Real Weddings – Melissa & Andy

On October 4, Melissa & Andy exchanged vows in a touching ceremony at Holy Rosary Church and then celebrated their marriage in an extraordinary reception at The Hay-Adams Hotel. I had the privilege of traveling down to Charlotte, North Carolina for Melissa & Andy’s engagement session last summer and was looking forward to their Fall wedding ever since. It’s with much joy that I share their beautiful wedding day in this Real Weddings feature. Their hard work and creativity were seen throughout their special day, but even more apparent was the incredible friendship and love that they share.

WASHINGTON DC WEDDING VENUE
The Hay-Adams
800 16th Street NW
Washington, DC 20006
202.638.6600

Wedding theme?
We wanted a sophisticated affair without being stuffy, classic elegance with warm touches that reflected us. A DC feel since we both love the city!

Biggest surprise of the Wedding?
How much we loved the church ceremony. It was awesome walking back down the aisle as husband and wife and everyone waving the ribbon sticks at us as the string quartet played.

First dance?
‘Bonfire Heart’ by James Blunt. An upbeat song that is a reminder that as long as we have each other and keep that spark between us – that is all we really need.

Melissa & Andy took advantage of the Hay Adams location and strolled over to Lafayette Square Park for a few moments with each other (and my camera!) before their cocktail reception. And of course, they showed off their light-hearted spirit as they climbed onto the Hay Adams bicycles. This couple is too fun!

Words that describe the Wedding?
Warm, welcoming, timeless and classic.

The long tables with all white accents were breathtaking!

Most memorable part of your Wedding Day?
Melissa: The first dance that we practiced and prepared that showed our guests that we are partners. A very special moment where we seemed like the only two in the room!
Andy: Kissing Melissa for the first time after being pronounced man and wife and being introduced as Mr. and Mrs.

Wedding cake?
Our cake had two flavors – white chocolate and carrot cake.

Favorite Wedding detail?
The balcony view overlooking the White House. Amazing!

Honeymoon spot?
Kauai & Maui

It was a pleasure teaming up with these talented vendors:

WEDDING VENDORS
Wedding Coordinator: A Simply Chic Event
Gown Boutique: Hannelore’s Bridal
Hair Stylist: Andre Chreky Salon
Floral Designer: Edge Floral Event Designers
Cocktail Musicians: Cherry Blossom Strings
DJ: DJ Aaron Platt, Chris Laich Music Services
Videographer: Bowen Films
Photo Booth: Booth-O-Rama
Transportation: Old Town Trolley

Credits: Holy Rosary Church and The Hay-Adams Hotel

the hay-adams hotel