Heartfelt congratulations are in order for Whitney and Sean as they celebrated their Old Town Alexandria wedding celebration amongst their closest friends and family members Wednesday 1/9/2019. Their intimate wedding was hosted in the most perfect setting at Columbia Fire House in Old Town Alexandria, VA.  But before I jump into the couple’s wedding celebration details, I should introduce you to this special duo!

How they met

Sean and Whitney met while stationed in Korea as active duty service members. Whitney has since finished her time in the military and is in preparation for a career in nursing (if all goes well and I’m sure it will!). And Sean continues his service at Ft. Belvoir. As a result, their relationship grew over time in Korea. Their relationship may have included playful-jabs with a side of sarcasm. And it also included a particularly intense battle with the flu in those early days of knowing each other.  But it was clear that they belonged together and made a great match.

Connection with clients

One of the best parts of the day was reconnecting with the couple after shooting their engagement photos not too long ago.  So, getting to see Sean and Whitney interact was fun and full of belly laughs. Also, getting to see them on their Old Town Alexandria wedding celebration was like reconnecting with friends. Consequently, it is one of the best parts of my job.  Further, meeting their family was also a treat! I loved that Whitney had her mom’s help getting into her elegant gown (with the most amazing train you have ever seen!). All the ladies beamed as they adored Whitney… And Whitney’s face was all a-glow. Likewise,  her lace gown complimented Whitney’s inner beauty, strength, compassion, and grace…

A First Look

Although it was super cold and the wind was strong enough to take out power lines, the couple had a very special first look in the courtyard of The Alexandrian Hotel. Sean knows how to make Whitney smile and is ready for anything! Whitney and Sean endured the cold temps until it actually started snowing! And then we hurried inside and prepared for family formals at the fireplace in the lobby of the hotel. I have to say the blue hues popped right off the walls into my camera. Consequently, I’m drawn to the richness of the colors and the elegance of the decor – even now as I go back through the images.

Candlelit ceremony

Our intimate group of friends and family headed to the Columbia FireHouse for a lovely candlelit wedding ceremony… The low light set the mood for a heartfelt exchange of personalized vows (my favorite part of the ceremony!). And despite the low light, the couple’s love for each other shined brightly. Likewise, soft tears fell and glistened in the glow of the candlelight’s embers reflecting in the room.

Favorite Memories

Finally, I have to interject and share some of my favorite memories of the special event!  1. Choice of music! Hello, Mr. Music Major and Major Classy Gentleman… You set the tone with every musical selection – (And did an excellent job dancing!) Bravo! 2. Pictures near the spiral Staircase! No doubt a historic touch of the former FireHouse 3. The most hilarious grandma I’ve ever met!!! (did you share any of those goodies?) 4. Titus owning the dance floor. 5. Star Wars Sphero Robots (did I spell that right?) and cake 6. Did I already mention how much I loved the lace and train on Whitney’s dress? 7. Best. Salmon. Ever (Thank you for feeding us!) 8. Presents for everyone… By presents, I mean presents FROM the bride and groom TO everyone. YOU ROCK!

Whitney and Sean,

I say it often; I love my job and I love my clients. But then there are couples whose calm, compassionate, gracious, flexible, fun-loving (and maybe a bit sarcastic humor), down-to-earth manner makes a huge impression on me.  You are one such couple.  I’m so glad that you are local and I hope that you’ll both remain in touch as long as you are stationed near here. Thank YOU for choosing me, for entrusting your wedding celebration to me (and Jerie May). It was an honor to get to know you all and to be able to serve. Sending all my love to you and your extended families and sending hope for a prosperous career and fruitful marriage! If you ever need anything, I’ll meet you at Wegmans in about 15 minutes!

All my best,

Michelle

To view a summer wedding, check out this amazing wedding shot in June!