LOOKBOOK NO.2
Looking for a dramatic setting for your wedding or reception?
For an event as unique as you are For your personal tour contact Susan Landess, Sales Manager, at 703-993-9344 or slandess@gmu.edu HyltonCenter.org/Rentals Find us on Facebook 2
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the
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05 ... WONDERFUL WEDDING WEEKENDS 6 ... SETTING THE DATE 8 ... PLANNING YOUR THEME
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12 ... ALL ABOUT THE VENUE 30 ... YOUR LOCAL VENUE GUIDE
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ir y d y ut e d y
g u g d er ’t
from the Late
for an important date! Benjamin Franklin
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Planning a wedding can feel like stepping into the unknown — exciting and intimidating at the same time. Are you day! Our lookbook is filled with prepared to tackle beautiful images that will inspire you the details? and our website hasallplanning guides
publisher
supposedly once you fail ome couples say said, they “If want their to plan, you are and advice to encourage you. wedding to be a fun, free-flowing party Relax! planning to fail.” – not encumbered by schedules and Our full service coordination, coupled with Certainly nowhere Our commitment to engaged couples timelines. Who doesn’t want to enjoy expert tips and advice, will make planning your does this apply more is to make your journey to your friends and family in a relaxed way? But wedding seem like child’s play. in preparing a timeline is important.than It can be loose for wedding day as smooth as possible by a wedding. Whether but hiring planner, providing ideas, resources and a bit of and relatively uncluttered, youa need some doing guidelines as toor how day it yourself a littleyour of both, inspiration for your celebration. This will evolve. you have to have inspiration and ideas is the first day of the rest of your lives. in order to pull it off. What matters is that you are creating By planning in advance and structuring not just a 540.842.6040 day, but a lifetime together! your timeline your preferences, you www.engagementsbyballestracci.com Brides &per Weddings brings you the give thelatest professionals allowing retha.ebb@gmail.com looks and guidance, planning information Rebecca Barnes you to enjoy your cherished friends and to help you pull together your big Publisher, Brides & Weddings family. If you don’t know how to order your wedding day, or you really don’t care, defer to your wedding coordinator Planning a wedding to help you put together a plan that will can itfeel like work. You can always tweak together so stepping into the it feels customized to you, your fiancé unknown — and your family’s expectations. exciting and intimidating When in doubt, follow these two rules: at the same time. Are you 1. Start the ceremony onprepared time. It’storude to tackle make your guestsall wait and it’s hard to the details? make up time during the evening. You don’t want to lose time at the end of the night – generally the dancing, Our full service coordination, coupled with celebrating portion the planning eveningyour – expert tips and advice, willofmake because you didn’t start on time. wedding seem like child’s play.
Relax!
2. Start your meal service on time. If you start late, the quality of your meal will suffer and there is little that a caterer can do. A little preparation goes a long way 540.842.6040 to enjoying a fun, free-flowing party! ♥
www.engagementsbyballestracci.com
By Johanna Goossens retha.ebb@gmail.com 4
Let our 5-Star reviews
WORK FOR YOU!
We deliver spectacular stress-free events! Call us today!
703.314.2209
dblplatinumevents.com doubleplatinumevents@live.com www.BridesandWeddings.com.
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wonderful wedding weekends In this modern day of transient lifestyles, wedding guest lists contain relatives and friends traveling from both coasts. To make the most of the time couples can spend with their friends and family members, brides and grooms are planning wedding weekends and hosting multiple events in unique venues. The wedding weekend consists of numerous parties and activities centering around guests getting to know each other while enabling the bride and groom time to relax and enjoy catching up with friends and family. A wedding weekend agenda typically goes like this: The Ice Breaker This party is usually held on the Thursday evening prior to the wedding. This dinner has replaced the traditional rehearsal dinner as it is often the first time the bride and groom’s families meet. It’s a good idea to keep this event on the casual and fun side, incorporating themes like a bar-b-que or Hawaiian luau. Bridal Party Outings These events are designed to allow for some relaxation before the big day, and again, give guests a chance to make new acquaintances and renew old friendships. Outings can include trips to a spa for the feminine side of the bridal party, golfing for
the groom and his buddies, and sightseeing tours and excursions to local wineries for wedding guests. Rehearsal Dinner This event is held the night before the wedding and now includes not only the bridal party but family members and out of town wedding guests. It is not unusual to have a guest list of 50 attendees. More couples are utilizing interesting venues, such as wineries, for these events. The Wedding & Reception By now your guests have had some time to get to know one another better, so let the good times begin. Relax and enjoy the day, whether it’s an elegant ballroom event, a trip back in time at an historic bed & breakfast, or a casual catered affair in the countryside. Post Festivity Brunch This is the perfect opportunity for the bride and groom to thank out of town guests, friends and family members, and to open gifts. Put the emphasis on hospitality and relaxation. The wedding weekend allows you time to relax and enjoy visiting with all of your guests. Use venues that offer many opportunities for different events for your guests while keeping their traveling time to a minimum. lookbook no. 2
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steps to
setting the date
THINK ABOUT THE WEATHER It’s no secret that weather plays a huge factor in any wedding, but it is something that every bride needs to be cautious of. If you want an outdoor wedding, you wouldn’t choose a date in the middle of winter, just like you wouldn’t choose to get married in August if you want your bridesmaids to be in long sleeves.
CHECK WHAT’S IN SEASON Is there a certain type of flower you’ve always envisioned holding while walking down the aisle? What about fresh fruits or veggies during your reception’s cocktail hour? If these things are important to you, you should think about what’s in season when in order to ensure you can have your pick when it comes down to your special day.
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AVOID “NO-NO DAYS” While certain dates are special to us, planning a wedding around a major holiday can be a bit tricky, not to mention around dates that could impact your job, religion or personal endeavors. Think about these dates ahead of time so you can be sure to avoid them when you finally choose when you’ll be saying “I do.”
photo by Andrea DeLong Photography
FOCUS ON THE DATE ITSELF Are there certain dates that have a special meaning to you and your other half? Maybe an anniversary of a kiss, a date or a milestone? If there are and you want to incorporate that into your big day, do a bit of research to see if that specific date can work around your wedding. KNOW YOUR VIPs Of course you want everyone you invite to your wedding to RSVP “yes,” but we all know there are certain people’s presence who mean a little more than others. Be sure to check with your wedding-day VIPs to secure that they’ll be there by your side on your special day.
GIVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME Planning a wedding is stressful, but should also be fun! Don’t choose a date that’ll end up sneaking up on you and forcing you to rush through all the prewedding excitement. Make sure you choose a date that gives you plenty of time to enjoy the wedding-planning process.
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planning your
theme rustic
photo by PhotobyJoy, LLC
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One of the most important aspects in planning a wedding is coming up with a theme. The theme can be something subtle and understated, like only having certain types of decorations and favors, or something more obvious, like colorcoordinating everything from bridesmaids’ dresses to centerpieces. However you choose to do it, your theme should always represent you and your partner. Here are some of the most interesting and unique theme ideas to help inspire you!
color-coordinated photo by Yasmin Leonard Photography
seasonal
photo by PearlyHens Photography
holiday
photo by Robb McCormick Photography
island
photo by Mat & Ash Photography
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country
photo by Alicia Nicole Wopereis Photography
it’s all ab
ven
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bout the
nue
photo by Jessica Miller Photography
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your guide to an
exceptional
event
Putting together a great wedding doesn’t happen by accident. It takes careful planning and the enlistment of talented event professionals.
Take some time and visualize your event — close your eyes and walk through it in as much detail as you can, from start to finish. This takes a little time, but you’ll find that it enhances creativity and helps you anticipate and avoid problems.
Your site sets the tone for the experience. Make sure your site fits the guest list — don’t try to squeeze too many people into the venue. And don’t pick a huge site that will make a small gathering feel uncomfortable. And remember, you’re not just choosing a site for an event — you’re also choosing a backdrop for your wedding photos.
photo by Britani Edwards
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photo by Sur La Lune Photography
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photo by Mychelle LeVan Photography
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barn wedding
photo by Mychelle LeVan Photography
Photo by Sanderson Images
photo by Mychelle LeVan Photography
mountain
wedding
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photos by True North Photography
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photos by OLLI STUDIO
church wedding
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photo by Ashley Photography
photo courtesy of River Creek Club
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country club wedding
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garden wedding
photos by Myra Roman Photography
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beach wedding
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photos by Rowan Wells Photography
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winery wedding
photos by Jessica Miller Photography
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ost er ut to ly. t’s ur er
& ge his ng is or, in is
your local venue guide Full Service Catering Company Specializing in International Cuisine
IMPECCABLE FOOD
ARTISTRY
FLAWLESS SERVICE
571.203.0111 Info@maisonculinaire.com www.maisonculinaire.com
ost ng aff. ce he ut fs, he re is ers h.
Make your wedding
truly special
in a rustic, yet elegant, country setting.
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Barn style pavilion for 150 Tented events for up to 300 Full service catering Overnight accommodations
540.364.2627
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create your beginnings with us. Your wedding day should be one of your fondest memories Allow us to make you a guest at your own party. We’ll be there through each step of the planning process, ensuring you can relax and enjoy your special day.
Every detail of your event is completely customized to reflect your individual style and taste.
14675 Piedmont Vista Dr., Haymarket • 703.753.5922 Ext. 225 • www.piedmontclub.com We offer gorgeous ceremonies on our patio adjacent to our ballroom or by beautiful Lake Chantilly. Accommodating up to 225 guests, our flexible setup options with dark wood Chiavari chairs, new cherry wood dance floor, neutral décor and rustic chandeliers will set the tone for your classic country club wedding. And, best of all, we schedule only one wedding a day — allowing all the focus on you!
14901 Braddock Road, Chantilly • 703.631.9560 • www.chantilly-national.com 32
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Washington’sBest Kept Wedding Secret...
...but not for long. From traditional military weddings to contemporary civilian celebrations, Fort Myer Officers’ Club welcomes all. We’ll exceed your expectations with customized all-inclusive reception packages for one-stop shopping, superb cuisine from award-winning Five Star Catering, and a gorgeous Grand Ballroom that seats up to 280 with an extra large dance floor.
★★★★★
Fort MyerOfficers’Club
Featuring Five Star Catering
Meeting your needs … exceeding your expectations.
214 Jackson Avenue, Fort Myer, Virginia 22211
703.524.0200
www.jbmhhmwr.com
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WEDDINGS
should be
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AWESOME! A WESOME WESOME!
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P hone 7703.910.4273 03.910.4273 Phone inf o@harbourviewevents.com info@harbourviewevents.com ffacebook.com/harbourviewevents acebook.com/harbourviewevents w ww.HarbourViewEvents.com www.HarbourViewEvents.com
C ome visit the only waterfront waterfront w edding vvenue enue specializin Come wedding specializingg in FUN!
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Photo credit: Jessica Green Photography
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FINALLY!
Photo: AE Landes Photography
The perfect marriage of a captivating ballroom and a passionate staff to bring serenity instead of stress to your wedding day!
2500 Neabsco Common Place Woodbridge, VA 22191 703.590.2500 www.woodbridge.hgi.com
Clean lines, modern design and lots of natural light make the Hilton Garden Inn a perfect setting for your ceremony and reception. Our gorgeous ballroom – with floor to ceiling windows – can accommodate up to 180 guests. Ideal upscale city center location, just off I-95 near Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center and Potomac Mills Mall and only 20 miles from Washington, DC. Customizable packages with all inclusive per person pricing to fit your desires and budget. Delicious onsite catering, brand new guest accommodations and a complimentary honeymoon suite. To schedule your tour and consultation, contact our Wedding Specialist at 703.590.2500. 38
Arlington at Ballston
"Let us take care of everything... So you can focus on your family" • • • •
Grand Ballroom for up to 180 guests Inclusive BRIDAL Suite for Wedding Night Customized WEDDING Packages & On-site coordination Complimentary Metro shuttle & Free parking for all
www.hairlington.com I 703-243-9800 4610 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22203 www.BridesandWeddings.com.
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Looking for an exquisite setting for your wedding day? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE NEWLY REMODELED, FAIRFAX MARRIOTT AT FAIR OAKS
Our beautiful, light filled, open floor plan, is perfect for a memorable ceremony, or an elegant reception Enjoy inventive catering, personalized menus, and creative presentations, from our Executive Chef Let our certified Wedding Planners coordinate the finest of details, and anticipate your every need
11787 Lee Jackson Memorial Highway Fairfax, VA 22033
703.667.2101 www.fairfaxmarriott.com
ALL YOU WILL NEED TO SAY IS “I DO”.
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True Love Stories never have endings...
Our elegant clubhouse and breathtaking views of the Potomac River will leave a memorable impression on all of your guests. Classic elegance, fine service 43800 Olympic Boulevard, Leesburg and exquisite cuisine set us apart. Let 703.779.2022 us effortlessly orchestrate all the details. www.rivercreekclub.com Photography: Djijo Studios; Gown & Veil: Soliloquy Bridal Couture; Hair & Makeup: Enlightened Styles; Jewelry: Hunt Country Jewelers; Flowers: Buttercups Florals; Cake: Cake Panache.
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Wedding Season at Briar Patch Whatever the season, we offer a breathtaking, romantic setting in the heart of Virginia horse & wine country for your wedding weekend.
Briar Patch Bed & Breakfast Inn 703.327.5911 • www.BriarPatchBandB.com 23130 Briar Patch Lane 46
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renewed commitment to financial responsibility.
Gracious guests Y
ou aren't from Northern Virginia but have made it home and are holding your wedding here? The odds are that you will have out of town guests. Thoughtful brides and grooms scout out lodging accommodations and reserve blocks of rooms for family members and friends. If your reception is at one of the area's hotels, ask about discounted room rates for your guests. This one-stop location is most helpful for guests who are unfamiliar with the area. Ask about a hospitality suite where friends and family can meet. If your guests are arriving by plane, inquire about shuttle service. If your event is at a banquet facility, historic home or restaurant, ask your catering professional for recommendations of nearby hotels. Find two or three hotels in different price ranges to accommodate the budgets of your guests. Ask the hotel sales manager if room reservation cards are available to send to your guests, giving an 800 number, directions to the hotel and the name the block is reserved under. If out of town guests do not have access to a car, help arrange transportation to and from the ceremony and reception. Consider hiring shuttle vans or, if budget is a concern, it is perfectly okay to arrange for local family and friends to provide transportation. To show your appreciation to your out of town guests, prepare welcome baskets for each room. Gourmet foods and a bottle of wine from a local vineyard make a lovely gift basket. Also be sure to include maps and sightseeing brochures that may be of interest to your guests. ♥ 22
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Where Wedding Dreams Come True.
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Weddings & Events at the Holiday Inn Dulles Whatever the need, we’re committed to providing outstanding value, with the best service in top quality surroundings. Rehearsal Dinners Ceremonies Receptions Bridal or Day-After Brunch
Bridal Showers Bridal Dressing Room Groom’s Room Wedding Room Blocks
Call 703.480.7454 or visit HIDullesAirport.com 38
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4110 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax 703.691.7320
9309 Center Street, Manassas 703.792.6019
barn weddings— c o n t i n u e d will be able to provide references for rentals – from the reception basics to HVAC systems and mobile lounges. And if you’re going this route, hiring a seasoned event planner to coordinate all of these parts is a wise investment.
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Another area of consideration is guest parking. Event centers and wineries have adjacent parking lots. With an individual property, parking may be in a nearby field. Will you need a valet to park your guests’ cars? Will there be access to either the venue or transportation (think golf cart) for those who cannot make the trek from the field to the barn?
estled in picturesque Loudoun When looking for a caterer for your barn wedding, seek out professionals who have either County, Virginia, Oatlands Historic House and worked the property or have experience setting up and serving in a similar environment. Gardens boasts more than 200 years of history and Often pop-up kitchens need to be erected the day of the event. Will a generator be 30 years as a wedding venue. The mansion and required or can the caterer access the electric at the property? beautifully terraced landscapes offer the perfect 20850 Oatlands Plantation Ln. setting for exchanging your vows, cocktails, Barn weddings are beautiful in enjoying large part because the venue is surrounded by nature. Leesburg, VA 20175 and exploring the rent 4.5 acre gardens. Individuals who theirformal properties for weddings are usually working the land as well. 7. 3174 Please be respectful of the fields and livestock. The farm703. is not7a7petting zoo for your young Therecelebrate may be under sights,an sounds – tent and smells – oatlands.org that are not part of the typical For yourguests. reception, elegant wedding on either reception. on the mansion’s front lawn or paved terrace near the historic greenhouse, or in the If you plan thoroughly, think of the comfort of your guests, and work with knowledgeable 1903 Carriage house. The gardens, grounds, professionals, your barn wedding will go off without a hitch – go enjoy that hayride and history, and stunning vistas provide a charming bonfire with your family and friends! and timeless setting for your special day. 18
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W H AT ’ S COMING N E X T ? the
photography issue CHOOSING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER PLANNING THE SESSION COORDINATING PROPS AND OUTFITS
and more! lookbook no. 2
Relax...we’ve got this. From great custom menus to attentive, personalized service, we take the stress out of hosting your rehearsal dinner, intimate wedding reception or “after-party” party for up to 100 guests. Our internationally famous restaurant offers a spacious private party room overlooking the heart of Old Town Alexandria.
To reserve your special day, contact Christopher Williams, Group Sales Manager, at 703.683.1135. 105 King Street, Old Town Alexandria 22314 I 703.836.5676 www.fishmarketva.com I sales@fishmarketva.com 50
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