Valeria and John’s wedding day was a classic, black tie affair across some of the most notable venues in Washington, DC. They were married in a Jewish-Episcopalian ceremony at the iconic Washington National Cathedral, followed by a stunning wedding reception at the Top of the Hay inside the Hay Adams.

The entire day was a nod to their seven-year journey to this point. The Washington National Cathedral was selected for their wedding ceremony as it is a place near and dear to their hearts. Valeria used to frequent the cafe while studying for law school and John would join her for walks through the Bishop’s Garden on her breaks. The Hay Adams is known for one of the best views in all of Washington, DC, so it was only fitting to have their wedding reception at the Top of the Hay for this is the city where they met and fell in love.

It wasn’t just the venues they selected that were personal, however, it was also many of the small touches planned throughout the day. Their welcome box included sentiments from their respective hometowns — a black and white cookie from NYC for John and a cactus and jade candle to represent Phoenix for Valeria. After the wedding, they honeymooned in Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast and selected these coffee table books as their guest book for a great reminder of both of these special occasions.

Upon entering the Top of the Hay, guests were greeted with a stunning dinner reception overlooking the White House and all of Washington, DC​.​ The all-white decor featured a hanging baby’s breath installation by William Thomas Floral, all of which was dreamed up by Valeria with the help of her amazing planner and visionary, Caroline Dutton Events. But perhaps the most unique detail of all came in the form of something guests couldn’t see, but rather smelled. Valeria had the entire reception space diffused with a scent from Le Labo that she and John first discovered while in Miami. Under the knowledge that scent is scientifically proven to trigger memories, Valeria and John provided each guest with a small sample of this perfume to take home as a special way to transport them back to this exact moment.

Enjoy a glance at this truly remarkable wedding day.

A huge thank you to these vendors for making Valeria & John’s wedding amazing! And to Rebekah Emily Photography for being an awesome second shooter!

Ceremony | Washington National Cathedral
Reception | Hay Adams
Coordinator | Caroline Dutton Events
Invitation Suite | Steph B & Co.
Hair | Hair by Remona
Makeup | Carl Ray
Cake | Buttercream Bakeshop
Florist | William Thomas Floral
Rentals | White Glove
Videographer | Shaking Hands Production
Favors | Marigold & Grey
Ceremony Dress | Monique Lhuillier
Reception Dress | Sarah Seven
Groom’s Attire | Tom Ford