In the vibrant heartbeat of the DC Metropolitan area, we had the joy of weaving a tale of love and elegance. Nikki and Brandon, with their deep roots to DC, started planning their modern and chic wedding at the Intercontinental Wharf all the way from sunny Los Angeles. Coordinating their special day across the miles was no small feat! Together, we embraced this challenge with open hearts, dedicating ourselves to crafting every detail with precision. We can’t wait to share all the details of how this day came together!
Getting Ready at The Intercontinental Wharf
Before the heartfelt vows and the joyful celebrations, there lies a precious time of anticipation and intimate preparation. It’s one of our favorite moments of the wedding day! We love seeing these getting ready moments of our couples from a photographer’s point of view, as being the wedding planners, we may not always be present to witness them. Can we have a moment for Nikki’s pearl-encrusted getting ready robe?!
A First Look at the Library of Congress
Nikki and Brandon’s wedding photos and their first look unfolded against the iconic interior of the Library of Congress. Despite being a historic landmark, we loved that the location felt unexpected, as it’s not often used for wedding portraits. This choice reflected a harmonious blend of old and new DC, echoing Nikki’s original wedding day vision. The moment Nikki stepped out in her strapless pearl lace Rivini gown, time stood still. This has to be one of our favorite bridal gowns of all time, and the sound it made as she glided throughout her wedding day was one that made my heart leap.
A Ceremony Steeped in Tradition and Joy
The wedding ceremony took place at the historic National City Christian Church, nestled in the heart of DC. This setting provided a sacred space for Nikki and Brandon to exchange their vows, surrounded by the love of their family and friends. As they stepped out as husband and wife, a shower of flower petals rained down upon them, marking the beginning of their new journey together. The getaway in a baby blue Bentley convertible was the epitome of style and sophistication! A fitting transition to the celebrations that awaited.
A True Wedding Weekend Reception in DC
From the outset, Nikki was drawn to the beauty of The Intercontinental Wharf, partly because of the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that offered breathtaking views of the Potomac River. This was key to inviting the outdoors in and bathing the space in natural light. This choice was particularly poignant, considering the couple’s desire to host a memorable weekend for their guests, many of whom would be traveling from the West Coast. The venue’s capacity to accommodate everyone under one roof, coupled with the ballroom’s airy ambiance that never felt stuffy, set the stage for a sunny September wedding by the Potomac River that was nothing short of perfection.
Our team at Simply Breathe Events meticulously designed the reception to embody a modern garden chic aesthetic. We bathed the reception in an array of pink hues that added a lively yet delicate ambiance to the evening. We transformed one side of the ballroom to resemble an upscale hotel lobby bar, where we featured a white fluted bar with a greenery adored bar back.
Our commitment to creating a cohesive and memorable experience was reflected in every detail. From the wax seals and vellum paper of the escort cards that harmonized with the wedding invitations, to the radiant neon sign emblazoned with “The Knutsons.” This sign not only directed guests to the heart of the celebration but also became a memento that the newlyweds could take home with them. We always strive to add thoughtful and personalized touches in each event we have the privilege of planning.
An Elegant Wedding at The Intercontinental Wharf
As we look back on this gorgeous wedding at The Wharf in DC, we can’t help but be filled with gratitude. We never take for granted the the trust placed in us by our wonderful couples to bring such a momentous occasion to life. For Nikki and Brandon, and for every couple we have the honor of working with, we can’t wait to continue creating spaces that reflect the depth of your love, the joy of your union, and the bright future that lies ahead.
We love spaces that are as FUN as they are pretty, and if that’s you too, we invite you to reach out. Or, follow us on Instagram where we share our latest work and behind-the-scenes glimpses. We would be honored to be part of your story, creating a day that’s uniquely yours!
Vendor Team
Wedding Planning & Design: Simply Breathe Events
Wedding Dress: Kinsley James Couture Bridal Rivini
Reception Dress: Grace Loves Lace
Tuxedo(s): The Black Tux
Venue: Intercontinental Wharf
Church: National City Christian Church
Bridesmaid Dresses: Revelry
Florist: Love Blooms
Cake: Buttercream Bakeshop
Hair: On the Runnn Salon
Makeup: Bels Beautiq, LLC
Photographer: Terri Baskin Photography
DJ: DJ Reece
Ceremony Musicians: National City Christian Church
Videographer: Sok Vision
Invitations & Day-of Stationery: Minted
Officiant: Rev. W. J. Mark Knutson
Transportation: Corporate Wheels, LLC
Pizza Boxes, Monogram. Escort Cards: Wilori Lane
Lighting & Dance Floor: The Light Source
Specialty Rentals: Something Vintage
Linens & Tableware: Select Event Group
Tiffany Rivera is a DC & NYC Wedding Planner & Event Planner. For more inspiration when planning your destination wedding, check out this enchanted garden wedding at meridian house.