Judes Stellingwerf and Dan DeBaere first met in 2007 after their jobs sent them on assignments to Iraq. After dating a few months, they returned stateside and continued their relationship. The couple got married on Independence Day.
Marvin Joseph-The Washington Post
"She had a really great attitude, was just a breath of fresh air," DaBaere says of his new bride.
Marvin Joseph-The Washington Post
After the hour-long commute from their respective condos in Alexandria, Va., and Bowie, Md., became too cumbersome, the pair decided to buy a home acrosss the street from the Potomac River in May 2008 in Fort Washington, Md. And that's where they held their wedding ceremony.
Marvin Joseph-The Washington Post
The newlyweds enjoy a stroll alone.
Marvin Joseph-The Washington Post
The couple hired Carbecue Caterers, which makes barbeque in what looks like a converted red car, to cater the reception.
Marvin Joseph-The Washington Post
For dessert, guests had their choice of chocolate, vanilla and red velvet cupcakes from Georgetown Cupcake.
Marvin Joseph-The Washington Post
The happy couple chats with Tim Carey, center, who was one of the musicians playing bagpipes during their ceremony.
Marvin Joseph-The Washington Post
Jennifer Stellingwerf, 10, (left) and Tori Lane, 11, celebrate the 4th of July at their relatives' wedding reception.
Marvin Joseph-The Washington Post
The attire for the event was very relaxed. Stellingwerf had a favorite linen dress copied by a seamstress in Bangkok for her wedding dress. Guests wore sundresses and khakis.
Marvin Joseph-The Washington Post
The newlyweds share their first dance to "At Last" by Etta James.
Marvin Joseph-The Washington Post
Gallery Credits:
Photo Editor, Producer Troy Witcher
Text Editor Andrea N. Browne
