A Black-Tie Summer Wedding at the Omni Shoreham Hotel, Washington DC

August 6, 2026

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Leighton and Gabrielle got married on July 7, 2023, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington DC. As their Omni Shoreham Hotel wedding photographer, I got a front-row seat to one of the most elegant days I’ve shot all year. Both had been living in the city, so they wanted a day that brought together as many of the people they love as possible. The Omni Shoreham, with its elegant, storied backdrop, was exactly the setting to match their black-tie vision. In fact, the hotel has been hosting Washington’s biggest celebrations since 1930, from every presidential inaugural ball from FDR to Obama. Stepping onto the property, it’s easy to see why it still holds that kind of weight.

A Wedding at DC’s Historic Omni Shoreham Hotel

Summer in DC is full of life — lush greenery all over the city — and it made the perfect backdrop for Leighton and Gabrielle’s wedding. We were able to get stunning photos out on the hotel’s grounds without anyone breaking a sweat. Afterward, we moved the celebration inside, where everyone could stay cool for the rest of the night. The pairing of the hotel’s classic architecture with their black-tie theme gave the whole day a timeless, elegant feel.

A Couple Who Brought Real Intention

I could tell early on just how much intention Leighton and Gabrielle brought into their day. From the questions they asked while we were getting to know each other, it was clear how much they cared about who would be photographing it. Looking back, all the details came together beautifully, and it was clear how much they love each other and their families. They weren’t afraid to be authentically themselves in front of my lens. Because of that, leaning into the emotion of the day made it hard for me not to get emotional myself.

A Reception Full of Energy

With a larger guest count and wedding party, the reception had an incredible atmosphere from the start. As the night went on, their energy carried the whole room. Overall, the reception was unmatched, and it was obvious these two prioritized having a genuinely great time. They’re romantics who aren’t afraid to show off in style, and it showed in every part of the celebration.

Dreaming of a black-tie celebration in a city full of history? Get in touch — I’d love to help you plan a day as elegant and full of life as Leighton and Gabrielle’s.