We had so much fun planning Laura and Josh’s stunning and uniquely DC wedding last fall. Our favorite part was how each and every choice and detail was tied to something symbolic and meaningful to their relationship.

Ceremony

They chose to have their ceremony at the DC War Memorial for many reasons. They met each other while living in DC and they bought a condo together right before their wedding. Also, Josh played kickball on the field behind where their ceremony took place on the National Mall!

Bride and Groom

This ceremony setting, of course, allowed for all of the quintessential and iconic shots around and along the National Mall.

Reception

The reception was at Nando’s Peri Peri on H Street, a corridor in DC that is known for fun bars and eclectic, delicious food. Nando’s is a South African multinational fast food chain that specializes in flame-grilled peri-peri style chicken. Founded in Johannesburg in 1987, Nando’s operates over 1,200 outlets in 30 countries. Their logo depicts the Rooster of Barcelos, one of the most common symbols of Portugal.

Why Nando’s? Laura and Josh met through a mutual friend and immediately bonded over their immense love for Nando’s Peri Peri Kitchen. They went to the Dupont Circle location as their first date. A few months into their courtship Josh decided to get a Nando’s tattoo to honor his dedication to Nando’s and as well as Laura and Josh as a couple – and the rest is history!

While Nando’s is no stranger to smaller private events (birthdays, bridal showers, etc.) or corporate evens, no location in the DC-area had ever had the pleasure of hosting a wedding. So when Laura, Josh, and Maya approached headquarters about having their wedding at a location in DC, they were all over it and so excited to be part of Laura and Josh’s adventure.

We chose on the H Street location because it was the largest space and had the most interesting decor and aesthetic (exposed brick walls, a loft-like second floor, large windows).

Reception Details

It was important to both Laura and Josh to have a reason or connection to each of the vendors they brought on. For example, Laura and Josh had seen their DJ, DJ Center, perform several times at other friends and family events. They loved that he is known for mixing and playing Argentinian music and other internationally-inspired songs that aren’t played at your typical wedding. (Argentinian music happens to be an absolute favorite of Laura and Josh’s). Their cake baker was a friend who had recently launched her own business. Their violinist who played at their ceremony was a long time friend of Josh’s and the list goes on!

Many years of wedded bliss to you both!

Vendor Team
Planning: Honey and Lavender Events
Venue: District of Columbia War Memorial / Nando’s
Photography: Natasha Lamalle Photography
Florist: Studio Fleuraison
Entertainment: DJ Center
Bakery: Sweets by Sara S.
Event Rentals: Sammy’s Rentals

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This