I was talking to Matt’s brother & best man about writing this very post at Emily & Matt’s reception, and I let him know that I had absolutely no idea how I was going to limit myself to a short recap of the day. Their wedding was just THAT good! Yes, it was stunning and gorgeous and absolutely beautiful design wise, but what truly made Saturday so special was the people. I loved seeing how elated Emily & Matt were to be husband and wife… how excited their friends and family were to celebrate their marriage… the selfies and group photos were plentiful, and the ear-to-ear smiles and happy tears from their guests were so telling.

Emily & Matt are both the kinds of people that would do nearly anything to make life a little brighter or better for others, and it was so incredible to see firsthand how this has translated into so many people that love them dearly. They are the perfect match for each other, both with big hearts for service and a true understanding of what the other needs.

We started their day in Woodley Park, just across the street from the church where they met. I could tell that Emily and Matt were both a little nervous just moments before their first look. After exchanging hugs and a few tears though, I saw those nerves change right into excitement for their ceremony. They were married on the altar of the church where they met in the choir with so many of their closest friends singing during their Mass. They are moving away from DC in about a month, and I got a little teary knowing just how special their ceremony will be to look back on in the future.

From there… we hopped on their trolley and made our way to one of THE most iconic spots in DC for wedding party and couple’s portraits (The Capitol & Supreme Court!!!). I have to give Emily, Matt and their friends a huge shoutout here… it was a summer day in DC meaning that it was about 95 degrees with a blazing sun and lots of humidity. It was HOT. Not once did anyone complain! They listened and smiled and laughed and made the whole entire process FUN, despite the heat and quite a few large groups of tourists. After portraits, we hopped on their trolley and headed to a port to board for their reception cruise… yes, you read that right!! Their reception was ON A BOAT! (more on that in a minute!!)

Emily loves Kate Spade, and their entire day was inspired after the brand… think classic black and white stripes with pops of pink! I’ve been dying to see how everything would come together, ever since she told me, and oh my goodness… I would be lying if I said I didn’t walk around looking like the heart-eyed emoji all day long. Keep on scrolling for a sneak peek into Emily and Matt’s wedding day!

Obsessed with these shoes!! Pinwheel boutonnieres?! I’m obsessed with how fun these are! First look time!!! The sweetest moment! Matt had his suit custom made… the pink lining was a surprise for Emily!! I don’t know if I’ll ever get over this stunning bouquet of peonies. Emily… you are stunning! Married!! On to our portrait location!! Is this even real life, y’all?! These may or may not be some of my favorite bride and groom portraits EVER! Time for Emily and Matt’s reception on board the Spirit of Washington… it was SO much fun to celebrate these two with an ever-changing view of DC and Virginia! What an incredible pre-cruise view! Emily’s mom handmade these adorable napkins! Emily and Matt practiced over TWO WEEKS for their first dance, and all of that hard work paid off! (It was incredible!) Rooftop sunset portraits were a must! One of my favorites! Time for the party! This group LOVED to dance!   Recognize these two on the left?! Kayla and Nathan are a 2017 CKP Couple!   Congrats, you two!

A special thank you to those that made Emily & Matt’s day so special: 

Getting Ready & Accommodations: Washington Marriott Wardman Park | Ceremony: St. Thomas Apostle Catholic Church | Reception, Catering & Entertainment: Spirit of Washington Cruises | Bridal Gown: Anne Barge | Bridal Boutique: Love Couture Bridal | Bridal Shoes: Kate Spade | Hair and Makeup: Aveda Salon, Bethesda | Floral Design: Wisteria Florals | Transportation: American Limousines | Cake: Fancy Cakes by Leslie | Stationery: Minted

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