Planning & Design: Chandon Jones Design / Photographer: Anna Wright Photography / Venue: The Manor 1858 / Floral Design: Wanton Poppies / DJ: Gold Event Group / Saxophonist: Fred Vaughan Music / Drapery: Voile & Veil / Rentals: Curated Events DMV, DC Rental / Catering: Heirloom DC
Marissa and Josh’s wedding celebration was rooted in what matters most to them: family. With much of Marissa’s family working as farmers in South Dakota, traveling during the busy farming and wedding seasons would have been difficult. The couple chose to elope in October and host their reception in February, when everyone could travel to Washington, DC, and celebrate together.
Marissa’s South Dakota roots inspired the reception’s mountain-chic design. The warm, welcoming atmosphere felt elevated while still reflecting the bride’s background and the couple’s family-centered approach to the celebration.
Because Marissa and Josh had already exchanged vows, the evening skipped many of the traditional formalities and focused instead on bringing their closest family and friends together for one incredible party.
The celebration began with an extended cocktail hour, giving guests plenty of time to mingle, enjoy drinks and food, and spend time with the newlyweds. The relaxed format allowed the evening to feel less like a traditional reception and more like an intimate gathering of the people Marissa and Josh love most.
When it was time to begin the dance party, guests were surprised by a saxophone player who led them downstairs to a private speakeasy.
The completely new setting created an exciting shift in the evening, transporting guests from the warm, mountain-chic reception into an intimate space with an entirely different energy. It was the perfect reveal and an unforgettable way to begin the party.
No late-night party is complete without a few snacks. So we created a s’mores station with other campfire classics.
