When a couple like Julia and Ryan, who are both from the Bronx, New York, decides to tie the knot outside of their hometown, you know their story is going to be something special. Their engagement session in Washington, DC, was no exception. Capturing their love against iconic DC landmarks like Constitution Gardens and the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) was an absolute dream, and their unique blend of NYC roots and elegant DC charm made this shoot unforgettable.

From a sunrise session to vintage elegance, Julia and Ryan’s engagement photos were a beautiful reflection of their journey together—one that bridges the bustling streets of New York City with the serene beauty of the nation’s capital.

Sunrise at Constitution Gardens: A Nod to NYC Roots

We kicked off the session before the sun was even fully up, capturing the first light of day as it softly illuminated the Washington Monuments. Julia and Ryan chose to wear outfits that spoke to their Bronx origins—casual but timeless, and filled with the kind of comfort only a couple who’s been together for years can share. The early morning light gave the scene a soft, ethereal glow, which contrasted beautifully with the towering monuments and gave the photos an almost dreamlike quality.

There’s something incredibly special about sunrise shoots—everything is still and calm, and the light is gentle and golden, perfect for capturing intimate moments. As the sun slowly crept over the horizon, it cast a stunning glow over the reflecting pool, with the Washington Monument standing tall in the background. Julia and Ryan, standing hand-in-hand, were completely in the moment, and their smiles were as natural as the surroundings.

A Quick Change to Vintage Elegance

After a few shots in their first outfits, Julia and Ryan switched gears into something a bit more formal—and when I say formal, I mean breathtaking.

Julia’s vintage-inspired dress from Denmark was absolutely stunning. The intricate lace, the timeless silhouette, and the way it moved so gracefully in the breeze—everything about it was perfection. This gown wasn’t just a dress; it was a statement piece that told a story all on its own. It was the kind of dress that brought out the beauty of every DC landmark we visited, but most especially, the columns at the DAR.

Ryan also looked every bit the part in his sharp, tailored suit, perfectly complementing Julia’s vintage charm. Together, they exuded classic elegance, which worked seamlessly with the historical elegance of the DAR’s architecture.

The DAR: A Perfect Backdrop for a Vintage Romance

The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) building in DC is a true gem. With its grand columns and striking neoclassical design, it provided the perfect backdrop for Julia’s vintage dress and their overall vision. The light that filtered through the columns during our shoot was nothing short of magical. The entire setting—lush gardens, towering columns, and the warm morning sun—complemented their formal attire and created a timeless scene that felt like it was taken from another era.

With every shot, you could see how much Julia and Ryan were connected—not just to each other, but to the history of the moment and the spaces they chose. Their love was as classic and enduring as the architecture surrounding them, and every photograph captured that elegance.

Bridging NYC and DC: A Beautiful Blend of Two Worlds

For Julia and Ryan, this engagement session wasn’t just about the locations—it was about blending their lives and cultures in a way that honored both their past and their future. As Bronx natives, they were drawn to the iconic sights of Washington, DC, but they wanted to tell their story with an eye toward their personal roots, too. From the sunrise shoot at Constitution Gardens to the vintage dress at the DAR, every detail reflected who they are—rooted in their New York heritage, but also embracing this new chapter in their lives as they prepare for their DMV destination wedding at the Liriodendron Mansion.

Their session perfectly captured the beauty of both worlds, making for a set of images that are as timeless as their love.

Looking Ahead to Their DMV Destination Wedding

I can’t wait to see what Julia and Ryan’s wedding day at the Liriodendron Mansion will bring. The combination of their NYC roots and the charm of Maryland will make for a day filled with beauty, history, and love. If their engagement session was any indication, their wedding is going to be nothing short of spectacular.

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Planning Your Own Engagement Session in DC?
Whether you’re looking for the charm of the National Mall, the elegance of historical sites like the DAR, or something completely unique, I’d love to help you create the perfect engagement photos. Get in touch to learn more about booking a session that will perfectly reflect your love story.

To Julia and Ryan—thank you for letting me capture these special moments in your journey. It was such a privilege to be a part of it, and I can’t wait to see what comes next!