Gabe and Marli had been vacationing in Florence with Gabe’s parents to visit his sister, who was studying abroad in Italy. After a few days, the whole group headed to Amsterdam for a short trip together. One of the highlights was their visit to the stunning Keukenhof Gardens, famous for its vibrant tulips. Ironically, just before this trip, Marli had told Gabe specifically not to propose there; she knew they would be traveling with just his family and she felt it would be better to have both families present or none at all.

As they posed for what Marli thought was a picture, Gabe’s got down on one knee to propose.  Gabe’s sister had been secretly recording the entire thing! Just moments later, Marli saw her parents and brother ran up to them, showering them with congratulations. Marli had thought they were back in the US, so the surprise was overwhelming and she was completely taken aback! The rest of their time in Amsterdam was filled with joy as both families celebrated the engagement together, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

We captured Marli and Gabe’s engagement photos this fall on a stunning October day at Stone Tower Winery in Leesburg, VA. It was a joy to walk through the vines, getting to know this sweet couple and hearing all about the dog they had just adopted just weeks before. Marli and Gabe are set to tie the knot next year at the Conrad Hotel in Washington, DC, and I couldn’t be more excited to document their special day alongside Brielle Davis Events — one of my all-time favorite wedding planners!

To see more work by Washington, DC wedding photographer, Alicia Lacey, please head over to her blog or click on one of the links below!
Stone Tower Winery Engagement Session
Pippin Hill Wedding