I remember approaching the tent seven years ago today seeing months worth of conversations unfold all at once. With Emily Clarke Events’ storytelling through detail combined with Jackson Durham’s aesthetic and production, this modern springtime wedding was as vibrant as the DMA’s crown Chihuly installation that framed the reception.
You’d never know by looking at the photos alone, but the hidden meaning behind the “through lines” in the design deck makes the already jaw dropping decor even more grounded in its meaning.
Georgetown University was a significant place to the couple’s relationship, and nothing is more iconically DC than the Cherry Blossoms that color the District pink each March-April. Beyond having these branches lining the ceremony aisle, the escort cards that led guests to their seats for dinner were a laser cut flower blossom, which was also used intertwined with the ironwork motif of their invitation liner, stage facade, and custom wallpaper created for behind the bars.
The invitation enclosed in a copper gate was a tribute to Itzel’s late father who was an ironworker. The cultural significance and fusion of these two details was incredibly symbolic connecting the two men closest to the bride.
Itzel wore a custom design by Rubin Singer for Neiman Marcus. The fitted V neck silk Mikado gown featured an asymmetrical braiding technique that contained the seaming detail. The soft silk organza skirt flowed into an A-line fit and fell to the floor.
After the ceremony in the tent, cocktail hour followed, and then their guests descended to the Hamon atrium for the reception. Once guests were seated the bride and groom entered down the grand staircase immediately to their first dance, “Viveme” by Laura Pausini.
As a departing treat, Itzel chose colorful chocolate comfits reminiscent of the artwork by Dale Chihuly so her guests could enjoy one last work of art on the way home. At the tail end of the night Mariachis escorted guests given tambourines to send off the couple on a high note. Since 2014, we have loved our continued relationship with this family as it has grown alongside our own.
