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Engagements

Andrew’s Surprise Proposal to Rachel at Washington National Cathedral | D.C. Wedding Photographer

When Andrew reached out asking if I’d help capture the moment he proposed to his love Rachel, I could hardly contain myself. He was so open to ideas on where and how to pop the question. He just wanted it to be beautiful, memorable, and discreet. I was there to help. We chose to hold the proposal at the Washington National Cathedral, a grand backdrop to this very grand moment.

We began planning right away. From securing our permit to figuring out the perfect post-proposal celebratory dinner spot, every detail was falling into place. Then the day came.

Andrew, who lives in Pennsylvania, came to DC for a visit. He convinced Rachel that they would meet his sister for dinner, but pick her up at the cathedral to drive together. I was already in place, watching discreetly as they walked the grounds “waiting” for his sister to arrive. They walked up toward Bishop’s Garden, and as Rachel admired the majestic steeples, Andrew dropped to his knee.

Rachel’s joyous reaction was overflowing. Of course, she said “yes!” And I felt so lucky that Kevin and I were there to capture the whole thing. The moment felt so significant, even I was shaking with adrenaline after she put her ring on!

From there, we just had to capture more portraits of the two nearly-weds to help share the news with their loved ones. As we walked the grounds and captured romantic engagement photos, I learned more about their love story. And it was sweeter than I could’ve imagined.

Andrew and Rachel have been friends since grade school! Life and school brought them different paths, but one day Andrew bravely tried to reconnect over social media after some years. One thing led to another, and a rekindled friendship turned into a lifelong love. Now they are beaming with excitement about the forever they get to build together as fiancés, and soon, spouses.

I was personally delighted to find out Rachel and I share an alma mater!! We even graduated a year apart, so who knows — we may have easily crossed paths years ago without even knowing it. So fate is all through their engagement story 😉

It was a true honor to document this forever memory for these two. They’re sweeter than sugar and I am so happy for the both of them as they prepare for a happy, thriving marriage. Congratulations to the bride- and groom-to-be, Andrew and Rachel!!

And now for the part everyone’s waiting for… their Washington National Cathedral proposal and engagement photos. Don’t miss the GORGEOUS solitaire, oval-cut diamond on a gold ring that Andrew proposed with!!

If you scrolled to the bottom, I’ll humbly assume you might be a fan of my work. 😉 Want to see more? Check out the posts below. Looking for a VA/DC based wedding photographer to document your new season of love? Inquire with me today!

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Every detail of the Madelyn Tenney Events Spring Design Showcase 2025 was pure magic. As an Atlanta wedding photographer, I had the joy of being invited to capture not only the beautifully curated spaces but also the intimate behind-the-scenes moments that made this spring showcase possible. From lush florals to elegant table settings, the event was a treasure trove of spring wedding inspiration for brides dreaming up their perfect day.

Hosted at Nova Studio in the heart of Atlanta, this carefully crafted experience was designed to set the tone for the upcoming wedding season—and it did not disappoint.

Spring Wedding Inspiration for Modern Southern Brides

The design vision for the showcase–Prima Flora–embraced soft pastels, delicate textures, and fresh seasonal styling. Think romantic blush tones, textured linens, and floral-forward installations. Madelyn and her talented team created a setting that felt simultaneously elevated and welcoming. It was truly a perfect exhibition of what sophisticated spring weddings can be in Georgia.

As I arrived early to document the event setup, I was able to photograph the team in their element: adjusting linens, styling stationery, and rehearsing the layout one last time. These behind-the-scenes moments revealed just how much heart went into this event. It’s easy to see why so many brides trust Madelyn Tenney Events to bring their dream weddings to life.

Behind the Scenes with Madelyn Tenney Events

Before the doors opened, I had the privilege of capturing team headshots for the women behind Madelyn Tenney Events. Their energy, collaboration, and vision made it clear this wasn’t just a design showcase—it was a heartfelt celebration of creativity and community.

The environment was buzzing with excitement as florists arranged final stems and vendors fluffed the final cushions. The team’s chemistry was undeniable, and it translated directly into the seamless flow of the event itself.

The Madelyn Tenney Events Spring Design Showcase

At the heart of the showcase were the intentional design vignettes. Each space told a story, offering spring wedding inspiration tailored for modern Southern brides. One standout element was a centerpiece floral installation by Marigo Flowers, assisted by Pollen Floral Company. It floated above a table layered with blush-toned linens from BBJ La Tavola, catching the light beautifully throughout the afternoon.

An eye-catching ice sculpture by Ice Sculpture Inc. ATL added a playful, elevated touch to the scene, while live entertainment from Jewel the Ballerina captivated attendees with ethereal movement, bringing life to the experience. Glasswing Rentals curated tableware that sparkled under the natural light of Nova Studio, and JC Rental Collective and Party Bound contributed pieces that gave each setup personality and polish.

Why This Event Matters for Atlanta Brides

If you’re a bride planning a wedding in Atlanta, Savannah, or North Georgia looking for fresh spring wedding inspiration, events like this one are invaluable. They don’t just showcase trends—they display the talent of local, trustworthy vendors who are passionate about what they do.

Every vendor at this showcase brought their A-game. Seeing each one’s work in person—and getting to document it as a film-inspired wedding photographer—was such an honor.

What I Loved Most as an Atlanta Wedding Photographer

Photographing this spring wedding inspiration at Nova Studio was a dream. The soft filtered light made the colors pop in a way that felt timeless and true-to-color. My goal is always to deliver film-inspired wedding photos that feel both editorial and authentic. The setting created by Madelyn Tenney Events was ideal for that.

Being trusted to document the designs and the passion behind them—team portraits, set-up, genuine laughter—reminds me why I love this work. These are the moments that couples don’t always see. These are the images that reveal the effort, energy, and heart poured into a couple’s day long before they say I do.

Want more from this amazing showcase? The full gallery is available for your viewing and inspiration!

If you’re planning a spring wedding in Georgia, take this as your sign: romantic color palettes, thoughtful texture layering, intentional florals, and a dream team of vendors are always a winning combination. And if you’re looking for a light and airy wedding photographer, I’d be honored to capture it all.

Let’s create something beautiful together. Contact me to inquire for more information about pricing and packages!

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