The Luck of the Irish

So almost two weeks ago, I don't know where the time is going, my spring wedding season began in a big way. The lovely Alison Caldwell and the charming Thomas Bliss, yes ladies, she is going to be Mrs. Bliss, helped me start off my season right down to every last detail.

It all began on a perfect March 21st Saturday. The weather was in the 60's although the bride had predicted snow for the 14 months I was working with her. I arrived at her parents Georgetown home as she and her 11 bridesmaids were getting ready. The women wore a distinct shade of Kelly Green. Oh, did I forget to mention. The bride and family are Irish and the wedding was conveniently scheduled for the weekend after St. Patrick's Day. More on that later. The bride wore a stunning lace dress from Hitched and the groomsmen complimented the bridesmaids in Kelley Green traditional bow ties and cumber buns.

The ceremony took place at Holy Trinity in Georgetown. As a surprise to the guests, a bagpiper appeared at the end of the ceremony to lead the wedding party and 200 guests the 5 blocks from there church to the reception site. The image of the group walking down the block literally brought a tear to my eye. It was a special thing to see and something I don't do all the time.

The venue is one of my favorites, Halcyon House. The uniqueness off the three spaces, outside's terraced lawns, the traditional upstairs and the rough, blank slate studio reception space, makes it interesting for the guests at each stage. Cocktails were served upstairs and out back as the bride and groom took some personal pictures.

Finally, the guests moved down the grand staircase to the reception space. The combination of green and pink wasn't Lilly Pulitzer, but a more sophisticated take on what was to be a very Irish themed reception.

Petal's Edge created the unique centerpieces even incorporating brussel sprouts into one of the containers. Occasions dazzled with a menu fit for kings. Dessert was provided by a family friend who made the most wonderful brownies and the groom's family who conveniently have a creamery in PA. Bliss Brothers produced a limited edition supply of Bailey's Irish Cream ice cream that was loved by all.

At the end of the extended reception, guests didn't want to leave and managed to stick around as the clean up crews worked around them. That is the evidence of a great party.

Here is a list of other vendors who were involved;

Make up- Pattie Martin

Transportation- Linder and Associates http://www.linderassociates.com/

Valet- Unipark http://www.unipark.com/

Lighting- John Farr Lighting http://www.johnfarrlighting.com/

Photo booth- http://www.poshbooths.com/

Photography- Elaine Studley http://www.elainestudley.com/

Entertainment- DJ Jared http://www.bialeksmusic.com/

Bag Piper Norm Weaver http://www.va-mdbagpiper.com/

Flowers- Petal's Edge http://www.petalsedge.com/

Caterer- Occasions http://www.occasionscaterers.com/

Sara