Sunday, December 11, 2011

Include a photo shoot at DCs monuments to add panache to your wedding photos

Many couples planning their weddings in the DC area would like to take advantage of the unique photo opportunities Washington's monuments afford. Unfortunately, venues in DC that are in close proximity to the desired photo locations tend to be out of the financial grasp of most couples. Here are a few tips for how to get those monumental photos while staying within budget.

1. Consider venues with a view. Several venues in Arlington have high floor ballrooms looking into some of the most scenic parts of DC including the Doubletree Crystal City, Key Bridge Marriott, Sheraton National and Top of the Town. By selecting one of these venues, you can have the DC setting as a back drop for your wedding reception photos.



2. Build extra photo time into your day’s schedule. Many churches schedule ceremonies at 11 and 2 while many reception venues schedule parties at 12 and 6. There are two ways to work this to your advantage. Select the earlier ceremony and reception time in a convenient location such as Arlington and then head into DC afterward. You'll have plenty of opportunity to take your photos and depending on the time of year, possibly capitalize on the setting sun. Select the later ceremony time and you'll have an exaggerated break in between the ceremony and reception, sufficient time to get away for a photo shoot and return in time for the festivities. Again, choose ceremony and reception venues that are close enough to avoid the potential for DC traffic to cut into your photo time.

3. Schedule your photo shoot for a different day. With the popularity of trash the dress/rock the dress photo sessions, after wedding photo shoots are increasingly popular. Many couples report feeling more relaxed and carefree after the pressures of the wedding day are finally over. Without the rush of the actual wedding day and all of the guests waiting on the couple's arrival at the reception, you can take your time and enjoy the photo session even more.

Photos provided courtesy of Ron Jones, FairfaxWeddings.net

Saturday, November 12, 2011

October 9, 2010 - A few memories from Nicole and Brian

I don't have the full spread from their wedding day but I love these images from Nicole and Brian's wedding on October 9, 2010 and just had to share! Photos provided courtesy of Rachel with RMN Photography! You can also see officiant Joyce Cochran with Say I Do Your Way.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Annelie and Chris - September 4, 2010


I couldn't have asked for a sweeter couple to work with. Annelie and Chris were incredibly easy going, gracious and fun. They were blessed with a day as beautiful as they are! They began their ceremony by exchanging notes to one another in their dressing rooms.










Annelie took a quick peek out the window as the guests arrive for the ceremony.



And then it was time.












Soon the ceremony was over and they were married! Time for some photos around the area with the bridal party.













Meanwhile, all of the details were set and ready for the night's reception.


And then Chris and Annelie were introduced into their ballroom full of waiting guests!









After a delicious buffet dinner featuring Herb Crusted Sirloin of Beef with Green Peppercorn Sauce, Marinated Salmon with Roma Tomatoes and Lobster Sauce and Roasted Garlic Yukon Mashed Potatoes, it was time to answer the dance floor. Dave Palmer with Kirkabees kept the dance floor packed.




Then it was time to cut the cake and toss the garter.











Then it was time to send the happy couple off under a sparkly hail of stars!



Best wishes to Annelie and Chris for a life time of happiness!

Professional images provided by Photos By Kelly.