Italian-Inspired Wedding at Weatherly Farm

If ever there was a couple that epitomized making lemonade about of lemons, it was Anna and Austin. When the original plans for a reception at St. Francis Hall seemed uncertain based on the city’s gathering restrictions, they remained unflappable and positive, opting instead to move ahead with plans and relocate the reception to Weatherly Farm, an open air venue, in Maryland. Located an hour from Washington, DC on the Potomac River, the venue also offers an incredible sunset-facing, waterfront view.

Anna came to us with a vision for an Italian-inspired wedding that was at once timeless and elegant. The classic palette of white garden roses, ivory spray roses, and white tea roses was paired with tuscan touches of Italian ruscus, olive leaf foliage and rosemary for that Mediterranean feel. Touches of pale blue were brought in through bridesmaid dresses, ribbons and linens.

Manda Weaver Photography

The ceremony took place at Holy Rosary Church in Washington, DC. The beautiful sanctuary was further accented with two lush altar arrangements. Classic white hydrangea, roses, and lisianthus finished with olive and ruscus foliage.

Manda Weaver Photography

The change of venue presented both challenge and opportunities. The rustic pavilion mirrored some elements from St. Francis Hall, such as the large, wrought iron chandelier, so that overall, the Italian-inspired wedding style could easily transfer from one place to the other. Elegant urns were filled with white hydrangea, stock, roses, and lisianthus on the table. Touches of olive leaf, rosemary and Italian ruscus provided a point of continuity across the designs. The incredible stone fireplace, though, created an amazing opportunity and focal point. We dressed the mantle in hearty southern smilax, olive leaf and ruscus, accented with white roses and spray roses. The open air venue allowed the fronds to naturally sway in the breeze. The head table was strategically located across the back of the pavilion. As a special thank you from us for being such an amazing family, we accented their chair with lush wreaths of olive leaf foliage.