To be entirely honest, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to write this blog post about after Allison and Joe’s amazing wedding this past weekend at St. Dominic Church and Arena Stage in downtown Washington, DC. See, it wasn’t that I didn’t have something to write about — the exact opposite, actually — I had too much to write about! Sure, I could cover the fact that despite the pouring rain, these two ran across the busy streets of DC to make it to the Lincoln for portraits without complaining for even a second. But that doesn’t seem quite personal enough for this couple as their day was all about the small, personal touches and I wanted this post to reflect as much.

The moment I arrived, it was clear just from the details how much thought Allison and Joe has put into every aspect of their wedding day.  From her grandmother’s scarf tied around her bouquet to the small wooden box made by Allison’s grandfather that held the rings that would make them man and wife, each and every detail was there for a reason. Joe’s band, instead of having the simple engraving with their wedding date, was personalized with “tough 17 seconds” to remember the first words Allison spoke to him. And Allison, who exudes nothings but elegance, was donned in classic pearls as a nod to her middle name. Even her perfume had a special meaning; whenever she wore it, it was a favorite of her grandmother who called to ask the brand after a visit. 

But these personal touches didn’t just stop at their details. As Joe welcomed their guests during the reception, he drove home how grateful they were for the friends and family who made the journey to their wedding in DC everywhere from Boston and all the way to California. He knew that the room had over 36 married couples there to support them and that between their parents alone, there was over 70 years of marriage. And in knowing this, there was no way he and Allison could fail. Sure, they would have tough times, but through these 36 examples in their lives had learned that you need to fight for what you believe in and they believed in their love. 

Allison and Joe, it’s been truly an honor to work with you over the past year. Thank you for having me as part of your wedding day and I hope you’re enjoying beautiful Charleston!! 

 

A huge thank you to these vendors for making Allison & Joe’s wedding amazing! And to Katie of KSant Photography for being an awesome second shooter!

Getting Ready Venue | Holiday Inn DC Capitol
Ceremony Venue | St. Dominic Church
Reception Venue | Arena Stage DC
Bridal Boutique | Garnish Boutique
Dress Designer | Nicole Miller
Bridesmaid Dresses | Amsale
Groom’s Attire | Jos A. Bank
Invitation Suite | Minted
Hair & Makeup | Casal’s de Spa & Salon
Cake & Catering | RSVP Catering
DJ | Music Now Entertainment