The Knot DC, Maryland & Virginia Spring/Summer 2018

S P E C I A L

DESTINATION WEDDING PLANNER

DC, MARYLAND & VIRGINIA TheKnot.com/dc-md-va

the DRESS OF YOUR DREAMS

+

OUR NO REGRETS SHOPPING ADVICE

11 DC-MARYLAND WEDDINGS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GETTING MARRIED IN

Baltimore / Virginia Suburban Maryland Washington, DC

326

IDEAS

FOR AN EPIC WEDDING beyond the bouquet

7 SURPRISING WAYS TO USE FLOWERS love your look

THE BEST HAIR & MAKEUP TIPS

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CONTENTS

contents SPRING/SUMMER 2018

in this issue 12 16 18 20 24 30 36 40 46 49 55

4

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206 208

224

get the look theknot.com editor’s letter checklist ask carley top picks wedding-ready converted venues expert advice secrets from real couples haute hues love stories anatomy of a gift basket marriage licenses and wedding announcements snapshot

156

avant garden

PHOTOGR APH BY LIZ VON HOENE

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SHAB+COOP PHOTOGRAPHY

R AY ’ S P H O T O G R A P H Y

SHAB+COOP PHOTOGRAPHY

DISCOVER THE BELLEVUE, DMV’S NEWEST AND MOST LUXURIOUS EVENT VENUE. THIS MAGNIFICENT COMPLEX, WITH F O U R I M P R E S S I V E B A L L R O O M S , E X U D E S A N A M B I A N C E O F S T Y L E , E X C L U S I V I T Y A N D R E F I N E D B E A U T Y U N PA R A L L E L E D I N T H E D M V. M I N U T E S F R O M D U L L E S I N T E R N AT I O N A L A I R P O R T, T H E B E L L E V U E I S T H E P E R F E C T W E D D I N G D E S T I N AT I O N .

TheBellevueVA.com 4 3 3 5 0 J O H N M O S B Y H I G H W AY

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•

C H A N T I L LY, VA

•

703-825-9526

•

I N F O @ T H E B E L L E V U E VA . C O M

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CONTENTS

beauty & wellness 145

beauty for hire All your makeup choices can be overwhelming—consider hiring a pro.

K

fashion 151

10 things bridal consultants want you to know

156

116

avant garden Soft pastels, floral details and airy fabrics create a whimsical ambience.

high impact

style 116

high impact Vibrant fuchsia and sleek black team up for a dramatic, modern affair.

123

defining details Invitation accents for a memorable suite that will get guests excited for your day.

130

beyond the bouquet Floral accents to make every part of your décor stand out.

145

beauty for hire

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FROM LEF T: L AUR A MURR AY PHOTOGR APHY; ALEX ANDRE WEINBERGER/ TRUNK ARCHIVE

6

From your first shopping trip to the final fitting, here’s what to consider.

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CONTENTS

real weddings 60

anna & josh may 6, somerset, va

64

lakesha & erick april 1, baltimore

70

donya & igor april 12, washington, dc

76

taylor & brian

177

june 10, purcellville, va

82

your catering checklist

sarah & zach january 7, richmond, va

76

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taylor & brian

planning

courtney & shaun

168

april 15, washington, dc

94

kelly & zach mary ellen & tj

177

july 8, annapolis, md

102

your catering checklist Create a memorable wedding meal with these pointers.

brandon & david

get the picture Advice from the pros to get photos you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

how to throw a beach wedding Details to keep in mind when planning for a seaside affair.

june 4, bowie, md

98

183

189

a true-to-you “I do” Fresh ideas to bring new life to a traditional ceremony.

197

party perfect Fun ways to entertain guests.

june 10, norfolk, va

106

molly & gabriel may 6, lutherville, md

110

arden & brock august 27, grand lake, co

real wedding budget key $ = $10,000 or less

We know your #1 question is “How much does this cost?” so we worked with the couples to tally up their final budgets (sweat and tears not included!).

Keep in mind that this total doesn’t reflect the prices of their individual wedding professionals or the quality of their work. Every couple has different priorities— while one might have spent the majority of their budget on a stellar cake, another might have splurged on their photographer or showstopping florals.

$$ = $10,001–$30,000

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$$$ = $30,001–$50,000

$$$$ = $50,001–$75,000

$$$$$ = $75,001+

FROM TOP: PATRICIA HEAL; VICKI GR AF TON PHOTOGR APHY

88

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OM

1: NO

2

Offering…

BRIDAL

B R I D ES M A I D S A CCES S O R I ES

2017

Potomac, Maryland • www.LoveCoutureBridal.com • 301-610-5683

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FOREVER DESERVES A

WORTHY

DESTINATION.

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Love has a way of taking your breath away. And at Omni we believe your wedding day should do the same.

Whether you dream of a sunset ceremony nestled in Pennsylvania’s picturesque Allegheny Mountains or a first dance in a historic ballroom exuding the urban elegance of Washington D.C., we’re here to make

leave you breathless.

O M NI H O T E L S . C O M

Photograph courtesy of Sky Sight Photography.

sure your special day with us will

O M NI B EDFO R D SP R INGS R ESO RT | P ENNSY LVANIA O M NI SH O R EH AM H OT EL | WASH INGTO N, D.C.

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get the look

ABOUT THE COVER

Check out more fashion-forward dresses for your wedding day and beyond at TheKnot.com/fashion.

ON HER

Dress, price upon request, Mira Zwillinger at Carine’s Bridal Atelier, CarinesBridal.com (Washington, DC); veil, $995, LivHart.com; aquamarine cocktail ring, $48,570, CoastDiamond.com

ON HER

Dress, $2,995, Marchesa Notte, Marchesa.com; engagement ring, $5,225 (not including center stone), CoastDiamond.com; hairpins, $85 each, BijouVanNess.com; earrings, $354, Oscar de la Renta, NeimanMarcus.com; shoes, $540, SophiaWebster.com

ON HER

Dress, $7,590, Romona Keveza at Carine’s Bridal Atelier, CarinesBridal.com (Washington, DC), Francesca’s Bridal, FrancescasBridal.com (Lutherville, MD); earrings, $2,221, AnabelaChan.com

ON HIM

behind the scenes

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Suit, $549, BlackLapel.com; shirt, $168, tie, $85, Bonobos.com; wedding band, $1,090, Brilliant Earth.com; shoes, $120, AldoShoes.com

BRIDAL IN BLOOM

With its spectacular grounds full of living sculptures, Ladew Topiary Gardens was a natural fit for our lighthearted fashion feature, “Avant Garden.” After all, what better place to shoot floral-print dresses and whimsical accessories than a lush location with a distinctly magical feel?

glam squad Hairstylist Alberto Guzman preps our model before she poses with a peacock topiary.

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photography Liz Von Hoene hair Alberto Guzman for Bumble

& Bumble at Ray Brown Pro makeup Georgina Billington for

By Terry Cosmetics at Judy Casey Inc. fashion styling Shelley Brown prop styling Frederique Stephanie, The Pop Up House location Ladew Topiary Gardens, Monkton, Maryland

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Your happily ever after starts here...

Our professionals will turn your inspiring vision into a magniďŹ cent once-in-a-lifetime occasion.

Westin will create unforgettable experiences for all of your wedding needs including bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, Sunday brunches and guest room blocks. We offer a range of creative menus with sophisticated dĂŠcor to create a celebration that guests will talk about for years to come.

Earn free room nights for your honeymoon with one Starpoint for every $1 of your wedding contract, up to 100,000 Starpoints.

Contact Lee Intachai 571.485.4310 lee.intachai@westinwashingtondulles.com

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K DC, MARYLAND & VIRGINIA

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Kristen Maxwell Cooper DESIGN DIRECTOR

DEPUTY EDITOR

MANAGING EDITOR

ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR

REAL WEDDINGS DIRECTOR

PHOTO DIRECTOR

Tracy Everding

Lauren Kay

Susan Berryman

Maria Bouselli

Rebecca Crumley

Kathy Nguyen

SENIOR DIGITAL EDITOR SENIOR NEWS EDITOR FASHION & BEAUTY EDITOR STYLE & PLANNING EDITOR REAL WEDDINGS EDITORS ASSISTANT EDITOR, RESEARCH EDITORIAL ASSISTANT, FASHION & BEAUTY EDITORIAL ASSISTANT, DIGITAL SOCIAL EDITOR CONTRIBUTING ART DIRECTOR DESIGNER REAL WEDDINGS DESIGNERS ASSOCIATE PHOTO EDITOR ASSOCIATE DIGITAL PHOTO EDITOR VIDEO PRODUCER EDITORIAL & MARKETING COORDINATOR

Ivy Jacobson Esther Lee Shelley Brown Alyssa Longobucco Stephanie Cain, Rachel Sylvester Katie Kortebein Farah Prince Maggie Seaver Jessica Molinari Toby Fox Katie Ragan Kasey Schroeder, Kate Richter Sarah Love Barrie Tovar Jose Marmolejos Toni Franchini

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PRODUCTION VP, PRODUCTION Frank Dolphens PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Jesse Hardy SYSTEMS MANAGER Sheryl Ziegler SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Daryl Wills, Katie Hover GRAPHIC DESIGNER Nicole Daberkow PHOTO PRODUCTION MANAGER Carly Steier PRINT QUALITY ASSURANCE Lois Brunnert Bethune THE STUDIO @ XO HEAD OF STUDIO Nick Fortunato EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Elizabeth Roehrig PRODUCER Joanna Dedvukaj SENIOR EDITORS Cassie Kreitner, Kate Traverson ASSOCIATE COPY EDITOR Kelsey Paine SENIOR DESIGNER Amanda Kocis Gallagher ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR Kelley Rowland JUNIOR DIGITAL MARKETING COORDINATOR Claire Flanagan SALES & MARKETING PRESIDENT, LOCAL MARKETPLACE Paul Bascobert, pbascobert@xogrp.com GROUP VP, LOCAL SALES John Pike, jpike@xogrp.com (212) 515-3535 PUBLISHER Carolyn Mantone, cmantone@theknot.com (888) 873-5093 REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Mary Lou Pernod, mpernod@theknot.com (877) 502-0586

Steve Pironti, spironti@theknot.com (888) 873-5093

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Kimberley Feys, kfeys@theknot.com (240) 341-4100

REGIONAL/NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER SPECIALIST REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR FASHION ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE BEAUTY ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SHOWS & EVENTS SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER STRATEGY SPECIALIST DIRECTOR, PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER, PUBLIC RELATIONS

Maura Thomson, maura.thomson@theknot.com (877) 827-1443 Michele Hopkins, mhopkins@theknot.com (410) 317-5704 Melissa Arnold, marnold@theknot.com (877) 213-1733 Rhonda Haberkamp, rhondah@xogrp.com (888) 332-7815 Diane Thaete, dthaete@xogrp.com (877) 771-3018 Kristy Newquist, knewquist@theknot.com (877) 927-3070 Jill Rothman, jrothman@xogrp.com (855) 753-4100 Susana Diharce, sdiharce@xogrp.com (866) 960-9909 Bevin Stella, bstella@xogrp.com (212) 515-3544 Sandy Lemen, slemen@theknot.com (402) 596-8450 Melissa Bach, pr@xogrp.com Lauren Nolan, pr@xogrp.com

COFOUNDER Carley Roney

The Knot DC, Maryland & Virginia is a publication of Weddingpages LLC, a subsidiary of XO Group Inc. All content © 2017 XO Group Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, either in whole or in part, is forbidden without written permission from the publisher. The Knot, TheKnot.com and The Knot DC, Maryland & Virginia are trademarks of XO Group Inc. The Knot is not responsible for the return or loss of, or damage to, unsolicited materials. Those submitting manuscripts, photographs, artwork and other materials for consideration should not send originals, unless specifically requested to do so in writing by The Knot. Manuscripts, artwork and other materials submitted must be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. Editorial Offices: 195 Broadway, New York, NY 10007 (212) 219-8555. Production Offices: 11106 Mockingbird Drive, Omaha, NE 68137 (800) 843-4983. please recycle after wedding

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A quaint 19th-century four-bedroom

• Located in the foothills of the Shenandoah Mountains

home, an authentic 18th-century log cabin, plus a barn overlooking a quarter-

• Unique 300-acre family-owned venue

acre pond is now complete with a beautiful carriage house, pavilion and tent site.

• Enjoy a 360-degree vista of the beautiful Shenandoah Mountains

WALNUTHILLFARMBROWNTOWN.COM judith.albarelli@gmail.com | 703-868-2598 309 Broad Run Road, Browntown, Virginia 22610

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.com/dc-md-va

Discover new ideas, get answers to your questions and find local wedding pros that fit your style and budget.

w 50

e d di ng

50 s

s

tates

NEW!

REAL WEDDINGS

get inspired

Browse weddings from the DMV including the 2017 winners of our 50 Weddings, 50 States. Our DC pick, Kate and Nick, threw an elegant hometown wedding in an opulent museum. They included timeless touches like a ride in a vintage Rolls-Royce, sips of champagne in gold-rimmed glasses and tunes by a string quartet.

Organizing your wedding details and pros just got easier, thanks to the new digital planning tool from The Knot. Use it to help you and your fiancé define your style, book and communicate with vendors, and automatically create a personalized day-of timeline so everything goes off without a hitch. Try it by downloading our app or signing up at TheKnot.com.

GO LOCAL

connect with pros and find tips Gather your dream team of wedding vendors with the help of our Ultimate Wedding Guides at TheKnot.com/stateguides. Your DC, Maryland and Virginia directories have everything you need to know about saying “I do,” like how to get your marriage license. Then, connect with pros by searching by region and price in our local Marketplace.

k

+

=

Here are some of our Instagram favorites.

THE KNOT BEST OF WEDDINGS

Find the top-rated pros in your area and why couples love them at TheKnot.com/bow.

FOLLOW US:

facebook.com/theknot

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pinterest.com/theknot

13,190 LIKES

This marblized, gold-leafaccented cake by DC’s Buttercream BakeShop is one sweet treat! @lisaziesing

@theknot

@theknot

12,053 LIKES

JLM Couture shared this shot of an accessorized bride and pup for a recent #FashionFriday. @paigejonesphoto

K ATE & NICK: K ATE HEADLEY PHOTOGR APHY; IPHONE: ELYSE HALL PHOTOGR APHY; ILLUSTR ATION: YING CHANG

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digital planning

@theknot

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Click.

Picture the perfect place for your wedding.

Click. Capture the special magic of your love against the magical backdrop of The Oaks.

Click. Focus on the memories and the moments you’ll share with friends and family.

Click. Visit our website to discover more about The Oaks, the perfect place for your wedding.

www.the-oaks.com 25876 Royal Oak Road, Royal Oak, Maryland • One hour from Annapolis, minutes from St. Michaels

410-745-5053

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EDITOR ’S LE T TER

I love everything about this dress, from the romantic ruffle to the hint of color. (p. 156)

My jaw dropped when I first saw this succulent cuff—I want to wear one every day! (p. 130)

If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun.”

This envelope liner is a fun surprise waiting for guests. (p. 123)

Every relationship is unique. So every wedding should be too. This doesn’t mean you need an over-the-top element to make it truly special, but rather that your wedding should reflect the two of you as a couple.

It means you should forget the perceived “rules” and do what feels right. Are you less type A and more type “I never really thought about it?” A simple celebration at your family home might be right up your alley.

Have you been dreaming of this moment since you were little? Then here’s your chance to go all out. Whoever you are and whatever you want, we’re here to help.

So here’s to all of you—the planners, the procrastinators, the over-thinkers, the bridechillas, the groomzillas, the classic couples, the eclectic couples, the can’t-be-defined couples and everyone in between. Whether you’re having a religious service, a nondenominational ceremony, or a celebration for 20 people or 200, this is the moment to throw out the rule book and plan a wedding that’s as unique as you are.

KRISTEN MAXWELL COOPER Editor in Chief

Follow me

@kristenmax

I want to hear from you! kristen@theknot.com

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CLOCK WISE FROM TOP LEF T: LIZ VON HOENE; SAR AH ANNE WARD; SAR AH LOVE PHOTOGR APHY; CHARLOT TE JENKS LEWIS PHOTOGR APHY

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-Katharine Hepburn

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T

he date is set. Excitement is in the air! Your celebration needs one final touch to make it perfect — a caterer with a taste for perfection. With over 100 unique area sites to create the mood or complement the theme, entertainment services, and the finest food and most hospitable serving staff in the area, Putting on the Ritz Catering will ensure that your wedding becomes the toast of the town!

Let Putting on the Ritz Catering handle the important task of treating your guests like visiting dignitaries. Here are just a few of our favorite facilities.

TheGreatRoom at Historic Savage Mill

Also in-house caterer to the following elegant facilities — all located conveniently between Baltimore and Washington

For reservations call

800.213.7427

Serving the area since 1983

Ten Oaks Ballroom

Elegant, contemporary ballroom with seating for up to 400 guests. Divides into three separate rooms for your ceremony, cocktail area and reception.

Large, hard-wood dance floor, elegant grand Italian crystal chandeliers, lobby with towering barrel ceilings, live fireplace and comfortable seating area, covered entrance for valet drop-off, or tented area.

Savage Mil Manor House ARoom of IntimateGrandeur This beautiful, authentic, historic setting is tucked in an old mill town with a historic train bridge and view of Little Patuxent River. High ceilings, old fashioned 12-foot windows with sky light, seating up to 300 guests with 20 x 40 foot dance floor, private 1500 sq. foot tented deck overlooking the river — private room and bathroom for the bride, chiavari chairs included in room rental — make this location suitable for a perfect memory.

Located conveniently between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. in the Historic Savage Mill.

For reservations call: 1.800.317.7508 www.puttingontheritz.com

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This Victorian Manor is tucked in an old mill town setting. This intimate, romantic Manor provides free Chiavari chairs for all brides and up to 120 of their guests in a newly renovated ballroom.

The wooded, landscaped grounds with gazebo provide a perfect setting for an outdoor ceremony.

Conveniently located between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. in Savage, MD.

For reservations call: 800.213.7427 Call about our new hall,

Patuxent Grand The Gathering Place

(1-800-213-7427)

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CHECKLIST

download The Knot Wedding Planner app to get your custom wedding plan

This checklist will tell you what to do, and when, on your way to the altar. Make sure to download our must-have app for virtual access to all the tools that will help you get there.

12+ MONTHS

date: ______ /______ /______

9-11 MONTHS

date: ______ /______ /______

Take our style quiz on TheKnot.com to help narrow in on your wedding vision, including color palettes and décor.

Find a stationer and order save-the-dates.

Nail down a budget.

Create your website with The Knot, then pack it full with need-to-know info like reception details and nearby hotels for the wedding weekend.

Determine where and when you’d like to tie the knot. Not sure where to start? Use our app to get personalized suggestions based on a few key details, like guest count and general location.

Hire any pros you just have to have on your wedding team, like your photographer or planner.

Start searching for the dress, jumpsuit, skirt or tuxedo of your dreams.

If you haven’t already, get your engagement ring appraised and insured.

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Propose to your wedding party.

6-8 MONTHS

date: ______ /______ /______

Plan the ceremony with your officiant and discuss any religious requirements such as premarital counseling.

Book your honeymoon.

Choose the formalwear.

Send out your save-the-dates.

Book your other important pros, like a band or DJ, florist or videographer.

Place an order for your invitations—and thank-you notes while you’re at it.

Order the gown and veil, and schedule fittings for six weeks and one to two weeks before the wedding. (A third fitting may be necessary.)

Hire a day-of coordinator (if you don’t have a full-service planner or a day-of planner isn’t included with your venue).

Choose and order the bridesmaid dresses.

Schedule beauty trials, and book hairstylists and makeup artists.

Create your registry and start adding things to your wish list—a super-fun to-do.

Iron out the rehearsal dinner details, like the time and location. >>

SC STOCKSHOP

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let the planning begin

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100%

434.964.7629

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STUNNING.

castlehillcider.com

events@castlehillcider.com

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PLAN WITH CHECKLIST

K

4-5 MONTHS

MONTH

date: ______ /______ /______

date: ______ /______ /______

Address your invitations or hand them off to your calligrapher.

Finalize the rental list (tables, chairs, linens and so on) with the caterer or rental company.

Taste test some flavors and complete your wedding cake order. Also order the groom’s cake if you’re having one.

Buy wedding rings.

Arrange day-of transportation for yourselves and the wedding party.

3

MONTHS

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date: ______ /______ /______

Figure out how to get a local marriage license—you need one to make it official.

Finalize your ceremony outline and readings with your officiant.

2

MONTHS date: ______ /______ /______

Mail your invitations. RSVPs should be due one month before the wedding.

Begin writing your vows.

Go to your first formalwear fitting.

Be sure to bring along whatever shoes, undergarments and accessories you’d like to wear on your wedding day.

Finalize the cocktail hour and reception menu with your catering team.

Solidify your Blueprint (aka your day-of timeline—see sidebar) and share with your vendors, spouse and wedding party.

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Compile a must-take photo list for your shooter. Keep it under a dozen so you get the shots you really want.

1-2 WEEKS

date: ______ /______ /______

Once you’ve got your final head count, share it with the caterer, cake baker and site manager, and finish the seating chart.

DEFINE YOUR WEDDING ST YLE Download The Knot Wedding Planner app, then take our style quiz to zero in on the perfect vibe for your wedding. Once complete, you can easily share key details of your aesthetics with potential vendors at the click of a button, so pros know exactly what you mean by “rustic chic.”

COMPILE YOUR DREAM TEAM Receive personalized vendor suggestions based on your wedding style and budget, or browse hundreds of vetted pros in your area via The Knot Marketplace.

Pass on requests from your pros, like a table for the DJ, to the site manager.

Go to the last dress fitting.

Designate point people for day-of tasks.

Make sure all your prewedding beauty appointments are scheduled.

2-3

STAY ON SCHEDULE Track RSVPs and completed tasks, and perfect your day-of plan. Bonus: As you check off to-dos, your personal wedding planner (that’s us!) is working in the background to populate a wedding day Blueprint (the ultimate day-of timeline of who, what, where and when) so you can walk down the aisle with confidence.

DAYS

date: ______ /______ /______

Steam the dress or suit if wrinkled.

Touch base with the ceremony and the reception sites one more time to go over the schedule and points-of-contact.

1

MAKE YOUR WEBSITE Give guests all the info they’ll need, like accommodation details, registry links and more, in one pretty package. Choose from our free and unique design schemes and colors. You’ll also get a reminder to update your site every time you make a big decision that impacts guests, like booking your reception locale.

DAY BEFORE date: ______ /______ /______

Pass off the marriage license to your officiant.

Rehearse the ceremony and enjoy the rehersal dinner with your favorite people.

Breathe—and have fun!

CREATE THE ULTIMATE REGISTRY Register at your favorite stores, then share on your website for easy shopping. Already have everything you need? Our Newlywed Fund lets you ask for cash gifts you can put toward anything you like, from an epic honeymoon to a down payment on a home.

ICONS: NOUN PROJEC T

Finalize all of your flower arrangements with your florist.

1

Now the fun starts. The Knot Wedding Planner app will help you check off to-dos with confidence.

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E XPERT Q&A

ask carley

Our cofounder answers your questions.

How can we create a menu that will make all of our guests happy?

When choosing the entrée options for your reception, consider possible dietary restrictions. Although you can’t account for every guest’s allergy and menu preferences, you can try to ensure everyone will enjoy something.

Include a vegetarian option on your response cards, or ask your caterer if they can create a few special dishes. For a buffet, include allergenfree options, like dishes with no nuts, or allow your guests to garnish their own plates. For instance, if you’re having a sundae bar, offer plenty of gluten-free toppings like M&Ms and Haribo gummies.

Q A

One of my bridesmaids won’t order her dress and I’m afraid she won’t get it in time for my wedding. What should I do?

Find out why she’s holding off. Is she trying to lose 10 pounds before getting her measurements taken? Has she been busy with work? Is she just being a little flaky? If it’s one of the last two reasons, call and ask her for her measurements so you can order the dress for her. If you find she’s hoping to lose weight, let her know she can order now and a seamstress can alter the dress a few weeks before the wedding. It’s much easier to take in a too-large dress than vice versa. So ordering her current size will actually save her money in the long run.

CHOOSY TUNES

Q A

I have no idea where to even begin when it comes to hiring a band for our reception. Help!

The first thing to do is get recommendations. Start by polling other couples—getting a referral from a pair who had the time of their lives due to their five-piece jazz band is priceless. Check out reviews online for invaluable advice too. Other great resources are reception venue managers or wedding planners.

They’ve heard lots of different bands and can steer you toward some of the best options in the area based on your music tastes.

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FRUGAL FLORALS

Q A

I don’t want to spend a fortune on flowers, but I don’t want to look like I skimped. Any suggestions for ways to save?

Think of places where flowers won’t be missed. Swap berries, acorns or other greenery into boutonnieres for an equally debonair look. Same goes for bridesmaid bouquets. Try a smaller arrangement, like a nosegay or posy, and use supporting elements from your bouquet like spray roses and greenery instead of more expensive stems like peonies. Just make sure yours isn’t too large or the rest of the bouquets could look unbalanced. For ceremony and reception décor, greenery is trending. If that’s not your style, get creative with fabrics and textures. Balloons add a whimsical touch, sequins are perfectly glam and candles are classic romance. >>

let’s talk stats

FROM LEF T: TODD FR ANCE PHOTOGR APHY; CHELSEA NICOLE PHOTOGR APHY

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DRESS DISTRESS

45% 71% offer a fullservice meal at the reception

hire a professional florist for the wedding

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E XPERT Q&A

SHOWER STRESS

The guest list should include your closest female pals and relatives (as well as your fiancé’s mom, sister and any other close female friends and family). You don’t have to invite every woman who’s invited to your wedding. As for more distant guests, sending a shower invite is a nice gesture even if you know they won’t be able to attend—it shows them they’re important to you.

DIVORCE DILEMMA

Q A

My parents are divorced and don’t get along.

How can I keep them both happy on the wedding day?

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We’re not sure if we can afford a planner for our wedding, but we could definitely use the help. What are our options?

Good news! Most wedding consultants are willing and able to work within a variety of budgets, and because of their connections and expertise, they’re often able to save you a good deal of money too. And you don’t have to sign a consultant on for the whole planning process. Many couples hire someone to oversee the final details the evening before and day of the wedding. Some pros even offer their services on an hourly basis for short-term tasks.

You can try the à la carte route and choose exactly which services you’ll need. Just make sure it’s clearly defined in your contract.

PARTY FOUL

Hopefully your parents will be able to put aside their differences during your wedding. You can try diffusing the situation by seating them in different places at the ceremony and reception—the less they interact, the less likely they’ll argue. If you’re really concerned about their behavior, then sit down with them and tell them it would make you happy if they could be civil for one day. They may be more willing to call a truce (at least for 24 hours) if you’ve verbalized how important it is to you.

MAXED-OUT MAKEUP

Q

I’m not used to wearing makeup and I’m worried I’ll end up looking like a clown on my wedding day if I decide to get it done. What should I do?

A

Relax—you’re going to look gorgeous. Start with a professional trial or ask a steady-handed friend to help you practice. Be very clear that you want to look like the best version of yourself. Go with sheer makeup, such as tinted moisturizer instead of foundation and gloss instead of lipstick. Then have someone take a few pictures to see how you look—the way you see yourself in the mirror is probably a lot different from how you appear to other people and in photos. From there, adjust as you wish.

82% 79% 27% have a bridal shower with friends and family

Q A

have a makeup trial before the day of

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hire a professional wedding planner

Q

My partner and I have been invited to a good friend’s wedding, as well as the rehearsal dinner, after-party and brunch—do we really have to go to all of these events?

A

Attending the ceremony and reception are obvious musts, and the rehearsal dinner is an event you should try to go to. The after-party is strictly for those in the mood to keep the celebration going after the reception, so don’t feel bad about passing on that one. The postwedding brunch is a nice send-off, but if it conflicts with your travel plans, it’s okay to politely decline.

HAPPY FEET

Q A

My fiancé and I want our first dance to be uniquely ours.

What’s the best way to pick a song that isn’t played out?

If you don’t already have a song that’s decidedly yours, think back on the highlights of your relationship. What was playing the day you first said you were in love, or on the car ride to where he proposed? If you don’t have a song with history, consider creating the story. Do you have a shared favorite band or genre?

Narrow it down to some options from there, and if the beat doesn’t quite lend itself to a first dance, see if there are acoustic options.

JOIN THE KNOT EDITORS WEDDING WEDNESDAY Check out The Knot Facebook Live every Wednesday at 1 p.m. ET—we answer all your wedding-related questions.

BARRIE TOVAR

Q A

CONSULTANT COST

My bridesmaids asked for my bridal shower guest list.

Who all should be invited?

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CLOCK WISE FROM TOP LEF T: PAYGE STEVENS PHOTOGR APHY; JOSHUA R ATLIFF PHOTOGR APHY; JASMINE STAR; JEN FARIELLO PHOTOGR APHY; ONELOVE PHOTOGR APHY; THEO MILO PHOTOGR APHY

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11/20/17 9:04 AM

INSIDE SCOOP

Corradetti Glassblowing Studio

wedding-ready converted venues Corradetti Glassblowing Studio

Madison at the Mill

Hill Center

2010 Clipper Park Road, Baltimore; (410) 243-2010; Corradetti.com Currently home to glassblowing studios, the historic Clipper Mill is a nearly 200-year-old, stone-and-brick structure that was originally used to create cotton for the sails of ships. This sprawling 3,300-square-foot venue has plenty of charm, from its raw brick walls to the glass sculptures that hang from the ceiling.

Ceremonies are held on a raised platform in front of a beautiful archway, then the space is flipped during cocktail hour for receptions. It fits 75 guests for dinner.

323 North Madison Road, Orange, VA; (540) 308-5874; MadisonattheMill.com This 1920s building in a quaint downtown setting originally housed a factory that made silk for World War II parachutes. Recently restored, the expansive space includes industrial details like an old freight elevator, exposed ducts and refinished hardwood floors. For 2018 weddings, the venue will have an additional 2,000 square feet to fit 300 guests for receptions.

TIP A new apartment can be used as a prep suite or a newlywed love nest.

921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, DC; (202) 549-4172; HillCenterDC.org Commissioned by President Lincoln to be a Naval hospital in 1864, this historic spot is just a stone’s throw from the Capitol.

Carefully renovated to its former glory, the building offers an array of sites for ceremonies and receptions, like the lush garden that fits 200 to witness your vows and an indoor seated dinner space for 150.

The nearby monuments and parks make for fun couple’s photo ops, and there’s an added bonus for food lovers: The Hill Center welcomes food trucks. >>

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ALICIA WILEY PHOTOGR APHY

Looking for something old and something new? Check out these eight revamped historic sites. BY MARISSA HERMANSON

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Photo: Kidd Photography

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INSIDE SCOOP

Inn at the Olde Silk Mill 1707 Princess Anne St., Fredericksburg, VA; (540) 371-5666; InnattheOldeSilkMill.com If you’re looking for a charming venue and a place to house your friends and family, this is a one-stop shop for your nuptials in downtown Fredricksburg. Originally a mill for silk sewing thread, the historic 1889 building features a new chapel for ceremonies, courtyard for cocktails, prep room, neighboring 27 guest suites and a 6,000-square-foot event space that can accommodate up to 300 guests.

105 North Union St., Alexandria, VA; (703) 746-4570; TorpedoFactory.org Located in the heart of Old Town along the Potomac River, this munitions factory houses artists’ galleries and beautiful spaces for your celebration: the grand main hall for receptions, the mezzanine for cocktails or the waterfront terrace for alfresco soirees. The industrial space’s torpedo displays and ever-changing art installations make for a one-of-a-kind venue for couples to say “I do.”

TIP Rent out the on-site artist studios as your prep areas.

Sagamore Pendry Baltimore 1715 Thames St., Baltimore; (443) 552-1276; PendryHotels.com In the hot neighborhood of Fell’s Point, the historic Recreation Pier is now a posh new boutique hotel with harbor views, a whiskey bar, waterfront terrace, pool and plenty of guest rooms for all of your loved ones. The 1914 space has retained its charm and impeccable architectural details. Host your reception in the ballroom (fits 220) that has the original grand staircase and murals of the battle that took place in front of the building during the War of 1812.

Inn at the Olde Silk Mill

Republic Restoratives

The Mill at Fine Creek

1369 New York Ave. NE, Washington, DC; (202) 733-3996; RepublicRestoratives.com Cocktail enthusiasts, look no further. This industrial-chic site in the hip Ivy City area of DC is the venue for you. The on-site distillery provides delicious cocktails with their house-brand spirits—CIVIC vodka, Borough Bourbon and Rodham Rye. The venue, formerly a large cafeteria, can host up to 130 for a standing reception and 100 for a seated dinner with the bar space, distillery floor and Ivy Room.

TIP Use the recommended Union Kitchen for catering, staff and rentals.

2434 Robert E. Lee Road, Powhatan, VA; (804) 379-8211; TheMillatFineCreek.com Constructed around a gristmill and community that sprung up in the 1730s along the James River, this pastoral space offers three locations for an outdoor ceremony, including inside the gristmill’s ruins and a site overlooking the creek.

Serve cocktails and appetizers on the porch, then move to the dining room for dinner and dancing. Added perks?

Thirteen guest cottages offer a place for guests to bunk. Plus, you can sip craft beers from the venue’s own brewery.

STEPHANIE DEE PHOTOGR APHY

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Torpedo Factory Art Center

F I N D M O R E LO C A L V E N U E S AT TheKnot.com/dc-md-va

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WEDDING GOWNS

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E XPERT ADVICE

advice from a

catering manager

What steps of the planning process are you involved in with the couple?

From the moment a couple selects W DC as their venue, I’m their go-to person. Being involved not only ensures there are no surprises on the day, but that everything goes smoothly. While I may not be setting up piping and draping myself, I do oversee the event setup staff. I ensure all design elements are in line with the couple’s requests.

MEET

Rhonda Holt W Washington DC ABOUT

As the on-site event planner at this design-driven hotel, Holt handles everything weddings, from rehearsal dinners to receptions.

The property has five event spaces and two restaurants, plus a rooftop bar with White House views.

ON THE WEB

WWashingtonDC.com

@whoteldc PRO TIPS

Enjoy it. Don’t spend all your time worrying about logistics and forget to have fun.

When meeting with venues, have an idea of your budget, number of guests and your ideal date. It helps us make recommendations.

Plan ahead. Don’t wait until the last minute.

That leads us to the day. What do you handle during the actual wedding?

I work with vendors on setup logistics and with the couple for their needs. This includes managing the schedule, escorting guests to the cocktail hour and reception, and letting the photographer know it’s cake cutting time.

Be honest: What’s the biggest dilemma you’ve encountered?

I had a couple who had ordered desserts from a very specific bakery, but on the day, the bakery never delivered the order and was unreachable. Our chef recreated the desserts by baking them in our kitchen! He had our team plate them just in time. The guests even raved about them all night long.

Lastly, what is your favorite moment of a couple’s wedding day?

It is when the couple walks into the room for the first time—to witness the excitement and amazement of seeing their ideas come to fruition, and to know I had a part in it. To see them surrounded by friends and family, positive energy and love, truly brings me joy.

COURTESY OF W WASHINGTON DC (3)

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What is the difference between a venue coordinator and a wedding planner?

A venue coordinator assists with all of the needs of the actual event on-site. This includes the room setup, menu selection and management of third-party vendors. At W DC, I also serve as the day-of coordinator, meaning I assist with the ceremony rehearsal and some décor setup, and ensure the wedding runs easily from start to finish.

A full wedding planner is the liaison between the couple and venue, plus assists with other aspects including sending out RSVPs, contracting vendors, full day-of décor and anything that may come up last minute.

F I N D M O R E LO C A L C AT E R E R S O N p. 218

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RIXEY MANOR ...become part of the family

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PHOTO BY NUGEN MEDIA

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E XPERT ADVICE

advice from an

audio/visual pro

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What are some pro tips for putting together a playlist?

Think about your guests’ likes as well as your own. A good party is everyone rocking on the dance floor. Most weddings have guests of all ages from all different places—you want everyone to feel included.

Let’s talk audio and visual details—A/V. What goes into A/V for the ceremony and the reception?

For the ceremony, couples normally have speakers and microphones to ensure that their guests can clearly hear the officiant.

Most indoor and late afternoon or evening ceremonies need a stage wash lighting setup so that your guests can see you properly. For receptions, the DJ or band’s audio equipment is huge—make sure it’s high quality. Lighting is a big element because it creates ambience.

Just be careful not to overdo it. You’ll need a large-screen TV if you have a video montage.

What does a couple need to know, especially if they don’t have a planner?

Hire an A/V professional. The last thing you want to do is worry about a technical issue and have no one to turn to. Your friend of a friend may cut you a deal, but is it worth the risk? I also always recommend hiring a day-of coordinator to help everything run smoothly.

MEET

Bruce Pike Pike Productions ABOUT

Pike’s full-service production company focuses on all things music, sound and lighting for events. He recommends skipping “typical wedding songs” like the “Chicken Dance” and “Electric Boogie.”

ON THE WEB

PikeProductionsDC.com

@pikeproductionsdc PRO TIPS

Don’t overthink it.

You don’t want your wedding to look like a circus with too much lighting and sound.

Pick vendors that are professional and that you trust. Then let them make recommendations to properly execute your vision.

Relax and let the pros handle everything so you can enjoy your wedding!

How does a couple determine where to start with lighting and sound?

Every wedding needs great sound equipment and some lighting element. Whichever aspect is important to you, focus on and budget toward that element. If you love lighting, then budget to have pinspotting, a textured dance floor and room washes to create a dreamy reception. If you are all about the music, focus on the DJ and live musicians.

Any professional will use quality equipment.

Let’s dig into lighting. What makes for great lighting in a space?

It’s finding a balance between highlighting the décor and the architectural elements of your venue without going overboard.

You don’t want it to look like a bat mitzvah!

Any lighting pet peeves?

The lighting can adversely affect the photography, like club lights, green lasers and disco balls. If a photographer can’t get it out of a white dress in editing, it’s too much.

What’s the most epic reception entrance you’ve seen a couple make?

We had a couple who were part of an a cappella group, and had invited all the members to the celebration. Guests asked if they would perform, but the couple declined, explaining they wanted everyone to enjoy and not worry about singing. Well, the group leader contacted me with another idea. He wanted to know the couple’s introduction song. At the wedding, when I announced the newlyweds, two guests stood up and started singing. Then, the rest joined in to serenade the couple. They were completely surprised!

STEPHEN GOSLING PHOTOGR APHY

What’s the process like when you first meet a couple?

We listen. We let the couple do all the initial talking to ensure we understand and respect their vision. Once we have an idea of what they want, we discuss the services we can offer to them.

LO O K U P M O R E P RO S AT TheKnot.com/marketplace

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AT TURF VALLEY RESORT

Top Left to Right: Glenn Orion Photography, Anna Grace Photography, Kaypea Photography; Bottom Left to Right: Photography by Brea, Dave McIntosh Photography, Dave McIntosh Photography.

Everything You’ve Dreamed of and More CONTACT OUR WEDDING PROFESSIONALS TO SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR!

410.465.1200 | Info_Sales@TurfValley.com

Join us for our Wedding Extravaganza in February!

Ellicott City, MD | TURFVALLEY.COM/CELEBRATE @TURFVALLEYRESORT

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E XPERT ADVICE

advice from a

calligrapher

We must ask: What are your tips for properly addressing an evenlope?

Honestly, it’s up to the couple these days.

Some are more casual while others stick to the formal style. I would say, though, that every person over the age of 18 should receive their own invitation, addessed to him or her.

If you know the name of someone’s guest, address it to him or her as opposed to “and guest,” especially if they are living together.

What’s trendy in calligraphy right now?

The trends depend on the wedding style. For instance, in boho-chic weddings, large, loose scripts are popular, but in a classic cathedral wedding, couples go for a clean script.

MEET

Laura Hooper Laura Hooper Calligraphy ABOUT

For more than 15 years, Hooper has been addressing invitations and serving the stationery needs of couples around the world. She’s even branched out to teach workshops and sells her own line of calligraphy tools.

ON THE WEB

LHCalligraphy.com

@lhcalligraphy PRO TIPS

Book early. You don’t need to have your final list or envelopes in hand to secure time on a pro’s calendar.

Read the terms and policies in your contract. Understand the details of edits, mistakes and additional rounds.

Be organized. Double-check your list. Confirm spellings.

Beyond the invitations, what other items do you typically calligraph?

The standards are envelopes, escort cards, seating chart, place cards, menus and table numbers. Then, couples get into elements such as signage, welcome bags and food labels, like cards for the buffet table or on trays of passed hors d’oeuvres.

Other than paper, what are some creative surfaces you’ve hand lettered?

If you are able to change among a pointed pen, paint pens, brush pens and other writing instruments, the possibilities are truly endless. I’ve lettered rocks, agate slices, wood boards, acrylic, macarons, cakes, leaves, beach balls, balloons, oysters and even leather. The list goes on and on!

HEADSHOT: SWEET ROOT VILL AGE; OTHERS: COURTESY OF L AUR A HOOPER C ALLIGR APHY

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What sets you apart from other calligraphers?

I have a classic style with a modern feel, so we are perfect for clients looking for that happy medium. I offer more than 20 different hand script styles—something for everyone—but what really sets us apart is our turnaround time and communication with clients.

D I S COV E R M O R E T I P S AT TheKnot.com/dc-md-va

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FOR YOUR MAGICAL MOMENTS™

Blanc de Bleu® Sparkling Brut For The Wedding Toast What couples feel on their wedding day is magical. It’s that special day when they celebrate their love for each other with family and friends. After vows are exchanged and the marriage is official, everyone gathers at the reception to celebrate all those magical moments. Guests congratulate the newlyweds, enjoy some snacks and a beverage, and mingle until it’s time for the wedding toast. Most couples today do not want a traditional wedding, but rather a celebration that represents what is most important to them.

No disrespect to the parents or in-laws, but modern day weddings are different. Social media and wedding publications offer enough ideas to plan every detail for a wedding and reception.

When it comes to the wedding toast, couples want theirs to be unique and captivating.

Fortunately, there is a new sparkling wine available that offers exactly what many couples desire; it’s Blanc de Bleu Cuvee Mousseux, the world’s first blue sparkling Brut. This magical bubbly is elegant, full of charm, and original. For this reason, couples from around the Globe are having their own love affair with Blanc de Bleu, a dry and crisp sparkling wine with a hint of blueberry on the finish.

You can visit facebook.com/BlancdeBleu to read their 5-Star reviews, or better yet, visit BlancdeBleuUSA.com to purchase Blanc de Bleu online or locate a nearby retailer to buy a bottle and taste for yourself. Blanc de Bleu is enjoyed at weddings and other special events throughout the Country. People who prefer the dry and crisp taste of a Brut will savor every sip of Blanc de Bleu. When you read the favorable comments posted on Blanc de Bleu’s social media sites, it’s evident people like this blue bubbly.

Aside from its irresistible taste, Blanc de Bleu’s elegant label and tiffany blue color inside a striking bottle is the allure for couples who want Blanc de Bleu for their wedding toast. For this is the moment when there’s a human spirit that embraces and connects everyone present. The newly married couple wants their toast to be memorable, and it will be with Blanc de Bleu.

Family and friends raise their glasses filled with a beautiful blue sparkling wine. Glasses clink in a sea of blue, guests take a sip of Blanc de Bleu, and smile with delight as they salute the newlyweds.

A Dry, Crisp Bubbly With A Hint Of Blueberry.

Made with grapes grown in Northern California vineyards, known for their cool and clear breezes, Blanc de Bleu tickles the palate with a subtle hint of blueberry. “The base wine of cuvée for Blanc de Bleu is the same fruit used in our high-end, methode champenoise programs,” explains Bob Stashak, champagne master for Blanc de Bleu. “People are more pleasantly surprised to find the wine dry and crisp, instead of being another overly sweet, flavored wine.”

Blanc de Bleu is something bleu for your magical moments.

Blanc de Bleu is available in 750ml and 187ml bottles. www.BlancdeBleuUSA.com @blancdebleuofficial @broncowineco

@BlancdebleuUSA @BroncoWineCo

facebook.com/BlancdeBleu facebook.com/BroncoWineCompany

Bronco Wine Company, Ceres, CA | 855.874.2394 | Sparkling Grape Wine with blueberry flavor and certified color. ©2017 Blanc de Bleu, Ceres, CA. | Drink responsibly. Drive responsibly.

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INSIDE SCOOP

“Don’t be afraid to delegate and assign planning tasks to your friends and family members. If someone wants to help, take them up on their offer.” —Sabrina & Grant

—Katie & Trip

“It’s unlikely everything will work out the way you initially plan for it to, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have a great wedding day you’ll end up loving.”

—Dana & Jordan

secrets from real couples

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Newlyweds share their can’t-miss tips, including vendor advice and tricks on how to stress less.

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“IF YOU’RE ABLE TO DIY, DO IT. IT’S WORTH THE FEELING YOU GET WHEN YOU WALK INTO YOUR VENUE TO SEE ALL OF YOUR HARD WORK, ESPECIALLY KNOWING YOU PUT YOUR HEART INTO IT.” —Emily & Jovan

“If it rains, you’ll still get married and your wedding will still be pretty. You can’t do anything about the weather, but your hired vendors can.” —Jen & Tevje

“Hire pros you genuinely trust to be in control while you’re busy being the bride.” —Helena & Michael

CLOCK WISE FROM TOP RIGHT: THE BIGGER PIC TURE PHOTOGR APHY; DYANNA L A MOR A PHOTOGR APHY; M2 PHOTOGR APHY

“TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR OWN WEDDING. WHEN YOUR PARENTS SEE THAT YOU HAVE A VISION AND RESPECT YOUR BUDGET, THEY’LL BE MORE LIKELY TO LET GO OF THE DECISION-MAKING.”

“You only have a few short hours to take it all in. Be present and pause throughout the night to take a few mental pictures.” —Holly & Sara

F I N D M O R E P L A N N I N G T I P S AT TheKnot.com/dc-md-va

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Take His Breath Away… with beautiful lingerie for your honeymoon.

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Your Wedding, Your Weekend.

Weekend Destination Packages - Historic Homes - On-Site Tasting Room & Taphouse

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11/17/17 10:49 AM

aqua+red

HAUTE HUES

Contrasting color combos create a bold statement.

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INVITATION SUITE: KINA WICKS PHOTOGR APHY; ALL OTHER IM AGES COURTESY OF VENDORS

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1 Earrings, $38, OliveandPiper.com 2 Compact, $30, KateSpade.com 3 Lipstick, $54, Guerlain, Sephora.com 4 Invitation, $254 for 100, Magnolia Press, WeddingPaperDivas.com 5 Shoes, $895, SophiaWebster.com 6 Eau de parfum, $90 for 1.7 oz, Miu Miu, Sephora.com 7 Clutch, $975, SarahsBag.com 8 Dress, $109, BariJay.com 9 Flask, $42, WaitingOnMartha.com >>

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green+gold

HAUTE HUES 1

This refined pairing exudes elegance, no matter the venue.

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1 Pocket square, $10, TheTieBar.com 2 Shoes, $110, ImagineVinceCamuto.com 3 Green onyx ring, $825, SuzanneKalan.com 4 Palmier I invitations, $3 each, PaperlessPost.com 5 Dress, $285, JoannaAugust.com 6 Bronze highlighter, $26, BenefitCosmetics.com 7 Clutch, $895, Judith Leiber, NeimanMarcus .com 8 Vase, $118, JonathanAdler.com 9 Earrings, $250, JenniferBehr.com >>

TABLE SET TING: REDFIELD PHOTOGR APHY; BOUTONNIERE: DEVON JARVIS; ALL OTHER IM AGES COURTESY OF VENDORS

a sleek silhouette makes for a sexy statement shoe

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John Bartenhagen

PHOTOGRAPHY beautiful images at an affordable price

Take a BREATH, ENJOY your day and let us CAPTURE your MOMENTS

VIRGINIA, DC AND MD | 703.209.5997 | JB3PHOTO@GMAIL.COM | JOHNBARTENHAGEN.COM

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HAUTE HUES

fuchsia+blush Shades of pink are perfect for a spring soiree.

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1 Dress, $215 $215, Dessy.com 2 BONBON Swarovski limited-edition perfume, $175 for 1.7 oz, Viktor & Rolf, NeimanMarcus .com 3 Clutch, $1,495, Edie-Parker.com 4 Vintage-style flute, $8,, TheKnotShop.com 5 Invitation, $270 for 100, Dana Beckwith, Minted.com 6 Nail polish in Chantilly Lace, $18, DeborahLippmann.com 7 Shoes, $90, AldoShoes.com 8 Earrings, $6,500, JacquieAiche.com 9 Blush, $44, Dior, Sephora.com

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BOUQUETS: MIKE C ASSIM ATIS PHOTOGR APHY; M AKEUP: ISTOCK; C AKE: PHILIP FICKS; ALL OTHER IM AGES COURTESY OF VENDORS

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F I N D O T H E R I N S P I R I N G CO LO R S AT TheKnot.com/color

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Experience vintage-inspired entertainment for a soiree like no other Ain’t we got fun!

+ 301.992.1378

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photos by Erica Mills Photography

dare to dream HERMITAGE MUSEUM & GARDENS 757-423-2052 | THEHERMITAGEMUSEUM.ORG

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RE AL COUPLES

love stories Five supersweet proposals from the DMV.

BY MARISSA HERMANSON

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jennifer & kyle • Alexandria, VA PHOTOGR APH BY ALICIA L ACEY PHOTOGR APHY

On a day trip to Virginia’s picturesque wine country, Jennifer and Kyle stopped to visit their two favorite wineries. As they were leaving the first vineyard, Kyle got down on one knee and asked Jennifer to marry him. “When he opened the ring box, I think it took me a long while to look down, because I was just staring at him tongue-tied,” Jennifer says. “I kept asking if this was real life.” The surprises kept coming. Kyle then whisked Jennifer to another winery, where the couple’s parents and the friends who introduced them were waiting to celebrate together. The ring: Washington Diamond >>

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RE AL COUPLES

julianna & daniel Port Tobacco, MD PHOTOGR APH BY BIRDS OF A FEATHER PHOTOGR APHY

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Knowing Julianna’s love for theater, Daniel planned a proposal while the two attended a performance of Cirque du Soleil’s KURIOS show with her family. After the first act, Julianna, Daniel and her family were escorted from their front row seats to the VIP room for refreshments. There, Daniel revealed a ring hidden among an assortment of desserts and popped the question. “I was on cloud nine,” Julianna says. “I could barely focus on the show after intermission because I was so over the moon.” Extra special? Daniel designed the conflict-free diamond ring himself.

The ring: Mervis Diamond Importers & Vienna Jewelry

nicole & greg Alexandria, VA PHOTOGR APH BY JOSHUA DWAIN PHOTOGR APHY

To disguise the proposal, Greg planned to have Nicole’s friends and family meet them at a restaurant in downtown Charlotte, North Carolina, for a special night out. “It was Thanksgiving, so dressing up and going out did not seem like anything out of the ordinary,” he says. Nicole failed to see it coming. With loved ones looking on, Greg asked Nicole to be his wife. “I was shocked and overwhelmed with happiness,” Nicole says. “I just kept staring at my hand and thinking, ‘Wow! I’m engaged!’ ” The ring: Eric Jewelry >>

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YOUR LOVE STORY IS SPECIAL ...your wedding venue should be just as extraordinary.

West Belmont Place delivers a storybook setting for your big day and honors the traditions of your culture. Celebrate with a luxe ballroom reception for up to 1,000 or an intimate outdoor ceremony surrounded by your closest friends and family—all right here in your backyard.

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VISIT WESTBELMONTPLACE.COM OR CALL

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703.724.5111 TO START PLANNING TODAY

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RE AL COUPLES

aja & alexis Washington, DC PHOTOGR APH BY MODERN FR AMES PHOTOGR APHY

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Alexis (right) lit a fire, spread out a blanket and poured a glass of wine for Aja so they could relax after a long day of traveling during the holidays. As Aja drifted off to sleep, Alexis whispered, “Are you sure you want to be with me forever?” Aja crankily quipped “Yes!” Alexis then placed a ring box in front of her. “We were in our truest forms at the time of the proposal,” Alexis says of opting for a private moment with just the two of them. “I figured if she said yes to me then, she would never have a problem saying yes to me in any other moment.”

The ring: Jared the Galleria of Jewelry

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natalie & kundan Washington, DC PHOTOGR APH BY STEPHANIE DEE PHOTOGR APHY

While Kundan and his friends prepared Nicole for her first trip to India—and to meet his parents—he bluntly stated that his parents would want to know the answer to a big question: Will they tie the knot? “I asked him what he was going to tell them,” Nicole says. “He said we’d get married this year!” Upon their return home, the pair began planning their day.

But not before Kundan formally presented her with a ring while on a California beach. “It was important for me to spend time with his family before committing to marriage,” Nicole says of responding “Yes.” The ring: Capucinne R E A D M O R E P RO P O S A L S T O R I E S AT HowHeAsked.com by The Knot

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MAY 6

• SOMERSET, VA

anna & josh PHOTOGR APHY BY SER A PETR AS PHOTOGR APHY

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“Getting married at a nursery, we really wanted the flowers to be local, fresh and natural,” Anna says. She carried a garden bouquet of peonies, cosmos and foraged foliage.

THEIR STORY

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Anna donned a pair of sassy red suede heels, which “turned out to be incredibly comfortable—a win-win,” she says.

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BRIDE Anna Blazier, 27, a graduate student at the University of Virginia GROOM Josh Heuslein, 28, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Virginia HOW THEY MET At a barbecue WEDDING STYLE “The Market at Grelen’s natural beauty and serenity was the genesis of our design process,” Anna says. The couple highlighted their venue’s natural beauty with lush floral arrangements and a soothing blend of blues, greens, blush and wine. —Marissa Hermanson “You just can’t beat being surrounded by blooming flowers, berry vines, rolling hills and impeccable sunsets,” Anna says of picking the location. To add a personal note, the pair included their mutual love of science in a sweet way: Guests signed a book of scientific imagery.

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ANNA & JOSH

“The natural world drives our curiosity,” Anna says of the animal iconography.

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“We worked to create a space that felt ethereal, calming, yet inspiring,” Anna says. “The light and the view made everything shine.” Reception tables were topped with blue and white linens, local blooms, gold-rimmed glass chargers and beautiful plates painted with a variety of pheasants, other birds and foliage.

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For their guests visiting from around the country, the couple showcased Virginia’s cuisine: sweet potato ham biscuits, fried green tomatoes, cheddar and mascarpone mac and cheese, hot smoked salmon and roast pork with chimichurri sauce. “We still get comments on how delicious the food was!” the bride says.

ANNA & JOSH’S WEDDING INGREDIENTS CEREMONY & RECEPTION SITE PHOTOGRAPHY Sera Petras Photography PLANNER Marisa Vrooman/Orpha FLOWERS Nature Composed

OFFICIANT Stephen Blazier (Anna’s

father)

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The Market at Grelen, Somerset, VA

GOWN Martina Liana, Garnish

Boutique, Towson, MD Daphne Latham

HAIR &

MAKEUP

SHOES Eric Michael

ENGAGEMENT RING Ritani WEDDING RINGS Groom: Reines Jewelers JEWELRY

Earrings: Nadri

BRIDESMAID DRESSES

Jenny Yoo, Nordstrom Suitsupply

MENSWEAR

STATIONERY Paper: Paper

Source; printing: T&N Printing BOOK Barnes & Noble

Fare

SIGN-IN

RENTALS Festive

CATERING l’etoile Catering

Cakes by Rachel

CAKE

MUSIC Ceremony:

Peter Richardson; reception: Thomas Dean FAVORS Donations made to Charlottesville

“We loved this cake so much, we brought pieces with us on our honeymoon to Sedona, Arizona,” Anna says.

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Albemarie SPCA Quicks Bus

TRANSPORTATION ACCOMMODATIONS

Spotswood Lodge & Barrel

REGISTRY Crate

HONEYMOON Sedona, AZ

GUESTS 100 BUDGET $$$ (see key, p. 8)

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APRIL 1

• BALTIMORE

lakesha & erick PHOTOGR APHY BY AUDR A WRISLEY PHOTOGR APHY

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LaKesha’s bouquet featured black-andwhite anemones, paying homage to the Chanel flower and her love of the innovative designer.

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THEIR STORY BRIDE LaKesha Smith, 39, a senior marketing manager GROOM Erick Proctor, 35, a network administrator HOW THEY MET At The Park on 14th WEDDING STYLE After their elopement in France, the newlyweds celebrated with a Parisian-themed soiree outfitted in black-and-white art deco décor. “We wanted our guests to feel like they were in Paris,” LaKesha says. —MH “We found Paris in Baltimore,” she says of choosing the library based on its design.

“It reminded us of the amazing architecture in Paris.” Preppy stripes accented the stationery and reception tabletops, while odes to Chanel added more French flair.

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An Eiffel Tower figurine topped the couple’s red velvet fondant cake.

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“I’m a huge fan of the classic elegance of black, white and Chanel, and wanted to incorporate all of it,” the bride says. Striped napkins and black vases filled with white hydrangeas topped long reception tables. The markers took inspiration from the famed Chanel N°5 perfume.

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YOUR MOMENT. Celebrated in New Orleans’ most gracious setting.

300 Gravier Street | New Orleans, LA 70130 | 504.596.4787 | windsorcourthotel.com/weddings

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L AKESHA & ERICK

A croquembouche consists of choux pastry balls piled into a cone and laced with strings of caramel.

LAKESHA & ERICK’S WEDDING INGREDIENTS The couple served the same meal in Baltimore that they ate in Paris after their ceremony at the Ritz.

In addition to their wedding cake and macarons, the couple included a traditional French wedding dessert, a croquembouche. “We wanted our guests to experience Paris in every aspect of our day,” LaKesha says.

CEREMONY SITE Ritz Paris, Paris RECEPTION SITE The George Peabody

Library, Baltimore

PHOTOGRAPHY Audra

Wrisley Photography Zen Film Works Designs Events

VIDEOGRAPHY

PLANNER Elle Ellinghaus

FLOWERS My Flower Box GOWN Lazaro, Love Couture

Bridal, Potomac, MD

HEADPIECE Love

Couture Bridal, Pomomac, MD MAKEUP Phenomenal Faces

MENSWEAR Vera Wang

BLACK, Men’s Wearhouse Kleinfeld Paper CATERING,

CAKE AND DESSERTS Charles

Levine Caterers Stokes

STATIONERY

RENTALS EventPro MUSIC Harpist: Laura

TRANSPORTATION ZBest Limo

ACCOMMODATIONS Hotel Indigo

Baltimore Downtown Zola.com

REGISTRY

HONEYMOON Sint Maarten

GUESTS 75 BUDGET $$$$ (see key, p. 8)

During cocktail hour, a mime entertained while a harpist played and guests sipped St-Germain cocktails.

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RELISH YOUR REGISTRY

38 E Patrick St, Frederick, MD

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301-698-7360

relishdecor.com

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APRIL 12

• WASHINGTON, DC

donya & igor PHOTOGR APHY BY

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ABBY JIU PHOTOGR APHY

The bride carried calla lilies as a nod to her maiden name, Khalili.

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The fondant cake was designed to look like “a pile of malachite stones” and accented with geometic sugar shapes.

THEIR STORY

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BRIDE Donya Khalili, 37, a public policy attorney GROOM Igor Timofeyev, 42, an appellate and international arbitration partner at Paul Hastings HOW THEY MET While serving on the alumni advisory board of the Bronfman Youth Fellowship in Israel WEDDING STYLE When Igor proposed to Donya in Ireland, her engagement ring was tied around a malachite turtle. “We had malachite everywhere,” Donya says, who decked out the venue in the stone’s pattern and colors, along with greenery and geometric shapes. —MH In a modern Jewish ceremony, the couple exchanged vows under a rustic birch chuppah that was adorned with the bride’s father’s tallit, greenery and white blooms. Donya carried an heirloom handkerchief with her bouquet, while Igor sported malachite cufflinks and a green tie to complement their theme.

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DONYA & IGOR

Signature sips included mint juleps and DC mules.

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“We wanted a simple, elegant wedding where it was easy to eat and to talk with your tablemates,” Donya says. Wood tables featured low arrangements of greenery, geometric terrariums, candles, white napkins and gold flatware. Anthopologie’s malachite-inspired wallpaper decorated the bar and the stage for the musicians.

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visit us online at www.g oodmanandsons.com

Goodman Square

Monticello Marketplace

2018 Coliseum Dr., Hampton, VA 23666 • 757-838-2328

4640-11A Monticello Ave., Williamsburg, VA 23188 • 757-229-5388

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DONYA & IGOR

Gold decorations reminiscent of lanterns hung among the gemstone-green foliage.

DONYA & IGOR’S WEDDING INGREDIENTS CEREMONY & RECEPTION SITE

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Long View Gallery, Washington, DC PHOTOGRAPHY Lisa Ziesing/Abby

Jiu Photography

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Darling Events Village

PLANNER Cheers FLOWERS Sweet Root

OFFICIANT Rabbi James Ponet

GOWN BHLDN

HAIR Corte Salon

MAKEUP Carola Myers Makeup & Hair

Artists

SHOES Christian Louboutin

ENGAGEMENT & WEDDING RINGS

Salvatore and Co JEWELRY Earrings: I. Gorman Jewelers

BRIDESMAID DRESSES Various

MENSWEAR Groom: Beckenstein Men’s

Fabrics; tie: Stefano Ricci; groomsmen: Indochino

STATIONERY Invitations:

Minted.com; escort cards, menus & signage: Lacquer DC

RENTALS Design Foundry;

Party Rental Ltd; Select Event Group; Something Vintage Rentals

CATERING

Heirloom Catering and Event Design CAKE, DESSERTS &

Buttercream Bakeshop Boys Band

ACCOMMODATIONS

Kimpton Mason & Rook Hotel “The Bachelor Boys were fantastic,” the bride says of the live band that played for their reception. The pair took their first spin on the dance floor to “Feels Like Summer” by Tim Wheeler. For an end-of-the-night treat, guests left with Oreos dipped in a white chocolate marble to make them look like malachite stones.

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Zola.com

FAVORS

MUSIC Bachelor REGISTRY

HONEYMOON Walland, TN

GUESTS 140 BUDGET $$$$$ (see key, p. 8)

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JUNE 10

• PURCELLVILLE, VA

taylor & brian PHOTOGR APHY BY

Virginia became home for the couple after Brian spent months commuting

by Greyhound from New York to visit Taylor there.

“He moved to pursue love,” she says.

VICKI GR AFTON PHOTOGR APHY

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THEIR STORY

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BRIDE Taylor Sosna, 24, a cocktail waitress GROOM Brian Petterson, 29, a bartender HOW THEY MET The Northbeach bar in Dewey Beach, DE WEDDING STYLE Taylor and Brian brought their sophisticated barn wedding to life with gold décor, pops of greenery and hues of white, ivory and blush. —MH

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Taylor accessorized her designer gown with glitzy heels and Swarovski crystal jewelry.

After looking at several barns, the couple finally discovered Shadow Creek, which they describe as the perfect combination of rustic and chic. “We knew it was ‘the one’ as we stepped in the door,” Taylor says. To set the refined tone for the day despite the pastoral location, the couple choose classic invitations with a calligraphy-inspired typeface.

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TAYLOR & BRIAN

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The couple’s outdoor ceremony included an arch covered in greenery and blooms like peonies, the bride’s favorite, along with a white aisle runner sprinkled with white rose petals. “Our florist did an amazing job capturing the exact vision I had for our altar,” Taylor says.

Guests filled paper cones with pastel petals to toss during the couple’s recessional.

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Planning your

destination wedding starts here.

Š Natalie Heim Photography

Join us for our renowned planning events: meet vendors, sample cuisine, tour venues, win an all-inclusive Dream Wedding, and more.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

wedding weekend + expo

any size | any style | any budget

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Saturday + Sunday January 13-14, 2018 Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

obxwa.com Connect with us: @obxwa #smittenbythesea

11/17/17 7:44 AM

TAYLOR & BRIAN

TAYLOR & BRIAN’S WEDDING INGREDIENTS CEREMONY & RECEPTION SITE

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Shadow Creek Weddings and Events, Purcellville, VA

PHOTOGRAPHY Vicki

Grafton Photography Escort cards and a whimsical “written in the stars” laser-cut sign were displayed on boxwood greenery, while the tablescape added elegance with tall arrangements of roses and eucalyptus.

The setup left plenty of space for the guests to dine family style throughout the evening.

East West Events

VIDEOGRAPHY

PLANNER Cheers Darling

FLOWERS Floral & Bloom Designs

OFFICIANT Maureen Burke Ceremonies GOWN Pnina Tornai, Kleinfeld Bridal,

New York City City

VEIL Kleinfeld Bridal, New York

HAIR Shelby Anderson

Tiyana Robinson

MAKEUP

SHOES Sergio Rossi

ENGAGEMENT & WEDDING RINGS

Matinee Jewelry JEWELRY Bracelet: Swarovski MENSWEAR Suitsupply

STATIONERY

Minted.com; napkins: Laura Hooper Calligraphy SIGNAGE Leah Letters SIGN-IN GLOBE Etsy.com

Capital Party Rentals Fare Limited

by E

RENTALS

CATERING Savoir

CAKE & DESSERTS Sweets

MUSIC Ceremony & cocktail hour:

Washington Virtuosi; reception: DJ Phlipz & ShowPow! Events PHOTO BOOTH Tickled Photo Booth Company

ACCOMMODATIONS

Hilton Garden Inn Dulles North

REGISTRIES

Tendr.com; Zola.com GUESTS 100 BUDGET $$$$ (see key, p. 8)

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YOUR HAPPILY EVER AFTER STARTS HERE DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel Bethesda - Washington DC

301-652-2000 8120 WISCONSIN AVE. BETHESDA, MD 20814 BETHESDA.DOUBLETREE.COM DCMDVATKRSS18_Sect_06_(081_096) [P]{DC}.indd 81

- 20,000 Square Feet of Reception and Ceremony Space - Decadent Dining Menus - Exquisite Bar Packages - Contemporary Guest Rooms and Suites - Special Wedding Packages Available

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JANUARY 7

• RICHMOND, VA

sarah & zach PHOTOGR APHY BY

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“Even when Richmond got over eight inches of snow and the whole town shut down, I knew our day would still be amazing,” Sarah says.

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The couple wed in front of an elaborate eight-foot-tall floral ring with the science museum’s SR-71 Blackbird spy plane illuminated in the background.

THEIR STORY BRIDE Sarah Jones, 31, a registered nurse and co-owner of The Proper Petal GROOM Zach Boyle, 37, a desktop systems administrator HOW THEY MET As neighbors WEDDING STYLE Sarah and Zach paid homage to their love of science, dinosaurs and Harry Potter in their whimsical “Speakeasy in Space” winter wedding at a science museum. —MH “We loved the vintage, historic elements of the venue and wanted to honor that with elegant details while still paying tribute to our nerdy personalities,” Sarah says. Since she’s a professional florist, flowers played a big part in the décor too.

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SAR AH & Z ACH

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Feeling like a dinner at Hogwarts, the feasting tables were topped with crimson runners and gold dinosaur table marker holders. Guests also took home koozies with a playful design: “When I asked Zach what the koozies should look like, he responded with ‘a dinosaur wearing a top hat,’ so that’s exactly what we did,” Sarah says.

Zach’s on-theme accessories—a velociraptor tie clip and Star Wars socks—completed his three-piece suit.

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Where Contemporary Elegance Meets Historic Charm

SCOTT’S PHOTO ART

Beautiful outdoor arbor overlooking the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains ♣ Two Grand Ballrooms with Accommodations for up to 350 People per Room

♣ Customizable Menus, Special Packages for Friday & Sunday Weddings

♣ Historic Virginia Cuisine with a Blend of Modern & Traditional Flair

♣ Conveniently Located Minutes from I-66 & I-81 in the Heart of the Historic Shenandoah Valley

(540) 635-2922 | pplew@bowlinggreencc.com | 838 Bowling Green Road, Front Royal, VA 22630

www.bowlinggreencountryclub.net

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SAR AH & Z ACH

SARAH & ZACH’S WEDDING INGREDIENTS CEREMONY & RECEPTION SITE Science

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Museum of Virginia, Richmond, VA PHOTOGRAPHY Jessica Maida Photography

In the science museum’s palatial rotunda, a long king’s table was accessorized with cozy armchairs for the bride and groom and with Lucite ghost chairs for friends and family. A cocktail lounge, furnished with vintage-style couches and a copper bar, offered signature sips throughout the night.

PLANNER Alyson Taylor Events

The Proper Petal (bride’s uncle)

GOWN Anne Barge, Annalise

Bridal Boutique, Richmond, VA MAKEUP Avenue 42 Style Studio

Bella Belle

FLOWERS

OFFICIANT Jerry Thursby HAIR & SHOES

ENGAGEMENT RING Trumpet

& Horn WEDDING RINGS Dransfield Jewelers JEWELRY Earrings: BHLDN

BRIDESMAID

DRESSES Adrianna Papell, Bella Bridesmaids MENSWEAR Jos. A. Bank

STATIONERY

Invitations: Minted.com; escort cards & menus: Yellow Door Calligraphy

RENTALS AFR

Furniture Rental; Blue Steel Lighting Design; Classic Party Rentals; Nüage Designs; Paisley & Jade; Silk & Willow

CATERING Champagne

Taste Catering Sweet Fix

CAKE & DESSERTS

MUSIC Ceremony: Christina

Jennings & Raphael Seligmann; reception: DJs For Lovers PHOTO BOOTH Photo Booth of Charlottesville The newlyweds danced to Sam Cooke’s “You Send Me” to open the floor for guests.

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Bates Creative Quirk Hotel

FAVORS Taylor

ACCOMMODATIONS REGISTRY Zola.com

HONEYMOON Iceland, London & Paris GUESTS 130 BUDGET $$$$ (see key, p. 8)

11/17/17 8:22 AM

Vintage & specialty rentals for those who love a beautifully crafted visual.

Serving the Mid-Atlantic, including Virginia, North Carolina & Washington, DC. paisleyandjade.com @paisleyandjade info@paisleyandjade.com 804.381.4625

2017

PHOTOS BY: (LEFT TO RIGHT) ANNAMARIE AKINS; JESSICA MAIDA; KAREN ALLEN; KIM STOCKWELL; ALEX C. TENSER

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APRIL 15

• WASHINGTON, DC

courtney & shaun

Courtney wore a pink lehenga that she picked out with her mother-in-law in India. Shaun donned a gold brocade silk sherwani.

PHOTOGR APHY BY AUDR A WRISLEY PHOTOGR APHY

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THEIR STORY

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BRIDE Courtney Kraus, 34, a pediatric ophthalmologist GROOM Shaun Desai, 34, a facial plastic surgeon HOW THEY MET During their residencies WEDDING STYLE Taking inspiration from the District’s pink cherry blossoms, the couple celebrated their nuptials with both Hindu and Christian ceremonies, plus a sophisticated reception. —MH Describing their style as a “clean and modern way to blend two cultures,” Courtney and Shaun used soft blush and gold tones for the Western part and amped up coral tones for the Indian portion. After a traditional baraat where Shaun arrived on a white horse, the couple met under a flowerembellished mandap. The aisle was even decorated with a pink ombré runner.

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COURTNE Y & SHAUN

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To transition smoothly between both ceremonies, a cocktail hour entertained guests while the couple changed.

Towering arrangements of cherry blossoms framed Courtney and Shaun as they exchanged vows during their Christian ceremony in the historic hall. The sequin bridesmaid dresses were a total coincidence, since each woman picked out her own gown. “That’s what happens when all your friends are stylish!” Courtney says.

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410.952.0020 | m l c d e s i g n s . n e t

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COURTNE Y & SHAUN

“It sounded like the story of us,” Courtney says of choosing James Arthur’s “Say You Won’t Let Go” for the first dance.

COURTNEY & SHAUN’S WEDDING INGREDIENTS CEREMONY & RECEPTION SITE Andrew

Elegant gold décor, lots of candlelight and translucent chairs set the grand space’s reception vibe.

Guests sipped Battery Breezes—inspired by Courtney’s drink the night before they got engaged—and dined on fusion food. “The subtle Indian spice to the fish channeled the duality of the wedding,” she says.

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W. Mellon Auditorium, Washington, DC PHOTOGRAPHY Audra Wrisley Photography PLANNER Christine Godsey/Engaging Affairs FLOWERS Edge Flowers

OFFICIANT

Reverend Jim Burch; Suresh Purohit

GOWN

Ines Di Santo, Carine’s Bridal Atelier, Washington, DC; lehenga: Vasansi Jaipur, Jaipur, India VEIL Ines Di Santo

HAIR &

Alison Harper & Company

MAKEUP

SHOES Prada

ENGAGEMENT & WEDDING RINGS Boone

& Sons Jewelers Various India

BRIDESMAID DRESSES

MENSWEAR Groom: Bawari, Mumbai, STATIONERY Invitations: CZ Invitations;

programs, escort cards & menus: Just Write Studios

RENTALS DC Rental; Design Foundry;

Digital Lightning; Nüage Designs &

CAKE Spilled Milk Catering

CATERING MUSIC

Ceremony & reception: DJ Biks; dohl: Planet DJ Productions; mobile DJ: Dynasty AV & Entertainment

TRANSPORTATION Atlantic

Services Group; Sunny’s Executive Sedan Services; horse: Harmon’s Hayrides & Carriages

ACCOMMODATIONS The

Willard InterContinental Washington DC HONEYMOON Tanzania & Zanzibar GUESTS 275 BUDGET $$$$$ (see key, p. 8)

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THOUGHTFUL DESIGN. GRACIOUS HOSPITALITY. EXCEPTIONAL EVENTS. WWW.MAGNOLIABLUEBIRD.COM | 703.926.0766 | SERVING D.C. + DESTINATION

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JUNE 4

• BOWIE, MD

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MEGAN KELSEY PHOTOGR APHY

Kelly highlighted her bouquet of pink and white ranunculus, roses and peonies with eucalyptus and dusty miller.

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The bride created the napkins by dip-dyeing them for a pink ombré appearance.

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THEIR STORY BRIDE Kelly Pollack, 24, a wedding photographer GROOM Zachary (Zach) Haynes, 24, a financial representative HOW THEY MET Through mutual friends WEDDING STYLE Kelly and Zach outfitted their playful wedding with glitzy gold décor and a blend of hot pink, light blue and mint green. —MH “We just wanted our wedding to feel fun and colorful!” Kelly says. To give their ceremony site the appearance of an outdoor chapel, Kelly’s father built a gold gate at the aisle entrance, as well as the array of white church window frames placed on the lawn. Confetti rockets showered the newlyweds after they said “I do.”

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KELLY & Z ACH

KELLY & ZACH’S WEDDING INGREDIENTS

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A private residence, Bowie, MD Kelly designed the crest the couple incorporated in the watercolor invitation suite, above their sweetheart table and on the three-tier wedding cake. It was topped with “Just Meowied” and two ceramic cats to honor their own, Macro and Pixel. Their names also inspired the titles of the couple’s signature cocktails.

PHOTOGRAPHY Megan K Marcus/Megan

Kelsey Photography Fordham Films

VIDEOGRAPHY

DAY-OF COORDINATOR

James Glotfelty

FLOWERS DIY

OFFICIANT Dr. Gary Holmberg (bride’s

grandfather)

GOWN Watters

HAIR

Caitlin Gibbons/Pretty Weird Beauty MAKEUP Pretty Weird Beauty & HAIRPIECE Amazon.com

VEIL SHOES

Christian Louboutin; Kate Spade New York ENGAGEMENT RING Kobelli Fine Jewelry WEDDING RINGS Bride: LichenAndLychee,

Etsy.com; groom: Cambridge JEWELRY Kate Spade New York DRESSES Various

BRIDESMAID

MENSWEAR Macy’s

STATIONERY DIY; escort cards: Target SIGN-IN BOOK Anthropologie

RENTALS

Light Your Love Marquees; Sammy’s Originally, the pair was set on a destination wedding but realized an at-home affair in Kelly’s parents’ backyard (and on their anniversary) was the perfect plan.

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Rental

CATERING Mission BBQ

CAKE

SugarBakers Cakes DESSERTS Krispy Kreme MUSIC Bobby Dawson/ID Pro DJ REGISTRIES Bed Bath & Beyond; Crate

& Barrel; Target

HONEYMOON Florida

GUESTS 135 BUDGET $$ (see key, p. 8)

11/17/17 8:23 AM

BY ASA PHOTOGRAPHY 202-596-2051 • byasaphotography@gmail.com • ByAsaPhotography.com

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JULY 8

• ANNAPOLIS, MD

mary ellen & tj PHOTOGR APHY BY

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KRISTA A . JONES PHOTOGR APHY

TJ’s parents were married at the same chapel 29 years earlier.

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THEIR STORY

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BRIDE Mary Ellen Toscani, 28, a firefighter and director of fire department relations for The First Twenty GROOM Thomas (TJ) Cleary, 26, a lieutenant in the US Navy and a naval flight officer HOW THEY MET At The Blockley in Philadelphia WEDDING STYLE “We were inspired by the city of Annapolis, the water and Naval Academy traditions,” Mary Ellen says of their military wedding at a waterfront hotel. —MH After their nuptials at the United States Naval Academy Chapel, a church that is special to both of their families, the newlyweds celebrated harborside with a seafood dinner, lawn games and a late-night popcorn bar. Using blue to transition throughout the day, the color accented their paper goods, bridesmaid dresses, chinoiserie vessels on the tables and even the cake topper.

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M ARY ELLEN & TJ

TJ requested that if “he was going to be married in his uniform, it would be his ‘summer dress whites.’ ”

MARY ELLEN & TJ’S WEDDING INGREDIENTS CEREMONY SITE United States Naval

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Academy Chapel, Annapolis, MD RECEPTION SITE Annapolis Waterfront Hotel, Annapolis, MD

The reception included plenty of fun touches. The pair entered to Kenny Loggins’s “Danger Zone” from Top Gun and, instead of favors, made a donation to Mary Ellen’s colleagues at the Berwyn Fire Company. The firefighters even showed up in a ladder truck to greet the newlyweds. “It was incredibly special,” she says.

PHOTOGRAPHY Krista A. Jones Photography FLOWERS Intrigue Design

PLANNER &

& Decor

OFFICIANT Father Francis P. Foley

GOWN Pronovias, Van Cleve Bridal, Paoli, PA VEIL Toni Federici, Van Cleve Bridal, Paoli, PA HAIR &

MAKEUP Behind the Veil

Badgley Mischka

SHOES

ENGAGEMENT RING &

WEDDING RINGS Global Diamonds JEWELRY

Sara Gabriel

BRIDESMAID DRESSES Alfred

Sung, Brideside A. Bank

MENSWEAR groomsmen: Jos.

STATIONERY Paper Rock Scissors

RENTALS Intrigue Design & Decor

Annapolis Waterfront Hotel

CATERING CAKE

SugarBakers Cakes POPCORN BAR Myra’s Popcorn Kitchen

MUSIC Sound Nation/Sam

Hill Entertainment PHOTO BOOTH Chesapeake Photo Booth

TRANSPORTATION Towne

Transport; ZBest Limo

ACCOMMODATIONS

Annapolis Waterfront Hotel; Historic Inns of Annapolis; Loews Annapolis Hotel; O’Callaghan Annapolis Hotel; The Westin Annapolis REGISTRIES Crate & Barrel; The Little

House Shop; Macy’s; Williams Sonoma GUESTS 200 BUDGET $$$$$ (see key, p. 8)

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FOR MORE THAN JUST THE

y a d g i B

If there’s one thing we know how to do, it’s have a good time.

From the bridal shower or rehearsal dinner to the reception and morning-after brunch, choose from a variety of elegant spaces and menu options to bring your event to life.

Call or email us for more details.

202.552.5000 EVENT S@CLYDES.COM CLYDES.COM

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JUNE 10

• NORFOLK, VA

brandon & david

The grooms sported Paul Smith suits in two different shades of blue, royal and navy, and matching ranunculus boutonnieres.

PHOTOGR APHY BY

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LINDSAY COLLET TE

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Wildflowers honored Brandon’s grandmother, Gertrude, whom he credits with initiating his love of flowers.

THEIR STORY GROOM Brandon Brinkley (above left), 35, a fashion stylist GROOM David Dorbad, 40, a pediatrician HOW THEY MET On the dating website Gay.com WEDDING STYLE The couple celebrated with a floral-infused garden ceremony followed by a strolling cocktail hour and seasonal Virginia cuisine. —MH The grooms chose the gardens since they seemed to blend both of their interests, including a recent outdoor exhibit “The Art of Burning Man”—a serendipitous nod to David’s recent attendance at the festival—and the beautiful landscape, which paid homage to Brandon’s love for flora and plants.

BR ANDON & DAVID

BRANDON & DAVID’S WEDDING INGREDIENTS

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The Hermitage Museum & Gardens, The pride rainbow was used as a decorative element throughout their celebration, from the grooms’ socks to the capes kids sported during the reception and even the officiant’s stole. Guests took home handmade seed packets, made by members of the wedding party, with a sweet note: “Spread the love, make it grow.”

Signature drinks included a lavender cosmopolitan.

Norfolk, VA Collette

PHOTOGRAPHY Lindsay DAY-OF COORDINATOR

Maria Acevedo

FLOWERS Studio Posy

OFFICIANT Minister Jack Nussen MENSWEAR Grooms: Paul Smith;

groomsmen: Hugo Boss Allen Edmonds Brilliant Earth

SHOES

WEDDING RINGS

GROOMSMAID DRESSES

Badgley Mischka, RenttheRunway.com STATIONERY Minted.com

Distinctive Event Rentals Chesapeake Bay Catering Incredible Edibles Bakery Entertainment

RENTALS

CATERING CAKE

MUSIC Astro

TRANSPORTATION

Royal Coach Limousine Company ACCOMMODATIONS Hilton Norfolk

The Main

REGISTRY Bloomingdale’s

HONEYMOON Barcelona, Santorini & Venice GUESTS 150 BUDGET $$$ (see key, p. 8)

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“From Beginning to End, it starts at the Ren...”

The Renaissance was completed in 1887 as a Masonic Temple and now houses one of Richmond’s Largest Victorian Ballrooms.

Even Theodore Roosevelt graced the property in 1905. Your one stop shop for facility & staff, catering & beverages, seating, table settings, and linens. With our convenient downtown location in the new Art’s District, we find it to be the perfect venue and we are sure you will too.

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107 West Broad St., #300 Richmond, Virginia renaissanceVA.com | 804.649.3373

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MAY 6

• LUTHERVILLE, MD

molly & gabriel PHOTOGR APHY BY

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ANGEL A NEW TON ROY PHOTOGR APHY

“They took my hazy vision of what I wanted and made it spectacular,” Molly says of her florist.

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THEIR STORY

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BRIDE Molly Coplan, 29, works in philanthropy GROOM Gabriel Doran, 34, works in advertising technology sales HOW THEY MET Set up by the bride’s stepmother and the groom’s mom WEDDING STYLE Molly and Gabriel’s garden party was embellished with opulent flower arrangements, gold décor and subtle dusty blue. —MH

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“We wanted the reception to feel comfortable and casual, but also beautiful,” Molly says of their tented celebration.

The eucalyptus-adorned chuppah included the bride’s late grandfather’s tallit. The couple combined traditional Jewish rituals, like the seven blessings, with their personal vows for a heartfelt and sentimental ceremony.

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MOLLY & GABRIEL

Opting for casual bites, the couple had a taco bar, slider options, a carving station and a mac and cheese bar.

MOLLY & GABRIEL’S WEDDING INGREDIENTS

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Baltimore Country Club, Lutherville, MD The tablescape featured woven natural runners, white blooms and blue-gray menus with matching escort cards. “They were my favorite part of our stationery,” the bride says. The couple also incorporated their pup, Elly, in a sweet way: on the cookie favors. “She’s the love of our lives,” she adds.

PHOTOGRAPHY Angela Newton Roy

Photography

PLANNER Lemon & Lime

Event Design Flowers

FLOWERS Simply Beautiful OFFICIANT Rabbi George

Wielechowski

GOWN Eddy K, Betsy

Robinson’s Bridal Collection, Pikesville, MD HAIR &

MAKEUP Ariel Lewis

Jennifer Behr

HAIRPIECE

SHOES Jimmy Choo

ENGAGEMENT RING Thayer Jewelers WEDDING RINGS Radcliffe Jewelers MENSWEAR Trunk Club

STATIONERY

Invitations: Papers Plus; MLC Designs

RENTALS

La Tavola; Nüage Designs; Select Event Group; White Glove Rentals

CATERING,

DESSERTS Baltimore Country Club

CAKE & MUSIC

Ceremony: Hill Chamber Music; reception: Infusion/Washington Talent Agency cookies: Sugar Studio ZBest Limo

FAVORS

TRANSPORTATION

ACCOMMODATIONS Four

Seasons Hotel Baltimore; Courtyard Baltimore Downtown/Inner Harbor; Radisson Hotel at Cross Keys CB2; Zola.com

REGISTRIES Anthropologie; HONEYMOON Bermuda

GUESTS 150 BUDGET $$$$$ (see key, p. 8)

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DES TINATION WEDDING

ARDEN & BROCK AUGUST 27 • GRAND LAKE, CO

mountain lake elegance PHOTOGRAPHY BY RACHEL HAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY

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THEIR STORY

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BRIDE Arden Elliott, 27, a managing director of a PR firm GROOM Brock Hensarling, 27, a director of research and land manager at an energy mineral investment firm HOW THEY MET In college as friends, but romance bloomed when they reconnected years later WEDDING STYLE Arden calls the theme “Grand Lake meets Martha’s Vineyard.” —Erin Russell

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The couple had the privilege of being one of two weddings conducted on the private dock—the other being actor Tim Allen’s.

The Dallas-based couple chose Grand Lake, Colorado, as a destination because Brock’s family has spent their summers there for five generations.

There’s even a waterfall named after his great-great grandfather.

With a sunset-pink palette for the ceremony and a nautical-inspired reception, they put together a fun day that never lost its elegance.

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Arden’s look set the tone for their day: The engagement ring, a mine-cut diamond originating from the 1800s, was passed down in Brock’s family, and her blushcolored gown’s versatile styling options allowed for dancing (of which there was plenty). Postceremony, the couple took a lap around the lake on a vintage boat.

One wedding crasher—a moose!—had to be escorted out by animal control.

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Begin your life together where the sand meets the sea.

Our luxury weddings can accommodate dreams of all sizes and personalities. Experience your fairy tale oceanfront wedding amidst natural beauty and flawless service at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.

To begin your happily ever after, visit ritzcarlton.com/ameliaisland.

. Š2017 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

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DES TINATION WEDDING

Fresh local greenery helped create the A Midsummer Night’s Dream atmosphere.

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CEREMONY SITE A private residence RECEPTION SITE Grand Lake Yacht Club,

Grand Lake During cocktail hour, an oyster shucker roamed among guests. Later, the couple took their first dance to “Forever and Ever, Amen” by Randy Travis, a song they both grew up listening to. “The lyrics are silly but also incredibly romantic,” Arden says. “The intimacy of the evening is something I’ll cherish forever.”

Photography

PHOTOGRAPHY Rachel Havel VIDEOGRAPHY ByDesign Films

PLANNER Emily Clarke Events

Bows and Arrows Heil

GOWN &

FLOWERS

OFFICIANT Pastor David VEIL Monique Lhuillier,

Warren Barrón Bridal, Dallas

HAIR &

MAKEUP Dana Rae Ashburn/Dana Rae Makeup SHOES Tabitha Simmons

WEDDING RINGS

Dallas Auction Gallery JEWELRY Warren Barrón Bridal

BRIDESMAID DRESSES Jenny Yoo

MENSWEAR Groom: Knot Standard; Neiman

Marcus; groomsmen: Gitman Bros; Knot Standard STATIONERY Invitations: Cheree Berry Paper;

programs, escort cards & menus: The Detail Department; calligraphy: The Left Handed Calligrapher

RENTALS Event Rents; Pink

Monkey Solutions; P.O.S.H. Couture Rentals CATERING & DESSERTS Epicurean Group MUSIC The Nation

Department Marina

FAVORS The Detail

TRANSPORTATION Grand Lake ACCOMMODATIONS Airbnb.com

REGISTRIES Bloomingdale’s; The Ivy House;

Williams Sonoma

HONEYMOON Abercrombie

& Kent, Tokyo & Thailand GUESTS 100

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St. Augustine

FIR S T IMPRESSIONS TH AT L A S T

Long before sparklers lit the way to your limo – before you danced with a roomful of your biggest fans – a chorus of clinking glasses serenaded your e very kiss. A nostalgic speech brought happy tears.

Before your heart felt twice as full and your family became twice as big, you joined hands with your other half. But something important happened e ven before then. You arrived in a place that left an © Life & Love Studio

e verlasting impression.

Make your big day all the more memorable.

FHCCelebrations.com | 800-418-7529, ext. 2009

Ponte Vedra

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Fanciful fuchsia and sleek black pair together for an unexpectedly dramatic, modern affair. /// BY A LYSS A LONG OBUCCO

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daringly deep A black and marble place setting is a crisp backdrop for a vibrant centerpiece of oxblood peonies, pink ranunculus, chocolate cosmos, blush garden roses and branches.

The cake’s marbled exterior and sugar flowers echo the tablescape and unite the overall palette.

Cake, IntricateIcings.com; florals, FlorabyNora.com; tabletop décor, EclecticHive.com; linens, LuxeLinen .org; stationery, YonderDesign.com; gifts, BundlesGiftCo.com; venue, DenverPhotoCollective.com >>

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PHOTOGR APHY BY L AUR A MURR AY PHOTOGR APHY EVENT DESIGN BY GOLD LEAF EVENT DESIGN & PRODUCTION

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a touch of texture

Reinvent table numbers by trading paper signs for black engraved shagreen plaques, set on a gilded photo ledge.

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fresh ingredients Go beyond florals in your boutonnieres.

For a woodsy vibe, try leaves and touches of pine.

standout seating Swap your typical rentals for something unexpected, like luxe velvet stools mixed with plush chairs.

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Add a romantic ambience by including taper candles on your tabletop. Give them a touch of edge with gilded banding and sleek black and gold holders.

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moody marble

For a total twist on the white wedding cake, go for smooth black fondant icing with a pretty marble design and a cascade of sugar blooms. >>

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A leather folio and luggage tag for guests are nice personal touches, and add a hint of texture to a streamlined black-and-white invitation suite.

F I N D M O R E I N S P I R AT I O N AT TheKnot.com/reception

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Overhills Mansion

Placed gently atop a rise in the lush Patapsco Valley, this historic mansion and our one-of-a-kind event and catering staff will help make your vision a reality.

410.744.0400 - OVERHILLSMANSION.COM

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pretty paper A formal invitation set can include everything from a main invite and RSVP card to a schedule of the weekend’s events.

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defining details

Design a standout suite with one of these fresh invite accents. >>

BY ALYSSA LONGOBUCCO PHOTOGR APH BY COCO TR AN

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Your invitation suite (including, but not limited to, your invite, response card, reception card and accommodations/directions card), is often the first glimpse guests get into your wedding day style, so it’s important to pay attention to the message your paper goods are sending. Whether your vibe is streamlined and classic, natural and aged, or bright and modern, adding these trendy accents to your correspondence will make it stand out and will help set the mood for all your unique wedding day celebrations to come.

Statement envelope liner

Watercolor illustrations Turn your invitation suite into a work of art worthy of display (even if it’s just on the fridge) by hiring a painter or artist to create a stunning scene for your invites, RSVP card or save-the-date.

Pastoral or landscape scenes are growing in popularity as more couples choose to make the destination of their wedding, like sprawling vineyards, the focus of their design. If the idea of nature doesn’t fit your wedding style, look to your venue—or you and your partner’s life together—for inspiration. A portrait of your beloved pups, a monochromatic rendering of your first date spot or even a new family crest dedicated to your interests are all great ways to personalize the painting. Then, make the most of your investment by reusing the imagery throughout other parts of your event, like imposing it on lounge pillows, sticking labels on goodies in your welcome bags or having a vinyl version made to attach to cornhole boards. You can even frame an oversize version and hang it in your newlywed nest as a sweet reminder of your wedding day.

Leather detailing Heads up: Leather details are the new “it” wedding texture, and they’re the perfect choice for couples or to-be-weds looking to incorporate a bit of edge into their invitation suite. Leather that’s been debossed (meaning it’s been stamped so it’s indented with wording) is great for smaller accents like an insert card, program binding or as a belly band to hold the whole suite together. Or make the material the star of the show by seeking out a stationer who specializes in leather pressing and have them craft your actual invite using leather as the “paper.” Keep in mind that a heavier style like that may double or triple your postage costs. >>

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FROM TOP: ASHLEY SEAWELL PHOTOGR APHY; CHARLOT TE JENKS LEWIS PHOTOGR APHY

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Give guests a special surprise by lining envelopes with an eye-catching design. Logistically, envelope liners serve to make envelopes a bit heartier so they stand up to mailing, and also ensure you can’t see through to the inner contents. Practicality aside, they’re also a great place to work in color or design.

Think of liners as the wallpaper of your envelope—the underside of the flap is one of the first things guests will see. You want something attention-grabbing that will give guests a taste of your party personality. Task your stationer with designing a liner that accents—not competes with—the rest of your invitation suite.

A bold geometric pattern falls perfectly in line with a modern city loft wedding, while soft pastel watercolor blooms are an ideal accent if you’re hosting a romantic garden affair.

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BSQUARE P R O D U C T I O N S

THE HANDS YOU CAN TRUST TO HOLD THE CELEBRATION OF YOUR LIFETIME

E. JAY M. APAGA

JASMINE WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY

E. JAY M. APAGA

“I will do all I can to make your event memorable and earn the honor of being a part of your special occasion.” - DJ Major

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Gilded calligraphy

Coordinated stamp sets

The ancient art of calligraphy (available in a variety of styles, like traditional copperplate and modern script) has long been a go-to for wedding invitations, giving them a special, more formal feel. While it’s often reserved for addressing the inner and outer envelopes of invitation suites, you can incorporate it on other details as well, like escort cards, menu cards, ceremony programs and favor tags. Pros also use spot calligraphy in their invitation designs.

An entirely handwritten invite can be difficult to read and also expensive, but using script in a few key spots (like your and your partner’s names) is a great compromise. Calligraphers are also turning to metallic inks, like iridescent golds, coppers and silvers, to give an invitation a truly celebratory feel.

Next time you’re scouring local antique shops for blue and white ginger jars for your centerpieces, keep an eye out for vintage stamps that match your invite suite as well. Hunt down styles that somehow complement your wedding palette or invitation suite, either in color or by the images they depict, then add them to the exterior envelopes for some old-school charm. Your stationer is a great resource for this, but you can also check out vendors like VintagePostageShop and LittlePostageHouse on Etsy.com. Whether you choose to accent your envelope with bold blues or all blooms, head to the post office before you buy. You’ll want to have a sample envelope (filled with your complete suite) weighed first so you know how much postage will cost. Vintage stamps are worth less, so you’ll likely need five or more per envelope to ensure it will ship. >>

Vellum paper You’ve likely seen this thin, waxy paper popping up in your inspiration feeds lately, either layered atop a printed invite or serving as the invitation itself. Known as vellum, this material is typically made from a rag or plasticized cotton blend, and has an opaque, nonreflective finish that feels a bit softer than plastic.

It’s sturdy enough to be printed or written on with calligraphy (and looks especially great in a monochromatic palette, like black or white) making it a cool, modern solution for envelopes, liners or invitation paper. Work it into your suite for an edgy twist, then carry it throughout the rest of your wedding décor by using it everywhere—think: vellum menus, place cards, ceremony programs, favor tags and confetti bags. It seriously does it all.

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FROM TOP: CITRUS PRESS CO.; COURTESY OF FOURTEEN-FORT Y

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PHOTOS BY TRACEY ATTLEE

ARLINGTON’S BEST-KEPT SECRET Located atop the highest point in Arlington, VA, this magnificent estate boasts two beautiful venues on 10 acres of a park-like setting.

From our beautiful Main Ballroom that seats up to 350 people to our smaller Paradise Ballroom, located on the lower level with seating for up to 120 people, one of these event locations is perfect for your wedding reception, rehearsal dinner, or other special event.

Peter Silano | gm@columbusclubevents.com | 703-536-9656 ext. 310 | 5115 Little Falls Road, Arlington, VA 22207 www.columbusclubevents.com

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Raw silk ribbons Perfect for romantics at heart, raw silk ribbons are a great way to introduce texture, movement and a dusting of color to any invitation suite. Often seen tied around a stack of materials or used as the binding in wedding programs, silk ribbons add an effortlessly whimsical finishing touch. Sites like StellaWolfe.com, SilkandWillow.com and Tono-Co.MyShopify.com specialize in hand-dyed, raw silk ribbons, which gives the material its signature desaturated colors and fluttery feel. Ask your stationer to work some ribbon into your suite, then carry the finish throughout your wedding by tying ribbons onto your bridal bouquet or looping them around the napkins at place settings. Order an extra spool to hand off to your photographer on the day-of—it’s a great accent to add to those gorgeous flat lay shots you’ll want of your stationery suite.

Unique texture can bring a little something extra to even the simplest invitation suite design, and there’s no better way to do that than by choosing a paper style with deckle edges. In manual papermaking, a deckle refers to the removable wood frame used to size the sheet of paper and keep the wet paper materials within the shape. Once pressed and released from the frame, the edge of the paper can be feathered and slightly irregular, resulting in its characteristic torn look. Also popular in old-school bookmaking, deckle edges have become a coveted addition to invitation suites, especially if the couple is looking to infuse their design with a vintage, bespoke charm. Paper featuring deckle edge detailing pairs most naturally with equally organic design accents, like a soft neutral color palette, flowy handwritten calligraphy, hemp or twine bundle ties, and a casual or rustic wedding day venue.

Wax seals For the perfect finishing touch, go old school with a wax seal.

Traditionally used to close envelopes and letters before the handy glue strip was commonplace (the practice dates to before medieval times) wax seals are experiencing a renaissance thanks in part to their popularity in wedding invitations. Keep it simple with a traditional fleur-de-lis-style seal or explore the offerings on sites like BacktoZero.co or Stamptitude.com, where you can browse unique options or customize your own styles. With dozens of colors to suit any palette and even more ways to use them, wax stamps are becoming a must for practically any event. Supply your stationer with one featuring your new initials to seal a ribbon onto your invitations, stamp them onto welcome bag tags or invest in several numbers to use them in an unexpected table card display.

FROM TOP: SAR AH LOVE PHOTOGR APHY; SAW YER BAIRD

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Deckle edging

local spotlight: typo boutique The Virginia stationer shares what trends are inspiring her, plus advice for to-be-weds.

ABOUT THE EXPERT

GET COLORFUL

FIND UNIQUE INSPO

KEEP IT PERSONAL

CREATE THE VIBE

Christine Mitchell is the owner and creative director of Typo Boutique, a studio based in Richmond, VA, that specializes in refined designs and paper goods for weddings and events.

I’m loving that color is big again. I will always like a clean palette, but there are so many ways to elevate your suite through color, like tone-on-tone letterpress or highcontrast foil on dark paper.

I’m deeply inspired by architecture and vintage packaging. I have endless files of vintage print work and magazine clippings that are my go-tos for inspiration when starting on a new client project.

My favorite part of a design is personal touches that feel like the couple.

I’ve illustrated pets, maps, college mascots and even a custom pattern inspired by a dress worn by the bride’s grandmother.

Color, font and printing technique can all have an impact on the feel of a suite, so it’s important they pair well with the wedding aesthetic. The venue, florals and attire can all inspire a design.

TypoBoutique.com

@typoboutique

F I N D YO U R S TAT I O N E RY P RO AT TheKnot.com/marketplace

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B EYO N D the B O UQU E T

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WORK FLORAL ACCENTS INTO EVERY PART OF YOUR DÉCOR FOR WEDDING STYLE THAT TRULY STANDS OUT.

BY ALYSSA LONGOBUCCO PHOTOGR APHY BY SAR AH ANNE WARD

ECLECTIC TABLE GARLAND

Instead of a traditional vessel centerpiece, have your florist create a diverse arrangement of blooms, greenery and fruit that guests can feast their eyes on as they dine. This statement-making version includes cacti, pomegranates, roses, orchids and tropical goodies like lychee, papaya and dragon fruit.

Prairie porcelain charger plate, $77, Vista Alegre, JungLeeNY.com; Melamine dinner plate, $10, Lulie Wallace, Anthropologie.com; gilded rim white wine glass, $22, Anthropologie.com; Mykonos satin stitch napkin in Orange, $24, JonathanAdler.com; copper-handled flatware, $40 for 5-piece set, PotteryBarn.com; Josie double old-fashioned glass, $4, CrateandBarrel.com >>

CREATED BY A.P. BIO, APBioDesigns.com

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Give guests a living reminder of your day: a moon cactus favor. Potted in terra-cotta with a tied note, it’s a sweet way to thank loved ones for celebrating with you.

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Wood baroque charger, $80 for 4, gold wave flatware, $20 for 5-piece set, WorldMarket.com; Shell Bisque dinner plate in Soft Pink, $22, CanvasHomeStore .com; OmbrĂŠ wedding favor tags in Mandarin, $39 for 105, Dean Street, Minted.com >>

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Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa

SOKOLOV PHOTOGRAPHY

Weddings

Request a Tour and Book your 2018 Waterfront Wedding Now!

CBResortSpa.com • 410.286.2133 • 4165 Mears Ave • Chesapeake Beach, MD HOTEL

F

SPA

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RESTAURANTS

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WEDDINGS

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MEETINGS

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MARINAS

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FISHING

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GAMING

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ROMANTIC HAIR PIECES

Your bridesmaids will feel extra beautiful with bud-covered combs to tuck into their updos. >> CREATED BY POPPIES & POSIES, PoppiesandPosies.com

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SP &

EVENTS, LLC An innovative, luxury event production and design company, serving Metropolitan Washington, DC, Maryland & Virginia.

Setting a precedent in affordable luxury.

Event Planning Multi-Event Weddings Event & Floral Design Venue Transformation

571.733.6838 | www.SandPEvents.com | Stacy.King@SandPEvents.com

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RUSTIC POSIES

Make every lucky guy feel like a VIP with bundles of blooms for them to wear throughout the night.

Have a florist create enough for the groomsmen and any standout helpers, like ushers or your officiant.

Ribbon, from $8, StellaWolfe.com >>

CREATED BY TIN CAN STUDIOS, TinCanStudiosBk.com

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Tusculum Farm is a place where we help you celebrate life and all the moments that come with it. Be one of the firsts to host your special day at this historic 500+ acre estate with never ending spectacular views. All weddings that take place at Tusculum Farm also include accommodations for your family and bridal party, as well as full access to all amenities. No two celebrations are the same at the farm, and we look forward to working with you to make your dreams a reality.

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MODERN CUFF

Throwing a chic city affair? Swap bridesmaid bouquets for sleek succulent cuffs that have an of-the-moment spin.

Extra wide statement cuff, $54, AatelierAndrea, Etsy.com >>

CREATED BY L’ATELIER ROUGE,

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LAtelierRouge.com

TIP

A SINGLE SUCCULENT ON A STATEMENT CUFF IS EDGY AND UNEXPECTED.

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Virginia is for lovers.

And there’s lots to love at Pippin Hill.

Especially weddings.

Pippin Hill’s vistas overlooking our lush vineyards and the dreamy Blue Ridge Mountains are complemented by expertly designed event venues. Every detail has been carefully thought through

Jose Villa

to make your wedding seamless. Our Granary is ideal for seated dinners or dancing, and our Veranda is a romantic alfresco option for cocktails. From bridal showers and post-wedding day brunches in the Reserve Room to indoor/outdoor ceremony and reception options, Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards is an all-season, flexible, fullservice venue for the ultimate in wine country weddings. www.pippinhillfarm.com

events@pippinhillfarm.com

434.202.8063

Tec Petaja for Easton Events

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CLASSIC CHAIRBACK

Attach a swag of blooms and greenery to the backs of your and your partner’s chairs.

Guests will know where to find you (if you ever leave the dance floor!). Bonus: If you decide to rock a backless dress, this is a great way to call even more attention to the stunning silhouette.

American classic European dining chair in Gold, $123, Commercial Seating Products, Wayfair.com >>

CREATED BY ÉLAN FLOWERS, ElanFlowers.com

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BOHO ESCORT CARDS

Point guests in the direction of their table with a display of oversize palm leaves, calligraphed with their names.

Attach them to a hanging macramé with gold pineapple pins for an escort card display that doubles as décor.

Pineapple pin, $18, DanielaSigurd, Etsy.com

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CALLIGRAPHY BY JESSICA MCSWEENEY, Jessica-McSweeney.com

F I N D M O R E F LO R A L I D E A S AT TheKnot.com/flowers

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• Complimentary first anniversary cake with each wedding cake order • Creative pies and dessert tables • Decadent wedding cupcake towers • Vegan, eggless, non-dairy, gluten-free or diabetic options available

703-530-8898 • 9685 Liberia Avenue, Unit 107, Manassas, VA 20110 Mon-Sat 9am-8pm AND Sun 10am-5pm

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THE PERFECT VENUE IN THE HEART OF WASHINGTON D.C. A Wedding Day Anchored in Luxury and Love – Just The Way You Imagined Stunning Washington D.C. Views | Superlative Service | Understated Luxury Dedicated Wedding Experts | Private Suite Experience

1500 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington DC 20036, USA T +1 202 483 6000 E dupont@doylecollection.com W doylecollection.com/dupontcircle /DupontCircleHotel

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@DupontCircHotel

@DupontCircHotel

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BE AUT Y & WELLNESS

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beauty for hire

If the idea of putting on eyeliner makes your hand shake, you may want to hire a pro to do your makeup on your wedding day. >>

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Whether it’s strobing, contouring, a smoky eye or a statement lip, when it comes to your wedding day makeup, the possibilities are endless. And unless you’re a makeup aficionado, all those choices can make your head spin. Hiring a professional makeup artist for your wedding day will take the stress out of making sure you’re photo ready. We tapped beauty guru Brittany Lo, the founder and CEO of Beautini, for her tips on finding and working with a makeup artist.

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Get inspired You’ve spent months tearing pages out of wedding magazines and pinning everything you can find for your wedding décor and dress, but your inspiration hunt shouldn’t stop there.

The easiest way to ensure your makeup turns out exactly the way you envision it is by using a reference photo. “Pinterest or bridal magazines and blogs are a perfect place to start,” Lo says.

“Finding photos that reflect a bride’s vision is helpful for an artist to fully understand the desired direction for the look.” Did a celebrity have a major beauty moment on the red carpet you’ve been dying to re-create? Was there a makeup look on the runway that caught your eye? Take those pictures and file them away for your makeup artist to reference. And if you don’t have a specific image in mind, that’s okay too. Just knowing the shades you’d like to incorporate or the feeling you’d like to evoke can help your makeup artist lock down a look you’ll love.

Find the right pro The easiest way to find any pro for your wedding is by asking your friends—nothing beats word of mouth, especially in the world of weddings. Your photographer or hairstylist might also have great suggestions for a makeup artist, since most have worked with some in the past. Our online marketplace is also a great way to connect

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with makeup artists right in your area. You can search by city and state, read reviews from real brides, take a look at artists’ portfolios and save their pictures to your favorites. You can even contact the vendor directly through our site to get an estimate or check if they’re available on your wedding day. Be sure to ask for references before hiring any professional.

Past clients will be able to tell you everything their portfolio can’t, like how they interacted while they worked and if they are punctual and easy to work with and have a positive attitude. Your makeup artist will be with you and your wedding party for hours, so you’ll want to know from past clients if they enjoyed working with them. “Having trust in your makeup artist is key,” Lo says. “It’s okay if you don’t know exactly what look you’re going for.

But if you’re not working with specific inspiration images, it is important to trust that the makeup artist you’re working with can create something you’ll love.”

Schedule your makeup trial You should book your makeup trial immediately after you send your makeup artist your inspiration photos. You’ll want to know early on if the makeup artist you chose is the right fit and if the look you’ve been envisioning will work for you. “Bring inspirational photos of hair and makeup that you like as well as photos of yourself that you like,” Lo says. But remember, your inspiration photo should be just that—inspiration. Be open to suggestions from your makeup artist, especially if you don’t have specific images to reference. They can guide you to a beauty look that complements everything from your features to your wedding color scheme. Other essentials for your makeup trial?

“Makeup products you love wearing on a daily basis and a lipstick that you are looking to incorporate into the look,” Lo says. >>

VIK TORIA STUTZ/ TRUNK ARCHIVE; PREVIOUS PAGE: DAVID OLDHA M/ TRUNK ARCHIVE

BE AUT Y & WELLNESS

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Authentic South & North Indian Cuisine

FROM INTIMATE GATHERINGS TO WEDDINGS & OTHER TRADITIONAL EVENTS We give you the peace of mind to mingle and make memories while we handle all aspects of food preparation, delivery and display. We have dishes to suit every event, and our food is made to order from the finest and freshest ingredients. For catering or dining in, choose Pepper Club for exceptional quality and exceptional taste.

5639 STONE RD CENTREVILLE, VA (CLOSE TO POPULAR WEDDING VENUES IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA) 703-543-7171 • INFO@PEPPERCLUBVA.COM PEPPERCLUBVA.COM

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BE AUT Y & WELLNESS

real talk “You shouldn’t feel bad about speaking up. An artist can’t read your mind, but their top priority is making sure you leave looking fabulous and feeling totally happy.”

The ideal time to schedule your trial is around the time of day your actual wedding will be. If your ceremony is in the morning, have your trial early—that way you can see how the makeup looks in different lighting throughout the day. Take photos from different angles as well, and pay close attention to how your skin reacts to the products they use. Is your mascara flaking off? Does your skin feel irritated or greasy from the foundation? Has your concealer completely disappeared? You want your makeup to be picture perfect, so don’t be afraid to voice all your concerns to your makeup artist—now is the time to do so. “Communication is extremely important,” Lo says. “You’re spending a lot of money for a trial. You shouldn’t feel bad about speaking up about what you like and dislike.

An artist can’t read your mind, but their top priority is making sure you leave looking fabulous and feeling totally happy.” If you don’t like your look after the trial, contact the artist or a representative from their company. Frequently, a company will offer a complementary or discounted second trial. Also, it’s a good idea to time your makeup trial. This way, you’ll have an estimate of how long it will take on the actual wedding day so you can plan accordingly. While you’re there, discuss wedding day logistics. If you’re traveling to your makeup artist, budget extra time. If they’re coming to you, make sure they have a clean space with surfaces to lay out their products and tools, as well as access to multiple outlets and (if possible) natural lighting.

Get made up On the day of your wedding, you should be as relaxed as possible— so leave plenty of time to get ready before the ceremony. It usually takes two to three hours to complete a bride’s hair and makeup.

Something to keep in mind: If the makeup artist is also working with your bridal party, depending on the size of the party, you’ll need to set aside at least an additional two hours for their looks.

If possible, it’s best to hire another person for your party or hire a makeup artist that has an assistant or a team that can work on all of you at the same time. If one pro is working on both you and your bridesmaids, go last so you’ll look fresh in photos. If your bridal party is doing their own hair and makeup, make sure you give general guidelines so they know what you’re envisioning.

ask away Before you book a pro for your wedding day beauty, get need-to-know answers to these questions.

Do you have a portfolio of your work I can look at?

Why you want to know: Whether it’s a traditional portfolio or their profile on Instagram, always look through a makeup artist’s past work before hiring them. This will help you get a feel for their skill level and the types of looks they specialize in.

Will you bring your own products, or will I be responsible for supplying them?

Why you want to know: If you have specific brands or products you never stray from, or if you have allergies to certain products, using your own may be the best bet. For makeup brushes and other tools, a makeup artist will be using a clean brush of their own.

How do you charge?

Why you want to know: If you have a large wedding party, it’s worth looking into a makeup artist who doesn’t charge per person. Logistics like how they charge, the payment method they prefer and when they expect payment should be discussed early so there are no surprises on the day of your wedding.

Do you have a team of assistants?

Why you want to know: Depending on how big your wedding party is, you may need a makeup artist who works with one or more assistants. An artist who has a team can focus on you as the priority and have their assistants work on the rest of your party, minimizing the time it will take for everyone to get ready.

What will happen if you’re sick or have an emergency on my wedding day?

Why you want to know: Emergencies happen all the time, but does your makeup artist have a plan in place if they’re unable to make it? They might have another artist who will replace them or assistants who can take over their duties for the day. Also ask if they will give you a refund in the event they have to cancel.

ALEX ANDRE WEINBERGER/ TRUNK ARCHIVE

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G E T M O R E E X P E RT A DV I C E AT TheKnot.com/beauty

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Host your wedding in

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1350 Okie St NE, Washington DC 20002

DC’s Newest Event Space: Accommodating weddings of all sizes, we offer you a full service event space, including onsite catering, staffing, linen, tables and chairs.

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INDULGE YOUR SENSES Colleen Hendricks | Event Director chendricks@citywinery.com citywinery.com/washingtondc

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Change your name in two easy steps.

The wedding took a lot of work. This part should be easy.

NAME CHANGE

Find out how easy it is to change your name at hitchswitch.com/TheKnot

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10 things bridal consultants want you to know

FASHION

From your first shopping trip to your final fitting, here’s what the pros want you to consider before you hit the salon. >>

BY SHELLEY BROWN PHOTOGR APH BY ERIC KELLEY

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Shop early Take note: A designer wedding gown is custom made to your measurements. It will take months of work to create and a series of alterations to fit your body perfectly. In other words, it’s not the kind of garment you can toss into an online shopping cart and have show up on your doorstep two days later—which is why you should go to a bridal salon to shop for your gown. Book your first appointment 12 to 9 months before your wedding date. (Some designers can accommodate orders in six months or less, but even then, you’re cutting it close.) If you’re shopping closer to your wedding, you may be limited to samples or off-the-rack gowns. And smaller stores may not be able to accommodate last-minute orders.

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Do your research Before you start shopping, think about what style you want.

Consider your venue and body type to narrow that down. Then look through pictures of wedding dresses online and in magazines, and save the styles you like. The Wedding Lookbook by The Knot app (free, iTunes.com) is a great place to begin—you can search thousands of gowns by style and price, and if you find a few you want to try on, you can see which local salons carry your favorites.

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Hidden costs add up Your wedding gown budget includes more than the dress.

Your veil or headpiece, shoes, jewelry, undergarments and alterations (and in some cases, steaming and storing your dress) will also add to your bottom line. Factor in these costs before you give the salesperson your final shopping budget.

FROM TOP: K ATE HEADLEY; CL AIRE HARVEY PHOTOGR APHY

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Always book an appointment While you may get lucky and snag a salesperson just by walking in, scheduling an appointment is the only way to ensure you’ll get a full hour of undivided attention. Also, plan to play hooky to avoid crowds. Going in on a weekday will allow you to hit the stores while crowds are at a minimum. You’ll get much more attention from the sales staff if you shop on a slow Tuesday morning rather than a hectic Saturday afternoon.

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Make requests Just because a bridal salon carries your favorite designer doesn’t mean it will have the exact wedding dress you’ve been wanting to try on. But if you phone in advance and request a specific style, chances are that a salon staffer will be able to call in a sample of that gown ahead of your appointment. >>

local spotlight: hitched The DC bridal shop co-owners share their must-read gown shopping tips.

ABOUT THE EXPERT

PLAN AHEAD

TIME IT RIGHT

BE SPECIFIC

MONEY MAT TERS

Katie Watson and Katelyn White are owners of Hitched, a bridal salon in Washington, DC. The salon carries a variety of well-known bridal designers like Amsale, Lela Rose and Reem Acra.

Once you have a wedding date and venue, that’s a great time to start shopping. Most of our designers recommend buying your gown at least eight months before your wedding date.

Your dress will typically arrive in store three months before your wedding date. Then the tailoring process begins.

You’ll have two to three fittings, depending on the alterations needed.

If a salon carries a designer but doesn’t have the dress you want, they may be able to borrow it for your appointment.

There’s a small shipping fee, but it will be credited toward your purchase.

Salons usually charge for half of the gown up front as a deposit.

The remaining half is due once the gown arrives in store. All gowns are custom ordered, so sales are usually final.

HitchedSalon.com

Facebook.com/hitchedsalon

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@hitchedsalon

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Shop for your shape When trying on dresses, focus less on the number on the scale and more on the general shape and frame of your body. Your weight may be constantly fluctuating, especially if you’re stressed out, so don’t let that be the deciding factor in choosing your dress. Concentrate on finding a silhouette that accentuates the features you love and makes you feel confident.

Limit your entourage You may be tempted to invite all your friends and family to help you shop for your gown, but bringing a big group to the salon is a gown shopping don’t. Enlist one or two of your closest friends or family members to help you start your search. This way you can find the gown that best suits you and your style and not feel pressured by too many conflicting opinions.

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Trust is key Even if a gown doesn’t look amazing on the hanger, that doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t look amazing on you. Be open to what an experienced consultant thinks will flatter your figure and work with your wedding style (after all, they’ve done this before).

Bottom line: The dress you end up loving might be different than what you originally pictured, and that’s okay.

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Don’t get discouraged There are hundreds of bridal designers out there with thousands of designs, which makes your odds of finding a fantastic gown pretty darn good. We know that coming up empty-handed on your first trip can be a letdown, but don’t give up. “The one” for you is definitely out there.

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You’re paying for an experience While shopping online for your dress may seem like the more convenient option, visiting a bridal salon is a once-in-alifetime experience with numerous benefits of its own. For starters, you’ll get face-to-face interaction with a wedding dress expert to help guide you, taking the guesswork out of finding your perfect size and silhouette. Additionally, you have the opportunity to touch and feel the dresses you’re considering, so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Trust us, while dress photos may look dreamy online, there’s a huge difference between high-quality fabrics and embellishments and low-quality ones in person. Practical aspects aside, your salon appointment is first and foremost a special moment. It’s a chance to celebrate your upcoming nuptials, sip bubbly with the people you love and enjoy accomplishing a huge moment in your wedding planning process.

ways to customize your dress Wedding dresses certainly aren’t one style fits all.

On a day when all eyes are on you, opt for a dress that perfectly reflects your personal style.

Add sleeves

Fell in love with a strapless dress but looking for more coverage or support? Ask your stylist about adding sleeves or straps.

Most gowns can be customized with cap sleeves or straps, and many silhouettes can even be altered with long sleeves. Bonus: They’re on trend. Or if you’re looking for a less permanent option that you can switch out between ceremony and reception, consider a jacket or capelet.

Customize your bustle

Every dress with a train needs a bustle, but not many brides know that each bustle is custom made to suit the gown.

These tricky systems of hooks, buttons and ties are designed to pull your train off the floor, and they need to be carefully sewn in a pattern that works with each individual silhouette.

Modify embellishments

You might feel like your dress could use a little more, or even a little less, embellishment.

See how much control you have over the existing details on your dress—can you add more to or remove from certain areas?

Lace it up

Swapping out a zipper for a corset closure adds a romantic finishing touch for brides looking for a dramatic back.

But a corset-style closure isn’t only for looks. If you think you might need extra breathing room, a lace-up back gives you some leeway.

Make it personal

Find a creative way to incorporate “something old, new, borrowed or blue.” Stitch your loved one’s initials in blue inside your bodice, close to your heart, or sew a charm with a special meaning into the hem.

DYANNA L A MOR A PHOTOGR APHY

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G E T M O R E B R I DA L FA S H I O N A DV I C E AT TheKnot.com/fashion

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D R A P I N G | D A N C E F L OORS | STAGING | F URNIT U R E • WEDDING & EVENT DÉCOR • LARGEST LOCAL RESOURCE FOR EVENT DRAPING, WITH OVER 200 COLORS AND FABRICS • SEVERAL STYLES OF DANCE FLOORS, CUSTOMIZABLE STAGES • COCKTAIL AND LOUNGE FURNITURE

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We offer beautiful and functional options to customize any space for any occasion 10621 RIGGS HILL ROAD, JESSUP, MD 20794 240-457-4041 WWW.FABRICATIONEVENTS.COM INFO@FABRICATIONEVENTS.COM

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VANT GARD N V

Discover a world of pure bridal fashion imagination with striking f loral-print dresses, lush textures and whimsical accessories.

PHOTOGR APHY BY LIZ VON HOENE PHOTOGR APHED ON LOCATION AT LADEW TOPIARY GARDENS

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The Iris Garden

LADY OF THE LAKE For a look that’s both polished and fashion forward, top off a classic tulle ball gown with a gauzy, shoulder-baring shrug.

Dress, $7,700, Sabrina Dahan, SabrinaDahan .com; earrings, $7,600, EricaCourtney.com

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The Sculpture Garden

WORK OF ART

Express your personal style in a sequined, watercolor-print gown with an oversize shoulder ruffle.

Dress, $6,600, Rivini at Francesca’s Bridal, FrancescasBridal.com (Lutherville, MD); engagement ring, $2,850 (not including center stone), Monique Lhuillier, BlueNile.com; earrings, $15,920, FernandoJorge.co.uk; shoes, $1,495, ChristianLouboutin.com

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The Great Bowl

INTO THE BLUE Float down the aisle in a flowy nude gown embroidered with cerulean beading.

Dress, $8,800, Rivini, Francesca’s Bridal, FrancescasBridal.com (Lutherville, MD); engagement ring, $3,700 (not including center stone), SylvieCollection.com; earrings, $11,997, Le Vian, Jared.com; tennis bracelet, $3,000, BlueNile.com

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The Great Bowl

PROPORTION PLAY A slim, dropped-waist corset and over-the-top tulle skirt create a striking silhouette that’s as fun as it is dramatic.

Dress, $8,900, Monique Lhuillier at Carine’s Bridal Atelier, CarinesBridal.com (Washington, DC), Betsy Robinson’s Bridal Collection, RobinsonsBridal.com (Baltimore); earrings, $925, JenniferBehr.com ON HIM Suit, $549, BlackLapel.com; shirt, $168, tie, $68, Bonobos.com; wedding band, $1,090, BrilliantEarth.com

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GILT-Y PLEASURE Glittery statement accessories like an embellished headpiece, chandelier earrings and even a hedgehog clutch give off instant glam vibes.

Engagement ring, price upon request, UneekJewelry .com; headpiece, $795, MintLola.com; clutch, $4,995, Judith Leiber, NeimanMarcus.com

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The Allée

ALL AFLUTTER

Butterflies aren’t just a gorgeous way to incorporate nature-inspired details into your wedding look— they also symbolize new beginnings.

Dress, $7,590, Romona Keveza at Carine’s Bridal Atelier, CarinesBridal.com (Washington, DC), Francesca’s Bridal, FrancescasBridal.com (Lutherville, MD); engagement ring, $1,780, ParadeDesign .com; earrings, $2,221, AnabelaChan.com

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The Rose Garden

BLOOMING BAUBLES Layer on whimsical cocktail rings, plus a one-of-a-kind straw boater hat to dress up a simpler frock.

Dress, $6,790, Ines Di Santo, MarkIngramAtelier.com; floral engagement ring, $5,700 (not including center stone), ParadeDesign.com; wedding band, $1,570, KirkKara.com; frog ring, $3,510, butterfly ring, $5,400, EffyJewelry.com; pearl ring, $2,750, VictoriaSix.com; quartz ring, $4,097, Le Vian, Jared.com; pink sapphire ring, $6,335, AnneSisteron.com; hat, $603, AwonGolding.com

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The Rose Garden

NOVEL ROMANCE You don’t have to go by the book where your day-of ensemble is concerned.

Mix it up with allover 3-D appliqués and colorful accessories.

Dress, $2,995, Marchesa Notte, Marchesa .com; engagement ring, $5,225 (not including center stone), CoastDiamond.com; earrings, $345, OscardelaRenta.com; flower hairpins, $85 each, BijouVanNess.com; shoes, $540, SophiaWebster.com ON HIM Suit, $549, BlackLapel.com; shirt, $168, tie, $85, Bonobos.com

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The Croquet Court

HAUTEHOUSE FLOWERS

A dress covered in vibrant blooms is bold and totally of the moment. Just add a sparkly rabbit clutch for good luck.

Dress, $11,995, Naeem Khan, Bergdorf Goodman.com; engagement ring, $1,070 (not including center stone), wedding band, $575, BlueNile.com; birdcage veil, $150, BijouVanNess.com; earrings, $1,827, AnabelaChan.com; clutch, $5,495, Judith Leiber, NeimanMarcus .com; shoes, $995, Marchesa, AKHStudioNY.com

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The Terrace Garden

HIDE AND CHIC

Channel the celebratory vibe of your nuptials with a feathery gown and bedazzled bandeau veil. After all, it doesn’t get more festive than wispy plumes and head-to-toe shimmer.

Dress, price upon request, Mira Zwillinger at Carine’s Bridal Atelier, CarinesBridal .com (Washington, DC); veil, $995, LivHart.com; ON HIM Suit, $549, BlackLapel.com; shirt, $168, tie, $68, Bonobos.com; bunny ears, stylist’s own SPECIAL THANKS TO

Ladew Topiary Gardens Planning your own extraordinary outdoor nuptials? Consider Ladew Topiary Gardens, located near Baltimore.

Established in the 1930s by huntsman and socialite Harvey S. Ladew, the sprawling 22-acre grounds feature over 100 larger-than-life topiaries, which serve as centerpieces for a series of formal garden “rooms.” Named “The Most Outstanding Topiary Garden in America” by the Garden Club of America, Ladew’s stunning greens host around 40,000 visitors per year.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT LadewGardens.com

FASHION STYLING Shelley Brown HAIR Alberto Guzman for Bumble & Bumble at Ray Brown Pro MAKEUP Georgina Billington for By Terry Cosmetics at Judy Casey Inc. PROP STYLING Frederique Stephanie, The Pop Up House

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how to throw a beach wedding Celebrate your love among all things sun, sand and surf.

BY ALYSSA LONGOBUCCO PHOTOGR APHY BY BR ANDON KIDD PHOTOGR APHY

Exchanging vows on a sandy beach is a dream scenario for many couples, and with good reason—you just can’t beat the romantic charm of waves crashing, the sun setting and a soft summer breeze blowing. But, like with any venue, there’s plenty to consider when planning your celebration (possibly even more for beach “I dos”).

Keep these points top of mind to ensure a memorable event. >>

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Ask for permission in advance

Think about vendor access

If you’re hoping to pull off a pop-up wedding on a public beach, think again. Unless you’re getting married on a private spot of sand or beach club property, there are several boxes you’ll need to check off before setting down your altar. You’re most likely going to have to file a permit with the city in order to celebrate on the beach. Register your event at least 30 days ahead of time.

When filing, take note of a few things: How large of a space does your permit allow your event to take up? Does the fee cover an all-day affair or is it an hourly charge? Are things like furniture, alcohol, glass and open flames allowed? Lastly, inquire how many guests the contract permits, as that will dictate both the size of your guest list and how many pros you can have on hand the day of.

A vows-only ceremony on the beach should be fairly headache free, but if your plan is to host an all-night affair, complete with a full reception, you’ll want to give a lot of thought to your vendors and how easily they can access your chosen spot. Most beaches don’t permit vehicles on the sand, meaning all of your reception needs (including tables, chairs and food) will have to be carried to your site. Ease your pros’ stress by keeping your setup close to an approved parking lot or loading zone, which can also make necessities like electricity, a food prep space and a spot for portable rental restrooms much easier to come by. If you really can’t make it work, look into renting several dune buggies day of to help transport goods and keep the setup process streamlined. >>

time it right Here’s how to pick the perfect day to walk down the aisle.

Symbolism

How romantic would it be to marry on the date you met or your grandparents’ anniversary? If you have a special day for you and your partner, search for venues with that in mind.

Season

Weather can affect your wedding’s style, location and mood. Think of what personality you want your day to have (like a boho summer bash), then choose accordingly.

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Price

May, July and December are typically the most popular months to marry, so prices are higher.

Save money by choosing off-peak months like January or March.

VIP preferences

Take a second to consider your most important guests and try to plan your date around their availability. Keep it to your close inner circle, and don’t budge once the date is set.

Holidays

Choose a date around a specific holiday to bottle the spirit already in the air, like a moody Halloween celebration or white winter wonderland event in December.

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creatively planned | expertly coordinated | perfectly designed

2017

PHOTOS BY GENEVIEVE LEIPER PHOTOGRAPHY; JALAPENO PHOTOGRAPHY; KATELYN JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY

W W W. D E S I G N E D - P E R F E C T LY. C O M

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Dress the part

Choose durable décor

You’ll want to keep the vibe of your location in mind when shopping for your and your partner’s attire. What may be well suited for a ballroom affair will likely feel out of place on the beach, so opt for lightweight fabrics, casual silhouettes and, most importantly, practical footwear. No one wants to watch you wobble down the aisle trying to un-stick your stilettos from the sand. Likewise, alert guests to the location on your wedding website and in your invites so they can plan accordingly. Have extras like sunscreen, flip-flops and lightweight wraps available the day of to make sure guests remain comfortable all day long.

A coastal location comes with at-the-ready décor courtesy of Mother Nature, so you won’t have to add much to the scene for a wow-worthy environment. If you’re looking to bring in a few accents of your own, like flowers, lanterns or textiles, make sure to choose sturdier options that can stand up to wind, hot sun and the occasional spray of saltwater. Avoid bouquets or table arrangements that feature delicate blooms, and anchor anything that could take flight with a sudden gust of wind, like the fabric on a chuppah, an aisle runner or flowing tabletop linens.

Mind Mother Nature

Between potential sun-bathing crowds, crashing waves and blustery winds, it can get a bit loud while celebrating your wedding beachside. Make sure guests can hear your vows (and afterward, the DJ) with plenty of amplifying speakers. Your ceremony should be spoken into a microphone, and you can even seat guests in a semicircle around your altar to ensure that no one is out of earshot.

If you’re hiring a videographer to capture the day, make sure they know ahead of time that they’ll be filming on the beach so they can bring the necessary sound equipment. Lastly, be sure to abide by any local sound ordinances or curfews. >>

It goes without saying that any outdoor bash should always come with a plan B in case the weather takes a turn for the worst.

But besides accounting for the possibility of showers, you’ll also need to plan for a few sea-specific snafus. Unless you want a soggy ceremony, make sure you know when high (and low) tide hits your area, as well as when the sun is strongest throughout the day. By timing your ceremony and reception right, you can avoid the possibility of overheated guests or bright reflections off the waves that make it hard for loved ones to see the main event.

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Crank up the volume

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Whatever your vision, we have the capabilities to make your day

EQUIPMENT & LINEN • INFRASTRUCTURE • EVENT DESIGN & PRODUCTION

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Level the playing field Anyone who has been on the beach can tell you, walking on soft sand is tiring. To avoid burning calves and tired legs, work with a vendor to install wooden planks to help guests get from one spot to another (thick seagrass runners are a great inexpensive option too). If you’re planning to host your reception on the sand, look into having a large wood platform on risers as your “flooring”—it will ensure tables and chairs are sturdy and don’t topple over.

Choose an experienced crew Vendor research is super important when planning a celebration in a complicated location. Vet pros based on whether or not they’ve worked in a beach environment before. Your photographer will need to know how to contend with the bright lighting and any reflections off the water, while your catering crew may need to know how to prepare food off-site without a traditional kitchen.

bottle the beach

Prepare to share your space

Add warmth and texture to a tablescape or altar with twisty, weathered driftwood branches.

They’ll instantly evoke a coastal feel and are hearty enough to stand up to the blustery winds common on the beach.

Intersperse them with white blooms for a romantic touch.

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If seclusion is your expectation, you’re better off choosing a private garden or quiet lake. A public beach may be teeming with patrons, and there’s not much you can do to stop them from placing their towels nearby or snapping photos of you in your wedding finery. You can try to keep a handle on the crowd by hanging signs that read “private event,” but you may have to accept onlookers.

Whether you’re actually tying the knot on the sand or just want it to feel like you are, try working in some of these stunning seaside accents.

Driftwood

Sea fan coral

Linen

Pampas grass

The quintessential summer fabric is the perfect casual touch for your attire and décor.

Have members of your wedding party rock relaxed linen shirts or dresses, or drape tables with flowing tablecloths.

Shells

Often found in sun-washed pastel hues or bleached white, sea fan coral is a great way to add dimension to your tabletop. Or find an especially clean piece and top your cake with it. You could also have your cake baker re-create the shape and design with sugar.

Thanks to its fluffy, flowy shape and sandy hue, pampas grass is the perfect “living” accent to a seaside soiree. Have bridesmaids carry it in place of traditional bouquets, or surround your altar with it for an eye-catching display.

Keep things modern and chic by trading craft store white shells for more dynamic mussel or oyster shells. Add them to a greenery table runner or have them calligraphed and use them as escort cards.

I N S P I R E YO U R D É CO R AT TheKnot.com/weddingstyle

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FREDERICKSBURG, RICHMOND, NOVA, CHARLOTTESVILLE 540-841-5964 | WWW.BELLAGIORNATAEVENTS.COM DCMDVATKRSS18_Sect_11_(175_194) [P]{DC}.indd 175

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Photo by 1001 Angles Photography

Begin your journey together at Rockland.

Historic Rockland is a distinguished Virginia estate in the bucolic countryside of Loudoun County. Rockland’s resplendent Southern architecture, sweeping meadow views of grazing cattle, canopies of mature oaks and the lure of pools and garden paths make this venue a magical and picturesque setting for weddings and important celebrations. All of this is less than an hour from Washington, D.C. One visit and you’ll dream of this backdrop as the starting point of your journey together.

Rockland Historic

Photo by Scott Fracasso

a special wedding and event venue

www.historicrockland.com 16306 Rockland Lane, Leesburg, VA 20176 contact@historicrockland.com | 908-310-9891

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your catering checklist

Whether you’re planning a delicious buffet or a seven-course sit-down dinner, you’ll want to abide by these important tips. >>

BY ALYSSA LONGOBUCCO PHOTOGR APH BY PATRICIA HE AL

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Dreaming up your wedding reception menu can be one of the most fun (and important) parts of the planning process, especially if you and your partner are big foodies. A large portion of your budget will be put toward feeding your guests—you’ll want make sure everyone ends the night happy and well-fed. From booking your food pro to creating a menu to remember, here are six questions you should ask yourself to ensure you get it right.

Is your caterer legit?

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Have they worked at your venue before?

Hiring a caterer who has prepped food at your venue for previous events can make the day run more smoothly and efficiently.

A repeat team will already be in the know about the available cook space on-site and what your venue supplies, so they’ll have a clear idea of what additional gear may be needed (this is especially important if you’re celebrating at a nontraditional venue, like a barn or a vineyard, where an entire kitchen may have to be brought in). If you’re really pulling for a catering team that hasn’t worked in the space before, see if they can arrange a walk-through of the venue and get a sense of the available equipment at least a month beforehand so they’re fully prepared the day of your event.

What does your package include?

There are a lot of different things to consider before signing on the dotted line. Catering packages can vary, so make sure you leave your initial meeting with a concrete idea of what your caterer includes in theirs. For instance, is your quoted price based on the specific foods or dishes you choose, or is it an all-inclusive rate (which typically includes an appetizer, a salad, an entree and a dessert, plus coffee service and, in some cases, wine for each guest)? Also, unless you’re going with an outside mixology team, work alcohol service into your contract and your catering plans.

Talk through the tiers of alcohol coverage, what brands will be served and whether there’s a corkage fee if you provide your own wine or champagne. When it comes to must-have items like plates, napkins, silverware and more, ask if they’ll be bringing those and whether they or the venue are in charge of setup and breakdown.

Lastly, inquire as to whether waitstaff is provided. Most caterers work with their own staff, but it’s good practice to check. >>

FROM TOP: K T MERRY PHOTOGR APHY; J THOM AS PHOTOGR APHY

Whether you’re working with the team provided by your reception venue or are planning on bringing in an outside crew from your favorite barbecue joint, you’ll want to make sure your caterer is licensed for both food and liquor. This means they’ve met important local health department standards for food prep and service and carry liability insurance for both the food and the alcohol they’ll be serving, ensuring no responsibility falls on your shoulders (or your venue’s) if something goes wrong the day of.

local spotlight: zeffert and gold catering The Baltimore catering crew gives its tips for a fulfilling (and delicious) wedding menu.

ABOUT THE EXPERT

TRY FRESH TRENDS

GET PERSONAL

EAT LOCAL

KEEP IT SWEET

Matt Gold is the head event designer at Zeffert and Gold, a catering and planning firm serving Baltimore and the Washington, DC, area specializing in weddings and other events.

I’m loving tasting menus.

We’ve been designing menus that include lots of flavors and cuisines— guests tend to be more adventurous eaters when given these offerings, and our clients love it.

I wish more couples asked us to create menu items with meaning to them.

It could be a dish that represents where they met or nods to where they’re going on their honeymoon.

Share your personality!

Incorporating regional (and seasonal) ingredients is key to making the perfect wedding menu.

Ask your caterer—they’ll know which flavors will really wow your guests during your time of year.

I can’t get enough of fresh, hot doughnuts at weddings. We do a doughnut bar where we fry them right there, then let guests choose their toppings. Who doesn’t like fried doughnuts?

ZeffertandGold.com

Facebook.com/zeffertandgold

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@baltimorecater

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Where futures begin A wedding starts a new chapter of life and yours should begin in a space that inspires you and your guests. In DC, no place inspires like the Ronald Reagan Building. Celebrations are what we do, day in and day out. Our experienced team will ensure your day is all that you’ve ever imagined. We’ll focus on the details so you can focus on your future. Let your future begin with us.

www.itcdc.com

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Can you sample their menu in advance?

Researching caterers through reviews and sample menus is a great start, but taste-testing the food yourself is a must-do (and delicious!) part of the process. Sitting down for a tasting session before your wedding day will help you and your caterer plan out a cohesive menu and eliminate any dishes that don’t suit your tastes. Be sure to ask what date your caterer needs to know your final menu choices and guest head count by. Then, base your RSVP date on that, to ensure that all responses from guests are in at least two weeks before your catering head count is due to their team.

Do you have the same vision?

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What kind of meal appeals to you?

Depending on the vibe and formality of your event, there are plenty of tasty choices to consider when it comes to serving your guests.

If you want a constantly bustling party, a dinner of passed apps and interactive stations may work for you. Looking for something more formal? A sit-down dinner is always on trend. Want guests to interact with their surroundings? You may want to hire foodie entertainment like a flair bartender, ballerinas to serve champagne or even a few bow-tie-clad oyster shuckers. Whatever feels right for your day, make sure your catering team is on board to execute. Staffing and equipment needs can vary greatly between a buffet meal and multicourse plated dinner, so plan your style from the get-go in case it affects the overall cost of the services.

Can they handle food allergies?

Depending on your guests’ needs, there may be special dietary restrictions your caterer should plan in advance for. Ask your team if they’re able to prepare vegetarian, gluten-free, kosher or halal meals if guests should request or need them, and what the additional cost per plate may be. While you’re at it, if you’re planning on having children at your reception, ask about including a kid-friendly menu or smaller portions. You’ll also want to learn about meal options for serving wedding pros the day of (a must).

5 alternatives to a traditional sit-down meal Plated service isn’t the only option. Personalize your meal with one of these fun (and tasty) swaps.

A movable feast

All action eats

Family style

Drive-in dinner

Skip the seats and instead delight your guests with a bevy of passed plates piled high with hearty appetizers and filling finger foods for a constant cocktail party atmosphere.

Top your tables with platters of mains (like fish, steak and chicken) and yummy sides, then let guests pass around the plates and serve themselves. It’s a great way to keep the conversation flowing.

European family style

Similar to traditional family style, except each guest selects their main meal course and only the side dishes are shared among the guests.

For a meal that feeds and entertains at the same time, create a culinary circuit of action stations serving interactive foods like make-your-own burgers, tacos, pasta, sushi and more.

Round up a few of your favorite food mobiles and serve guests truck-side for a charming picnic-style event. Be sure your venue has an accessible gravel patch for the vehicles, as well as electrical access.

ANGEL A NEW TON ROY PHOTOGR APHY

You want your wedding day to be a reflection of you and your partner, so your reception menu should be too. If you have a particular cuisine in mind, seek out a caterer who specializes in it.

They’ll not only boast all the right resources (like the perfect shop to secure that French cheese you love for cocktail hour), but also know how to properly prepare and serve specialty dishes on a large scale, promising a better and tastier event. Expecting a Southern barbecue crew to execute a traditional Italian menu probably isn’t going to end well for anyone, so inquire ahead of time about your top pick’s cuisine specialties and ask to see sample menus.

F I N D YO U R C AT E R E R AT TheKnot.com/marketplace

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Briar Patch Bed & Breakfast Inn

Make your Wedding an Historic Event • Breathtaking country setting • Beautiful event building for up to 200 • Outstanding accommodations in 12 bedrooms

www. B r iar P atc h B and B .co m 703.327.5911 I info@BriarPatchBandB.com | 23130 Briar Patch Lane I Middleburg, VA 20117

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a luxurious estate wedding and private events venue GREATMARSHWEDDINGS.COM FAUQUIER COUNTY, VA | 703-665-3828 | INFO@GREATMARSHESTATE.COM

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get the picture Put these direct-from-the-pros tips to work to ensure you get images you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

BY ALYSSA LONGOBUCCO PHOTOGR APHY BY COCO TR AN

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There’s no more prized keepsake from your wedding day than the photos that remain. It’s important to know what to do—and ask—to ensure you hire the right pro for your day. We’ve tapped three industry experts to give you the lowdown on everything to keep in mind for a wow-worthy wedding album. >>

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Play to your photographer’s strengths First and foremost, hire a photographer who has the same vision as you and your partner. Whether you love the soft, timeless look of film, desire fly-on-the-wall candid shots or must have formal posed portraits, hiring a pro who specializes in exactly what you’re looking for will ensure you’re off to a good start. “It’s important that the photographer and the couple are on the same page about what they value in wedding photographs,” says Kate Ignatowski, a fine art wedding and portrait photographer in Richmond, Virginia, and New York City. “If candid moments are especially important to the couple, they should intentionally seek out a photographer whose portfolio is filled with the types of moments they want to see reflected in their own wedding photographs.”

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Don’t skip the engagement session Think of an engagement session as a second date with your photographer (the first date should be an informational phone call). This is your chance to get comfortable in front of the lens and get to know your pro and how they prefer to work. “My biggest advice to couples is not to skip the engagement session,” says Elizabeth Fogarty, a fine art wedding photographer based in Washington, DC. “Awkward always shows, so this is your time to get comfortable in front of the camera and figure out your best angles—we all have them.” Keep it casual with one or two meaningful shoot locations, and ask your photographer to seek out somewhere quiet if you’re especially camera shy. Otherwise, trust that they’ll be able to warm you up and get you feeling like a natural. “Posing is very much a photographer’s job,” says Jen Huang, a fine art wedding photographer in New York City.

“There’s no need to practice before the engagement session because you’ll want to be as authentic as possible. I try to direct couples cinematically so their natural moments can emerge.”

Dress like you’re out on a date

Put your pro’s knowledge to use

Choosing that oh-so-important outfit for your engagement session can be tough, so focus on a coordinating palette of solids for you and your partner that you both feel natural in. “I always tell my couples to wear something they would naturally find themselves in on a date night,” Huang says. “Everyone has a different look and style, but typically this means women are in neutral fabrics that are comfortable and flowy, while grooms are in tailored suits.

Their outfits should match in the sense that if one of them is wearing something casual, the other shouldn’t be in formalwear.”

Be conscious of keeping your look in line with your shoot location—if you’re planning an engagement session on a sailboat, you’re probably not going to want to don a sequin skirt.

Your photographer has likely been in the wedding industry for a while, so use them when researching and deciding on other vendors to bring on board. They’ll be able to recommend who can help you achieve a certain look or identify the creator of a gorgeous centerpiece you spotted in their portfolio. “To make sure my clients receive the best images they can, I try to advise on all aspects of the wedding,” Huang says. “This includes helping select their team of vendors—if I know how the other vendors will operate on a wedding day, I can work seamlessly with them.” They’ll be encountering everyone involved, from your florist to the DJ, so see what they think of your hired team. Their opinion doesn’t have to be the be-all and end-all, but it’s a good place to start. >>

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Create a solid day-of timeline

Be upfront about your expectations

“The wedding timeline is key for a smooth day,” Fogarty says.

“Allowing enough time for each part of the wedding day is crucial to getting those amazing images.” Ensure your photographer doesn’t miss a moment of the action by setting specific parameters for what, and when, you want them shooting on your wedding day. If you want pictures of everything from morning bagels to the night’s last call, you may need to work overtime hours into your contract. Past that, setting aside at least an hour and a half for couples’ portraits, shots of the wedding party and family formal portraits will eliminate any need to rush. Another thing to consider? A first look. “I always encourage couples to do one,” Fogarty says. “It allows them to have alone time together while taking it all in—the wedding day flies by so quickly, and this is a great way to slow it down. Besides getting more portraits in, it also means you can actually enjoy your cocktail hour with your guests.”

From the moment you engage your photographer, encourage an open dialogue with them regarding everything from your contract to portrait locations and a preferred shot list. The more upfront you are about your needs and wants for your wedding day, the more you and your photographer can course-correct and make sure you’re working in a way that will surpass your expectations for the day.

“I try to encourage my clients to tell me everything they need me to capture as soon as it pops into their head,” Huang says. “Figure out your priority shots—the things you really want captured as opposed to the things that are maybe a little less important to you.

This way, if there’s a time crunch, I’ll know which types of images I should focus on.” Beyond the wedding day, make sure your written contract encompasses all the necessary details, like how many images you’ll get, the expected turnaround time and whether or not your package includes physical prints or an album.

Plan for the light

Don’t try to control everything

When sketching out your day-of timeline, it’s important to factor in “golden hour,” that coveted time of day that photographers love to shoot during because of the amazing results it produces.

“Shooting in the best light possible makes all the difference, for both engagement shots and wedding day portraits,” Ignatowski says. “A foolproof tip is to schedule about an hour and half before sunset for an engagement session and to start portraits about an hour before sunset on your wedding day, depending on how much time you need to allot.” Send your photographer images from the walk-through of your wedding site and they can advise on the best time and locations based on when the sun will set that day.

You can prep all you want, but when your wedding day comes, you’ll need to relinquish control to your photographer and trust that you’re in good hands. You hired this person, so allow them to do their job. Trying to get too prescriptive with your shot list or your photographer’s work can mean that they may have to neglect more genuine, special shots, so let go and let them do their thing.

“Trying to re-create that Pinterest-perfect image you love means we may be missing out on authentic moments, like your mom holding your veil or your bridesmaids tearing up,” Fogarty says. “Trust your photographer and their eye—if you let your story unfold naturally, your photographer will capture it beautifully.”

H I R E YO U R D R E A M P RO AT TheKnot.com/dc-md-va

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Imagine Your Dream Wedding Here.

Early Mountain Vineyards offers natural beauty, warm and inviting facilities, and all the perfect amenities for your dream wedding. Imagine grapes hanging heavy on rows of vines disappearing over the horizon to foothills where an expansive view of the Blue Ridge Mountains stretches out in front of your vineyard wedding. Spacious enough for large groups, yet intimate for private gatherings, Early Mountain Vineyards provides the perfect backdrop for a day you’ll never forget.

Visit us to start planning your dream wedding.

earlymountain.com

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Rebekah J. Murray Photography Stephanie Dee Photography

Picture Perfect Weddings

Warrenton, VA • 540-347-1300

airlie.com/weddings

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Freebird Imagery

Stunning settings.

Gourmet menu selections.

Experienced wedding professionals.

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THE IDEA

flower wall

a true-to-you “I do” Bring new life to traditional ceremony elements with these fresh ideas.

BY ALYSSA LONGOBUCCO PHOTOGR APH BY ABBY JIU PHOTOGR APHY

You’re probably teeming with ways to personalize every inch of your wedding reception, but if you haven’t given much thought to doing the same for your ceremony, you should.

There’s a slew of inspiration that ups the fun and will make it a ceremony to remember. >>

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THE IDEA

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confetti toss

Commission a jaw-dropping backdrop

Start your marriage with a bang

You’ll already be the center of attention at the altar, but make the moment even more powerful by saying your vows in front of a wow-worthy backdrop. Forgo the traditional arch or urns in place of a floral wall display or modern painting behind you and your partner. Ask your planner to choose an idea that speaks to the personality of your wedding (like a macramé hanging for a boho bash). Or, have a visual artist create something unique for you to hang in your home afterward as a sweet reminder of the day.

Or a boom, or a spray of confetti. Couples are going the extra mile when it comes to recognizing the moment they’re pronounced officially wed. Ring in newlywed life just like you’d ring in the New Year by arranging for confetti cannons, colorful smoke “bombs” or fireworks to go off when you seal your union with a kiss. Or, involve guests by putting poppers at each seat for them to erupt when you smooch. A bit over the top? Sure! But if there’s ever a time to be beaming beneath rainbow-hued confetti, this is it. >>

5 old-school traditions you can skip Reinvent the wheel by saying “no” to some of these old stand-bys.

Rock whatever you want.

For your wedding day attire, anything goes for you and your partner— from a traditional ivory gown to a retro short dress, slinky sheath or a black pantsuit. Make it colorful or make it casual—as long as you feel fabulous in your outfit.

A two-color palette

Your wedding can have as many (or as few) colors as you want. The trick is to make sure they work together by using multiple neutrals or colors in the same family of shades (think: a trio of warm hues like pink, orange and yellow, or a quiet palette of white, cream and blush).

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Gender-separate wedding parties

You don’t have to confine your list of VIPs to your female friends (and vice versa for grooms), so feel free to have a bridesman or a groomswoman.

Coordinate their looks with the rest of the party with accessories like a colorful bow tie or sash.

Staying apart A long white veil until you say “I do” You don’t have to wear a This superstition has long been proven false, so there’s nothing stopping you if you want to do a first-look photo shoot to free up more time after the ceremony so you can enjoy your cocktail hour. (Bonus: It can also help prewedding jitters.)

long white veil—or any veil at all. Break away from the standard tulle headpiece by swapping it with a chic jeweled headband, romantic flower crown or sparkly hair clips. Or you could just leave your hair down with nothing in it at all (you rebel, you).

EMILY DEL A M ATER PHOTOGR APHY

The white dress

11/17/17 8:34 AM

VisitLoudoun.org/Weddings

Discover why so many couples are tying the knot in the heart of DC’s Wine CountryŽ. With an array of settings that range from gorgeous wineries and rustic barns to historic estates, magnificent resorts and country clubs, Loudoun is the perfect place to get married and create memories that will last a lifetime. Find your perfect venue during the Weddings in Loudoun Open House on March 11, 2017. Go to VisitLoudoun.org/Weddings to plan your wine country wedding today!

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THE IDEA

nighttime ceremony

Have a nighttime ceremony Up the romance factor of your wedding day by structuring your timeline so you say “I do” after the sun goes down. It may take a bit of logistical rearranging (for instance, you may want to do your cocktail hour first, followed by your ceremony and your reception), but we can’t think of anything sweeter than reciting your vows in a candlelit room or under a starry sky, surrounded by loved ones.

A nighttime ceremony is especially apt if you’re hoping to lend a moodier overall vibe to your wedding day. Luxe accents like rich velvet, inky black bridesmaid dresses and gorgeous burgundy florals will be right at home at dusk. Swoon!

sweet surprise Task a few honored attendees with choosing readings that remind them of you as a couple, and allow yourself to be surprised by them when they share them aloud on your wedding day.

THE IDEA

pre-vow cocktails

For couples not abiding by a religious ceremony structure and text, the possibilities for personalization through your reading selection are endless. In the months leading up to your wedding, be on the lookout for passages, verses or poems that speak to you as a couple.

If you have a poem or set of song lyrics you love, consider asking a friend to recite them at the ceremony for you. Or, task a few honored attendees with choosing readings that remind them of you as a couple and allow yourself to be surprised by them (and caught up in the moment) on your wedding day.

Serve preceremony cocktails Kick your wedding day off right by passing out preceremony sips for your guests to enjoy while they await your big reveal. This is a great place to introduce your signature cocktail for the evening, or speak to your reception’s overall vibe with a pick that’s indicative of what’s to come (like mini wine flights at a vineyard or a selection of boozy lemonades to hint at the casual southern BBQ you have planned for the reception meal). You could also keep it classic and greet guests with mini bottles of champagne or prosecco. Tie cute paper straws and a tag onto each bottle, instructing guests to pop the cork when you kiss. Then have waitstaff pass out the bubbly in preparation for the big moment. >>

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FROM TOP: REBECC A ARTHURS PHOTOGR APHY; SHANNON VON ESCHEN PHOTOGR APHY

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Choose personalized readings

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Let us host your

SPECIAL DAY Make the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant your wedding destination.

Located just footsteps from George Washington’s historic estate, the Mount Vernon Inn is an ideal location for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, and much more.

703.780.0011 | mountvernon.org/inn

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Do a guest processional

Savvy couples are moving beyond the traditional two-sided aisle setup to layouts that feel more intimate. Just because you come from two families doesn’t mean you need your guests to sit on separate sides. Encourage mixing and mingling by arranging seating in an arch or semicircle, with the altar centered in the middle. It creates more “front row” seating and fosters a warm environment that will leave you and your partner feeling the love.

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Set up alternative seating

THE IDEA

alternative seating

love language Coming up with words meaningful enough for your vows can be intimidating. Here are a few tricks to help you speak from your heart in the moment.

Read samples

Start by reading by-the-book vows from your own religion if you practice a certain faith, and others as well, to see what strikes a chord with you. Incorporate these samples into the original words you write, or simply use them as a jumping-off point. Once you’ve found a few you and your partner love, consider what it is about them that draws you to those vows in particular.

Define the details

Decide how you want your vows to come across, both in tone and structure. Do you envision them being funny and lighthearted or poetic and romantic?

Talk through the logistics too. Will you write them separately or together?

Will they be different or will you include the same promises to each other, like in traditional vows?

Finally, will you share them with each other beforehand or keep them secret until the wedding?

Avoid clichés

Borrow from books, spiritual texts and even movies, but don’t let someone else’s words overpower your own.

You want your vows to sound like you, and that won’t happen if every word is borrowed from other sources. If you find yourself relying on cliché phrases to get your point across (like “Love is blind”), come up with a specific example from your relationship that has a similar message.

Keep it short

Your vows are important, but that doesn’t mean they should drag on. Pick the most important points and make them. If yours are running longer than two minutes, make some edits. Put some of the more personal or intimate thoughts in a letter to gift to your partner on the morning of your wedding, and save any guest-related topics, like thank-yous or shout-outs, for your toasts later on.

FROM LEF T: GR AHA M TERHUNE PHOTOGR APHY; CLY BY M AT THEW

It’s tradition for the groom, wedding party and then bride and a parent (often her father or a father figure) to walk down the aisle, and if you don’t want to miss out on that classic moment, that’s fine. However, if you’re up for something a bit different, why not turn things on their head and have your guests walk toward you?

Mix up the classic entrance by awaiting your guests at the altar, while the guests themselves walk to you and your partner and take their seats. It’s a powerful way to make loved ones feel extraimportant, and you’ll get an up-close look at the happiness on their faces as they see you for the first time and prepare to witness your vows. This is also a great option for same-sex couples that may not identify as much with a traditional processional. If you choose to do a guest processional, make sure to clearly state your intentions in your wedding program and post several in-the-know ushers around the ceremony space to help guests figure out what to do.

F I N D M O R E C E R E M O N Y I D E A S AT TheKnot.com/ceremony

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party perfect Your wedding is bound to be a blast with smart ways to keep guests mixing, mingling and having fun.

BY ALYSSA LONGOBUCCO PHOTOGR APH BY K ATE EDWARDS WEDDINGS

“I do” is about more than uniting you and your spouse in marital bliss—it’s the melding of your family and friends into one large, boisterous group. Whether your loved ones are complete strangers to each other or old friends, they’ll appreciate the attention to detail you pay to their wedding day experience. Ensure your bash goes down as the most fun ever with these tips to keep them entertained the entire weekend. >>

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PARTY PERFECT cont.

Throw a welcome party HILTON ALEXANDRIA MARK CENTER 5000 SEMINARY ROAD, ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA, 22311 TEL: 703-845-1010

Kick off your wedding weekend with a bang by hosting all your favorite people at a casual prewedding mixer a night or two before the main event. If you’re having a destination wedding, reserve a spot that represents all that’s special about your locale, and serve a laid-back menu of local eats and beverages. Or choose a favorite restaurant on your home turf to share with your guests. This gathering is also a great opportunity to introduce any family members or friends who don’t already know each other—this way, everyone will feel like old pals by the time your wedding reception rolls around.

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Create a swag suite

NEW BEGINNINGS START AT HILTON. Set in a landscape of tranquil ponds and leafy glades in sight of Washington’s historic monuments, the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center offers an elegant venue for your wedding reception and ceremony. This atriumstyle hotel makes your wedding dreams come alive with stylish wedding banquet space and impeccable service that ensure your wedding day is filled with joy. Every detail of your celebration is thoughtfully considered and completely personalized to reflect you. You deserve the best, and we at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center always reach for perfection!

Call now to speak with our catering professional to hear about our wedding packages and ask about our special promotions.

Please contact our wedding specialist at 703-845-2622 or sales@hiltonalexandriamc.com.

Based on availability. Prices subject to change. Other restrictions may apply.

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Take the idea of a welcome bag up a notch by transforming the thoughtful concept into a full-blown welcome lounge. Instead of stuffing gift bags and delivering them to your guests’ hotel rooms, let them do the (fun!) work by setting up tables of amazing goodies, like late-night snacks, drinks and artisanal treats, and let them fill a personalized tote bag with all of their favorite things. You, your partner and your wedding party can set up the station in a hotel suite or outside at a tent to greet friends and family the evening before the wedding and get a bit more face time in with guests.

Offer icebreakers Help guests get to know one another by incorporating lighthearted, engaging icebreakers into your wedding day. Get as creative as you’d like—from party crackers at each place setting with questions hidden inside to “bride” and “groom” buttons guests can wear to designate whose family they’re representing. Or task a few of your most lively, outgoing friends to act as table ambassadors (this is a great job for ushers and groomsmen). >>

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SPECIAL

/'speSHəl/ adjective 1. better, greater, or otherwise different from what is usual.

Photo: John Heredia Photography

Photo: Ken Pak Photography

Photo: Exclamation Imagery

Awesome, Awesome,

AWESOME!

Phone 703.910.4273 info@harbourviewevents.com facebook.com/harbourviewevents www.HarbourViewEvents.com

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This venue is

STUNNING!

Photo: Bulloss Photography

Contact us to discover why our couples rate us one of the best places in Northern Virginia to get married.

2017

The staff is beyond

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PARTY PERFECT cont.

They can move from table to table ensuring everyone has met one another and is having a ball. The goal: Make conversation and camaraderie easy to come by for a reception that will have everyone feeling appreciated and included.

Hire interactive vendors

Everything else is second nature.

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You come first…

Encourage guests to engage with their surroundings at your wedding reception by hiring a few standout vendors to delight the group while they’re serving, feeding or pouring. A flair bartender is always a great option (your guests will love the flaming cocktails and high-flying glass tricks), while more off-beat ideas, like a roaming ice cream cart or an oyster-shucking station, can feel playful and personalized to your event theme. Food trucks are another great way to get guests moving around, so consider hiring a few for a four-wheel dessert display or cocktail hour.

get familiar Make conversation and camaraderie easy to come by for a reception that will have everyone feeling appreciated and included.

Create a conversation corner

Featuring 4 picturesque venues

Boulder Ridge Lodge Alpine Lodge The New Highland Lodge Fairway Springs *Coming soon! libertymountainresort.com • 717-642-8282 Located just north of the Maryland border and 8 miles south of historic Gettysburg in Carroll Valley, PA.

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Give everyone a place to take a load off between dance breaks by creating a lounge area at your reception. Ask your planner to style it with comfy couches, plush pillows and a coffee table or two for guests to place their drinks on. It’s the perfect way to keep everyone engaged in the party even when they’re resting or uninterested in dancing, plus it helps to fill any unused space in an especially large venue. Really want to wow everyone? Close off the lounge areas with sheer curtains to create a clublike vibe. >>

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AND THEY LIVED HAPPILY EVER AFTER Heritage Hunt Golf & Country Club is the perfect location for your special day. From grand affairs to intimate gatherings, we have the perfect setting for your storybook event.

Call us today for a tour! 703-743-2005 Photo credit: Jessica Green Photography 6901 Arthur Hills Drive, Gainesville, VA 20155 | www.heritagehunt.net | An Associa CMC & Up to Par Managed Property

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W H AT D O E S Y O U R D R E A M L O O K L I K E ?

PARTY PERFECT cont.

THE TOASTS WILL BE INSPIRING. BUT THE FEELINGS WILL BE INDESCRIBABLE. BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY AT THE WESTIN VIRGINIA BEACH TOWN CENTER, WHERE NEW BEGINNINGS ARE ALWAYS CELEBRATED.

I N F O R M AT I O N & R E S E R VAT I O N S WWW.WESTINVIRGINIABEACH.COM OR 1-757-557-0550

Party old-school Everyone loves a good party game, so be sure to plan on including a few in your cocktail hour and reception. Lawn games like badminton, horseshoes, cornhole and oversize Jenga are great for outdoor celebrations, while classics like wedding Mad Libs, a photo booth, a piñata or even a caricature artist will be a hit if your party is indoors. Encourage a little friendly competition by posting a chalkboard scoreboard near a game like ladder ball and letting playful rivalries form between guests.

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Get social When in doubt, let social media do the mingling work for you. There are a slew of new apps that are dedicated to helping wedding guests get to know one another and enjoy their evening. Guesterly helps you create a completely customized photo guide of all your guests, which you can then supply printed or digitally for the ultimate who’s who party roster. The process is fairly easy; guests receive a link to a questionnaire they complete before the event. Each mention in the lookbook includes a photo, a bio and some details on each person, so everyone feels welcome and instantly involved. Have a lot of single friends coming to your celebration? Try out SinglesTable, which aims to play Cupid ahead of your “I dos” by giving unhitched friends a place to mix and mingle virtually before they meet IRL on the dance floor.

Create a profile at SinglesTable.co, and share the private code with guests on your wedding website. They can download the app, view profiles and chat up fellow attendees before your wedding. Who knows—they could be the next ones to walk down the aisle.

F I N D M O R E E N T E RTA I N M E N T O PT I O N S AT TheKnot.com/marketplace

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Rustic Charm.

Modern Elegance.

Exactly1 You1.

Designed with your expectations for both comfort and refinement in mind, 1757 offers you and your guests an extraordinary setting for your wedding.

Director of Sales, Kelsey Baron, looks forward to sharing more with you about hosting your special day at 1757.

1757golfclub.com kbaron@1757golfclub.com 703.444.0901 x 1717 tel 45120 Waxpool Road | Dulles, VA 20166

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Jen Lynne Photography; Gown: Francesca Miranda/Dimitra’s Bridal Couture

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SEEING IS BELIEVING Come see our sophisticated, yet comfortable venue and sample our amazing cuisine from our scratch kitchen.

Schedule your appointment today.

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PHOTO BY A. MORALIS PHOTOGRAPHY

Washington DC | North Bethesda, MD 240-630-3230 202-625-2800

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Magical

Nestled in the beautiful rolling Maryland countryside, these award-winning gardens are an extraordinary setting for your most special day.

WWW.LADEWGARDENS.COM | LADEWGARDENS@ELIZABETHBAILEYWEDDINGS.COM | 443.519.5062

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BUZZ

a note of thanks Drop in a bit of gratitude to thank guests for coming and provide a timeline for the weekend’s events.

a map of the area Point guests in the direction of your favorite local attractions for them to enjoy during downtime.

something local Nod to your wedding locale or hometowns with a regionally sourced treat, like Vermont maple syrup.

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branded details Dress up your basket’s contents with your signature crest or accents reminiscent of your stationery palette.

a warm greeting The next best thing to saying “hello” in person is a basket filled with items to make their stay more enjoyable.

anatomy of a gift basket Greet out-of-town guests with a sweet welcome.

late-night snacks Cookies, candy and chips will all be big hits with guests looking for a midnight treat postreception.

something extra Add a unique touch, like a sachet filled with dried lavender as a nod to your engagement in France.

PHOTOGR APH BY CORBIN GURKIN

Show your appreciation for loved ones who have traveled near and far to attend your wedding by greeting them with a thoughtful welcome basket. Pack it with everything they’ll need to enjoy the weekend’s celebrations, plus a few personalized touches.

F I N D M O R E G U E S T G I F T I D E A S AT TheKnot.com/favors

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PERRY WARREN of Frizzles HAIR AND MAKEUP EXPERT HAIR and MAKEUP expert Perry

Warren

of

Frizzles

combines his experience in fashion, pictorial spreads, and formal training along with the quality products utilized to produce customized hair and makeup designs. Intent on ensuring beauty for the bride and everyone involved on the day of the wedding, choosing Perry Warren as your hair and makeup artist will keep you looking and feeling beautiful from the start of ceremony to the end of the reception.

chmd-by-perrywarren.com | 703.626.9638 6733 Commerce St., Springfield, VA

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make it legal

Maryland, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, Marriage License Requirements

GUIDELINES FOR OBTAINING A MARRIAGE LICENSE In Maryland, Northern Virginia and DC, the legal age for marriage is 18. Applicants under 18 must have parental consent or may have to be present in some courts. Residency is not required. In Maryland, either the bride or groom can apply for a marriage license, but in Northern Virginia and DC, both the bride and groom must be present to apply for and sign the license. In Maryland, the couple must marry within the county where they register, and there is a two-day waiting period to obtain the license. In DC, there is a three-day waiting period. In Virginia, there is no waiting period, but the license is valid for 60 days. The fee for a marriage license ranges from $30 to $85, and methods of payment vary from county to county. All offices are open Monday through Friday. Identification and paperwork requirements vary by county, so call ahead to get all of the details.

WHERE TO APPLY

MARYLAND ••••••••••••••••••••

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Anne Arundel County 7 Church Cir. Annapolis, MD 21401 (410) 222-1397 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

City of Baltimore 100 N. Calvert St., Rm. 628 Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 333-3780 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Baltimore County County Clerk 401 Bosley Ave., Fl. 2 Towson, MD 21204 (410) 887-2607 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Calvert County 175 Main St. Prince Frederick, MD 20678 (410) 535-1600 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Carroll County 55 N. Court St., Rm. G8 Westminster, MD 21157 (410) 386-2026 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Charles County 200 Charles St. La Plata, MD 20646 (301) 932-3308 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Frederick County 100 W. Patrick St. Frederick, MD 21701 (301) 694-1964 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Harford County 20 W. Courtland St. Bel Air, MD 21014 (410) 638-4866 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Howard County 9250 Bendix Rd. Columbia, MD 21045 (410) 313-5850 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Montgomery County 50 Maryland Ave., Rm. 111 Rockville, MD 20850 (240) 777-9460 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Prince George’s County 14741 Gov. Oden Bowie Dr., Rm. L-15 Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 (301) 952-3288 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

VIRGINIA ••••••••••••••••••••

City of Alexandria Circuit Court Clerk 520 King St., Rm. 307 Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 838-4044 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Arlington County 1425 N. Courthouse Rd., Ste. 6700 Arlington, VA 22201 (703) 228-4510 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

City of Chesapeake Circuit Court Clerk 307 Albemarle Dr., Ste. 300A Chesapeake, VA 23322 (757) 382-3000 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Chesterfield County Circuit Court Clerk 9500 Courthouse Rd. Chesterfield, VA 23832 (804) 748-1241 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Fairfax County 4110 Chain Bridge Rd., Rm. 116 Fairfax, VA 22030 (703) 246-2911 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

make it known

City of Hampton Circuit Court Clerk 101 Kings Way Hampton, VA 23669 (757) 727-6105 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Henrico County Circuit Court Clerk 4301 Parham Rd., Rm. 240 Richmond, VA 23228 (804) 501-5055 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Loudoun County Circuit Court Clerk 18 E. Market St., Fl. 3 Leesburg, VA 20176 (703) 777-0270 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

City of Newport News Circuit Court Clerk 2500 Washington Ave. Newport News, VA 23607 (757) 926-8580 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

City of Norfolk Circuit Court Clerk 100 St. Paul’s Blvd.

Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 664-4580 8:45 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Prince William County Clerk of Circuit Court 9311 Lee Ave. Rm. 305 Manassas, VA 20110 (703) 792-6040 8:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.

City of Richmond Circuit Court Clerk 400 N. 9th St., Rm. 101 Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 646-6767 8:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Richmond County Circuit Court Clerk 101 Court Cir. Warsaw, VA 22572 (804) 333-3781 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

City of Roanoke Circuit Court Clerk 315 Church Ave. SW, Fl. 3 Roanoke, VA 24016 (540) 853-6702 8:15 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Roanoke County Circuit Court Clerk 305 E. Main St., Rm. 200 Salem, VA 24153 (540) 387-6205 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

City of Salem Circuit Court Clerk 2 E. Calhoun St. Salem, VA 24153 (540) 375-3067 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Stafford County 1300 Courthouse Rd. Stafford, VA 22554 (540) 658-8750 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

City of Virginia Beach Circuit Court Clerk 2425 Nimmo Pkwy.

Bldg. 10B Virginia Beach, VA 23456 (757) 385-8827 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA ••••••••••••••••••••

Washington Marriage Bureau 500 Indiana Ave. NW, Rm. 4485 Washington, DC 20001 (202) 879-4840 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Although The Knot strives to provide accurate information, we assume no responsibility for changes since publication. Please confirm all details with your local licensing bureau and inform us of updates or errors at licenseinfo@theknot.com.

Maryland, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, Publications

GUIDELINES FOR ANNOUNCING YOUR WEDDING IN THE LOCAL PAPERS Photographs may be submitted to accompany the announcement; however, instant photos or color copies are not acceptable. In some instances, photographs may be returned if a self-addressed stamped envelope is included with the announcement. Call to get all of the details before submitting.

GUIDELINES/ RESTRICTIONS

PUBLICATION

CONTACT

TIME CONSTRAINTS

The Annapolis Capital

(410) 268-7000 Attn: Classified Advertising–Celebrations PO Box 911 Annapolis, MD 21401

Must submit info within 3 months of the wedding date. Published on a spaceavailable basis.

Form: Optional; available online.

The cost is $110 for local residents.

The Baltimore Sun

(410) 539-7700 501 N. Calvert St. Baltimore, MD 21278

Must submit info and photo Monday at 3 p.m. prior to the desired Sunday publication date.

Form: No; photo and announcement should be submitted together to celebrations@baltsun.com.

Packages start at $90.

Must be paid online.

The Richmond Times-Dispatch

(804) 649-6825 Attn: Celebrations Office PO Box 85333 Richmond, VA 23293

Must submit info by Monday at 5 p.m. three weeks prior to the desired Sunday publication.

Form: Optional, available online.

Package prices range from $49 to $707.

The Virginian-Pilot

(757) 446-2909 Attn: Celebrations Editor 150 W. Brambleton Ave. Norfolk, VA 23510

Must submit info by noon on the Monday prior to the desired Sunday publication.

Form: Yes; available online.

Package prices start at $64.60

The Washington Post

(202) 334-5736 Attn: Wedding Desk 1150 15th St. NW, Fl. 4 Washington, DC 20071

Must submit info and photo the Tuesday before the desired Sunday publication.

Form: Optional The newspaper reserves the right to edit submissions. Please send to weddings@washpost.com.

The cost is $50 per column, and photos are included.

The Washington Times

(202) 636-3000 Attn: Weddings 3600 New York Ave. NE Washington, DC 20002

Must submit info one week prior to the desired Sunday publication.

Form: No

Please call for pricing.

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FEE

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Weddings ∙ Rehearsal Dinners ∙ Private Events ∙ Wine Tasting 19925 Hogback Mountain Road | Leesburg, VA 703-777-2797 | www.stonetowerwinery.com

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Timeless hair and makeup styles that are picture perfect!

• 10 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, PROJECT RUNWAY + NY FASHION WEEK • 150+ COUPLES SERVED • CURLY HAIR SPECIALIST • ALL SKIN TONES AND HAIR TYPES • TRAINED EYE BRINGING OUT THE BEST IN YOU

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CARLAPRESSLEY.COM @CARLAPRESSLEY 216-417-9109

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Whether you’re dreaming of a wedding on the Chesapeake waterfront, a country chic setting, a traditional ceremony with historic undertones, one with a modern flair, or some other style all your own, look no further than Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay.

PLAN YOUR DAY www.WeddingsInAnnapolis.com

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• Fresh, seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine • Attentive, professional staff • Personalized attention from your own Wedding Specialist • Convenient location minutes from DC • Indoor and outdoor venues • World of HYATT Points for events

HYATT REGENCY FAIRFAX F O R E V E RY W E D D I N G D R E A M C O M E T R U E

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Contact: Tiffany Francis, Wedding Specialist T: 703-653-6050 • F: 703-653-6109 tiffany.francis@hyatt.com • fairfax.regency.hyatt.com fairfax.regency.hyatt.com/wedding

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sites & locations...212 | cakes & caterers...218 | bridal fashion & beauty...219 | jewelry...220 | flowers & dĂŠcor...220 | wedding consultants...220 entertainment...220 | invitations & details...220 | photography & video...220 | bridal registries...221 | specialty services...221

the ultimate dc, maryland & virginia wedding directory

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scan to find more info about these local pros

C AROLINE TR AN

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symbol key $ inexpensive | $$ affordable | $$$ moderate | $$$$ expensive

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sites & locations

1757 golf club

45120 Waxpool Road, Dulles, VA (703) 444-0901 | 1757GolfClub.com Just minutes from Dulles International Airport, 1757 Golf Club boasts an elaborate 16,000-square-foot clubhouse designed with guests’ expectations for both comfort and refinement in mind. Our elegant ballroom and expansive outdoor terrace space overlooking the 18th green provide the perfect setting! capacity 200 | price $$$

airlie

(540) 341-3288 | weddings@airlie.com Airlie.com A secluded 1,200-acre setting, distinguished event facilities, creative cuisine and personalized service combine to make Airlie the ideal location for your wedding or special event. Just an hour’s drive from downtown Washington, DC, Airlie offers the perfect venue to celebrate a special occasion. capacity 200 | price $$

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anchor inn

7617 Water Oak Point Rd., Pasadena, MD (410) 437-5711 info@cateringbyuptown.com AnchorInnMD.com Beautiful waterfront site with outdoor ceremony location off of the Patapsco River on Rock Creek.

Indoor back-ups available as well. Delightful, family-run catering business provides elegance, simplicity and nearly limitless choices within an all-inclusive package. capacity 200 | price $$

annapolis and the chesapeake bay

(410) 280-0445 | WeddingsInAnnapolis.com Dreaming of a Chesapeake Bay destination wedding?

Experience a charming, historic city or a lush countryside for a waterfront wedding, or fulfill your dream of a being married on a boat on the Bay. Call our team to “Create Your Moment” for a truly memorable wedding experience by the Bay.

antrim 1844

30 Trevanion Rd., Taneytown, MD (410) 756-6812 | info@antrim1844.com Antrim1844.com Imagine the romantic wedding of your dreams in our lavishly appointed 40-room country house hotel.

Beautiful settings for your ceremony and reception are available within the Mansion, in the formal gardens and in The Glass Pavilion. A complimentary bridal suite is included with all wedding packages. capacity 250 | price $$$

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the atrium at meadowlark gardens 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna, VA (703) 255-3631 | atrium@nvrpa.org AtriumatMeadowlark.com The Atrium at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is resplendent with lush foliage, flowers, fountains and a meandering stream that brings garden beauty indoors, providing a unique setting for your event year round. An event set in the beauty of the Atrium is sure to be remembered. capacity 200 | price $$$

the bayfront club

7439 Bay Front Road, Edgemere, MD info@cateringbyuptown.com BayfrontWedding.com The Bayfront Club is a hidden gem just off the Key Bridge, with a magical view of the Bay and a 250-foot pier to match its 250+ person capacity. High ceilings, an expansive deck, beautiful landscaping and water-view pictures will enhance your day. capacity 250+ | price $$

the bellevue conference & event center

43350 John Mosby Highway, Chantilly, VA (703) 825-9526 | info@thebellevueva.com TheBellevueVA.com Discover The Bellevue, DMV’s newest and most luxurious event venue. This magnificent complex, with four impressive ballrooms, exudes an ambiance of style, exclusivity and refined beauty unparalleled in the DMV. Minutes from Dulles International Airport, The Bellevue is the perfect wedding destination. capacity 2,485 | price $$$$

bohemia river overlook

88 Rivers Edge Road, North East, MD (443) 877-6313 | BohemiaOverlook.com Overlooking the spectacular Bohemia River, this venue is nestled on the shores of the Elk River. With beautiful water’s edge views and three unique site locations, this breathtaking estate is available for fortunate couples to say their “I dos.” capacity 200 | price $$$

bowling green country club

838 Bowling Green Road, Front Royal, VA (540) 635-2922 pplew@bowlinggreencc.com BowlingGreenCountryClub.net Nestled in the northern neck of the Shenandoah Valley and only minutes from the famed Skyline Drive. Your guests will be transported back in time to old Virginia.

The contemporary flair of our menu is deftly blended with the taste of authentic colonial American cuisine. capacity 350 | price $$

briar patch bed & breakfast inn

23130 Briar Patch Lane, Middleburg, VA (703) 327-5911 | info@briarpatchbandb.com BriarPatchBandB.com With 47 rolling acres, beautiful grounds, historic lodging, great mountain views and event building for up to 200 guests, we are an ideal venue for your wedding,

located in the heart of horse and wine country—about 20 minutes from Dulles Airport and an hour from Washington, DC. capacity 200 | price $$

brittland estates

205 Cannon Street, Suite 1, Chestertown, MD (443) 282-0860 | (410) 490-2291 nturner@brittlandestates.com BrittlandEstates.com Historic mansions, river vistas and forever fields, the world of Brittland personifies elegance in a rural setting.

Embracing a collection of properties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Brittland Estates gives the discerning couple a series of settings and moods to create their distinctive celebration. capacity 350 | price $$$

buca di beppo

(877) 955-2822 | groupreservations@bucainc.com BucaWeddings.com We’re perfect for rehearsal dinners and wedding events, serving authentic, family-style Italian cuisine. Catering and delivery is available, plus banquet and bar packages.

Capacities vary by location. Our festive dining rooms and attentive staff keep the celebration energetic and fun. Now that’s amoré! price $$

castle hill cider

Keswick, VA (434) 964-7629 | events@castlehillcider.com CastleHillCider.com Castle Hill Cider has the perfect setting for your wedding and reception. Create your ceremony as a grand affair or an intimate gathering on the terrace, by the lake or in the Linden Grove, then celebrate the day all night long in the magical cider barn. capacity 200 | price $$$$

celebrations at the bay

2042 Knollview Avenue, Pasadena, MD (410) 437-6004 | (202) 483-2058 info@cateringbyuptown.com CelebrationsAtTheBay.com Located directly on the Chesapeake Bay, Celebrations has a view that stretches for miles and miles.

CateringByUptown.com shows the two fabulous ballrooms and an outdoor area for ceremony and cocktails. CateringByUptown.com also has fabulous menus and planning help for you. capacity 300 | price $$$

chesapeake beach resort & spa

4165 Mears Avenue, Chesapeake Beach, MD (866) 312-5596 | banquets@cbresortspa.com CBResortSpa.com Beneath sunny skies or moonlit nights, Maryland’s favorite resort in Chesapeake Beach is a perfect setting to begin your happily ever after. With views of Chesapeake Bay, our Bayfront ballrooms, Wedding Dome and beachfront ceremony site offer settings for an elegant event and waterfront photos. capacity 250 | price $$

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Elegant and Distinctive Dining and Catering Since 1979

Weddings Rehearsals Receptions

Harry Browne’s 66 State Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401

www.harrybrownes.com

410.263.4332

Showers Private Rooms On-Off Site

harrybrownescatering@yahoo.com

K 213 Laura’s Focus Photography

from fields to rivers

Premier Venues • Private Weekend Rental • Choose Your Own Vendors In beautiful Chestertown, MD • Centrally located between Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia airports.

BrittlandEstates.com • 443.282.0860 • info@brittlandestates.com

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THE ULTIMATE WEDDING DIRECTORY cont.

city winery dc

1350 Okie St. NE, Washington, DC chendricks@citywinery.com CityWinery.com/washingtondc Discover City Winery as the perfect venue for the modern-day couple, providing a truly unique nuptial experience and accommodating wedding sizes from 50-400. With a full-service, friendly and knowledgeable staff, we will create an experience you and your guests will long remember. capacity 400 | price $$$

clyde’s restaurant group

DC, VA & MD (202) 552-5000 | events@clydes.com Clydes.com From the bridal shower or rehearsal dinner to the reception and morning-after brunch, choose from a variety of elegant spaces and menu options to bring your event to life.

columbus club of arlington

Little Falls Road, Arlington, VA (703) 536-9656 EXT. 310 gm@columbusclubevents.com ColumbusClubEvents.com This magnificent estate boasts two beautiful venues on 10 acres of a park-like setting. From our beautiful Main Ballroom that seats up to 350 to our smaller Paradise Ballroom seating up to 120, one of these locations is perfect for your wedding, rehearsal dinner or other special event.

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capacity 350 | price $$$

the crowne plaza dulles airport

2200 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA (703) 674-0451 | CPDulles.com Let’s celebrate your special day at The Crowne Plaza Dulles Airport, one of Washington DC’s premier event settings. Located five minutes from Washington’s Dulles International Airport, it’s fresh off its recent $15 million makeover. capacity 300 | price $$

district winery

385 Water Street SE, Washington, DC DistrictWinery.com/weddings Say “I do” at DC’s first winery! District Winery is an urban-chic wedding venue located along the Anacostia River. Floor-to-ceiling windows and our wraparound terrace offer sweeping river views. Our full-service private events include in-house catering, seasoned service staff and wines made on-site. capacity 200 | price $$$

doubletree by hilton hotel bethesda - washington dc

8120 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, MD (301) 652-2000 mberkowitz@doubletreebethesda.com Bethesda.DoubleTree.com Located in the heart of Bethesda and minutes from Washington, DC, this hotel is loved by brides and grooms. Ideal for small or large celebrations, choose an

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elegant space perfect for your ceremony or reception, accommodating 90 to over 400 guests, as well as an exquisite dining menu and bar package. capacity 300+ | price $$$

doubletree by hilton hotel washington dc - silver spring

8727 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD WashingtonDCSilverSpring.Hilton.com Whether it is a wedding reception or rehearsal dinner, let us make your special day even more memorable. Our 20,000-square-foot ballroom can accommodate more than 200 people, and our internationally trained chefs will prepare gourmet dishes to delight your guests! capacity 300+ | price $$

the dupont circle

1500 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC (202) 483-6000 | dupont@doylecollection.com DoyleCollection.com/dupontcircle With a thrilling location on Dupont Circle in one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods, the hotel—a landmark in itself—offers an exceptional backdrop to begin your happily ever after. With effortless care, our expert wedding professionals create the wedding of your dreams. capacity 250 | price $$$

early mountain vineyards

6109 Wolftown-Hood Road, Madison, VA (540) 948-9005 | EarlyMountain.com Early Mountain Vineyards offers beauty, stately modern facilities and luxurious amenities perfect for your ceremony. Imagine your winery wedding with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge foothills, followed by an intimate sit-down dinner on the lawn. Visit us and we’re sure you will find your inspiration! capacity 200 | price $$

entwined events

EntwinedEvents.com Entwined Events’ family of venues and services has every option you need to make your wedding as unique as you! From three incredible venues and experienced wedding planners to custom floral design, full-service catering and luxury transportation, we take care of all the details so you can enjoy your day.

the founders inn and spa

5641 Indian River Road, Virginia Beach, VA (757) 366-5814 | FoundersInn.com The Founders Inn and Spa’s romantic, colonial English gardens are the perfect setting for brides and grooms to begin their life together. Our highly trained catering and banquet staff, with exceptional food prepared by our award-winning culinary team, will ensure you have the wedding of your dreams! capacity 300+ | price $$$

glenview mansion

603 Edmonston Drive, Rockville, MD (240) 314-8660 | glenview@rockvillemd.gov RockvilleMD.gov/glenview Glenview Mansion presents 1920s grandeur with 21st-

century elegance. Enjoy the beautiful formal gardens for outdoor ceremonies and tented events. Indoors, dance all night in the conservatory and discover the art gallery upstairs. Every rental includes customized setups to support your unique event! capacity 200 | price $$

great marsh estate

Fauquier County, VA (703) 665-3828 | info@greatmarshestate.com GreatMarshWeddings.com From the moment you arrive along the beautiful tree-lined driveway, you’ll know Great Marsh Estate is the perfect Virginia setting for your wedding day. Our renowned Georgian mansion is set in over 121 acres of lawn and woodland, close to the town of Warrenton and only an hour drive to Washington, DC. capacity 200 | price $$$

the great room at historic savage mill

Serving DC Metro (800) 213-7427 | info@puttingontheritz.com PuttingontheRitz.com This beautiful, authentic, historic setting is tucked in an old mill town. High ceilings, 12-foot windows, seating for up to 300 guests. The wooded, landscaped grounds provide a perfect setting for any outdoor ceremony. Conveniently located between Baltimore and Washington, DC. capacity 300 | price $$$

harbour view

13200 Marina Way, Woodbridge, VA (703) 910-4273 info@harbourviewevents.com HarbourViewEvents.com Harbour View is the unique waterfront venue you’ve been dreaming of, with gorgeous natural surroundings, contemporary neutral décor and tasteful accents.

This charming space offers ceremonies on the openair veranda, ballrooms flooded in natural light and balconies to take in the river breezes. capacity 320 | price $$

harry browne’s

66 State Circle, Annapolis, MD (410) 263-4332 harrybrownescatering@yahoo.com HarryBrownes.com Harry Browne’s invites you to celebrate in the Main Dining Room or on our Sidewalk Café (available seasonally). The Gallery, Capitol View Room, State Circle Grill Room and Wine Cellar are available exclusively for private functions. Off-premise catering is available as well! capacity 100 | price $$$

heritage hunt country club

6901 Arthur Hills Drive, Gainesville, VA (703) 743-2005 | HeritageHunt.net Heritage Hunt Golf & Country Club facilities accommodate up to 330 guests. The Clubhouse ballroom features a built-in dance floor, while the outdoor verandas and formal lawn provide views of

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Stonewall Golf Club prides itself on offering guests a variety of customized menus tailored to meet each bride’s specific needs. The utmost of attention to detail is observed as our team of experts assist from start to finish in planning your special day.

REBEKAH HOYT PHOTOGRAPHY

To inquire regarding availability, please contact Juanita Olson, 703.753.6156 jolson@stonewallgolfclub.com

Where the Only Thing We Overlook is Lake Manassas

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Silver Streak Weddings Creating Cinematic Wedding Films in Central Virginia and Beyond! mike@silverstreakweddings.com 2029 Woodbrook Court Charlottesville, VA 22901 434.996.0215 www.silverstreakweddings.com

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THE ULTIMATE WEDDING DIRECTORY cont. the Bull Run Mountains. The Marsh Mansion provides the perfect venue for your rustic or vintage themed wedding with botanical gardens and ceremony site. capacity 330 | price $$

hermitage museum & gardens

7637 North Shore Road, Norfolk, VA (757) 423-2052 TheHermitageMuseum.org The grounds of the Hermitage are sure to enchant guests on your special day! Featuring breathtaking gardens and stunning waterfront views, your occasion will be truly extraordinary! Choose from the intimate Rose Garden, the waterfront, the grotto or under the beautiful setting of trees by the river. capacity 300 | price $$

hilton alexandria mark center

5000 Seminary Rd., Alexandria, VA (703) 845-2622 sales@hiltonalexandriamc.com Hilton.com The Hilton Alexandria Mark Center has a long history of helping couples and their loved ones arrange this important day and would love the opportunity to share with you how we can create the perfect beginning to your many years of joy and happiness. capacity 400 | price $$

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historic rockland

16306 Rockland Lane, Leesburg, VA (908) 310-9891 HistoricRockland.com Rockland is still owned by descendants of the Rusts and abounds with historic charm. Whether it’s cocktails beside the pool, a stroll through the wildflower gardens or watching the cows graze in the bluegrass field, you and your guests will have a lot to take in during your event. capacity 250 | price $$$

historic waverly mansion

2300 Waverly Mansion Dr., Marriottsville, MD (410) 437-5711 | info@cateringbyuptown.com HistoricWaverlyMansion.com Waverly Mansion is a historic mansion associated with many of the founding families of Maryland. From head to toe, Waverly is dressed with period style! With its 18th century architecture, perfectly restored rooms and beautifully landscaped gardens, Waverly Mansion is like none other in the area! capacity 180 | price $$

hyatt regency fairfax

12777 Fair Lakes Circle, Fairfax, VA (703) 653-6050 | tiffany.francis@hyatt.com Fairfax.Regency.Hyatt.com/wedding Whether you envision a family reception or an elaborate celebration for hundreds, our team ensures everything is just as you wish. From beautifully arranged reception sites to remarkable cuisine, your dedicated wedding specialist sees to every detail, freeing you to celebrate with your guests. capacity 300

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ladew topiary gardens

3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton, MD (443) 519-5062 | LadewGardens.com These award-winning 22 acres of formal gardens in the rolling countryside are available for your special day.

The Portico Garden, the Wildflower Meadow Terrace and the charming Cafe Courtyard are glorious settings for your ceremony and reception, with the historical Manor House as a striking backdrop.

liberty mountain resort

78 Country Club Trail, Carroll Valley, PA (717) 642-8282 | sales@libertymountainresort.com LibertyMountainResort.com Our beautiful mountain setting located in the Catoctin Mountains is the perfect location for your special day. With four ceremony locations and four reception venues to choose from, we have one to fit your style. capacity 300 | price $$$

mount ida farm & vineyard at mount ida reserve

5931 & 6903 Blenheim Road, Charlottesville, VA (434) 566-5562 | info@mountidafarm.com MountIdaFarm.com Virginia’s premier wedding venue offers weekend accommodations and destination packages boasting scenic vistas, vibrant vineyards, private lakes, tree-lined drives, lake or stable-side cocktail parties, historic homes and a 5,000-square-foot Tasting Room & Taphouse. capacity 300 | price $$$

mount vernon inn restaurant

3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA (703) 780-0011 MountVernon.org/inn Make the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant your wedding destination. Located just footsteps from George Washington’s historic estate, the Mount Vernon Inn is an ideal location for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, ceremonies and much more. capacity 220 | price $$

the oaks waterfront inn & events

25876 Royal Oak Road, PO Box 187, Royal Oak, MD (410) 745-5053 | info@the-oaks.com The-Oaks.com A charming inn located in a secluded setting on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, The Oaks is just a short drive from Washington, Baltimore or Philadelphia, minutes from St. Michaels and Easton. Our enchanting waterfront setting is the magical backdrop for the portrait of your perfect wedding. capacity 250 | price $$$

omni bedford springs resort

2138 Business 220, Bedford, PA (814) 624-5616 | OmniHotels.com/bedford Centuries of traditional grace meet contemporary style and sophistication to create a timelessly elegant atmosphere. Whether an intimate or grand affair, sumptuous world-class cuisine, luxurious surroundings

and personalized attention to detail make weddings at Omni Bedford Springs Resort unforgettable.

outer banks wedding association

hello@obxwa.com | OBXWA.com The Outer Banks Wedding Association is the premier resource for couples seeking a destination wedding on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. With over 300 members strong, our wedding professionals can cater to any wedding style through their unparalleled local knowledge and expertise.

overhills mansion, circa 1897

Catonsville (410) 744-0040 | officestaff@overhillsmansion.com OverhillsMansion.com An elegant setting for indoor and outdoor wedding ceremonies for 50 to 200 guests—landscaped grounds in a park-like setting, a fully air conditioned venue.

On site catering by Whitehouse Caterers who provide made-from-scratch, locally sourced cuisine. Celebrating 32 years of excellence. capacity 200 | price $$$

pinstripes

1064 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, DC (202) 625-2800 | dcinfo@pinstripes.com Pinstripes.com Pinstripes can accommodate groups from 20 to 600 and offers a unique venue that can be tailored to your specific needs. Whether your passion is bowling, bocce or terrific Italian/American cuisine, we offer a memorable and winning combination for any social or corporate event. capacity 400+ | price $$

the renaissance

107 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA (804) 649-3373 RenaissanceVA.com Coined as Richmond’s best-kept secret, The Renaissance is one of its largest Victorian ballrooms, offering a true one-stop shop wedding experience. With our downtown location, parking is convenient and plentiful, and we are close to most downtown hotel rooms, making it easy for guests to stay close by. capacity 300 | price $$

rixey manor

9155 Pleasant Hill Lane, Rixeyville, VA (434) 996-4281 | rixeymanor@gmail.com RixeyManor.com Rixey Manor was built circa 1801 and remodeled in 2014 into an exclusive-use venue with a rooftop terrace and panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Rich in Civil War history, with many of the original features and a custom built ballroom, it is a spectacular, multipleaward-winning venue. capacity 150 | price $$$

rust manor house

(703) 669-0755 | rust@nvrpa.org RustManor.com

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YOUR WEDDING IS TOO IMPORTANT TO PUT IN ANYONE ELSE’S HANDS.

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•

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1.866.933.2600 info@fleettransportation.com fleettransportation.com

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all à la carte transportation services OR book any qualified transportation package and receive a complimentary sedan or SUV transfer for the bride and groom if booked by 11/15/2018

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Southern charm and natural elegance await you on the banks of the Potomac River, where guests can delight in stunning views, delicious cuisine and a one-of-a-kind event that will leave a lasting impression.

Swan Point Yacht & Country Club, where we specialize in extraordinary events.

Visit us at swanpointgolf.com or call (301) 259-0047 ext. 15 to explore our spectacular venue.

11550 Swan Point Boulevard, Swan Point, Maryland 20645

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THE ULTIMATE WEDDING DIRECTORY cont.

Rust Manor House is set amid 68 acres of woods and meadows on the western edge of Leesburg. The reception venues at Rust Sanctuary can host 60 to 65 people inside the Manor House and up to 200 in the included tented event facility. capacity 200 | price $$

Located between Baltimore and Washington, DC, Turf Valley is the premier wedding destination. Say your vows in our picturesque outdoor garden, then celebrate in one of our seven elegant indoor venues with beautiful golf course views. We promise to make your wedding day truly extraordinary! capacity 400+ | price $$$

stone gables estate

(717) 902-9791 | StoneGablesEstate.com Ironstone Ranch features a renovated 1860s barn and farmhouse, orchard and trails. Or, discover pristine artistry in neighboring The Star Barn Village. This 1877 authentic grand dame of history was meticulously moved and resurrected. Both world-class sites offer incredible options and amenities. capacity 300 | price $$$

tusculum farm

(833) RED-BARN (733-2276) TusculumFarm.com Be one of the firsts to host your wedding at this historic 500-plus-acre estate with neverending spectacular views. All weddings that take place at Tusculum Farm also include accommodations for your family and bridal party, as well as full access to all amenities. Schedule your visit today!

stone tower winery

19925 Hogback Mountain Road, Leesburg, VA (703) 777-2797 | events@stonetowerwinery.com StoneTowerWinery.com Providing a perfect balance of rustic charm and natural elegance, Stone Tower Winery serves as a breathtaking backdrop for wedding ceremonies, receptions and private events. Located only 45 minutes from DC and 10 minutes from historic downtown Leesburg. capacity 200+ | price $$$$

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stonewall golf club

15601 Turtle Point Drive, Gainesville, VA (703) 753-6156 | (703) 753-5101 jolson@stonewallgolfclub.com StonewallGolfClub.com The Magnolia Room can accommodate up to 150 guests.

It features 11 floor-to-ceiling windows providing grand panoramic views of Lake Manassas. Two sets of French doors lead to the expansive terrace. The Brass Cannon and private dining room are perfect for smaller events. capacity 200 | price $$

swan point yacht & country club

11550 Swan Point Boulevard, Swan Point, MD (301) 259-0047 EXT. 15 | SwanPointGolf.com Southern charm and natural elegance await you on the banks of the Potomac River, where guests can delight in stunning views, delicious cuisine and a one-of-akind event that will leave a lasting impression. Swan Point Yacht & Country Club, where we specialize in extraordinary events. capacity 180 | price $

town & country

2319 Hammonds Ferry Rd., Baltimore, MD (410) 247-5100 | info@cateringbyuptown.com Town-CountryCaterers.com Now housing two exquisite rooms from which to choose for hosting your event, Catering by Uptown’s Town & Country offers all the grace and grandeur one would expect from a venue just outside of Baltimore proper. capacity 300 | price $

turf valley resort

2700 Turf Valley Road, Ellicott City, MD (410) 465-1200 | TurfValley.com

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university of maryland memorial chapel

1101 Memorial Chapel, College Park, MD (301) 314-9866 | chapel@umd.edu Weddings.UMD.edu Whether it’s a large or intimate celebration, we’d love to be your ceremony site. Anyone can be married at Memorial Chapel regardless of their affiliation to the University, their culture or faith! Ceremonies of all sizes and traditions are welcome in the majestic Main Chapel or quaint Garden Chapel. capacity 300+ | price $$$

the villa

Serving the Washington Metro Area (301) 572-7744 info@cateringbyuptown.com TheVillaWeddingVenue.com The Villa brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your wedding. Ceremonies and receptions can be held in the luxurious Grand Ballroom, with its Austrian Crystal chandeliers, or in the Renaissance Suite, which offers indoor, outdoor and tented options. capacity 300 | price $$

visit loudoun

VisitLoudoun.org/weddings Discover why so many couples are tying the knot in the heart of DC’s Wine Country®. With an array of settings that range from gorgeous wineries and rustic barns to historic estates, magnificent resorts and country clubs, Loudoun is the perfect place to get married and create lifetime memories.

west belmont place

18980 Upper Belmont Place, Leesburg, VA (703) 724-5111 WestBelmontPlace.com West Belmont Place delivers a storybook setting for your big day and honors the traditions of your culture.

Celebrate with a luxe ballroom reception for up to 1,000 or an intimate outdoor ceremony surrounded by your closest friends and family—all right here in your backyard. capacity 1000

the westin virginia beach town center

4535 Commerce St., Virginia Beach, VA (757) 557-0550 | alex.vigo@westinvabeach.com WestinVABeach.com Make your wedding magical. Whether an intimate affair for 10 or a gala for 600, The Westin Virginia Beach Town Center delivers a level of service that is truly above all else. capacity 600 | price $$$

the westin washington dulles airport

2520 Wasser Terrace, Herndon, VA (571) 485-4310 lee.intachai@westinwashingtondulles.com WestinDulles.com Let the specialists at The Westin Washington Dulles Airport create a wedding experience that’s tailored to your personal style, and earn Starpoints® which can be used immediately to plan your honeymoon. capacity 300 | price $$

woodlands at algonkian

47001 Fairway Drive, Sterling, VA (703) 450-4655 algonkian@nvrpa.org TheWoodlandsWeddings.com Featuring three rooms accommodating from 25-200 people, the Algonkian Regional Park’s Conference Center provides local and out-of-town guests ceremony and party space for weddings, including an outdoor gazebo along the picturesque shores of the Potomac River. capacity 200 | price $$$

cakes & caterers

walnut hill events

309 Broad Run Road, Browntown, VA (703) 868-2598 | judith.albarelli@gmail.com Venues include a 19th-century four-bedroom home, an authentic 18th-century log cabin and a barn overlooking a pond with a beautiful carriage house, pavilion and tent site, accommodating up to 250 guests. A large stone fireplace centers this beautiful pavilion. Two large tent sites are also available. capacity 300 | price $$$

cakes by happy eatery

9685 Liberia Ave., Unit 107, Manassas, VA (703) 530-8898 CakesbyHappyEatery.com As a full-service bakery, we offer an exciting array of beautifully designed and delicious wedding cakes and desserts. We use fresh, all-natural ingredients and

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Glenview Mansion

Photo Credit: Life Gallery Studio

AT RO C K V I L L E C I V I C C EN T ER PA R K

can cater to vegan, eggless, non-dairy, gluten-free or diabetic diets. We’re open daily: Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-8 p.m., and Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

catering by uptown

Serving the Washington DC Area (301) 572-7744 | (800) 795-TOWN info@cateringbyuptown.com CateringByUptown.com Uptown is a full-service caterer and can assist you in all aspects of your wedding plans. The menus, locations and tips we offer are just a small sample of the things we can do for you, including personalized menus, access to over 50 other locations, and general eventplanning services.

pepper club fine indian cuisine

5639 Stone Road, Centreville, VA (703) 543-7171 info@pepperclubva.com PepperClubVA.com Pepper Club Fine Indian Cuisine is a restaurant and fullservice catering company proudly serving DC, Maryland and Virginia. We cater authentic South and North Indian cuisine for intimate gatherings, weddings and other traditional events. Contact us today to discuss your personalized catering menu!

* Love, Laugh ter and Happily Ever Af ter * 240-314-8660 · www.rockvillemd.gov/glenview ♥♥ All are welcome.

bridal fashion & beauty U N I V E R S I T Y O F M A RY L A N D

Whether you are planning a large celebration or intimate affair, we would love to be your ceremony site. Anyone can be married at Memorial Chapel regardless of their affiliation to the University, their culture or faith! Ceremonies of all sizes and traditions are welcome and can be accommodated in the majestic Main Chapel or quaint Garden Chapel.

Fairfax, VA, Washington, DC, VA, MD, NYC (216) 417-9109 CarlaPressley.com Highly sought-after hair and makeup artist Carla Pressley delivers picture-perfect looks for all skin tones and hair textures. She’s been working for the camera for over 10 years and working high-profile NYC clients, so she is aware of latest fashion trends yet prefers to keep brides natural and timeless.

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Memorial Chapel

301.314.9866

green & blue studio

1350 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 301, Washington, DC (202) 223-6644 style@greenandbluestyle.com GreenandBlueDCWeddings.com Green & Blue Wedding Studio offers custom gowns, veils and other accessories for you, and custom bridesmaid, mother-of-the-bride and flower girl dresses for your bridal party. Bring your existing gown and we will alter it to fit like a glove.

CHAPEL@UMD.EDU - WEDDINGS.UMD.EDU

1101 Memorial Chapel, College Park, MD 20742

love couture bridal

12500-B Park Potomac Ave., Potomac, MD

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GARDEN CHAPEL

MAIN CHAPEL

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THE ULTIMATE WEDDING DIRECTORY cont.

(301) 610-5683 sandy@lovecouturebridal.com LoveCoutureBridal.com Our vast selection of wedding gowns offers brides moderate price points all the way up to custom haute couture. Our intimate boutique provides a charming setting to allow you to feel like you have stepped away from all of the pressures of wedding planning.

affordable luxury, S&P Events offers event planning, multi-event weddings, event and floral design, and venue transformation.

wedding consultants

perry warren of frizzles

6733 Commerce St., Springfield, VA (703) 626-9638 CHMD-by-PerryWarren.com The last thing any bride needs on her wedding day is a trip to the salon. With over two decades in the fashion and beauty industry, I strongly believe that on-site hair and makeup preparation for your big day is the only way to go.

trousseau

306 Maple Avenue West, Vienna, VA (703) 255-3300 TrousseauLtd.com Trousseau is dedicated to the art of romance. Visit Trousseau, the area’s leading bra fit specialty store featuring over 160 sizes. Let us help you find the perfect wedding day undergarments, beautiful lingerie, veils, jewelry, bridal accessories and so much more!

jewelry

mlc designs

bella giornata events & design llc

(540) 841-5964 | bellagevents@gmail.com Our approach to weddings and social events uses a clients’ love story as the foundation of the design.

We then pull from the things most important to them to develop their vision for the event. A stress-free, seamless celebration is what you deserve without feeling overwhelmed by the process.

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Hampton and Williamsburg, VA GoodmanandSons.com Goodman & Sons Jewelers wants to help you celebrate every moment of your life. From Hearts On Fire, Forevermark and LENA to custom pieces, we can help you find the perfect ring. Shop where the hospitality is as generous as our selection, and shopping is seen as fun.

(703) 867-7384 | natalie@designed-perfectly.com Designed-Perfectly.com We offer full and partial planning, design and wedding day management. With over 12 years of hands-on experience, we specialize in classic weddings with bold personalities for the DMV area and beyond. Creatively planned. Expertly coordinated. Perfectly designed.

(443) 283-1434 | WeddingsRomantique.com We are your destination wedding services company, specializing in glamorous and stylish traditional and multicultural weddings in the Caribbean and Mexico.

We love creating luxury destination weddings and weekend events full of color, texture and imagination that both tell your story and make a statement!

entertainment

flowers & décor

(571) 733-6838 stacy.king@sandpevents.com SandPEvents.com This innovative, luxury event production and design company serves the metropolitan Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia areas. Setting a precedent of

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photography & video

by asa photography

(202) 596-2051 byasaphotography@gmail.com ByAsaPhotography.com I take a unique approach to each wedding I photograph, taking into account the personality and style of each couple, and adjusting my approach to best fit your needs. My goal is to create beautiful images of your wedding day in a way you will cherish and that honors who you are.

gms photo and video

8600 Foundry St., Savage, MD (410) 419-1549 | GMSPhotos.com GMS Photo and Video provides expressive, artistic photographic and choreographic services, tailored to each client, for those with a discerning taste for quality photography and video without the exorbitant cost associated with such a service.

john bartenhagen bsquare productions

s&p events, llc

(410) 952-0020 | MLCDesigns.net There will never be an event like yours—and it begins with your invitations. Our purpose is to provide you and your guests with an unforgettable first impression. We consider our clients collaborative partners in the design process. Each invitation we create is original and unique to you.

designed perfectly events, llc

weddings romantique

goodman & sons jewelers

invitations & details

(331) 223-4635 | BSquarePro.com I have extraordinary passion for what I do and the talent and technology to match it. I built my capability with an uncompromising determination to have unmatched quality and professionalism. I want to be where you need me and do what needs to be done to facilitate the best night of your lives.

the dapper djs

(301) 992-1378 | TheDapperDJs.com Experience vintage-inspired entertainment for a soiree like no other.

(703) 209-5997 | jb3photo@gmail.com JohnBartenhagen.com Your satisfaction is my utmost priority. Since I only accept a limited number of clients each month, this allows me to give you my full attention—to plan for and capture your most precious memories of your wedding celebrations!

nichole haun photography

(703) 965-3527 info@nicholehaunphotography.com NicholeHaunPhotography.com We photograph the love and emotion of your wedding day with a documentary/creative style.

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bridal registries

relish decor

(301) 698-7360 | RelishDecor.com Relish Decor is a lifestyle boutique known for a stylish collection of tabletop housewares, kitchen furnishings and unique gifts. Our goal is to provide a curated selection of merchandise for your registry that is not commonly found in the mainstream retail market.

specialty services

blanc de bleu cuv´ee mousseux

(855) 874-2394 Blanc de Bleu is the world’s first blue sparkling wine—a dry, crisp, sparkling grape wine with a hint of blueberry. It’s perfect for wedding receptions. Visit BlancdeBleuUSA.com for your nearest retailer.

Drink responsibly.

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fleet transportation, llc

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950 B South Pickett Street, Alexandria, VA (866) 933-2600 | (703) 933-2600 info@fleettransportation.com FleetTransportation.com Fleet Transportation, LLC is a premier provider of luxury sedan, limousine, Mercedes sprinters, luxury mini buses, SUVs, coaches and event transportation services. It’s been ranked one of the top transportation companies by the Washington Business Journal, 2016.

reston limousine

(703) 478-0500 | RestonLimo.com Reston Limousine will keep the magic glowing from ceremony to reception and reception to hotel. We can also add a touch of elegance to any event before and after, such as bachelor/ette parties, showers, rehearsal dinners, airport transfers, and wine and DC tours for out-of-town guests.

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RESOURCE INDEX SITES & LOCATIONS

PAGE #

Hermitage Museum & Gardens

54

1757 Golf Club

203

Hilton Alexandria Mark Center

198

Airlie Center

188

Historic Rockland

176

Annapolis & The Chesapeake Bay

210

Hyatt Regency Fairfax

210

Antrim 1844

35

Ladew Topiary Gardens

205

Atrium at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens

Cover

Liberty Mountain Resort

200

The Bellevue Conference & Event Center

5

Milton Ridge

31

Bohemia River Overlook

207

Mount Ida Farm & Vineyard

48

Bowling Green Country Club

85

Mount Vernon Inn

193

Briar Patch Bed & Breakfast Inn

181

The Oaks Waterfront Inn & Events

17

Brittland Estates

213

Omni Hotels & Resorts

10

Buca di Beppo

25

Outer Banks Wedding Association

79

Castle Hill Cider

21

Overhills Mansion, Circa 1897

121

Catering by Uptown

Cover

Pinstripes

205

Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa

133

Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards

139

City Winery Washington D.C.

149

The Renaissance

105

Clyde’s Restaurant Group

101

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

113

Columbus Club of Arlington

127

The River View at Occoquan

Cover

Crowne Plaza Dulles Airport

195

Rixey Manor

41

District Winery

153

Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center

179

DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel Bethesda

81

Rust Manor House

Cover

DoubleTree by Hilton Washington DC - Silver Spring

33

St. Augustine Ponte Vedra

115

The DuPont Circle

144

Stone Gables Estate

2

Early Mountain Vineyards

187

Stone Tower Winery

209

Entwined Events

37

Stonewall Golf Club at Lake Manassas

215

The Founders Inn and Spa

129

Swan Point Yacht & Country Club

217

Glenview Mansion

219

Turf Valley Resort

43

Great Marsh Estate

182

Tusculum Farm

137

The Great Room at Historic Savage Mill

19

University of Maryland Memorial Chapel

219

Harbour View

199

Visit Loudoun

191

Harry Browne’s

213

Walnut Hill

15

Heritage Hunt Golf & Country Club

201

West Belmont Place

57

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202

Lauren Emerson

23

The Westin Washington Dulles Airport

13

Magnolia Bluebird Design & Events

93

Windsor Court Hotel

67

Weddings Romantique

109

The Woodlands at Algonkian

Cover PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO

PAGE #

By Asa Photography

97

Clean Slate Wedding Photography by Heather & Rob

141

GMS Photo & Video

221

John Bartenhagen Photography

51

Nichole Haun Photography

29

Silver Streak Weddings

215

ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE #

BSquare Productions

125

The Dapper DJs

53

INVITATIONS & DETAILS

PAGE #

MLC Designs

91

Things Remembered

59

SPECIALTY SERVICES

PAGE #

Blanc de Bleu Cuvée Mousseux

7, 45

Fabrication Events

155

Fleet Transportation

217

PAGE #

Cakes by Happy Eatery

143

Catering by Uptown

Cover

Pepper Club Fine Indian Cuisine

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