Summer Intimate Wedding at the DC War Memorial | Pru & Wunmi
There is something undeniably magical about an intimate wedding in Washington, DC. When timeless architecture, meaningful family moments, and golden sunshine come together, the result feels both deeply personal and effortlessly iconic. This beautiful celebration began with a heartfelt ceremony on the National Mall and ended with a joyful brunch gathering at one of the city’s most beloved restaurants, creating a wedding day that was elegant, relaxed, and filled with connection.
As a luxury fine art wedding photographer serving Washington, D.C. and beyond, intimate celebrations like this one perfectly reflect what modern couples are increasingly drawn to: meaningful experiences shared with the people who matter most.
The couple’s love story spans continents - the bride is from Australia, marrying her love in the literal heart of the US Capital. Rather than planning a large traditional event, the couple chose an intimate gathering that allowed every moment to feel present and personal.
The groom’s young daughters played an especially important role throughout the day, adding warmth, laughter, and a sense of unity that made the celebration feel not only like a wedding, but the beginning of a new chapter together as a family.
Tucked among the trees just off the Reflecting Pool, the DC War Memorial offers one of the most romantic and serene ceremony locations in the city. Its circular marble structure creates a naturally elegant backdrop while allowing soft light to filter through from every direction, a dream setting for fine art wedding photography.
On this particular day, clear blue skies and warm sunlight illuminated the ceremony, creating luminous, airy imagery that perfectly complemented the emotion of the moment. With only close family and friends present, every exchange felt deeply intentional, from the vows to the quiet embraces shared afterward.
The intimacy of the setting allowed the couple to fully experience their ceremony without distraction, surrounded by history, nature, and the people closest to them.
Following the ceremony, guests gathered for an intimate celebration brunch at Blue Duck Tavern, where the atmosphere shifted into relaxed sophistication. Known for its warm hospitality and seasonally inspired cuisine, the restaurant provided the perfect setting for a daytime wedding reception.
Long conversations, champagne toasts, and beautifully prepared dishes created a celebratory yet unhurried experience. Natural light filled the space, allowing the documentary moments of laughter, connection, and family interaction to unfold organically.
Brunch receptions are becoming increasingly popular for intimate Washington, DC weddings, offering couples a refined alternative to traditional evening receptions while giving guests a uniquely memorable experience.
Photographer - Lissa Ryan Photography | Venue - DC War Memorial & Blue Duck Tavern | Floral Design & Rentals - Pretty Little Wedding Co. | Officiant - With This Ring I Thee Wedd | HMUA - Glam Set Go | Film Scans by The FIND Lab
If you would like more information about my wedding and portrait photography, please contact me by filling out a contact form here; or send an email to melissa@lissaryanphotography.com.