If you’ve ever thought elopements were just quick courthouse ceremonies and a one-hour photo session, then Jessica and Manny are here to prove otherwise. Their 8-hour Washington, DC, elopement was a full-on adventure exploring the city they’ve called home together.

From sunrise portraits at the U.S. Capitol to a champagne picnic in the park and ice cream on the National Mall, they turned their elopement into a day that reflected and celebrated their love story from start to finish.

A Love Story That Started in an Elevator

Jessica and Manny had such a meet-cute story. They met overseas in an elevator. She was working as a corporate flight attendant, and he was stationed there with the Marines. Manny spotted her in the hotel lobby, found an excuse to get in line behind her, and used a forgotten water bottle as the perfect icebreaker. The elevator doors then closed, but they met again… you guessed it, while waiting for the elevator.

After a bit of banter and flirting, they exchanged phone numbers, which led to a cross-country love story that brought them to DC.

So yes, of course, their wedding gallery had to include elevator photos!

Making a Full City Adventure Out of Their Washington, DC Elopement

Who says elopements have to be quick or simple? Jessica and Manny’s day was proof that your elopement can be anything you want it to be. They spent the entire day soaking up the city and all their favorite spots here, and honoring the first place they lived together. 

This was one of those days that felt like spending time with friends. We walked, laughed, shared stories, and took our time soaking in every location. It was also one of the hottest summer days of the year, so we made sure to start early, take breaks, and end with ice cream!

And if you’ve been wondering what your 8-hour Washington, DC, elopement day could look like, keep reading! 

5:00 a.m. — Getting Ready at The Riggs Hotel

We kicked things off just before the sun rose while the city was still sleepy. At 5 am, Jessica and Manny put the finishing touches on their looks at The Riggs Hotel ahead of their first look. They shared the first look by the elevators, which was the sweetest nod to their meet-cute story. 

5:45 a.m. — Sunrise at the U.S. Capitol, Library of Congress & Supreme Court

After the first look and a few portraits, we headed out. Mornings in DC are my favorite! That early morning light is gorgeous, and you get more privacy in popular places that can get quite crowded with tourists. 

We had the steps of the Capitol and the Supreme Court practically to ourselves. The light was unreal, and their joy was contagious.

7:00 a.m. — Vows & First Dance at the DC War Memorial

We made a quick stop at Tidal Basin before their ceremony. With the quiet morning air and the water shimmering behind them, it was so peaceful and heartfelt. Then we finally headed to the DC War Memorial, where they exchanged their vows under the marble dome. After their vows, they shared a private first dance, which was so sweet!

P.S. You can check out my full guide on how to elope at the DC War Memorial here!

8:30 a.m. — Brunch Break & Outfit Change

By 8:30 am, it was brunch time back at The Riggs. This was such a perfect reset point. It gave us a chance to cool off from the summer heat, refuel, and switch into fun celebration outfits for a whole different vibe.

Jessica changed into a chic mini dress with a bow detail and veil. Manny traded his Marine uniform for a laid-back suit with a pink shirt. They were ready for round two!

10:30 a.m. — Picnic & Champagne at Meridian Hill Park

Once they changed their outfits, we made our way to Meridian Hill Park for a celebratory picnic (complete with champagne and a basket of snacks).

12:00 p.m. — Exploring the National Gallery of Art

After the picnic, we headed to the National Gallery of Art Museum and the Sculpture Garden. They wandered through art and kissed under paintings. It was so romantic!

12:45 p.m. — Ice Cream on the Mall

To end the day, they grabbed ice cream from a colorful truck near the Sculpture Garden. Because what better way to wrap up your elopement than with sprinkles and sunshine?

Summary of Their 8-Hour DC Elopement Timeline

Here’s a peek at their timeline:

5:00am – Hotel finishing touches
5:20am – First look at the elevators
5:45am – Sunrise portraits at U.S. Capitol, Library of Congress, Supreme Court
7:00am – Vows & first dance at the Tidal Basin and DC War Memorial
8:30am – Brunch & outfit change
10:30am – Picnic & champagne at Meridian Hill Park
12:00pm – Exploring the National Gallery of Art Museum
12:45pm – Ice cream truck break outside the Sculpture Garden
1:00pm – Wrap!

Why Make a Day of It?

Because you can! Your elopement isn’t “less than” a big wedding. It’s intentionally yours. Whether that means a courthouse moment or a full-day tour of your favorite places, it’s all valid and beautiful.

Jessica & Manny chose to show off the city where they first lived together. They took their time. They laughed a lot. They made space for both the formal and the playful, and the result was just so them.

Within these hours, we’d covered so many of DC’s most iconic spots, but the whole day still felt relaxed and intentional. Everything in between was filled with laughter, connection, and a genuine ease that made it feel like walking around the city with friends.

Planning your own Washington, DC elopement? I’m all about planning and documenting what feels most like you. Send me a message and let’s start dreaming up your adventure through the city! 

“We recently had the pleasure of working with Bekah for our elopement, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience and results! From the very beginning, she was incredibly professional, friendly, and attentive to our needs. 

Bekah has an incredible eye for detail and captured every special moment perfectly. She made us feel comfortable and at ease, allowing our personalities to shine through in every shot. The photos are absolutely stunning, and we will cherish them for a lifetime. 

Communication was seamless, and Bekah was always available to answer any questions we had. She even offered helpful suggestions for locations and poses that truly enhanced our photos. 

We highly recommend Evergreen Photo to anyone looking for a talented and dedicated photographer who will capture your special moments beautifully. Thank you, Bekah for making our elopement unforgettable!”

Review from the Couple

Vendors

Photography & planning: Me, Evergreen Photo

Hair & Makeup Artist: JSL Visions