Colin and Isabel had their first date at the rooftop bar of Hotel Hive in downtown DC. They met in DC, and now both live in other states. They were planning a trip to DC for the Fourth of July, and Colin wanted to propose in that special place. After, their friends came up to surprise Isabel and they had a wonderful celebration together. The next day, Colin and Isabel booked my classic engagement session, which allowed us enough time for multiple locations around the Tidal Basin, National Mall, and Lincoln Memorial, as well as an outfit change.
Romantic Surprise Proposal in Georgetown
Steven proposed to Shreya in the intimate courtyard of the Graham Hotel in Georgetown. They live in another state, but early in their relationship, they took a memorable trip to DC together. Steven wanted the floral design to mimic a flower field they walked through on one of their first dates. With Mike Heuer’s beautiful guitar music playing softly in the background, Steven got down on one knee and asked Shreya to marry him.
A huge thank you to the team that helped put everything together!
Planner :: Marvin Velazquez at The Heart Bandits
Guitarist :: Mike Heuer
Florals :: Genevieve Targoni of La Fleur du Jour
Venue :: Graham Hotel
Surprise Proposal over Reflecting Pool & National Mall, Washington DC, Lincoln Photography
Ashley and Jamie were acquainted years ago while on the same swim team; it wasn’t until 2017 when he moved to DC that they had their first date at Heritage Brewing in Virginia. Since then, their love has grown as they stand strongly, side-by-side, through the best and worst of times.
When they “survived” their first vacation together in Cancun, Ashley knew their future would always be filled with fun and laughter, no matter what they got into. But, when Jamie was ill with food poisoning while returning from Europe, Ashley took charge of packing and helping him walk through multiple airports. “She saw me at my absolute lowest point, and still wanted to be by my side. It was then that I truly knew I would spend my life with her.”
And when Ashley’s company hit a rough patch in 2020, Jamie was by her side through anxious phone calls and emails. He always reminded her that they were a team, saying “we will get through this.”
James proposed to Ashley this weekend on a perfect, blue-sky afternoon at the Lincoln Memorial in downtown Washington, DC after lunch in Georgetown.
“I fell in love with Ashley's extremely kind heart and thoughtfulness; her ability to love me for me, despite how silly and child-like I can be at times. Ashley makes me feel cared for, inspired, confident…the words can go on and on. She makes me feel this way every day.”
~ James
“I fell in love with Jamie when I first saw him interacting with my niece and nephew. Jamie is a totally family-oriented person and it really warmed my heart to see how well he interacted with them and how naturally it came.”
~ Ashley
Surprise Proposal in downtown Washington, DC ~ Esha & Nihar at the Spanish Steps
When Nihar called me a few weeks ago about his proposal to his girlfriend, Esha, he had every last detail planned; they would “meet some friends” at the Spanish Steps (a quaint, tree-lined space tucked away in northwest DC), where a bottle of Veuve Clicquot and a bouquet waited their arrival. Esha beamed with happiness, and I was honored to have photographed those precious moments of the next stage in their life together. I was taking photos from far enough away that I couldn’t hear the words, but the expression on her face and how they held each other close said everything (and I didn’t wear waterproof mascara that day so …).
~
Esha and Nihar met at summer camp over a decade ago; it was then that Nihar noticed her passion for life, and soon after discovered, in his words, “the warmth in her heart that brightens his world and puts a pep in his step.” They spent the rest of the summer laughing, playing
kickball, and bonding.
In Esha’s words, “Nihar has the kindest heart. He goes out of his way for everyone. He anticipates my needs (especially when I get hangry). But most importantly, he sees the good in the world and has made my life better for it.”
Congratulations Esha & Nihar!
James & Dara are Engaged!
When James messaged me on Instagram asking me to photograph his proposal last Saturday to his girlfriend, Dara, I was beyond thrilled - proposals are one of my favorite things to photograph, and James was so excited and full of ideas! He wanted to take Dara to see the beautiful view at Constitution Gardens near the National Mall. The island is full of weeping willows, and peaceful geese float along nearby. There’s a little bridge that takes you to the secluded spot, perfect for a romantic proposal! What’s more, her family came earlier than she knew to surprise her after the big event. They showed up all smiles and perhaps even a few tears of joy, and presents in hand.
Congratulations, Dara & James!
Surprise Proposal & Engagement at Officina Rooftop, The Wharf DC
On a perfect, sunny autumn day, Brandon proposed to Rachel on the fabulous Officina rooftop. She said YES! I’m pretty sure everyone had misty eyes, including me. The entire moment was beautiful and I’m honored Brandon asked me to help them remember it forever.
Abhinaya & Nikhil's Garden Engagement Party!
Abhi & Nik’s engagement party in their family’s home was nothing short of fabulous! Their closest family and friends gathered around as they cut their (delicious!) cake, against a stunning backdrop of Virginia’s fall colors. Congratulations you two!
She said yes! July 4th Proposal ~ Nation's Capital
On a surprisingly quiet, stormy July 4th afternoon in DC, Tyerell surprised his girlfriend Felicia with a beautiful diamond ring in the dreamy Luce Center of the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Congratulations you two!
Jesse's Proposal to Rosa in DC!
Rosa thought she and Jesse were celebrating their 5-year anniversary with a portrait session at the National Arboretum here in DC, but he planned to propose to her during the session - all captured beautifully by my associate Maria.
~ Congratulations Jesse & Rosa! ~
Surprise Proposal at the Cherry Blossom Festival
On the edge of the Tidal Basin, Ryan proposed to Rachel this week during DC’s cherry blossom festival. They spent the rest of the afternoon strolling among the trees, getting swept away by floating blossoms, and celebrating their engagement. Congratulations!
