I talk allllll the time about my photography bucket list. I’m wondering if those around me are starting to get sick of it but here comes one more! I have been longing to do a Bishop’s Garden Engagement Session. The National Cathedral in DC is one of those majestic places that takes your breath away when you’re standing in the shadows of it. I had honestly never been to the Bishop’s Garden before (probably because I knew about the hefty permit fee that accompanies any photo session there) but it was a place that I knew I needed to visit at least once in my life. I had visions of grandeur built up in my head, to be honest, but the reality of it was so much sweeter and accessible. Let me back up.
Kelley reached out requesting engagement photos on the recommendation of a dear friend from my husband and kids’ hula group. During our phone conversation, she mentioned that her husband-to-be, Rob, had special ties to the Cathedral thanks to his years at St. Alban’s school, next door. For this reason, they had their heart’s set on a Bishop’s Garden Engagement session. Inwardly, I was squealing, but my heart sank as I told Kelley about the permit fee. Feeling sure they would choose another location, I tried to put my bucket list out of my mind, but my dreams came true when she confirmed a few days later that they would be obtaining the permit! Bishop’s Garden, here we come!
Since Kelley and Rob were in the middle of the home-buying process, they were hoping to have the photos done ASAP-as-possible (a little Office reference there for all you fans, wink) but also had their fingers crossed for a day that wasn’t super hot and humid. Considering that we were discussing an early August date, I knew I most likely wouldn’t be able to deliver on the weather front and, sure enough, while not overly hot, it was steamy. Definitely a two shower day, that one.
Kelley and Rob showed up looking fancy in a blue dress and suit but later changed into shorts and the t-shirts of each other’s alma mater, which I thought was a really special touch. The gardens that I originally imagined to be huge and sprawling were actually much smaller than I realized and beautifully decked out in late summer blooms. It was so manageable that we had enough time to make our way all the way around the Cathedral and get some shots on the white steps which, I’m going to be honest (light and airy lover over here), may be my favorite shots of the evening. Honestly, it’s hard to choose a bad location there because it’s such an iconic, beautiful spot and I’m so glad we were able to make their vision happen!
I just heard from Kelley that they’ll soon be moving into their new home and, with the wedding scheduled for the Spring, it’s an exciting time for Kelley and Rob! For now, please enjoy their Bishop’s Garden Engagement session. Happy Engagement, Kelley and Rob!! ❤️
Liz Viernes Photography is based in Silver Spring, Maryland, and specializes in maternity, fresh 48, posed and lifestyle newborns and first year milestone portraits.
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