Alimond Photography Opens in Downtown Leesburg

On Saturday, the roles were reversed and Aliyah Dastour was the one being photographed at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for her new Leesburg studio, Alimond Photography. 

About 25 people turned out for the event, including Mayor Kristen Umstattd, Leesburg's Economic Development Director Marantha Edwards and Town Manager John Wells.

At the ribbon cutting ceremony, Mayor Umstattd welcomed everyone and said, "we are pleased you have settled here and thrilled to have you."

This is Dastour's first official studio although she has been a photographer focusing on "women and the people they love" for years, she said.

Dastour's husband was in the U.S. Army and they have moved in and out of the area over the years, but Dastour said they are happy to be back in Leesburg close to family. 

Alimond Photography, 18 Royal Street SE, focuses on weddings, family sessions and glamourized photos for women.

"We are the only women's wedding studio that offers a completely different wedding experience," Dastour said.

The studio has a room for photo sessions as well as a hair and makeup room, where Aliyah hires professional artists to prepare clients for photo shoots. There is also a dressing area for wardrobe changes.

Dastour thanked her friends and family for their support and she looks forward to the future in Leesburg.