Natalie & Carlos - The Outdoor Indoor Ceremony!

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"

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!

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!

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

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

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

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!

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