Intimate Two-Day Elopement in Northern Virginia & Shenandoah National Park
When Ashleigh and Brandon first reached out, they had booked 8 hours to spend on their elopement day at their apartment in Arlington, exploring Old Town Alexandria, and wandering through meaningful spots around Northern Virginia. It already sounded like a beautiful, intentional day, but as we talked more during their planning calls, something kept coming up…Shenandoah.
They loved the idea of including the mountains, overlooks, and fall colors. But with Shenandoah National Park about two hours from the DC area, trying to fit Arlington, Old Town, and a mountain ceremony into one day would have meant rushing through moments that deserved space.
So they decided to upgrade to my two-day elopement experience. Instead of choosing between the city and the mountains, they chose both. Instead of squeezing everything into a tight timeline, they gave themselves room to actually experience it.
And that is exactly what a two-day elopement makes possible.
Their Love Story
Ashleigh & Brandon met on OkCupid in 2019. Brandon initially messaged her because he was attracted to her, of course, but also because they had scored 94% on their compatibility match. That number was not random. They had both spent an absurd amount of time answering hundreds of OkCupid’s oddly specific questions, intentionally prioritizing matches who had done the same. So when they saw that 94%, it meant something.
Their first date was supposed to be simple. They planned to meet at the Nelson-Atkins Museum in Kansas City one winter morning. Ashleigh arrived early and sat scrolling through her phone while waiting for Brandon. When she looked up, the entire world outside had turned white. A full blizzard had rolled in.
Somehow, Brandon still made it. Somehow, the museum stayed open. What was supposed to be a quick museum date turned into an all-day adventure. They explored exhibits, ate at the café, wandered the city, talked about their shared love for the Kansas City Chiefs, and Ashleigh discovered that Brandon was already a proud cat dad to three cats. The night ended with a single kiss before going their separate ways.
Their engagement story was equally them. Brandon had bought the ring before Christmas, but didn’t settle on a proposal plan until a week before. He was invited to the annual Army JAG Ball and decided it was the perfect opportunity. He asked Ashleigh to get her nails done without raising suspicion and secretly arranged a photographer. The original plan was the Moongate Garden outside the Smithsonian Castle, but rain forced a pivot to the Kennedy Center’s rooftop.
As they made their way through the building, they hit the fourth floor and were immediately met with the unmistakable aftermath of someone having crop-dusted the entire area. It was so bad they rushed through, laughing, speed-walking toward the exit. It became one of their core memories. Once outside on the rooftop, they recovered, he proposed, and she said yes.
It was hilarious and imperfect in the most perfect of ways.
Why They Chose to Elope
Their families are spread across the South and Midwest, and the more they imagined a traditional wedding, the more anxiety replaced excitement. Coordinating travel, navigating logistics, and worrying about potential family tension didn’t feel aligned with what they wanted their wedding day to be.
They both value personal, intentional experiences. And because they rarely take photos of themselves when they’re truly living in a moment, capturing this chapter intentionally mattered deeply.
Brandon & Ashleigh’s story is deeply rooted in the DC area, which made their elopement even more meaningful. They live in the DMV, and their elopement served as a beautiful reminder that you can absolutely plan a meaningful, intentional elopement experience right in their home city, without needing to travel far for it to feel special.
Day 1: Getting Ready at Home
The first day of their elopement adventures began at their apartment in Arlington. They share their home with four black cats who are incredibly meaningful to them, so it was never a question whether the cats would be part of the day. They even had little outfits for them, which made for some of the most personal and joy-filled moments of the morning! Including pets in elopement days is such a special way to reflect real life and the things that matter most to you.
Ashleigh had her hair and makeup done in the building’s common lounge while Brandon got ready separately. While getting dressed, they FaceTimed family members, which is such a thoughtful way to include loved ones on an elopement day.
Pro Tip: Calling or FaceTiming family throughout the day, or even live-streaming a ceremony, allows you to share meaningful moments in real time while still keeping the rest of the day private and focused on each other.
First Look
Their first look took place on the rooftop lounge of their building, and it was nothing short of magical. With sweeping city views and the Washington Monument visible on the horizon, they shared a quiet, emotional moment together before we captured portraits with the cityscape as their backdrop. It was the perfect transition before heading out to explore Old Town Alexandria.
Exploring Old Town Alexandria
Old Town Alexandria is a destination in itself, full of rich history, iconic cobblestone streets, charming row houses, and a beautiful waterfront boardwalk. We spent time wandering the area, stopping at some of Old Town’s most recognizable spots for photos.
One of their favorite stops was the Prince Street Halloween decorations. It is such a beloved seasonal display for locals, and incorporating something playful and familiar made their gallery feel even more personal.
It was raining while we were walking around, but Brandon & Ashleigh leaned into it, using clear umbrellas for romantic, atmospheric images that added something truly unique to their gallery. During the planning process, we always talk through backup plans and weather considerations so you feel prepared and confident, no matter what the day brings!
Tacos & Margaritas
We ended the day with tacos and margaritas at a local Mexican restaurant. When I build elopement timelines, I intentionally include space for meals and rest. Food can look different for every couple, whether that means dining out, grabbing a quick slice of pizza, enjoying a catered meal or private chef at your Airbnb, or packing a favorite picnic to enjoy in nature.
This is when we wrapped up in the afternoon, allowing them to head home, rest, and recharge before the next day’s adventure in Shenandoah National Park. This is one of the biggest benefits of a two-day elopement. Instead of pushing through exhaustion, couples get to slow down and fully experience each part of their wedding.
Day 2 at Shenandoah National Park
The second day brought a completely different atmosphere. We met near the Thornton Gap entrance to Shenandoah National Park. October had painted the mountains in warm tones, and the air felt crisp and fresh.
With over 100 miles of overlooks and trails, Shenandoah offers an incredible range of experiences for couples. There are plenty of drive-up overlooks and short, accessible trails, making it perfect for couples who want to be immersed in nature without committing to anything overly strenuous or technical.
Brandon & Ashleigh chose to include a few close guests on this second day, which is a beautiful option for couples who want a private experience one day and shared moments with loved ones the next. It allowed them to balance intimacy with connection in a way that felt natural and intentional.
Exploring Overlooks & Unity Ceremony
As we explored the overlooks, Ashleigh & Brandon incorporated a sand unity ceremony into their day. Each of them poured different colored sand into a heart-shaped container, creating a blended piece of art that symbolized their lives coming together. Unity ceremonies like this are a wonderful way to add meaning and rhythm to an elopement day, and they can be part of the ceremony itself or woven throughout the day as a reflective pause.
Later, they took time to write their vows privately in their vow books. Surrounded by mountain views and birds singing, they slowed down and poured their hearts into words they would soon share during their cermeony. Those quiet, unhurried moments often become the ones couples remember most.
Their Mountain Elopement Ceremony & Moody Photos
When it was time for the ceremony, we hiked with their guests and the officiant to the location. As we reached the summit, fog began to roll in. Mountain weather is unpredictable, which is why preparation and flexibility matter so much when planning an outdoor elopement. Instead of detracting from the experience, the fog created an ethereal, almost dreamlike atmosphere.
They exchanged vows with the mountains, drifting fog, and even a surprise deer as their witnesses. As sunlight filtered softly through the mist, they shared their first kiss as a married couple, surrounded by cheers, hugs, and so much joy.
After the ceremony, we made our way back down the mountain and parted ways. Brandon & Ashleigh headed to dinner with their guests, bringing their two-day celebration to a relaxed and meaningful close.
What the Wedding Couple Says
“Juliana did an AMAZING job with our elopement! She helped us figure out our vision and plan, took the time to get to know us, made suggestions, and ultimately carried out some of the best photos I’ve ever seen! Friends and family have raved about how stunning the photos are. We’re so grateful that we chose her, and I highly recommend her if you want amazing wedding photos!” – Ashleigh & Brandon
Ready to Book Your Two-Day Elopement in Virginia?
Ashleigh and Brandon’s elopement is the perfect example of how a two-day experience allows couples to fully live in each moment, without rushing, compromising, or choosing between experiences. By separating their celebration into two distinct days, Brandon & Ashleigh were able to honor their relationship, their loved ones, and the places that matter most to them.
If you are drawn to the idea of an elopement that gives you space to slow down, be present, and create an experience that feels like you, a two-day elopement may be the perfect fit. You can learn more about why couples choose this approach in my guide to two-day elopements, and see how flexible, intentional planning makes all the difference.
My two-day elopement package includes:
- Two consecutive days of photo coverage with me, Juliana
- In-depth questionnaires, so I can truly get to know you and help create a day that feels right.
- Sneak peeks within 3 business days, so you have gorgeous photos to share ASAP.
- Personalized planning assistance – helping you with locations, permits, vendors, and timelines.
- A private online gallery – to easily download, share, and order prints of your photos.
- Photographer’s travel costs included
- A new adventure buddy!
Whether you’re local or flying in from across the country, you deserve a wedding day that feels like home. Let’s create something unforgettable together! Learn more about my packages here!
To inquire about working with me, fill out this form and schedule a FREE phone call.
Ashleigh & Brandon’s Two-Day Elopement Vendors
Photography & planning: Juliana Wall Photography
Dress: Sophia Tolli
Veil: Bel Aire
Gloves: Heirloom
Officiant: Rev. Kate Adamson
Rings: Bride – James Allen & Groom – Gentle Bands
Makeup: Best Face Forward
Hair: LaBuzbe Salon
Silk Flowers: Ling’s Moment
