Nataly + Rachel | Woodlands at Algonkian Wedding Photos | Sterling, VA

August 20, 2024

Nataly and Rachel were married this past Sunday at The Woodlands at Algonkian in a loving, intimate celebration of a deep and beautiful love.

The Couple

Rachel and Nataly met at a group for queer Jewish women in 2016, but the timing wasn’t right for their love story to begin. They reconnected in 2021 through the dating apps, and started courting before COVID vaccines were widely available. Their early dates consisted of long walks in nature, online backgammon (sheshbesh), one chalk drawing session, and countless hours on the phone. They bonded over a similar sense of humor, their love of animals and appreciation for small moments of beauty in the world, and overlapping religious and cultural backgrounds.

After getting vaccinated they enjoyed exploring and revisiting hidden gems of the DC area, on dates together. As they spent more time with one another they realized what a strong team they make together, each supporting the other’s growth. A few months after moving in together in June 2022, they decided to get engaged.

The Wedding

Rachel and Nataly’s wedding day was absolutely beautiful. From their emotional first look, to their heartfelt vows, to all the wonderful moments with their exceptional friends and family – it was a truly wonderful day. We even got brief glimpse of a rainbow during portraits! I’m excited to share the highlights on the blog today.