It’s hard to get a perfect weather day during August in D.C. It’s reliably hot, humid, and “swampy.” But August 10, 2019 was near perfect in every way - weather in the mid-80s, a historic setting, and a beautiful wedding planned by Allison Barnes Events. Looking back at these happy photos makes weddings seem possible again, especially at airy, outdoor venues like Woodlawn. Thank you to photographer Kait Bailey for these beautiful photos and happy first anniversary to a special couple. Enjoy!
Washington, D.C. offers dozens of historic venues that make for beautiful weddings, including this one just down the George Washington Memorial Parkway in Alexandria, Virginia. Woodlawn was originally part of George Washington’s Mount Vernon. But in 1799 Washington gave the site to his nephew Lawrence Lewis and Lewis’ bride, Eleanor “Nelly” Parke Custis, granddaughter of Martha Washington. The Washington’s hoped the wedding gift would keep the newlyweds close to home.
Of course, there’s a lot more to the story at Woodlawn. And it seems Woodlawn is committed to telling the full history of the estate and its occupants, including “the first owners and their enslaved,” and the “Quaker families who transformed the property into working farmsteads for freedmen and immigrants.” You can read more about Woodlawn’s history here.
Also located on the property is the Frank Lloyd Wright designed Pope-Leighey House - “the only Wright house in the D.C, Virginia and Maryland area which is regularly open to the public for tours and events.” The two houses offer two distinct looks. Both are listed as National Trust for Historic Preservation sites.
Woodlawn offers an exceptional setting for outdoor photos with different options for spring, summer, and fall. I love the way the crepe myrtle trees frame the cocktail garden. It’s the perfect place to loosen the tie, grab a cocktail and start celebrating.
The bridal bouquet set the tone and style for all the wedding flowers. I love this summer color combination made with roses, ranunculus, delphinium, and hydrangea. The look translated easily into the reception centerpieces.
The tented reception area is so pretty when set - especially when the tent can be opened to give guests views of the estate grounds.
Happy first anniversary! Wishing you many happy years together!