Mary & Andrew’s October DC wedding was equal parts classic elegance and pure, wild fun — the kind of party you wish you could relive over and over again. I had the pleasure of second shooting this day alongside Ronald Flores, and we made a great team! Second shooting always brings so much freedom within a wedding day to roam, observe, and notice all the little exchanges happening in the margins. Those unscripted pieces are where so much of the story lives.
Their morning began at the The St. Regis Washington, D.C., where ladies and gents got ready in separate hotel rooms buzzing with excitement. I loved bouncing back and forth between both rooms — one minute capturing Mary and her bridesmaids laughing over final touch-ups, the next documenting Andrew and his dudes cracking jokes and googling how to tie a bow tie. It was immediately clear this couple is deeply loved. Their families filled every room with warmth, humor, and an electric anticipation that only exists on a wedding morning.
Their ceremony took place at National City Christian Church in Thomas Circle, and it was genuinely one of the most grand and timeless ceremonies I’ve ever witnessed. I had so much fun documenting guest arrivals and candid reunions with the kind of light photographers dream about. Later, from the organ balcony, I captured them walking down the aisle together with a breathtaking view of the entire church below. As reverent and traditional at the ceremony was, it was also heartfelt and joyful. Mary’s mother and aunts sang to them, stories were shared, and laughter rippled through the pews. It felt intimate and familiar even within the grandeur.
After a large round of applause, M + A exited through the church doors onto steps overlooking the circle, where we arranged every guest for a massive celebratory photo. Moments like that always feel iconic — like one big family gathering captured together in one frame, marking the beginning of a marriage.
We then headed to Army Navy Country Club, which might be one of the most timeless and elegant reception settings in the city. Perched above a golf course with sweeping views of DC, the space is full of old-world charm with golden chandeliers and classic architectural details. Cocktail hour unfolded on the patio under perfect weather, with martinis flowing, a scallop station drawing a crowd, and the full moon slowly rising. While Ronald took Mary and Andrew for sunset portraits, I stayed with guests to capture the joy of reunion hugs and laughter. I snagged a quick frame of the newlyweds from the balcony that ended up being one of my favorites from the day!
Once the reception kicked off, the energy never dipped. Their guests were the kind of crowd photographers hope for — expressive, present, hilarious, affectionate, and entirely ready to celebrate. The speeches had everyone crying and laughing in the same breath. First dances were all smiles, and when the band started playing, every single person flooded the dance floor. It stayed packed all night long. I loved documenting that uninhibited joy — people spinning, singing, being silly, and living fully in the moment.
Later in the evening, Mary pulled me aside for something especially meaningful. She wanted photos with her grandmother at the memory table and showed me a bench the club had dedicated to her late grandfather. I photographed her and her sweet grandmother with her dad sitting there together, and it was one of those quiet pockets of the night that felt deeply sacred. You could see how strong her bond is with her family — especially her parents, who were truly just the best kind of people to be around.
The night closed exactly the way a celebration like this should: late-night burgers and fries on the dance floor, cigars in hand, a boozy glow in the air, and a sparkler exit outside surrounded by cheering friends. Everyone was a little drunk, very happy, and completely in it — which, from a photographer’s perspective, makes for the most unforgettable photos.
I’ll always remember how fun this couple was, how loved they are, and how their wedding felt less like an event and more like a living, breathing celebration of community. Those are the days that stay with you.
Thank you Ronald for including me in this day!
