An Intimate Wedding In DC That Will Convince You That A Restaurant Reception Is The Way To Go
When your wedding guest list is reduced to a handful of your favorite people, why not turn it into a staycation and show them around your hometown? That's what this DC couple did...and they did it in style! They kept the day light and fun but with the bridal party all in black-tie attire, the occasion didn't lack in formality. They ended the day with a delicious dinner at one of DC's best restaurants and thanks to the restaurant's already upscale decor and a stellar tablescape, it is one of the most elegant reception dinners we've ever seen. By far, our favorite part of this wedding is the way this couple announced their new status...who needs Facebook when you can put it on a MARQUEE?!
A. Griffin Events certainly had their hands full with planning a wedding mid-pandemic and mid-election (in the nation's capitol!!!) but she pulled it off in a big way! Because of her expert planning, the couple was able to relax and enjoy the time together with their loved ones and show off their city. Kate Headley was there to capture every special moment of this intimate wedding and Harrison Wedding Films was there to help live-stream the ceremony and get it all on video! Edge Floral Event Design designed these elegant floral arrangements that complemented the bride's classic dress and the opulent Del Mar DC perfectly. To see more from this beautiful wedding check out the full gallery. Read on to hear more from Planner, Aimee Griffin of A. Griffin Events, about how she and her team of vendors made this epic DC wedding possible.
NOTHING COULD STOP THIS WEDDING
Meredith and Colin wanted an organic, chic celebration filled with moments reflecting their life together in DC. As the pandemic developed, so did their wedding plans with a determination to get married on November 7, 2020, no matter what. They pared their guest list down to immediate family and a few wedding party members and worked with A. Griffin Events to design an unforgettable day with room for spontaneous moments.
A BIG DAY IN MANY WAYS
Meredith got ready at her childhood home with her bridesmaids and family. MAB Artistry finished early, so they enjoyed champagne and lunch before Meredith put on her sophisticated Romona Keveza gown from Carine's Bridal Atelier and strappy Ted Baker heels. Her attendants wore emerald velvet Jenny Yoo gowns from Bella Bridesmaids. On the way to the ceremony, Biden was announced as President-elect, and the streets of Georgetown erupted in honking horns, champagne bottles popping, and people congratulating each other on the street. Colin and Meredith met up at the Wave Wall in Georgetown for their first look. They strolled the rowhouse-lined cobblestone street with trees in fall colors creating a gorgeous backdrop for Kate Headley photography. Before meeting up with their wedding party, Aimee, of A. Griffin Events, ordered Chick-fil-a so they could rest and recharge before the ceremony.
SHOUT IT FROM THE MARQUEE
They live-streamed their ceremony at Holy Trinity with help from Harrison Wedding Films, who also compiled a beautiful video of the day. During the ceremony, some of Meredith’s family friends showed up to surprise them with four dozen white balloons. The guests boarded the trolley with the balloons and enjoyed a scenic tour of Colin and Meredith’s favorite monuments on the National Mall before heading to the Wharf for dinner. Upon arrival, the guests were greeted with Meredith and Colin’s name lit up the marquee of the Anthem announcing their marriage. Strangers on the street were overheard saying, “When I get married, I’m doing that.” and, “That’s how we are announcing our 40th-anniversary vow renewal.”
THIS RECEPTION WAS SMOKIN'
Del Mar DC serves Spanish seafood tapas and boasts a private room featuring works by Picasso. Inspired by the art, Meredith & Colin worked with Paper Refinery to incorporate Picasso drawings into their invitation and menu. To play with the seafood-centered menu, teal ceramic urchins held tentacled place cards and the menu. Meredith’s favorite flower, white tulips filled teal containers surrounded by blue, teal, and gold votives. During the four-course dinner, family and friends shared toasts and guests ordered Colin and Meredith’s favorite cocktail: a smoked bourbon cocktail. The chef also specially prepared their favorite dessert, a savory cheesecake, to round out the evening.
- Couple: Meredith Steen
- Dress & Apparel: Jenny Yoo
- Event Planning & Design: A. Griffin Events
- Flowers: Edge Floral Event Design
- Groom & His Men: Ted Baker
- Hair, Makeup & Beauty: Make Up By Ana B
- Paper Goods & Calligraphy: Paper Refinery
- Photographers: Kate Headley
- Travel & Transportation: Old Town Trolley
- Venues: Del Mar DC
- Wedding Dresses: Romona Keveza Couture from Carine's Bridal Atelier
- Wedding Films: Harrison Wedding Films