My first wedding of 2026 was also one of the rainiest weddings I’ve photographed in years — probably since we were in Florida in 2020 during a tropical storm for my close friend Abby & Andrew’s wedding. Ironically, Abby was a bridesmaid at this wedding too!

Maria and I went to Franciscan together, so we share many mutual friends, and their wedding day felt like a reunion in the very best way (there were four of my previous IMK couples at this wedding!) I met Tom last year while photographing another wedding, and I distinctly remember watching him and Maria dancing together and thinking, “Hmm… it looks like they’ve found the one.” A year and a half later, here we are!

Their Nuptial Mass took place at the Basilica of St. Mary in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. This was actually the second time I’ve photographed a wedding at this church, but the first wedding I shot here requested their images be kept offline — which means this is the first time I’ve been able to blog a wedding in this truly stunning church. One of my favorite features of the Basilica is the pair of side balconies at the front of the church, which allow for a unique aerial perspective of different moments throughout the Mass.

I had hoped the rain might slow to a sprinkle by the time Mass ended, but alas — it only intensified. Despite the freezing cold rain, Maria and Tom decided to brave the weather and take a few quick portraits down by the river, and I’m so glad they did!

Their reception was held at the Harbor View Event Center, about thirty minutes south of Old Town. The upstairs reception space offered beautiful water views, while the downstairs level featured an open-air (yet completely covered) area — the perfect spot to finish Maria and Tom’s portraits without worrying about the rain.

Maria & Tom, it was such a joy to celebrate with you and document your beautiful wedding day. Thank you for trusting me with such a meaningful chapter of your story.

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 // Basilica of St. Mary
RECEPTION VENUE // Harbour View Event Venue
CATERER // Taste of Elegance
DRESS // Country Bridals and Formal Wear
BRIDESMAIDS // David’s Bridal
GROOMSMEN // Men’s Wearhouse
DJ // Maria Sicree (Sister of the Groom)