At This Celebration, Contemporary Reception Décor Contrasted Beautifully with the Historic Setting
A bold tablescape and statement lighting gave a modern twist to one couple's postponed celebration.
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Ashley and Daniel met and became friendly over shared classes as high school freshmen, but their relationship grew closer when they partnered up to dance Salsa the following year. A decade-long relationship led to a romantic proposal against the dramatic Washington, D.C., skyline, after which the pair began coordinating an epic celebration. "Planning our dream wedding was incredible," says Ashley. "We thoughtfully considered every detail and were so excited to create a magical experience for our guests." When the pandemic required them to postpone their plans, the couple pushed out the celebration, but not the vow exchange—they eloped close to their original 2020 date in a lovely private ceremony in nearby Virginia, just the two of them.
Fast forward to 2021, and Ashley and Daniel picked up where they left off—albeit with an altered plan. "Our original venue seemed to not be reopening in time to host our [formal wedding]," says the bride, "so we decided to pivot to a smaller head count that could be accommodated at Meridian House." Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the beautiful D.C. venue offered gorgeous outdoor spaces that could beautifully accommodate the pair's 80 guests. "The vision was romantic and lush but with a modern twist," describes the bride. "We loved the juxtaposition of black, white, gray, and metallics, but with a very garden-inspired, floral feel." Laura Ritchie of Grit & Grace Inc.—who also coordinated their luxurious elopement—helped Ashley and Daniel navigate the ever-changing district mandates while creating a breathtaking event. The classic look of the ceremony site relied heavily on the natural beauty of the estate, while the reception featured a contemporary vibe complete with bold tablescape and eccentric light fixtures. "We were so excited to finally share this special day together," says the bride, "and with our immediate family and friends present, it felt even more real."
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A Glimpse of Gold
The couple's invitation suite from The Dandelion Patch incorporated shades of green, black, and burnished gold, a preview of the color scheme for their big day. "The invites were the perfect introduction to the rest of the wedding itself," says Ashley. "From the wax seals, velvet ribbon, and lots of twisting greenery, it truly set the tone." A custom monogram created for the suite was also threaded throughout the wedding, tying the details together.
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Dressed to Thrill
Ashley's off-the-shoulder wedding dress was incredibly romantic with detailed beading, a sweeping train, and floral embroidery. "It was clear to me that this dress most embodied my personality and the style and mood of the wedding day," she says.
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The Perfect Plait
Golden vines embellished with pearls were woven into the bride's elegant braid.
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A Good Look
Ashley and Daniel took each other in for the first time that day outside of the Meridian House. "It was super cute to have our bridal party peering out the windows of the historical house while we had our first look together!" says the bride.
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Love Languages
The couple exchanged vows beneath arches of flowers, arranged by Sweet Root Village, in a ceremony that was delivered in both Spanish and English. "We made sure that it was bilingual to honor our heritage and values," asserts the bride, who co-wrote the service with Daniel and their officiant.
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Time After Time
Guests picked up personalized hourglasses etched with their names from a display of favors.
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Shape Shifters
The silhouettes of the hourglasses varied in shape and sand color.
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The Royal Treatment
One long king's table was situated in the grove behind Meridian House for the reception. "Having an intimate, singular table with our family and friends to sit around was so special," Ashley recalls. "We loved the dramatic look of it placed between the trees with the historic house behind it."
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Hanging a Round
Various vessels overflowing with flowers were situated down the center of the table amid masses of candles. The beautiful linen that hung to the ground featured a bold velvet pattern. Large orbs threaded with greenery and flowers were suspended over the table for a breathtaking effect.
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A Full Plate
Each golden charger was topped with a black plate, a noir napkin, and a menu wrapped in gold ribbon. Bi-colored flatware completed the striking study in contrasts.
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Gorgeous Glassware
Ornate stemware gave each place setting an extra dose of glamour.
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Delicate Flowers
Petite blooms made a big impact when gathered in table arrangements.
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First Dance
The couple's first dance song was an acoustic rendition of "Por Primera Vez" by the Columbian singer-songwriter Camilo and Venezuelan actress Evaluna Montaner, who recorded it as newlyweds. "It celebrates the start of a marriage between two people who for the first time are waking up next to each other and sharing a life together," explains Ashley. The pair also had the DJ play their favorite Salsa music so they could perform for everyone. "Dancing to our special songs under the moonlight, for everyone to watch and clap along to, is a wonderful memory to have forever," says the bride.
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Easy Greenery
The pair's lemon-lavender cake from Design Cuisine was simply adorned with garlands of fresh greenery for a timeless aesthetic.
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After Glow
Romantic candlelight and the gentle light from the overhead fixtures enveloped the evening in a gorgeous glow. "The lighting was a 'wow factor' and only got better throughout the evening," says Ashley.
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Caffeine Fix
Guests were offered a generous selection of after-dinner espressos and cappuccinos.
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Exit Strategy
The happy couple took their leave surrounded by loved ones waving celebratory sparklers; to end the night, Ashley changed into a white satin reception dress with a high-neck halter and ruffled skirt.
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Sources
Photography, Lisa Ziesing for Abby Jiu Photography
Venue, Meridian House
Wedding Planning and Event Design, Laura Ritchie of Grit & Grace Inc.
Videography, 87 and Smith
Flowers, Sweet Root Village
Invitations and Stationery, The Dandelion Patch
Calligraphy, Jess McSweeney
Officiant, Marajorie D'Ambrosio
Bride's Gown, Eve of Milady/Amalia Carrara
Reception Gown, Bronx and Banco
Veil, Elegance by Roya Atelier
Jewelry, Marchesa; Julia Vaughn
Shoes, Harriet Wilde Shoes
Hair and Makeup, Hair and Makeup Artistry by Claudine
Bridesmaids' Dresses, Rent the Runway
Menswear, The Black Tux
Engagement Ring, Pavé Jewelers
Wedding Bands, Ferkos Fine Jewelry
Music, Premier DJ Services; Sage String Quartet
Catering and Cake, Design Cuisine
Rentals, DC Rentals; Something Vintage
Transportation, Limousines Inc.
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