Jodi and Stu’s intimate wedding in Alexandria, Virginia was vibrant, heartfelt, beautifully intentional, and full of the kind of joy that makes you want to photograph intimate weddings forever. From their bright, colorful details to the bagpipe-led Scottish processional through Old Town, their day was the perfect example of what makes small weddings so powerful.
If you’re dreaming of an intimate Alexandria wedding that feels elevated yet effortless, you’re going to fall in love with this one.
Dreamy Details + Getting Ready in Downtown Alexandria
Jodi began her morning in a charming Airbnb tucked inside historic Old Town Alexandria — surrounded only by her closest friends and family. The space was bright, warm, and full of soft morning light that made every detail feel extra dreamy.
Her details were stunning: vibrant florals, colorful accents, and heirloom pieces that reflected her personality perfectly. Stu leaned into tradition with classic Scottish attire (yes, the kilt absolutely stole the show), bringing the most intentional touch of heritage to the day.
Every moment felt slow, meaningful, and romantic — exactly what an intimate wedding morning should be.
Candid Moments on the Walk to the Athenaeum
After getting ready, the girls and I walked through the streets of Old Town toward the Athenaeum, the stunning art gallery that would serve as both the first-look location and ceremony site. This walk gave us some of my favorite images of the entire day — the kind that feel like film stills from a super fun romantic comedy.
A Sweet First Look + Lively Portraits at the Alexandria Waterfront
Jodi and Stu shared their first look outside the Athenaeum. It was a quiet, intimate moment full of happy tears and excited laughter. Then just the three of us slipped away to the Alexandria waterfront for their bride and groom portraits.
This part of the day? A photographer’s dream.
They laughed and played the entire time. They trusted the process and were fully themselves — which is exactly why their photos feel so full of life. Nothing forced. Nothing rigid. Just two people who are wildly in love and having the time of their lives. All in one of the most charming waterfront towns in Virginia.
A Tow Truck, A Laugh, and A Perfect Ceremony
Right before the ceremony began, a bright red tow truck rolled up in front of the Athenaeum . It could not have been more “perfectly” timed. There was beeping loudly, lights flashing, the whole nine yards. Some couples might panic… but not Jodi and Stu.
They laughed.
Stu chatted WITH the driver.
And Jodi literally posed in front of the truck to commemorate this hilariously unexpected moment.
Once the truck rumbled off, the ceremony began — simple, intentional, colorful, and perfectly suited to the Athenaeum’s bright gallery backdrop.
Cocktail Hour in the Garden
Following the ceremony, everyone gathered in the Athenaeum’s garden for cocktails and casual portraits. Their friends and family shared the exact same joyful, goofy, light-hearted energy that these two radiate.
This intimate guest list allowed for meaningful conversation, beautiful candids, and the chance to photograph everyone just as they are — relaxed, laughing, and fully present.
A Traditional Scottish Processional Through the Streets of Alexandria
One of the most unforgettable parts of the day was the Scottish processional to their reception at the Historic Morrison House. Led by bagpipes (yes, bagpipes in Old Town — it was incredible), the entire group paraded through the streets of Alexandria, cheering, dancing, and celebrating the newlyweds.
People stopped on the sidewalks to clap. Cars honked. Guests danced their way down the block.
It was the perfect fusion of heritage, joy, and community.
A Beautiful + Cozy Reception at the Historic Morrison House
The reception at the Morrison House was the perfect ending to their intimate celebration — charming, elegant, colorful, and full of that same meaningful intention woven throughout the day.
The venue’s cozy interior, layered with beautiful details, matched the tone of their entire wedding. Every corner felt like an extension of their personalities: joyful, warm, vibrant, and deeply connected.
Why I Loved This Wedding (and Why I Want More Like It)
Jodi and Stu’s wedding is the definition of what makes intimate weddings in Alexandria so special. It was a celebration rooted in personality, heritage, authenticity, and joy — without sacrificing elegance or style.
If you’re planning a wedding in Alexandria or the DC area and you value intentional moments, gorgeous details, and a relaxed, luxury experience… this is exactly the kind of day I’d love to document for you.
Your wedding doesn’t have to be big to be beautiful.
It just has to be you.
Planning an intimate wedding in Alexandria, Virginia?
If you want photos that feel real, romantic, and full of personality, I’d love to be part of your day.
👉 Reach out here to start planning your dream wedding photography experience.
