Archive for the ‘Outdoor Weddings’ Category

Real Weddings: Michelle +Larry

January 30

A few months ago I received an email from a mother of a bride looking for a wedding coordinator. As we begin talking about the bride’s big day, I knew the GLWE team would be a great fit for the couple. As the groom is in the military and the bride was relocating back to the DC area, I worked very closely with the mother of the bride in finalizing the wedding day logistics. The couple selected Hotel Monaco Alexandria as their ceremony and reception location.

I loved the sparkly belt our bride chose to complement her gown!

Throughout the morning the weather decided it wanted to play mind games with us, but ultimately agreed that Michelle and Larry deserved to have the courtyard ceremony they always envisioned!

After a smooth and swift ceremony, the guests enjoyed the cocktail hour in the courtyard while the bridal party took photos around Old Town, Alexandria.

The bride and groom kicked off the reception with a formal introduction and a first dance to “Hold On” by Michael Buble. Michelle and her father effortlessly danced to “Michelle” by the Beatles and the guests loved it!

Father/Daughter Dance

The fresh and eclectic summer menu that our bride, Michelle, and the culinary team at Hotel Monaco and Jackson 20 created was also a huge hit. After a three course dinner, the guests finished off the night with a delicious wedding cake created by Deiv Compton.

The gorgeous blooms, ceremony arch and personal flowers were designed and assembled by the very talented Dexter Fields and his team at Dexter Fields Flowers. Our DJ, Brennan Sullivan kept the party live and super fun with his great mix of oldies and top forty hits.

Congratulations Michelle and Larry and thank you for allowing us to be a part of your big day!

Michelle + Larry’s Dream Team:

Wedding Coordinator: Geomyra Lewis Weddings and Events

Photographer: Daniel Soñé Photography-Daniel Soñé

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Hotel Monaco Alexandria-Allison Manning

Catering: Jackson 20 @Hotel Monaco

Cake:  Deiv Compton

Florist: Dexter Fields Flowers

Officiant: Rev. John Hortum

Ceremony Musician: Chaerim Smith

Reception DJ: Brennan Sullivan

Hair & Makeup: Hair & Makeup by Claudine

Rehearsal Dinner: Overwoord Restaurant

Posted in Ceremony, Geomyra Lewis Weddings & Events, Outdoor Weddings, Real Weddings, Reception, Vendors, Venues | No Comments »
Save the Date! 2.23.13 {Hotel Monaco Alexandria Open House}

January 25

I am thrilled to be invited back to Hotel Monaco Alexandria’s Second Annual Open House on Saturday, February 23, 2013. Hotel Monaco is one of my absolute favorite venues here in the DC area. My team and I have planned numerous events at Monaco Alexandria and have a few more on the books for the upcoming season. Be sure to mark your calendar for their Open House and click here to RSVP to this free and intimate event.

 

Posted in Ceremony, Geomyra Lewis Weddings & Events, Inspiration, Outdoor Weddings, Planning, Real Weddings, Reception, Uncategorized, Vendors, Venues | No Comments »
GLWE Behind the Scenes {This Weekend’s Site Visits}

January 22

Happy Tuesday! I can’t believe how quickly the holiday weekend went by! I was excited to start the weekend as I had time to spend with my daughter, clients, family and friends. On Saturday, I had the pleasure of meeting one of our October couples for the first time. The three of us toured DC, Virginia and Maryland looking for the perfect location for their upcoming wedding. Our first stop was  Arts Club of Washington. I love the history of the Arts Club and its location near many DC landmarks and restaurants. The Arts Club is a unique venue as they have a garden that will be perfect for an outdoor ceremony.

Foyer of The Arts Club of Washington

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The Arts Club of Washington

I love this piece of Abraham Lincoln

One of the many spaces at The Arts Club of Washington

After visiting the Arts Club, I headed over to my favorite cupcakery, Sprinkles DC. I can’t go into the city without attempting to make my way over there!

Red Velvet, Strawberry and Vanilla Milk Chocolate with sprinkles

After a cupcake and coffee break, we headed to 2941 Restaurant and met with Michelle who showed us around. I loved the modern art that is displayed throughout the restaurant and the gorgeous waterfalls that are easily viewed through the glass windows.

2941 Restaurant

2941 Restaurant

After meeting with Michelle, we headed across the bridge to Maryland to visit Oxon Hill Manor. A few years back my team and I worked at Oxon Hill Manor for a brunch reception. I love the view from Oxon Hill Manor and the room options. The various rooms allow for versatility when laying out the ceremony and reception details and event floorplan.

Foyer area at Oxon Hill Manor

Checking out the views at Oxon Hill Manor

Oxon Hill Manor

One of the many spaces at Oxon Hill Manor

Bridal Suite at Oxon Hill Manor

We headed back into DC to visit with Nora at Sewall-Belmont House & Museum. It was exciting to be in the vicinity as the city was preparing for yesterday’s inauguration. Sewall-Belmont  is tucked away on Capitol Hill and its location can’t be matched.

Passed the Ten Commandments on my way to Sewall-Belmont

I love the door at Sewall-Belmont! A perfect place for bridal portraits.

After visiting with four different venues, I am sure our couple will find the perfect location for their upcoming wedding. I am excited to see which location our couple selects for their big day!

Posted in Ceremony, Geomyra Lewis Weddings & Events, Outdoor Weddings, Planning, Real Weddings, Reception, Uncategorized, Vendors, Venues | No Comments »
Real Weddings: Heather + Dan

June 4

A few weeks ago my team and I had the pleasure of returning to one of our favorite outdoor venues for Heather and Dan’s wedding at Woodened Sanctuary. Although we had to hold the ceremony on the terrace due to the rain, Heather and Dan’s big day was very intimate and seamless. Their all-star team of vendors did an amazing job of handling every detail of their ceremony and reception setup. Heather and Dan chose to see each other prior to the ceremony and their photographer captured the precious moment. Their cake was created by one of the area’s best, Fluffy Thoughts and their delicious menu was created with the help of Spencer of Main Event Caterers.  The guests partied the night away as Heather and Dan’s DJ Bryan played hit after hit. The unique centerpieces, chuppah and beautiful bouquets were created by Spot Floral Design, a new favorite of mine. Take a look at a few photos courtesy of their super fun photographer, Amber Reinik. Be sure to head over to Amber’s blog to view more photos and her work. Congratulations Heather + Dan!

Heather + Dan’s Dream Team:

Venue: Woodend Sanctuary

Caterer: Main Event Caterers- Spencer McCormack

Photographer: Amber Reinink Photography

Cake: Fluffy Thoughts

DJ: Bryan George Music Services

Florist: Spot Floral Design-John Arndt

Rabbi: Jessica Oleon

Transportation: Fleet Transportation & Barwood Taxi Company

Hair & Makeup: Posche-Natalie

Guest Accommodations:  Hyatt Regency Bethesda & Residence Inn Bethesda Downtown

 

 

Posted in Geomyra Lewis Weddings & Events, Outdoor Weddings, Real Weddings, Reception, Uncategorized, Vendors | 33 Comments »
Outdoor Wedding Essentials

May 15

Here in the DC area we are in the thick of spring and wedding season. Between DC, Maryland and VA, there are numerous outdoor venues available for your big day. I myself got married outdoors in the August summer heat. When planning for your outdoor nuptials, be sure to keep your guests in mind. Below are a few outdoor essentials that your guests will be sure to appreciate!

  1. Sunscreen: It is imperative to be shielded from the sun at all times. These handy wipes cut down on the mess and provide the protection your guests will need.
  2. Parasols: Parasols provide just the right amount of shade needed to block the sun.
  3. Fan Programs: Fan programs serve double duty during the ceremony. For an added touch, include an engagement photo on the reverse of the order of service.  
  4. Tissue: There will sure to be tears of joy during your nuptials. Convenient tissue packs are always appreciated.
  5. Bug Spray: Keep pesky little insects away with a spray of insect repellent.
  6. Hydration Station: After driving the distances, treat your guests to a signature beverage, lemonade, or water to keep them hydrated during the ceremony.
Posted in Ceremony, Geomyra Lewis Weddings & Events, Outdoor Weddings, Uncategorized | No Comments »