Eloping at the National Cathedral: Nicole & Al’s Sweet, Sentimental Day
Sometimes, the best weddings are the ones that toss the rulebook out the window.
Nicole and Ali decided to skip the big wedding, the long guest list, and all the traditional fuss—and instead chose something that felt just right for them. An intimate elopement at the National Cathedral, followed by two honeymoons (yes, two!), and a slice of homemade cake from the bride’s cousin to top it all off. Honestly, it was magic.
It was just the three of us that day—me, Nicole, and Ali—walking the quiet grounds of the Cathedral as the evening light filtered through those towering arches and stone paths. The whole day felt still, sacred, and so full of love. No distractions. No timeline chaos. Just two people saying yes to each other, their way.
Nicole wore a flowing dress that caught the breeze perfectly in the courtyard, and Ali looked at her like she was the only person in the world (which, in that moment, she pretty much was). We took our time with portraits, soaking in every moment. It felt less like a photoshoot and more like documenting the quiet beginning of a beautiful chapter.
After their ceremony, we wandered the Cathedral grounds for golden-hour portraits, and then—because every celebration needs dessert—they shared a mini cake lovingly baked by Nicole’s cousin. We wrapped up the evening with full hearts and frosting-sweet smiles.
Their decision to elope wasn’t about skipping out on a wedding—it was about crafting something meaningful. And with the money they saved, they planned not one, but two honeymoons. Talk about doing it right.
Nicole and Al’s elopement was the perfect reminder that your wedding can be whatever you want it to be. Whether that’s a hundred-person bash or a quiet afternoon with your favorite person (and your photographer tagging along to document it), it’s your love story—tell it your way.
Planning your own elopement in DC?
Let’s make some magic together. Whether you’re dreaming of the National Cathedral, a hidden garden, or city rooftops at sunset, I’d love to help you create a day that’s perfectly you.