This weekend couldn’t have been more perfect! I was so excited to do TWO engagement sessions back to back!

Mariecel is a former co-worker and very good friend of mine. We first met nine years ago in Virginia. Both fresh out of college and working our first “real” design jobs. We’ve shared many laughs, tears, and sweat over the years! YES- SWEAT! We both joined the corporate bootcamp at work, ran miles and miles around Tysons Corner Mall every morning and even worked out in the pouring rain! But enough about us…let’s hear about the bride & groom to-be!

Mariecel is a city girl with a flair for fashion and design. Mike is a small town boy with a carefree and laid back personality. They couldn’t be more opposite yet that’s what makes them perfect for each other. I felt honored to be able to photograph their engagement.

We were hoping to get some great sunset shots at the Washington Monument and Reflecting Pool but there were too many clouds in the sky! It still worked out since the overcast made for great photos! Special thanks to my hubby who acted as my chauffeur, body guard, and photo assistant/flash stand! He was so surprisingly patient!

I love it when couples are up for anything!

I am apart of a wonderful non-profit organization called Operation: Love Reunited.  Operation: Love Reunited is a group made up of photographers who donate sessions and albums to Warfighters – Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines – who are deploying for an overseas tour of duty, already deployed overseas, or returning home from an overseas deployment.

Jessica flew all the way from Las Vegas, Nevada to BWI to welcome home her husband Dan, who was deployed in Afghanistan. The couple were practically newlyweds when Dan received his deployment papers.  Jessica and I arrived at the airport and were greeted by another great local organization, Operation Welcome Home Maryland.

I stood at the gate with Jessica nervously watching the doors. A steady stream of soldiers finally began to walk out of Customs. I’ve never met Dan (nor Jessica) until today but as soon as I saw Jessica jump and make a mad dash towards the doors I knew Dan was the next soldier exiting.

Congratulations on your reunion Dan & Jessica! May you both have a long and happy life together. Thank-you Dan for serving our country proud!

Important Disclaimer: The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply any endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense.