Outdoor Wedding DC: A Celebration of Love and Joy at Decatur House
When it comes to planning an outdoor wedding in DC, there’s something truly magical about the energy that comes with a beautiful day under the sky. Ted and Marisel’s wedding was the perfect example of this magic. After initially having a small COVID wedding the year before, they were ready to celebrate with family and friends in a big way. Their outdoor wedding DC celebration at Decatur House in Georgetown was filled with excitement, joy, and all the love you could imagine. It was a day that perfectly blended classic DC elegance with personal touches that made the celebration truly unforgettable.
All Photo Credit – Katy Murray Photography
Why Ted and Marisel Chose Decatur House for Their Wedding
Ted and Marisel chose Decatur House in Georgetown for its rich history, beautiful outdoor space, and prime location. The couple had their ceremony at the bride’s childhood church, Blessed Sacrament DC, but when it came to their reception, they wanted a venue that reflected the charm and sophistication of Washington, DC. Decatur House is the perfect blend of historic grandeur and intimate elegance, with its beautiful gardens offering the ideal space for an outdoor celebration.
One of the standout features of Decatur House is the gorgeous outdoor space, which was key for Ted and Marisel’s celebration. With the backdrop of the White House and the lush greenery of the garden, the couple’s photos were nothing short of stunning. The beautiful, spacious gardens provided a perfect setting for guests to gather and enjoy the beautiful weather, while the charming historic home added to the elegance and class of the venue.
Venue – Decatur House
Photographer – Katy Murray Photography
Caterer – Susan Gage
Cocktail Music – Bialek’s Music
Tent and Dance Floor – Sugar Plum Tents
Transportation – RMA
Hair and Makeup – Bridal Beauty Associates
All Photo Credit – Katy Murray Photography
A Unique Outdoor Wedding Experience
Though the weather can always be unpredictable for an outdoor wedding in DC, Ted and Marisel took precautions to ensure they could make the most of their outdoor celebration. To minimize the risk of weather interruptions, they opted for a clear tent, which allowed them to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while still being protected from any unexpected elements. The tent was elegantly adorned with mood lighting, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy the evening.
The outdoor space was truly one of the highlights of the celebration. Ted and Marisel were able to use the venue’s gardens and outdoor areas in creative ways, allowing for ample space for guests to mingle and enjoy each other’s company. As their wedding planner, it was important to me to help them make the most of the outdoor venue, and it was so rewarding to see it come to life on their big day.
All Photo Credit – Katy Murray Photography
A Wedding to Remember: Personal Touches and Traditions
One of the most special aspects of Ted and Marisel’s celebration was how they incorporated personal touches into their wedding day. After their COVID wedding the year before, they were thrilled to be able to celebrate with a larger group of family and friends. And what bride can say she wore her wedding dress twice? Ted and Marisel’s wedding was a beautiful example of how love and joy can shine through even in the most challenging times.
The couple embraced the outdoor atmosphere, making sure the décor complemented the natural beauty of the gardens. The color palette was soft and romantic, with subtle shades of blush and ivory that worked perfectly with the outdoor setting. Their décor incorporated meaningful family traditions and heirlooms, making the day feel deeply personal.
A particularly memorable moment was the clear tent with mood lighting. Not only did it provide a solution for unpredictable weather, but it also set the tone for an intimate and magical evening under the stars. The tent allowed the couple to extend the outdoor experience into the evening, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
All Photo Credit – Katy Murray Photography
Helping Ted and Marisel with Their Big Day
Ted and Marisel came to me as a referral from a previous client, and I was honored to help them plan their dream celebration. As their wedding planner, my role was to help navigate the challenges of hosting an outdoor wedding in DC during the pandemic and ensure they had the perfect celebration, no matter the circumstances. We had to make a number of quick decisions, including finding a new photographer when their original one ghosted them just weeks before the wedding. With our month-of package, we were able to jump into action and secure a new photographer within just a few days. It was a testament to how quickly we can adapt and make things happen, even when time is tight.
Here is what they shared about working with us:
“We are so happy to have had Colleen help us with our wedding planning, especially as we had to change plans a few times due to COVID. Colleen helped us plan and organize our small intimate wedding and dinner in October of 2020, and then our delayed reception in October of 2021. She helped us find vendors, finalized timelines, and handled all coordination between the venues and the vendors. Colleen kept everyone organized both leading up to the events and on the days of. We are so thankful that she had everything under control, and we could just relax and enjoy each day!”
About O’Neil Events: Your Partner for Your Outdoor Wedding in DC
At O’Neil Events, we specialize in creating beautiful, personalized weddings for couples in Washington, DC, and New York City. Whether you’re planning an outdoor wedding in DC or an indoor celebration, we’re here to make your day as seamless and unforgettable as possible. With over 15 years of experience, we know how to handle every detail of your wedding, ensuring that your vision comes to life with ease and joy.
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor wedding in DC, let us help you plan the perfect celebration. We’ll handle everything from the logistics to the décor, so you can focus on what matters most—celebrating your love with your closest family and friends.
