Pre-Wedding Portraits at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC

Capturing Chloe and David’s pre-wedding portraits at the Washington National Cathedral was nothing short of a joy. You’ve likely heard me profess my love of bridal portraits, which are similar except they do not include the groom. And, unlike an engagement session, for a pre-wedding session the couple is traditionally dressed in wedding attire.

For their pre-wedding session, I love that Chloe and David incorporated not one wedding look, but THREE looks: a beaded mermaid gown, a billowy gown fit for a princess, and a traditional Vietnamese ao dai. This allowed us to maximize the expansive grounds of the Washington National and showcase different looks in different backdrops.

The best part of a pre-wedding session — and why I wish more couples opted for these before the big day! — is that it takes ALL the pressure off. On a wedding day, you are moving from place to place to place meaning that you mind is in a dozen places. Even with the BEST wedding planner taking care of everything, you still have your mind on visiting with your guests and finding time to relax and enjoy the day! During a pre-wedding session, you have none of that on your mind which allows you to focus on photos 100%. And, since it’s done pre-wedding, you are able to know on your wedding day that you got so many of your photos already complete and can check one thing off your list — win/win!

Keep scrolling to soak in all of the beauty of this stunning pre-wedding session at the National Cathedral. We had the MOST beautiful morning with a soft sunrise that made the ground of the Cathedral simply seem to glow. Then be sure to view Chloe and David equally stunning Anderson House engagement session!

A stunning pre-wedding session in Washington, DC at the historic National Cathedral and the lush Bishop's Garden.