From our first meeting, Alexis and Mitch knew they wanted their wedding to evoke modern elements of romance and flair, so we thought… YES – let’s give these people something to talk about! The first step was finding the right venue. We knew a wedding at the Schuyler would be the perfect blank backdrop to bring their vision to life. Plus, with guests flying in from all over the country, it was important for the couple to create a wedding weekend experience for their closest friends and family, and Alexis understood the value of choosing a hotel ballroom where she could simply head upstairs to her suite after a long night of dancing. These high school sweethearts had the wedding of their dreams, and we can’t wait to share it with you today!
A Stunning and Romantic Wedding Color Palette
As wedding planners, we care about the big vision and the smallest of details. For Alexis and Mitch, we focused on creating a color palette of nudes, blushes, true greens, and touches of black to give a modern twist to the overall look. Collaborating with Dionisa from Wilori Lane, we designed the invitation suite with black embossed details and a custom monogram that beautifully connected the couple’s first names. This monogram became a recurring element throughout the event, appearing on the menu, floor decals, and a stunning 8ft black acrylic escort wall adorned with soft romantic floral arrangements and an abundance of candles (keep scrolling for their stunning reception setup!).
Another benefit of a hotel ballroom wedding? Gorgeous getting ready locations. Both Alexis and Mitch got ready in their Hamilton Hotel rooms. Alexis looked breathtaking in a strapless Monique Lhuillier gown, while her bridesmaids elegantly complemented her in floor-length black gowns with similar necklines. The fashion choices came together flawlessly, creating an ambiance that exceeded everyone’s expectations.
A First Look Before the Ceremony
Before we share the ceremony, we need a moment for this sweet first look. As wedding planners, we always adore a first look. The heartfelt reactions of these high school sweethearts upon catching sight of each other on their wedding day will be living rent free in our minds forever.
Wedding Ceremony at the Schuyler Ballroom
We divided the Schuyler Ballroom into two sections at the start of the day to create an intimate ceremony for the bride and groom. Every detail was thoughtfully considered as we adorned the area with elegant, latte-colored velvet linens that exuded warmth and sophistication. The ambiance was further enhanced by the addition of exquisite florals and softly flickering candles, casting a romantic glow throughout the room. As the moment arrived, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house as Alexis gracefully walked down the aisle, escorted by her proud father, accompanied by the beautiful melodies of their musical quartet.
Wedding Reception at the Schuyler
Once the ceremony was complete it was all hands on deck for a complete reception transformation. Together with our fabulous vendor team, we got to WORK transforming the space from a stunning ceremony setup to a jaw-dropping reception.
Firstly, the wedding reception design was nothing short of stunning. As a wedding planner, I had the pleasure of framing Alexis and Mitch’ VIP tables with a gorgeous black and white checkered dance floor (that Alexis had her eye on since the early stages of planning). To add depth to the spacious ballroom, we included a mix of tables with different decor elements. Then, we adorned the tables with beautiful flowering compotes of various heights, accompanied by plenty of candles. Overall, the modern twist of black smoke elements gave the design a unique and enchanting touch.
Personally, my absolute favorite part were the table top selections! The combination of black dinnerware, along with the elegant nude and blush acrylic stationery from Wilori Lane, really elevated the entire look. Seeing it all come together was an incredible moment for the entire team!
A Lively and Romantic Wedding at the Schuyler
Throughout the reception there was one element constantly stealing the show – the black and white checkered dance floor. Firstly, as the newlyweds made their way to the center for their first dance, guests were surprised by the enchanting cold sparklers that framed the couple. Alexis and Mitch showed off their stunning dance moves from the lessons they took leading up to their wedding day.
Then, halfway through the reception, Alexis decided to pay homage to her mother by changing into her mom’s original wedding dress. Before the wedding day, she had thoughtfully altered the dress to match her own personal style. This little detail added a beautiful touch of sentimentality to the celebration and became one of our favorite moments of the day. You know we love an outfit change around here!
Finally, to cap off the night with a mouthwatering twist, Alexis’ dad, who owns several McDonald’s franchises in the DMV area, served everyone with a late-night treat. They served quarter pounders with cheese, fries, McNuggets, and a variety of mouthwatering sauces, satisfying the cravings of every guest for a scrumptious late-night snack. Then, after guests were properly fueled, the party continued late into the evening!
A Romantic and Modern DC Wedding
Alexis and Mitch’s wedding at the Schuyler was a perfect symphony of modern romance and impeccable planning. Every element, from the chic color palette to the unique dance floor and sentimental touches, were meticulously crafted to celebrate their love story. As wedding planners, we take pride in bringing such visions to life, ensuring that every detail resonates with the couple’s personality and dreams. We could not be more honored that Alexis and Mitch trusted us with their day!
If you’re looking for a wedding planning team dedicated to creating an event that not only meets but exceeds your expectations, we would love to be considered! Contact us here to get started!
VENDOR TEAM
Wedding Planner: Simply Breathe Events
Photography: Nikki Daskalakis
Wedding Venue: The Schuyler
Videographer: Sok Vison
Florist: Sophie Felts Floral Design
Invitations + Stationery: Wilori Lane
Bridal Attire: Carines Bridal (Monique Lhullier)
Groom’s Attire: The Black Tux
Wedding Cake: Buttercream Bakeshop
Bridal Hair: Tress Art Hair
Bridal Makeup: Glam Qui and Glamour by Troi
Ceremony Musicians: Sterling Strings
Live Painter: Rachel English Fine Art
Entertainment: Dan Goldman Events
Entry Mirror and Escort Display: Grofik Installations
Photo Booth: Booth-o-Rama
Dance Floor and Table Top Rentals: Select Event Group
Lighting and Draping: The Light Source
Tiffany Rivera is a DC & NYC Wedding Planner & Event Planner. For more inspiration when planning your destination wedding, check out this iconic NYC wedding at Wythe hotel.