National Cathedral School Wedding in Washington DC

Some weddings are beautiful. Some are joyful. And then, every once in a while, a wedding comes along that is both—overflowing with so much love, warmth, and meaning that it stays with you long after the last dance. Tanner & Amanda’s wedding at the National Cathedral School in Washington, DC, was one of those days.

From the moment I met them, I knew these two were special. Their love for each other felt effortless and pure—rooted in faith, filled with thoughtfulness, and wrapped in a deep appreciation for family and friends. And their wedding? A true reflection of them. Cozy, autumnal, and straight out of a rom-com.

A Fall Wedding with Warm, Personal Touches

Tanner & Amanda wanted their day to feel like a cozy dinner party with subtle nods to DC, Texas, and Kansas—places that have shaped their story. Their color palette pulled from the vibrant fall foliage: deep reds, burnt oranges, golden yellows, and lush greens. A stunning floral arch framed their ceremony, later repurposed to bring warmth to their reception. Guests were treated to a mix of elegant and laid-back elements, from a whimsical playlist featuring rom-com classics to a nod to their roots with a (very delicious) BBQ dinner.

Their wedding details weren’t just beautiful; they were intentional. Every piece felt like them—from the warm candlelit atmosphere to the easygoing yet timeless aesthetic. It was a day that managed to feel both iconic and intimate, grand yet deeply personal.

An Unforgettable First Look

There are no words for how sweet their first look was. Three of us vendors were there to capture it, and we were all in tears! And yet, despite our presence, it was as if no one else existed. It was their moment. The joy, the emotion, the sheer love between them—it was one of those experiences you can only hope to witness as a photographer!

A Wedding That Was About More Than Just a Wedding

One of the things I admired most about Tanner and Amanda was their perspective on wedding planning. From the beginning, they focused on what mattered most—building a marriage, not just planning a wedding. They split up tasks, treated the process as a team effort, and kept their eyes on the bigger picture.

And when the big day finally arrived, they soaked in every single moment. The laughter, the heartfelt speeches, the warm embrace of family and friends. The pure, unfiltered joy of becoming husband and wife.

It was a day I’ll never forget—and one I’d happily relive over and over again.

Tanner and Amanda, thank you for letting me be part of your love story in this small and humble way. Your wedding was a gift to all of those who have the pleasure of knowing, and your love is truly something unique. May God continue to bless you in your journey ahead!

See all the dreamy fall wedding photos below!

Alexis El Massih is a wedding photographer serving Washington DC, Northern Virginia, Maryland and Greece Destinations.

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