Sydney and Nick’s Union Street Public House wedding was set against two of my favorite places in Northern Virginia. From their meaningful ceremony at Marymount University’s campus chapel to their cozy reception in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, every part of their wedding day felt thoughtfully personal. As a Northern Virginia wedding photographer and a fellow Marymount alum, it was such a joy to capture a day so rooted in faith, community, and love.

Sydney and Nick were so easy to photograph full of laughter and love, and completely present with each other. I knew they’d be like this going into the day though. Their engagement session at Oatlands last fall was just as playful and sweet! Their Marymount University wedding portraits captured the calm and joy of the day perfectly. It was a gift to witness such genuine connection in a place that means so much to all of us.

Marymount University Wedding Ceremony

Their Marymount University ceremony was at the chapel on campus. It’s where the groom had spent many hours with the Campus Ministry. I love when the couple has a personal connection to their wedding day location. And returning to the chapel where I had so many of my own spiritual milestones was such a full-circle moment.

Sydney got ready in the historic Main House. Then she met Nick for their first look in the little rose garden beside the chapel. It was quiet and intimate. Nick’s face when he saw Sydney for the first time – pure love and awe – was something I’ll never forget. Their Catholic wedding ceremony was full of reverence and soft light filtering through the stained glass windows. One of the most beautiful parts of the Mass was when they offered a bouquet to Mary. But they added a unique twist! Each took a rose from that bouquet, and gifted them to their mothers in the pews behind them. It was such a touching moment that moved the entire room.

As a Northern Virginia wedding photographer familiar with the Marymount campus, I had such a great time guiding Sydney and Nick to some of the best photo spots around. From classic campus architecture to the bridge where my own husband proposed to me, every corner holds a bit of story and charm. Exploring these spots with a couple so in love made it even more special.

A Cozy and Joyful Union Street Public House Wedding Reception

After their Marymount University wedding ceremony and portraits, it was time to head to Old Town Alexandria for their Union Street Public House wedding reception. This cozy, historic restaurant is such a gem. Its second-floor event space with wooden beams and string lights created a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It felt just right for a Northern Virginia wedding celebration.

Sydney and Nick danced, laughed, and made their rounds to greet their guests. But what I loved most was how often they circled back to each other. Whether they were dancing together or sharing a quick moment tucked away from the crowd, they never lost sight of being present together on their wedding day.

As a Northern Virginia wedding photographer, it’s such a joy to work with couples who bring this kind of heart to their day. Sydney and Nick’s Union Street Public House wedding was full of love, sentiment, and celebration. I’m so honored I got to capture it all.