Meredith and Joe’s wedding in Arlington, Va., was a long-awaited day of celebration. When I first met with Meredith to talk about her wedding, I discovered that her Joe was already deployed to Afghanistan. Throughout the planning process I was amazed at Meredith’s strength and composure, even as we had to discuss the what-ifs that no bride should ever have to discuss. And I was terrified when I received an email this past summer notifying me that Joe had been injured just weeks before ending his deployment. Fortunately, Joe’s injuries were not life-threatening and he was ready and well to watch his beautiful bride walk down the aisle, dance a first dance with her and then join his guests in one of the rowdiest parties I’ve ever had the pleasure of photographing. Between the saber arch, a group of groomsmen almost entirely military, portraits at the Jefferson Memorial, an Eastern European version of the dollar dance and some very fun grandmothers, documenting this wedding was a blast. Many congratulations and blessing to Meredith and Joe and following are my favorites from the day. Enjoy!

Ceremony: Old Post Chapel, Fort Myer, Va.

Reception and catering: Washington Golf and Country Club, Arlington, Va.

Cake: Fluffy Thoughts Cakes, McLean, Va.

Dess: Ellie’s Bridal Boutique, Old Town Alexandria, Va.

Transportation: Diamond Limousine

DJ: KC Higgins

Video: Michael Brazda Films