They sealed a deal in front of the Lincoln Memorial. Twice.

Act I.

After a great dinner, steamy salsa dancing, he took her on a midnight drive to show around the National Mall in Washington, DC. Their love story begins, sealed with a kiss, under the stairs of Lincoln Memorial.

Intermission

Before I continue, I must rewind 16 years. I’m impressed by a guy in my college weight room lifting some massive weights. Born outside Kiev, he’s Russian. Looks it, sounds it. His name is Alyosha. He introduces himself as Alex. We hit it off, went on to study abroad in Australia together, surfed early mornings, tried not to crack too many books, then became roommates in 1998 while doing summer research on-campus at Colgate University. His neuroscience skills made a decent match to my environmental geography interests, and we began a lifetime of shared experiences. We’ve each shaped each other’s lives in more ways we can count. If it wasn’t for Alex, I wouldn’t have gone to Burning Man for the first time. He planted the seed, but bailed on me. Friends forgive. In hindsight, it was probably for the better since this provided the focus I needed for my project on couples in love at Burning Man. Upon reflection, Alex helped me appreciate the simple joys of life. I encouraged him to find the right person, knowing one day he would.

After bumming around for 15 years from one broken heart to next, Alex met Anna, a beautiful, intelligent and sweet girl. She was born in the same hospital outside Kiev. Her name is Anna. Who knew after traveling the world, Alex found would find the person he would love so close to home. Over the next few months, they traveled the US and then spent a month in Ukraine together, where he met her family. Alex asked for their blessing for Anna’s hand in marriage. He returned with positive support, a surprise to her.

Act II.

Two weeks ago, Alex contacts me about his plans. Like two vets scheming their next military-op, I jump on a plane, cameras in tow. I didn’t sleep much the night before, but trusted my pre-dawn Starbucks brew, along with a bit of adrenaline, to give me jump start.

On a romantic Washington DC get-away, he woke her up last Friday early, eager to explore. They headed to the Lincoln Memorial, where they walked to the same spot they first kissed just before 8:45am.

He got down on bended knee. Opened up a box to display the bling. She stood in awe and said, “Yes!”

After the surprise engagement proposal at the Lincoln Memorial, Alex blew my cover… the right way!

After she accepted his proposal, we walked to the Hotel Washington for an amazing Friday morning brunch…. It was amazing. We ate an amazing meal! Alex loves to feed Anna (I told them at least once to get a room, but since they already had one, we all just laughed!).

I excused myself for a bit while they basked in the glow of their engagement. Upon return, I couldn’t help but notice the happiness and pride in Alex!

We headed to the rooftop of the Hotel Washington which has the best view of the National Mall. I mean where else can you shoot the sun, sky, an engagement ring, and the White House below in one composition???

They loved chasing the lingering rays of sunset on the Nations Capital.

These two know how to connect and dance on a dime!!! (with their engagement spot from the morning before in the background).

PAUSE! One of my favorite images showcasing an important moment, a sentimental personal and historic place, featuring beautiful composition and light. Winner!

DC is among the hardest working cities in America. Sometimes, however, we need to stop and savor life and love. Alex and Anna did it right! This image I think should set the tone of their relationship as a reminder of the importance of love in our commuting careers. Although this is just me as a good friend and not wedding photographer / therapist. I love this engagement photograph!

Such a cute couple!

We watched a few videos and images from our Super 8 Film engagement session and wedding Super 8 art film by my good friend and film artist Kevin Von Qualen.

It’s not too often I get to dine a luxurious meal at the Hotel Washington with newly engaged couples, but in this case, I was more than happy to oblige.

Anna & Alex, thank you for making me apart of your lifelong memories! I had an amazing time with you both!!! I wish you all the very best in planning Act III.

CLICK HERE to view the widescreen computer slideshow. To order prints online, CLICK HERE.