composed of photojournalists and wedding photographers from around the world. What sets our members apart in the industry is their candid, documentary approach – a distinctly artistic vision toward wedding photography."

This first image from Krishna and Sneha's wedding in Bangalore India placed 15th in the "Dancing" category.

This image from Kerry and Brian's wedding on the Odyssey Cruise on the Potomac River placed 13th in the "Bouquet/Garter (action)" category.

Rangaprevasem- Indian Dance

2009-12-24T03:47:00.015-05:00

Earlier this summer I got the chance to photograph a young dancer for the invitation to her Rangapravesam or professional dance debut which will take place at the Music Academy of Madras, India.
Looks like Theresa and I will be celebrating the holidays in India this year!

Here's the finished invitation

Anat & Yury - wedding at the Peabody Library

2009-12-15T00:16:00.001-05:00

The Peabody Library in Baltimore became a grand setting for Anat and Yury's wedding.
When we arrived, the bride and groom were getting ready in separate rooms at the Tremont Hotel. Once ready, Anat gracefully descended the staircase to the lobby where Yury was eagerly anticipating seeing her as a bride for the first time. Their wedding party gathered outside and we then all started walking through downtown Baltimore heading to the Peabody Library for the ceremony.
The architecture of the library was breathtaking with it's six floors of books visible from the central atrium. Table settings, floral arrangements, menus, and hand-folded origami crane "place cards" were all brilliantly designed and executed. Meals were served followed by shots of Russian vodka and then everyone was ready for the hora and the dancing that proceeded into the night.

baby Ian at 8 weeks

2009-10-20T22:48:00.073-04:00

Sneha & Krishna - Bangalore India

2009-10-14T12:15:00.014-04:00

We had the privilege of photographing Sneha & Krishna's wedding in Bangalore India, which was our furthest destination wedding to date. Guests arrived from all over the world for this special event. It took place over the course of five days; below are images from the wedding day.

Excitement was building for everyone as the couple prepared for this day in their separate quarters. Palace Road was buzzing with traffic as the Baraat brought Krishna in on his white horse and guests danced in the streets to celebrate. Sneha was a stunning beauty adorned with flowers, fine silk, gold, and jewels. It was a long day full of rituals and ceremonies. The incense burned, offerings of flowers and fruit were made to Ganesh, the priests chanted, and the couple was blessed with rice by family members. It was a truly an amazing wedding and unique in every way.

Theresa & Alejo

Elizabeth & Jay - A wedding in a week!

2009-09-29T09:03:00.007-04:00

Elizabeth is from London and Jay is from Los Angeles, after his romantic proposal to her in Santorini, Greece; they decided to meet in the middle and they both moved to DC. Spontaneity being the spice in both their lives, one weekend they decided to get married the following weekend. This gave them one week to plan their entire wedding but you would have never known it. The wedding was set in the pristine gardens of Tudor Place in Georgetown DC. It was an exceptional location and I was thrilled by its beauty the moment I arrived. Georgetown Cupcakes baked the most delicious cupcakes adorned with E's and J's. Melissa Jones was available to do her make-up on short notice and of course I was lucky enough to document the intimate occasion. I wish them all the best!

Cheers,

Theresa

Emme & Bruce - Engaged!

2009-09-03T17:18:00.001-04:00

Wedding proposals, whether memorable or not, are forever remembered. This can put quite a bit of pressure on a guy, not to mention, the momentous decision to take that next big step...marriage!
When Bruce proposed to his sweety, a Washington Capitals NHL cheerleader and former Miss Massachusetts, the pressure court-side was surely intense. It all went down during a changeover in a World Team Tennis championship match in front of a huge crowd of tennis fans. (clip to heads bouncing back and forth) You gotta have some guts to pull that off; I tip my hat to you, Bruce. So what did Emme say? You'll have to check out the video.
During their wedding this weekend, I can be sure to expect the unexpected.

~alejo

Bruce proposed to Emme on live television - check out the video courtesy of YouTube!

Alejo Pesce - Published in Athletic Business Magazine

2009-09-01T22:11:00.000-04:00

Gensler hired Alejo to photograph the newly designed Columbia Heights Washington Sports Club. Gensler is a world leader in Architectural design. The photos were published in the June 2009 issue of Athletic Business Magazine and the May 2009 issue of Recreation Management Magazine.

Anat & Yury - Adams Morgan e session

2009-09-01T14:56:00.012-04:00

Adam's Morgan is DC's most vibrant community. The area is full of restaurants, clubs, hookah bars, and shops. This cultural richness makes it quite a fun place to live.
I recently met Anat and Yury at their apartment, then stepped out to their neighborhood with camera in hand. We walked around quite a bit, all the while stopping to snap a photo or two. I always appreciate shooting engagement sessions in a couple's home turf; it makes it more personal.
~alejo

Lauren & Joe - good morning Georgetown

2009-08-26T12:57:00.012-04:00

I recently had the pleasure of hanging out with a great couple at the Georgetown waterfront.
It started out as a misty morning but the clouds held off their rain.
Lauren and Joe were good humored and easygoing. This resulted in some sweet images.
As we finished up the shoot, we looked on as a pair of mules pulled a boatload of tourists through the locks along the C&O canal.
Looking forward to the wedding in October.
~alejo

Kristen, Ali and a rainbow!

2009-07-27T21:26:00.005-04:00

Kristen & Ali had a lovely small wedding in Brookeville Maryland. The ceremony was outdoors at the home of their close friends and it was simply perfect. We finished the portraits just in time for a powerful thunderstorm followed by an amazing double rainbow!

Baby Whitney has arrived!

2009-07-20T19:27:00.014-04:00

Caroline & Tim invited us into their home on a lovely Sunday afternoon to meet the latest addition to their family!
Whitney was such a sweet baby. We learned first hand about the effectiveness of swaddling.
Here's a sneak peak into the lives of these loving and calm new parents.

Denise & Muana- from San Diego to Maryland

2009-07-18T01:35:00.009-04:00

Congratulations to a stylish couple, Denise and Muana, who just recently tied the knot.
Though their wedding was in Maryland, they now live in San Diego.
While the bride placed her birdcage veil with some finessing from her bridesmaids, the groom got a helping hand from his best buds at putting himself together.
After the church ceremony, everyone headed to the Brookeville Inn for the reception.
The couple's first dance was quite unique and fun; a synchronized progression of sprightly steps, turns, lifts, and a final dip.
Such a sweet couple.

Alejo is a WPJA Photo Contest Winner!

2009-07-09T12:46:00.006-04:00

Alejo and I joined the Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA) in early last year.
The WPJA is a professional organization composed of photojournalists and wedding photographers from around the world. What sets their members apart in the industry is their candid, documentary approach – a distinctly artistic vision toward wedding photography

Every quarter the WPJA holds a contest where thousands of photographers from all around the world vie for the recognition of having one of their images place!

Alejo's image below placed for the Q1 2009 contest. This image was taken at Tenille & Eric's wedding in April 2009.

Barb & Todd- Celebration at Woodend Mansion

2009-07-08T15:01:00.014-04:00

Woodend Mansion in Chevy Chase MD is home to the Audubon Society. What a perfect place for lovebirds Barb and Todd to celebrate their marriage. The day started out with a bit of rain but it quickly cleared up in time for the festivities. The guests had a blast playing a variety of yard games in the sun. After shooting engagement photos with Barb and Todd this spring, I knew they were all about having fun.
~alejo

Rowena & Joel

2009-06-03T16:48:00.013-04:00

Here's a taste of a fantastic wedding we had the pleasure of photographing.
Rowena and Joel were so overjoyed to have the people they cherish the most participate and witness the celebration.
They exchanged vows under a vibrant stained-glass window at the "Church in the Pines"
What a majestic hilltop church with exciting roof architecture!
Congratulations to Rowena and Joel!

~alejo

Crystal & Andy- So Happy Together

2009-05-29T16:23:00.011-04:00

What a fun wedding we photographed recently! Crystal and Andy were so full of joy on they're wedding day. It was a white sky day in the Northwestern Virginia valley giving us nice soft lighting. Kids were a big part of the day and we just couldn't resist taking tons of pictures of them. One of the highlights was when the bride and groom did their first dance. They started out swaying to a standard song, then suddenly busted out grooving to a medley of hits! They really committed to it and the crowd cheered them on. The party was rocking until late in the night and soon it came time for us to head back home. Thanks for the fun Crystal and Andy.
~alejo

Tenille and Eric Get Married

2009-05-11T16:44:00.009-04:00

Tenille and Eric had a beautiful wedding in Columbia Maryland. Despite all of the rain we've had lately, the weather on their wedding couldn't have been more perfect.
The bridesmaids wore beautiful purple dresses and gold shoes. One of my favorite moments was when the bride opened her gift from the groom. Her face lit up when she opened the box to find a shiny new Movado watch. The vows were so sincere and touching, I noticed quite a few faces with tears on their cheeks.
Once the reception kicked off, everyone busted out dancing.
Our ring flash photo booth was also a lively point during this special day.
Congratulations to the newlyweds.

Barb & Todd- cherry blossom time

2009-04-29T17:36:00.013-04:00

We met up with Barb and Todd last month at the Tidal Basin in DC during cherry blossom peak blooming time. It was a foggy morning but the light was nice and soft. It turned out to be quite a good time thanks to the wonderful chemistry between this vibrant DC couple.
Looking forward to the wedding in just a few weeks now.
~alejo

Lisa & Mike - Wedding on the Bay

2009-04-13T18:33:00.012-04:00

My most recent wedding was at a place on the Chesapeake called Herrington on the Bay
Everyone came together on a beautiful day to celebrate the marriage of Lisa and Mike.
Besides the cool harbor atmosphere; things that caught my eye were, Lisa's dress, which fit so beautifully, the fantastic bouquets bursting with color, and especially the homemade robot bride and groom, which were dragged into the photo booth for some amusing antics.
Also be sure to check out their engagement photos which I shot this past November.
~alejo

flutterphoto at the Wedding Salon

2009-03-30T14:18:00.021-04:00

We just attended the Wedding Salon at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York. Alejo was the official photographer for the event and everyone is thrilled with the photos. To see all the images from the event go here Pictage.

"Designed by world-class event designer Thomas Noel of Event Design Incorporated and produced by 4PM Events, The Wedding Salon is an exclusive event for elite clientele and for select companies who set the standard of excellence in their respective field."

Thanks to all of those who stopped by our booth and talked with Theresa.
I was also around but kept busy photographing the event for the Wedding Salon.

The Roosevelt Hotel

Victoria's Secret

Gown's by Bridal Reflections

living art by Ten 31 Productions

Sassy Pole Girls

Colin Cowie of Get Married

Cakes by Jay

table design by Celebrate Flowers

Sylvia Weinstock

cake by Sylvia Weinstock

cake by Sylvia Weinstock

Table design by PBG Events

Colin Cowie and Tatiana Byron of 4PM Events

Hotel Monaco - Anna & Peter's reception

2009-03-17T22:19:00.009-04:00

I created these two photo collages to show the beautiful details and whimsical setting from our most recent wedding at the Hotel Monaco in Alexandria. The table designs are by Jamie Sears at Simply Chic Event. The cake was by Kendall and flowers by Multiflor everything was truly beautiful.
~a

Anna & Peter -Wedding in Alexandria

2009-03-17T21:30:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to newlyweds, Anna and Peter.
I've been looking forward to this wedding since photographing their engagement session last November.
We first met up at the Hotel Monaco where they were getting ready, then we made our way to the Nativity Lutheran Church in Alexandria where Anna and Peter tied the knot. After the ceremony, I rode in the limo with them back to the Hotel for the reception. This hotel is notable for it's funky style and amazing colors throughout.
What a great way to start off the year!
~a

The Wedding Salon

2009-03-16T21:48:00.005-04:00

We can't believe it, but "Wedding Salon" in New York invited us to be an exhibitor at their luxury wedding showcase. They even asked Alejo to document the event, we will post photos in the next few weeks. We will be featured at the event on March 23.

This event is invitation only and designed by world-class event designer Thomas Noel of Event Design Incorporated and produced by 4PM Events, The Wedding Salon is an exclusive event for our elite clientele and for select companies who set the standard of excellence in their respective field.

The Wedding Salon is the world's first luxury wedding showcase, featuring must-have products and services for the sophisticated bride and groom.

Thank you so much for having us at your show!
http://www.weddingsalon.com

Mykee stars in a Diet Coke commercial!

2009-03-01T01:19:00.009-05:00

Mykee Selkin our groom from last May is starring as the bartender in this Diet Coke commercial with chef Tom Colicchio! Dene and Mykee tied the knot at Niagara on the Lake in Canada. They are now happily married and living in LA.

Enjoy the commercial - Theresa

Ally & Sean - Falling Leaves

2009-02-13T13:21:00.006-05:00

These pics were from an impromptu engagement shoot I did outside our place on one of the prettiest days last fall. There's still time to get excited before Ally and Sean's wedding in October but I really wanted to share these images because I like them so much.
~a

Lisa & Mike - welcome to our place

2009-02-11T17:09:00.009-05:00

I've been lucky enough to keep shooting throughout the cold winter months. Back in December, I invited Lisa and Mike to visit us in Reston for their engagement session. It was a pretty day but quite cold. We were able to tolerate it for a little while but then ran back inside to warm up by the fireplace with some hot tea. My favorite pictures were the ones with them playing with my vintage cameras.
The wedding is just around the corner at the Eastern Shore. It's gonna be fun.
~a

Anna & Peter in Old Town Alexandria

2009-02-09T17:35:00.012-05:00

With their wedding coming up this Valentine's day, I thought it would be good to post a few of Anna and Peter's engagement photos from this past fall. I remember what a cold and windy day it was. Nonetheless, these residents of Minnesota braved the brisk wind and had fun in the process.
~a

Archana has a whole new look!

2009-02-09T15:38:00.010-05:00

Archana and I had so much fun doing this shoot, it was only supposed to be an hour and turned into 3 hours before we knew it. She was really open and creative, which made her a pleasure to work with.
- Theresa

prismatic gift

2009-01-21T17:15:00.006-05:00

We received a surprise package in the mail the other day. It turned out to be a beautiful crystal to hang in our window, sent by one of our 2008 newlyweds. Thanks Joanna and Kevin for a really thoughtful and whimsical gift.
~a

Miami Beach-dogs and cars

2009-01-20T01:33:00.004-05:00

Last month, we took a trip to Miami Beach for some sun and fun. Though I still have to cull through the pictures, here's two pics I shot of guy, his bulldog, and his blazin' blue Impala.
~a

Evanthia & Austin-Wedding in Asheville, NC

2009-01-13T12:37:00.015-05:00

I wanted to share a few of my favorite images from the last wedding of 2008.
I remember how the trees looked from the plane window as I flew over Asheville, NC.
It was like an impressionistic painting of vivid dabs of yellows, reds, and greens.
Discovering Asheville was a highlight of my trip though the actual wedding was a blast.
I started with the preparation shots at the Renaissance Hotel and then jumped on the trolley to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church.
Then we raced to the Homewood for some portraits and the reception. It was already dusk when I arrived so I took advantage of a street lamp for some film noir style shots.
What a way to wrap up the weddings of 2008!
~a

flutterphoto at the Great Bridal Expo

2009-01-03T21:33:00.003-05:00

We had a busy day at the Great Bridal Expo. It was hosted at the Omni Shoreham in Washington, DC. WeTV was there too, promoting their television shows Rich Bride Poor Bride and Platinum Wedding.

We met many wonderful brides and grooms to be. We'd like to thank everyone who stopped by our booth...you made it a success for us. Happy New Year!

Baby Benjamin

2008-12-23T19:04:00.009-05:00

This past weekend I met a very cute 9 week old little boy.
When I arrived for the photo shoot, the baby was eager to take his morning nap.
After a few shots of sleeping peacefully, mommy woke him up for some more expressive photos.
I was even lucky enough to see a little smile as mommy and daddy showered him with baby talk and belly rubs; however, his mood changed suddenly once he was zipped up in his teddy bear suit.
Ah the life of a baby.
~a

Baby Benjamin - video slideshow

2008-12-23T16:16:00.000-05:00

Here's a video I created for the proud parents.

Sneha & Krishna

2008-11-18T13:05:00.006-05:00

Here's a few shots from the engagement ceremony of Sneha and Krishna.
The vibrant textiles, smoke strands of incense, and ceremonial chanting of the event was a treat for the senses. Best of luck on the wedding in India next year!
~a

Jennifer & Matt - It's Outside and all Shine!

2008-10-27T08:58:00.031-04:00

Jenn and Matt had an amazing outdoor wedding. It had been a torrential downpour all day until 3pm. The rains just stopped, the sky remained moody and the sunshine was peaking through the clouds. They decided to move the wedding outside, and it was by far the best decision of the day. It was a magical setting and the sun was dropping behind them as they tied the knot. The Shenandoah Museum was absolutely gorgeous, there were so many fantastic nooks to take photos, I was overwhelmed with options...and I loved it.

Their reception took place at the Piccadilly Brew Pub in old town Winchester. I was having such a great time with this couple and their guests I stayed way later than planned. I even had a chance to put down the camera for a couple songs and dance. For those of you who don't know, I take every opportunity to dance.

Thank you Jenn and Matt! I hope you have fun on your honeymoon in Switzerland!
Theresa

Natalie & Carlos - The Outdoor Indoor Ceremony!

2008-10-17T22:29:00.017-04:00

Natalie and Carlos tied the knot at the Kentlands Mansion. The weather was toying with all of us, it would drizzle for a few, then clear up and the sun would shine. The couple proceeded to have an outdoor ceremony in the garden. Midway into the ceremony the storm broke; Natalie and Carlos quickly rushed inside and the guests all followed suit. Everyone fell into their places without missing a beat and ceremony continued like nothing had happened. So they had an outdoor/indoor ceremony, the best of both worlds! It stormed relentlessly the rest of day and into the night.

Alejo knew this couple could weather any storm after their August engagement session.

Allison & Drew on "Top of the Town"

2008-10-15T13:15:00.003-04:00

Allison and Drew tied the knot on a picture perfect day. Their reception took place at "Top of the Town" overlooking Washington DC. Guests could mingle on the rooftop and enjoy the fresh air along with a brilliant view of the monuments. Dinner was served, the cake was cut, and they danced the night away. Our photo booth setup on the terrace was a smash hit that night.

We Speak at G-Speak for Gensler!

2008-10-13T19:42:00.015-04:00

We had the privilege of speaking to the folks at Gensler in DC this evening. Gensler is a leading architectural design firm with conservation as its core mission. This is reflected by the wonderful artwork throughout their space which is certain to inspire the creative mind.

We shared a bit about ourselves and also our inspiration, motivation and goals for the future! Evanthia, thanks so much for the invitation. Mariela, thank you for the wonderful introduction. Mark, thanks for taking a few shots of Alejo and I (last two photos below). And a final thanks to Morgan for taking care of us.

Alejo couldn't resist taking some photos:

Thanks Mark Yeh for taking these photos of Alejo and I. Mark used Alejo's D3 like a pro.

Mandy & Jason - The rain can't stop them!

2008-09-30T23:19:00.022-04:00

We drove to a wedding in Annapolis through periodic sprinkles, then the deluge started. It didn't dampen the spirit of Mandy nor Jason; after all, this was the day they would marry.
They were well prepared for this predicted rain brought on by Hurricane Hanna, ready with ponchos and umbrellas. I, on the other hand, would have been better off in a raincoat than a suit. Two cameras slung over my neck and a rolling gear bag, I couldn't spare a hand to hold an umbrella. Needless to say I got soaked as we headed across the Naval Academy grounds.
With all the rain, the little origami boats were probably more appropriate place cards, then had been intended!

Natalie & Carlos-L'Auberge Chez Francois

2008-09-17T19:45:00.017-04:00

In just over a week, Natalie and Carlos will be married!
We met up at this neat restaurant, L'Auberge Chez Francois, for an engagement photo session. This romantic setting is where the proposal went down, so it was quite fitting to go back and visit this charming french gem. I can tell by their stellar personalities,this is going to be a fun wedding.
~a

Flutter Photo at Bethesda Bridal Show

2008-09-16T15:34:00.010-04:00

iphone photo of Leakhana, Theresa, and Brandy

We set up our booth last Sunday at the Bethesda Marriott for the area's largest bridal show.
It was a great success for us. Two of our brides from this summer helped us out by speaking with "brides to be" and sharing their experience in having Theresa and I photograph their wedding.
Thanks to Leakhana and Brandy for keeping it real. and thanks to all those great people who stopped by and chatted with us.
~a

Rachel & Chris - Perfect Together

2008-08-31T14:39:00.017-04:00

I photographed Rachel and Chris in DC at the height of the Cherry Blossoms earlier this spring. (see the April engagement posting) It was nice to see them again...this time on their wedding day.
They were so happy and comfortable together, it was easy to work with them.
I loved Rachel's vivid yellow calla bouquet and bridesmaid's shoes in the same color.
The beautiful jewel tones of the bridesmaid's dresses and shoes were amazing.
Looking through all of the images reminded me of just how sweet Rachel and Chris are together.
You both rock!
~a

Nina and John - They did it!

2008-08-20T00:52:00.014-04:00

It was a pretty day in Alexandria when Nina and John got married.
Their ceremony was at a gazebo in the backyard of the Carlyle House.
This mansion was built in 1753 and has certainly been witness to much history, but this day was surely a bright and cheerful memory in it's long life.
John was so sweet to his bride, often giving her kisses. Nina kept her cool and grace throughout the day.
After the cocktail hour, a bagpiper lead a migration on foot to another historic Old Town gem.
While the guests walked the 6 blocks to the Lyceum for the reception, I probably went 10 blocks considering all the zigzaggin I did to get the pictures!
It was all worth the effort for such a deserving couple. You can view their engagement photos too.
~a

Nina & John - Sunday Picnic

2008-07-22T00:57:00.007-04:00

This DC couple started off their engagement photo session off right...a picnic in the park!
They had brought with them a tasty variety of food and were kind enough to share with me.
After swinging in the park, we headed over to the Canal in Georgetown and used up the last bit of daylight. When the day faded out, I took a few more shots beneath a street lamp, and in the red glow of a neon sign. These last few shots rounded out the images with a bit of city night life into this otherwise quite Sunday evening.

With the wedding less than a week away, I'll soon be sharing good times with Nina and John once more.
See you both on Saturday.
~a

Maire & Kiran-Mandarin Oriental Wedding

2008-07-10T15:02:00.011-04:00

The wedding of Maire and Kiran was undoubtedly a great event.
The Mandarin Oriental is one of DC's most lavish hotels and turned out to be a good place to horse around. In the hottest day of the year, Kiran mounted a decorated white horse, complete with a hand-knotted mane, as his family danced in procession during the Barat.
Meanwhile, Maire performed a Puja in the bride's room as a traditional offering of love perhaps.
After the traditional ceremonies, they dressed in the more typical western garb and we headed to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial for some quick shots.
There were a lot of laughs throughout the day and everyone was eager to get a little wild in the cool sanctuary of the "Mandarin"
~a

Brandy & Chris-Plantation Wedding

2008-07-03T00:38:00.017-04:00

The Belle Grove Plantation in Middletown Virginia witnessed the beautiful marriage ceremony of Brandy and Chris.
Brandy was a gorgeous blond-haired and blue-eyed bride. Chris kept his cool and smiled a lot. The flower girl was precious and I couldn't resist taking tons of photos of her. She so confidently left a trail of petals down the aisle that I was impressed.
Dining, drinking, and dancing followed late into the evening and this great couple enjoyed every minute of it.
~a

Nicole & Dave-Vows on the Beach

2008-06-24T01:26:00.026-04:00

The sun was low in the sky, the guests were seated in a circle on the beach, as Nicole prepared to appear as a picture-perfect bride.
Dave was deeply moved by Nicole upon seeing her, as were their dear friends and family that had made the trip to this beautiful place called Yelapa.
The light became warmer and soon enough, the Kiss led to the shaking of maracas and the strumming of the Mariachi.
Though this was the highlight and the reason for the trip to Mexico, the days and nights surrounding the wedding were...soul quenching.

CANAMEX- Canada to Mexico in one week.

2008-06-11T15:12:00.009-04:00

Last month was a big destination wedding time for us.
We started off in Canada for Dene and Mykee's wedding in a pretty little town called Niagara-on-the-Lake on the shore of Lake Ontario. Theresa and I took advantage of some free time to visit the Canada side of Niagara Falls where springtime flowers were just then blooming.
A mere 3 days later, I went to a secluded place called Yelapa, some 45 minutes by boat from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. What brought me there was Nicole and Dave's wedding but I took a few extra days to decompress. A snorkeling sidetrip to Las Marietas islands kicked off my vacation with some nice sunshine (and a mild sunburn). The next day I chose to ride up to the waterfall on horseback. The dusty trail uphill paid off with a refreshing dip.
~a

Dene & Mykee-Wedding in Ontario, Canada

2008-06-09T14:36:00.019-04:00

Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario Canada is a gorgeous place.
We went there last month to photograph Dene and Mykee's wedding.
Everyone at the wedding was so nice and photogenic; it made picture-taking quite fun.
It was especially touching to see how loving Dene and Mykee's families were.
Everything about this wedding was just simply beautiful.
~a