I love this wedding for so many reasons, but one of my favorite reasons for loving this wedding is Sheila & Fred had a big celebration and made the event special even though they aren’t the typical wedding couple. I hear couples make excuses all the time for wanting to downplay the celebration or wanting to elope because “this is his/her second marriage” or “we are older”. I say who cares! Of course there is nothing wrong with eloping at all and if you want to elope, then elope! But don’t simply elope or not have a big celebration because you aren’t the typical wedding couple and you are scared of how others will perceive it.

At any rate, I knew Sheila & Fred were going to be a blast the minute I met them. Between traffic and getting lost, they were a little stressed by the time they arrived to my house for their consult. I asked if they wanted anything to drink and Sheila without hesitation asked for a shot of vodka. I tried to hold in the giggles because it was definitely an unexpected request….but a request I filled nonetheless. We talked through a few things and they booked me on the spot. I knew I was going to be in for a fun dance party!

Sheila & Fred’s wedding was so much fun to photograph. We started the day off getting ready at the beautiful Gaylord National. They were married on the National Elite Private Yacht in National Harbor. After the sunset ceremony with the ferris wheel in the background, the yacht left the dock and we cruised around the harbor during the reception. Sheila had specialty hats made for the women which were a blast. I might have even worn one for the evening so I fit in of course. I had so much fun photographing these two and I wish them so much happiness in their future together!