We always love an adorable love story and Stephen and Kelley are the perfect example of that. Before we dive into their beautiful Alexandria Virginia wedding, let’s hear a little bit about their relationship! In August 2012, Stephen and Kelley crossed paths while both working on political campaigns in North Carolina. They were introduced through a mutual friend on the night of the 2012 Republican Convention. Over the next few weeks the two went on a few innocent dates and became friends. After the election, Kelley moved to the State capital and Stephen to the Nation’s.

Stephen spent the next 2 years planning reasons to be in Raleigh and their friendship continued to grow. Stephen finally recruited enough of Kelley’s friends to join his personal campaign and they persuaded Kelley to give him a chance. Kelley came to Washington as Stephen’s date for Taste of the South 2014, a well known black tie charity fundraiser where Hill staffers dress to the nines for a night of shenanigans, drinks, and southern specialty foods. All hopped up on KFC and Krsipy Kreme, Stephen and Kelley officially began their relationship.

After months of long distance dating, Kelley moved to DC to be with her love, Stephen. In order to pull off the perfect proposal, Stephen called in one of the original Team Stephen campaigners and future maid of honor, Lauren. Stephen laid out a broad plan – having immediate families from both sides together in Raleigh for a brunch celebration. Stephen ordered roses the night before, and gave Lauren the ring. Lauren was also in charge of corralling the family members, shuffling them to a waiting location across a courtyard from the restaurant, and keeping them hidden. All went off exactly as planned. Afterward, the two families celebrated with mimosas and crepes. Thank you to Evelyn Alas Photography for sharing this beautifully peachy Hotel Monaco wedding with us today!

The following Washington DC area wedding professionals contributed to their wedding:
Photographer: Evelyn Alas Photography
Beauty: Alison Harper and Co.
Venue: Hotel Monaco Alexandria
Bridal Salon: Carolina Bridal World / Allure Bridal
Floral Designer: Growing Wild Floral Co.
Cake: Fluffy Thoughts Cakes
Bridesmaids Dresses: Davids Bridal
DJ: Goodnote DJs
Men’s Attire: Mens Wearhouse

For more wedding vendors, please visit our Washington DC area wedding vendor guide and for even more amazing local ideas, check out our wedding inspiration galleries and other Washington DC area real weddings.