An Elegant And Chic Modern Garden-Inspired Anderson House Wedding

The Planning
Design / Vibe / Vision

Melissa & Michael tied the knot on a beautiful Sunday in October at Washington DC's Anderson House, a Gilded Age mansion turned society club full of fine architecture, a breathtaking garden, and an ornate ballroom with a history of over a century of hosting lavish soirees. Anderson House’s Beaux-Arts style facade proved to be a perfect backdrop for this classic and modern black tie affair. The couple wanted to keep their wedding design monochromatic with romantic neutrals paired with soft but bold florals for a timelessly elegant setting for their big day. The bride chose to complement the venue’s historic charm by including delicate details like votives and tapered candles of a variety of heights, poofs of baby’s breath floating everywhere from the ceremony arch to the bar and the staircase, and bistro lights to drape the pond in the garden. She reflected the sparkle from the glimmering ballroom chandeliers at dinner by pairing fluted glassware with silver and velvet gray textured tablecloths. With a flair for keeping things chic, Melissa and Michael opted for a garden ceremony, an al fresco dinner under twinkling lights, and a ballroom reception where they danced the night away with their closest friends and family. They were surrounded with love at every moment of their perfect happily ever after.

The Fashion
Wedding Gown

The bride selected the stunning strapless silk mikado 'Emma' gown by renowned luxury bridal designer Lihi Hod. The dress features a delicately draped neckline for a timeless silhouette and a modern twist. She layered the gown with the matching tulle puff-sleeved cape for the Cocktail Hour and Al-Fresco Dinner. The look was completed with a Rosantica crystal-embellished bag, white almond-toe shoes by Manolo Blahnik, heirloom pearls from her mother, and diamond jewels by Ring Concierge.

Bridesmaid Dresses

Utilizing a palette of all-black for the bridal party accentuated with structural white blooms, their design scheme kept things chic, timeless, and modern, a new take on weddings held at the ornate society club in DC. The bridesmaids wore Amsale 'Chloe' Gowns paired with GLDN Pearl Drop Earrings gifted by the bride.

Groomsman Attire

The groom stayed on theme with a classic black tuxedo by Suit Supply paired with custom velvet Del Toro slippers engraved with the couple's initials and 'I Do' date. The groomsmen were outfitted by SuitShop in the Premium Notch-Lapel Tuxedos with monogrammed cufflinks gifted by the Groom.

The Details
Food & Drink

The couple worked with Amit from Spilled Milk Catering to create a fun food experience for their guests. In addition to pairing well with their curated wine selection, they wanted the menu to be Fall inspired and played up to the seasonality of their day. They served a wide assortment of passed appetizers with fan favorites like miniature chili cheese dogs, crab cakes, and tacos served in lime wedges. For dinner, a decadent Fall Sweet Potato Ravioli, Pan Seared Salmon, and Braised Short Rib.

Florals & Decor

With their planner, Kaitlin from Cheers Darling Events, Melissa dreamed up a day abundant with white roses and baby’s breath. Amanda from A Morgan Event Floral Design created a secret garden mood for the ceremony that carried through the evening flawlessly with overflowing baby’s breath and greenery at every turn. The bride's bouquet featured generous cascading white orchids and roses.

Wedding Cake
The bride and groom worked with Alison, who created a textured, whimsical, and white, two-tiered, strawberry short-cake. In addition to the cake, Liberty also provided monogrammed sugar cookies and an assortment of other treats for guests to enjoy.
Special Detail #1
A sweet nod to the bride's Italian heritage, the couple's escort wall featured custom Limoncello bottles detailing the name and table arrangement for each guest. The wall was flanked in greenery with the phrase "You had me at 'cello,” across the top.
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Cinematography: Shutter & Sound | Event Planning: Cheers Darling Events | Floral Design: A Morgan Event Floral Design | Wedding Dress: Lihi Hod | Wedding Dress: Spina Bride | Cake: Liberty Baking Co. | Invitations: Jeanette Pidi Designs | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Catering: Spilled Milk Catering | Groom's Attire: Suit Supply | Venue: Larz Anderson House | Rentals: DC Rental | Engagement Ring Designer: Lauren B Jewelry | Rentals: Maison de Carine | Rentals: Something Vintage Rentals