As a DC elopement and intimate wedding photographer, I’m lucky enough to capture couples’ unique love stories in some of the most beautiful spots in the city. Jillian and Doug’s celebration was a perfect example of how love doesn’t need a grand event to be powerful. Their weekend began with a trip to the DC courthouse, followed by a cozy ceremony at Carlyle House in Old Town Alexandria. Here’s a glimpse into their unforgettable weekend.
A Simple, Elegant Courthouse Elopement
Jillian and Doug’s wedding started on a Friday morning with portraits at the APA. When Jillian and I spoke on the phone initially, she described herself as an anti-bride. They were interested in personalizing their wedding weekend to truly reflect who they are as a couple, picking and choosing only the parts of a traditional wedding that made sense to them. When Jillian mentioned that Doug was a pharmacist, I suggested starting the morning off at the APA near the National Mall for their portraits- a touch of DC, but a less traveled path than the typical monuments.
In Washington DC, you can choose to get married at the DC courthouse, or you can self-officiate a wedding after picking up your license; Jillian and Doug opted for the latter. After our time at the APA, I traveled with Jillian and Doug to the DC courthouse to pick up their license. Choosing to elope in a setting of your choosing offers couples a way to focus entirely on their vows and their love without the distractions of a large celebration. It’s stress-free, emotional, and memorable—just as it was for Jillian and Doug. Their elopement proved that you don’t need an extravagant event to make the day meaningful.
A Cozy Celebration at Carlyle House
The following day, Jillian and Doug continued their celebration at Carlyle House, a historic venue in Old Town Alexandria. Surrounded by a small group of family, they shared another heartfelt moment, exchanging vows in the venue’s beautiful garden. Carlyle House’s charm and elegance created the perfect atmosphere for their celebration, allowing for personal moments and timeless portraits.
The beauty of a small gathering is that you can truly savor every moment. Without the pressures of a large guest list, Jillian and Doug were able to focus on what mattered most—each other and their closest loved ones.
Why Smaller Weddings Are So Special
Choosing a smaller celebration offers several benefits. With fewer guests, couples can really focus on the personal elements of their day and make it their own. From meaningful vows to more relaxed portraits, the day feels more personal and connected. Plus, small gatherings give you the flexibility to choose unique locations or create a celebration that reflects your style.
For Jillian and Doug, this weekend was about creating lasting memories with the people who meant the most to them. It was a relaxed, joyful celebration that perfectly reflected their love for each other.
Photography: Winnie Dora
Venues: DC Courthouse and Carlyle House
HMUA: Salon Monte
Flowers: Helen Olivia Flowers
Attire: Vintage + Techys Tailoring
Why Hire a DC Intimate Wedding Photographer?
Even for a more intimate event, hiring a professional photographer is key. As a DC fine art wedding photographer, my goal is to capture candid, meaningful moments that tell the story of your day. I document each moment with artistry and authenticity, so that my couples can relive their special weekend for years to come.
If you’re planning a smaller celebration or elopement in DC, I would love to help you capture those unforgettable moments.
Looking for a DC elopement photographer? Let’s connect and talk about how we can make your day unforgettable.
