This past November, we had the pleasure of spending the day with Abby and Rob for their pastel fall wedding at Hotel Monaco DC, serving as both their day-of coordinator and floral designer. Being part of the day in this dual role allowed us to support their vision from start to finish, ensuring everything unfolded smoothly so they could truly enjoy the celebration.
From the very beginning, Abby’s attention to detail set the tone. From matching bridesmaids’ robes to thoughtfully chosen accessories, every element was personal in naturel. The Hotel Monaco itself, along with the surrounding Chinatown and Penn Quarter neighborhood, provided a dynamic backdrop for their pre-ceremony portraits. We’ve worked on many celebrations here over the years, and you can see another example of an autumn wedding at Hotel Monaco DC in one of our past weddings.
Abby carried a loose, unstructured bouquet that blended soft fall pastels with subtle winter tones. White tulips, stock, and ranunculus were paired with peach garden roses and blue thistle, accented by deep blue privet berry, dusty miller, and seeded eucalyptus foliage. The result was romantic and textural, with a gently seasonal feel. Rob’s boutonniere echoed the bouquet, featuring white ranunculus and seeded eucalyptus for a cohesive, understated look.
The ceremony took place at historic St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Dupont Circle. The church’s warm woodwork and classic architecture created an intimate, timeless setting for Abby and Rob’s vows, beautifully complementing the softness of the floral palette.
At the reception, the floral design reflected a modern interpretation of a pastel fall wedding at Hotel Monaco. The escort card table featured floating candles paired with simple arrangements of white hydrangea and roses, introducing a clean, contemporary contrast to the looser garden-style florals used throughout the evening. Reception arrangements mirrored the bride’s bouquet, combining whites and ivory tones with touches of pale pink, deep blue, and sage. Thistle, privet berries, and silvery dusty miller added depth and a subtle winter-garden quality.
The wedding cake featured coordinating florals and one especially charming detail — a tiny fondant dog styled to look just like Abby and Rob’s own pup, peeking out from the design.
And then came the surprise of the night. George Washington, one of the Washington Nationals mascots, made an unexpected appearance, delighting guests as he posed for photos and danced the night away. It was a moment full of joy and personality — exactly the kind of unexpected fun that makes a wedding unforgettable. We’ve seen many different design styles at this venue over the years, including richly toned celebrations like this burgundy wedding at Hotel Monaco DC, which shows just how versatile the space can be.
Abby and Rob’s pastel fall wedding at Hotel Monaco DC was joyful, thoughtful, and filled with personality — a celebration that blended soft seasonal color, meaningful details, and just the right amount of surprise.
Ceremony: St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church
Reception: Hotel Monaco
Photography: Love Life Images
Florist: Petal’s Edge Floral Design
Baker: Heidelberg Bakery
Coordination: Petal’s Edge
