I love having the opportunity during wedding season to document additional events leading up to a couple’s big day. Sometimes this is a styled bridal shower or engagement party, but most often it is the rehearsal dinner. Part of why I love being at these occasions is that it makes the whole celebration of the wonderful couple seem to last longer. I also like knowing they will have professional photography from the entire weekend. But mostly, I love getting to spend additional time with those that they love most. They often say you are the mix of the people you are closest to, so I find that I genuinely like spending time with my couple’s friends and family.

CASINO NIGHT
Dana and Anthony, of course, were no exception to this. I spent both Thursday and Friday with their friends and family before their wedding ceremony that Saturday. Thursday they hosted a super fun Casino Night. It was complete with real casino games including blackjack, craps, roulette, and, of course, poker. Every attendee was given faux pink money on arrival to bet without any debt! Guests loved getting to play old classics and learn new-to-them games throughout the evening. The custom branded ice is not to be missed!

 

REHEARSAL DINNER
The next evening was a stunning but low-key rehearsal dinner. After walking through the ceremony, the couple wanted to spend the evening enjoying dinner and then turning in early so they could be prepared for the big day ahead! Dinner was originally planned to be outside surrounding the fountain, but the unpredictable spring weather forced them inside! The evening was still lovely and be sure to check out that floral draped white baby grand piano!

 

VENDOR CREDITS
A huge thank you to these vendors for making Dana & Anthony’s wedding weekend amazing!
Wedding Planner | Elle Ellinghaus & Co.
Photographer | Alicia Lacey Photography
Stationery & Calligraphy | Ruby The Fox
Florist | Designs by Oochay
Lighting, Stage, & Decor | Event Revolution
Furniture Rentals | White Glove
DJ | District Remix
Pianist | John Hall with Washington Talent Agency
Hair | Alexis Krisak
Makeup | Carl Ray
Catering | Occasions Caterers

Be sure to check out the FULL wedding — coming soon!