Venue Spotlight: Hotel Monaco DC

First look on the iconic Hotel Monaco staircase

When it comes to hosting a wedding to remember, we can’t think of many venues as memorable as the Hotel Monaco, located at 700 F Street, NW.

About

Built in 1839 as the city’s original General Post Office it’s since been beautiful modernized to flawlessly merge hip and traditional. The ballroom boasts 20-foot ceilings, a grand dome and skylight that lets in natural light, and ornate decor with a bold, modern style. Sounds perfect, right? With the Portrait Gallery and Capitol One Arena within blocks of the hotel, there’s no doubt you’re in the heart of DC.

Before you even leave the building, for anyone who loves that classic, city feel, there are countless spaces in and around the hotel that make perfect backdrops for first looks, group photos and more. You can see why it’s one of Petal’s Edge’s favorite spots to say “I do”. In fact, we’ve done over 50 weddings at this venue alone – more than any other in town!

Location: Penn Quarter

Capacity: 200 with dance floor

Photo by Love Life Images

Something blue wedding bridesmaid dresses

Adam Mason Photography

Photo by Love Life Images

Petal's Edge | Real Wedding: Emily and Kevin - Hotel Monaco | Washington DC Florist

Photo by Emily Blumberg

Pro Tips:

Ceremonies at the Hotel Monaco take place partially in the round, with guests seated on three sides of the grand dome and the bridal party’s entrance facing guests. Best seat in the house for everyone! It does make for a tricky aisle way, but we say embrace the columns in the rotunda and do something suspended! Our suspended chuppah is particularly popular, but for a more organic feel, draping greenery is equally at home in the space.

With tables situated around the central dome, receptions get an automatically intimate feel. We suggest filling the space with alternating tall and low designs to complement the natural architectural drama of the space. Have bigger decor goals in mind? Greenery winding up the central columns makes a transformative statement piece!

While we wouldn’t call the room dark, as an interior space, lots and lots of candles transform this venue into something truly romantic. More is more when it comes to candles here! Lighting is also a must-have.