The Stars Aligned // Franciscan Monastery & Backyard Mini-Wedding // Washington DC

Allie & Nilanj spent months meticulously planning their October 2020 wedding ... and then, the coronavirus pandemic hit and, like many, they were forced to make the emotionally-charged decision to reimagine their big day. While thinking "small and safe," they settled on a backyard garden wedding for now, to which only their closest family and friends would be invited (who followed careful COVID-19 protocols in advance); while postponing their larger celebration for a later time, when everyone would be able to travel and gather without worry.

And then came the weather report for their newly-minted outdoor garden wedding plan: rain imminent, with a hurricane moving up the coast! What to do?! During a conversation with Allie & Nilanj, we suggested the possibility of shifting their wedding a day early ... understanding this would mean trying to shift to one of the most coveted wedding dates of the decade (10-10-2020), during a global pandemic! But, they agreed it was worth a few phone calls to their vendors -- and the stars aligned, as EVERY vendor agreed to the new date!! How this amazing power couple managed to overcome all of the odds shall remain a mystery, but to us, it's just proof that love can overcome any obstacle.

We even managed to work in enough time for couple portraits at the stunning Franciscan Monastery, stopping off for a little extra fun at the now-famous "Brookland" sign (however did they just happen to stand beneath the "A" and "N" letters?) Such a spectacular couple, beautiful inside and out, and with an unrivaled connection: every look, every touch ... and yes, every joyful leap! Their wedding day was perfect, as was their engagement session at the Lincoln Memorial, and we can't wait to share their larger wedding celebration this summer!