Old Town Alexandria is known for its classy, upscale historic neighborhoods and cobblestone streets. And everything about Abby and Alex’s wedding day fit Old Town perfectly. From their classic color scheme of burgundy and navy with accents of blush and gold, to Abby’s timeless dress and elegant updo, to the historic Church of St. Rita’s where they were married, to their reception venue in a 200-year-old building, to ending the day in an Irish pub, everything came together for a real-life fairy tale wedding.

When I showed up at Abby’s apartment last week I knew instantly that it was going to be an amazing day. She had all her details ready for me, her hair & makeup were perfectly done, her best friends were drinking coffee and laughing in her kitchen, and she was so relaxed and joyful.

Her joy and peace continued throughout the day and they were only amplified once she was united with Alex and officially his wife. Following Mass, we headed into Old Town Alexandria for wedding party portraits along the cobblestone streets and Waterfront Park.

After taking their wedding party portraits we walked a block to Union Street Public House where they had reserved the second floor for their intimate reception. Union Street Public House was one of the coolest venues to use as a wedding reception! The building is over 200 years old and has been converted into an epic (and delicious) restaurant. It was the perfect venue for Abby & Alex’s wedding.

Since we didn’t have much time for pictures between the Ceremony and the Reception we waited to do their bride and groom portraits until after the reception. This turned out to be the best thing we could have done. By the time we came out for their portraits, it was golden hour and the light was hitting the streets absolutely perfectly. I was in photographer’s heaven and kept stopping them every few feet for more portraits. To top it all off, as we were walking through some of the best blocks, we had the craziest experience happen. This random car stopped in the middle of the road next to us and Monte Durham (from Say Yes to the Dress Atlanta) got out and walked over towards us. Apparently, he had seen us as he was driving by and he was so obsessed with Abby’s dress that he had to stop and come see it in person. He was super friendly and took several photos with them (you’ll have to scroll ALL the way to the bottom to see them 😉 )

An afterparty was held at Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Pub a block from their reception venue and after we finished up their portraits (and while we – and by we, I definitely mean me and Abby – were still gushing about meeting Monte Durham) Abby and Alex joined their friends at Murphy’s. I came in for a few quick photos of them at the bar and it was the best ending to a truly magical day.

Abby and Alex, it was such a joy to photograph your wedding day and I can’t wait to get you all of your photos!

Xoxo,

Mary Kate

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A huge thank you to all the other vendors who came together to make this day possible!

CHURCH // St. Rita’s Catholic Church

RECEPTION VENUE // Union Street Public House

FLORIST // Helen Bird, Bride’s Aunt

SECOND PHOTOGRAPHER // Melinda Toth Photography

DJ // Daniel Ferguson

Pie // Rise Bakery

DRESS // Tavifa Brides

DESIGNER // Kate Likhacheva

HAIR & MUA // Adina Hair Studio

BRIDESMAID’S DRESSES // Azazie