The wedding of Abby & Brett was a wedding like no other. From our very first call, it was clear as day how connected and in love this New York City couple is! They wanted a wedding close to their families and in a classic location for their black tie summer wedding. We had our first meeting during covid, which postponed their celebration out two years, creating much anticipation and excitement for their wedding date on August 12th, 2023 at the Intercontinental Hotel at the Wharf in Washington D.C.
The amount of time, love and energy that went into planning this stunning summer wedding was a true act of love. Throughout those two years of planning, our team meticulously crafted every detail of their special day, weaving a tapestry of color, vibrancy, and sophistication that left no detail unturned. Despite the challenges of planning during the COVID era, this wedding was nothing short of magazine-worthy, a testament to love’s resilience and the power of creative vision.
The day kicked off with Abby and Brett gearing up for their big moment, each in their own corner of the Intercontinental Hotel in D.C. on the Wharf. Surrounded by their entourage of bridesmaids and groomsmen, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and a touch of nerves. Abby’s room was a whirlwind of activity, as her bridesmaids helped her slip into her stunning gown while popping champagne and sharing laughs. Meanwhile, in the groom’s quarters, Brett and his groomsmen cracked jokes and smoothed out their suits. As the morning unfolded, amidst the flurry of activity, there was a palpable sense of readiness as Abby and Brett geared up to say “I do” and embark on their next adventure together.
Emotions ran high as tears mingled with laughter in the moments leading up to the ceremony. Our dedicated team bustled about, ensuring every guest was settled in, sipping champagne, and eagerly awaiting the main event. A string quartet from Two Chambers River Music prepared to play their ceremony music in harmony and Sweet Root Village worked their magic, crafting an enchanting chuppah that took our breath away. Bursting with vibrant summer blooms, the chuppah stood as a testament to love’s beauty, its floral cascade framing the scene with an ethereal charm that set the perfect backdrop for Abby and Brett’s union.
Underneath a canopy of flowers, Abby and Brett stood before their loved ones, exchanging their heartfelt and personal vows. Their vows were not just words; they were intimate testaments to the profound bond they shared. With tears glistening in their eyes and voices trembling with emotion, they shared personal stories, cherished memories, and promises for the future that resonated deep within the hearts of all present.
Adding a touch of warmth and humor to the ceremony, Abby’s brother, Matt, took on the role of officiant. With his natural charisma and penchant for storytelling, Matt seamlessly blended heartfelt sentiment with lighthearted anecdotes, effortlessly guiding the ceremony with a touch of levity. As he recounted tales of Abby and Brett’s journey together, from their first meeting to the adventures that lay ahead, laughter echoed through the air of the ballroom.
Following the heartfelt ceremony, guests were whisked away to the rooftop for a whimsical cocktail hour that sparkled with charm and elegance. Bars were adorned with fresh greenery and intricate details welcomed guests to indulge in the couple’s signature drink, a Cardamom Gimlet and delectable hors d’oeuvres. The air buzzed with laughter and conversation as loved ones mingled, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
As guests enjoyed the delights of cocktail hour, our team got to work to seamlessly flip the ceremony space into a scene of unparalleled elegance and sophistication for their reception. Our tablescape design was executed to perfection, meticulously arranged with a keen eye for detail, with every single corner of the room transforming into a romantic and enlivening experience.
Each table was adorned with lush floral arrangements from Sweet Root Village, their vibrant hues complemented by accents of fresh-cut citrus that added a pop of color and fragrance to the scene. Against the backdrop of the hotel’s panoramic views, the tables became works of art in their own right, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the ambiance of Abby and Brett’s love story. As the evening unfolded and guests took their seats, they were enveloped in an atmosphere of understated luxury and timeless romance, setting the stage for a celebration that would be remembered for years to come.
As the reception transitioned seamlessly from cocktail hour to dinner, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation and excitement as guests took in the beauty of the room. Guests found their seats amidst the elegantly appointed tables, where the soft glow of candlelight danced upon the carefully arranged centerpieces of lush blooms and citrus accents. As the evening progressed, laughter and conversation filled the air, mingling with the clinking of glasses and the melodic strains of music drifting from the dance floor.
As dinner drew to a close, all eyes turned to the dance floor, where Abby and Brett shared their first dance as husband and wife. With grace and elegance, they moved as one to the rhythm of a song they had practiced for months, “Chateau Lobby #4” by Father John Misty. The evening unfolded with a series of heartfelt speeches and toasts that left not a dry eye in the room. Friends and family shared touching anecdotes and words of wisdom, offering their love and support to Abby and Brett as they embarked on this new chapter of their lives together. With each heartfelt sentiment expressed, the bond between the couple and their loved ones only grew stronger, weaving a tapestry of love and connection that enveloped the room.
One of the undeniable highlights of the night was the hora, a beloved tradition that brought together guests in a spirited display of unity and celebration. With joyful shouts and laughter, Abby and Brett were lifted high above the crowd on chairs, their faces illuminated with smiles as they embraced the moment with sheer exhilaration. It was a scene of pure joy and camaraderie, as friends and family joined hands and danced in joyful circles around the couple, their laughter echoing through the room.
As the hora came to an end, the festivities continued well into the night, with guests dancing and reveling in the sheer joy of the moment. From classic hits to contemporary favorites, Zandi Entertainment kept the dance floor alive with movement and laughter, a testament to the infectious spirit of Abby and Brett’s celebration. And as the night drew to a close, and the last strains of music faded into the night, guests departed with hearts full and memories to last a lifetime, cherishing the joy and love that filled the air on this magical evening.
As the final notes of music faded into the night, Abby and Brett’s wedding concluded, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. From the initial planning stages to the last dance, Angelica & Co poured our hearts and souls into crafting a wedding that was truly one-of-a-kind. We were so grateful to have a couple who allowed our dedication and creativity to shine, creating a celebration that was nothing short of extraordinary. As Abby and Brett embarked on their journey as husband and wife, they carried with them the memories of a day that was as vibrant and colorful as their love.
Vendors:
Wedding Planner: Angelica & Co. Events and Styling
Venue & Catering: Intercontinental Hotel at the Wharf
Photographer: Liz Fogarty
Rentals & Decor: Something Vintage Rentals, Select Event Group, BBJ La Tavola
Florist: Sweet Root Village
Hair & Makeup: Ariel Lewis Makeup
String Quartet: Two Rivers Chamber Music
Cake: Buttercream Bakeshop
Stationery, Paper, & Signage: Curious Fox Press
