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Where do I begin with Alli & Corbett? Their timeless style? Their sweet families? Their spunky bridal party? Honestly, it doesn’t matter where I start—it will no doubt be good!
I first met Alli and Corbett in passing at a bridal show back in 2018. It was a whirlwind of a show and Caleb spoke with them more in depth than I did. So when they reached out, I got to know them a little more during their Lincoln Memorial engagement session…it was my first time shooting there and I was so nervous. It also didn’t help my jitters that it was like 30 degrees outside. Alas, we hit it off, got coffee, and spent the morning together.
Come March, we went to their venue for the final walkthrough and everyone was so excited for their big day that was only a month away! I was able to meet both of their mothers and we shared yet another coffee. Little did we know that a pandemic was about to rock the entire world, resulting in a postponement of their wedding.
Let me tell you—Alli embodies grace, and her reaction to their wedding day being pushed back was no different—simply graceful. Their wedding was postponed until November 14, just a day before the governor of Virginia put into effect yet another restriction on large gatherings. We made it just under the wire, and it was so beautiful.
When I arrived at the Ritz-Carlton Georgetown where both Alli and Corbett were getting ready, the bridesmaids were getting ready, putting on makeup and steaming dresses. One of the bridesmaids, apparently known for sometimes being on the struggle bus (hey, no shame…me too, my friend, me too…), had a dress that was a little more wrinkly than the others. She then earned the nickname “Crinkle” for the day. And honestly, if someone can handle me giving them a nickname and joking with them the entire wedding day, I know they are my people. So Elise, aka “Crinkle,” you are my people. 🙂 Brittany, the Maid of Honor, was one of the most attentive and prepared MOHs I have ever seen! Seriously—she had a Mary Poppins bag full of things that Alli may have needed on her wedding day. She also made sure Alli ate, basically feeding her while her makeup was being done!
When it was time for Alli to put on her dress, we retreated into the back room so she could reveal it to her bridesmaids! What a sweet moment that was! From Alli’s dress to her grandmother’s cocktail ring, her bridal look was the epitome of class. I felt like I was photographing royalty! Corbett sported a custom tuxedo and his grandfather’s signet ring (that had actually been stolen and found this year…par for the 2020 course). Together they made the most debonair pair.
They shared a first look that was the sweetest ever! Not only did they share a sweet moment just the two of them, but they also exchanged handwritten letters. But what made their first look exceptionally unique was that Corbett officiated their own marriage ceremony right then and there! Despite his greatest attempts to get Alli to go with him to the courthouse right across from their apartment, she wouldn’t let him; however, they did share the special moment of becoming husband and wife with just one another (yes, you can actually officiate your own marriage in DC!). He is so smitten with Alli and was extremely excited to finally be able to call her his wife. In fact, during portraits, he ran inside to the Ritz-Carlton lobby to drop off the envelope with the man behind the counter…he couldn’t wait to get that marriage certificate mailed in!
For portraits, we explored the courtyard of the Ritz-Carlton Georgetown before venturing across the street to a picturesque church where some fall colors held out for us. Some of my favorite portraits of Alli and Corbett though…taken on the walk back from the church in the middle of the street! Those in between moments always end up being my favorites…often not posed, just sweet, impromptu interactions between two souls in love.
Corbett’s mother’s backyard was transformed for their reception. From the centerpieces to the dance floor, it was a breathtaking transformation. Alli and Corbett’s first dance was choreographed and they executed it perfectly. Once it was time to cut loose though, they didn’t have any trouble packing the dance floor!
The entire night was a celebration of the love Alli and Corbett have for one another. Their parents rejoiced in the marriage of their children and their families and friends all came together as one. I am honored to have been able to document it!
To Alli and Corbett, thank you for allowing me to be part of your day! Here’s to you all, your marriage, and a continued friendship!
Venue | Ritz-Carlton Georgetown & Private Residence
Event Planner | Simply Breathe Events
Bridal Gown Designer | Essense of Australia
Bridal Boutique | Blue Bridal
Bridesmaids’ Dresses | Lulu’s
Bride & Bridesmaids’ Hair & Makeup | Updos for I Dos
Groom & Groomsmen’s Tuxedos | Enzo
Florals | Spring Bouquet Flowers
Catering & Cake Designer | RSVP Catering
DJ | Bachelor Boys Band
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Hi Alli, the pictures are awesome! You captured the love, sweetness, and beauty of this special time. Thanks! Ken.