Carlyle House Wedding: A Personalized and Beautiful Garden Party in Alexandria, VA
When Megan and Andrew chose the Carlyle House wedding venue for their special day, they were looking for a place that would reflect their love for each other, their joy, and their shared vision for a relaxed yet elegant celebration.
Carlyle House in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, is a historic museum with a walled garden that’s ideal for an outdoor ceremony, terrace cocktails, and an intimate reception nearby. It’s best for couples who want a classic garden feel in the heart of Old Town with photo locations within a short walk.
Venue Address: 121 N Fairfax St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States
If you’re considering a wedding here, keep reading for details on why the couple chose this location, how they personalized their ceremony, as well as tips for deciding if the Carlycle House is the best wedding venue for you.
All Photo Credit – Erica Harrison
A Beautiful Outdoor Garden Party Wedding
Megan and Andrew wanted a venue that embodied both elegance and warmth, and the Carlyle House wedding venue was the perfect choice. With its beautiful garden, rich history, and classic architecture, the Carlyle House provided the ideal setting for their outdoor garden party wedding. Located in the heart of Alexandria, the venue’s intimate size and romantic atmosphere made it feel like a hidden gem in the city.
The garden at Carlyle House is one of its standout features. It’s beautifully maintained and offers the perfect setting for an outdoor ceremony or reception. Megan and Andrew knew that the venue’s serene garden, with its lush greenery and charming gazebo, would provide the perfect backdrop for their wedding. What I love about working at Carlyle House is the versatility of the space. The venue can be transformed to suit any style, from a romantic garden party to a more traditional, formal wedding. The beauty of the garden makes it an easy venue to work with, allowing couples to add their own personal touches while still maintaining the natural elegance of the space.
Megan & Andrew’s Carlyle House Wedding: What Worked
Megan and Andrew’s Carlyle House wedding was a true celebration of love and nature. The weather was perfect for an outdoor garden party, with clear skies and a gentle breeze. The couple exchanged their vows in the garden, surrounded by family and friends, with the serene beauty of the venue enhancing the joy of the moment.
The outdoor ceremony was intimate and emotional, and the reception continued the relaxed, elegant vibe of the day. Guests enjoyed mingling in the garden and celebrating under the open sky. The evening was filled with laughter, heartfelt speeches, and plenty of dancing, exactly the kind of celebration Megan and Andrew had dreamed of.
Wedding Flow we designed:
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A ceremony start time that captured the best light
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Music and refreshments were staged to prevent bottlenecks
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A clear route for family formals while guests moved to cocktails
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A reception layout that preserved our timeline
All Photo Credit – Erica Harrison
All Photo Credit – Erica Harrison
Personalized Attire and Meaningful Details
One of the things I loved most about Megan and Andrew’s wedding was how they personalized their wedding attire and details to reflect who they are as a couple. Megan wore a beautiful lace gown that complemented the natural beauty of the garden, while Andrew looked sharp in a classic suit. Their bridal party’s attire was equally charming, with soft pastel colors that perfectly matched the garden theme.
What stood out most about their attire was the thoughtfulness behind it all; every detail, from the bridesmaids’ dresses to the groomsmen’s accessories, felt like an extension of the couple’s personalities and the wedding theme. Megan and Andrew made sure every element of their wedding, from the décor to the attire, was intentional and meaningful.
Is Carlyle House The Right Wedding Venue For You?
Carlyle House is perfect for couples looking for a private garden ceremony with a backdrop of historic architecture. This wedding venue is ideal if you’d like to host an intimate celebration where guests can mingle outdoors
Things I planned for as their Wedding Coordinator
As their month-of coordinator, I was there to help bring everything together for Megan and Andrew’s wedding day. From managing the timeline to coordinating with vendors, I ensured that every detail was covered so the couple could focus on enjoying the day. One of my main contributions was to ensure that the ceremony and reception flowed smoothly, especially given the transition from the outdoor garden ceremony to the reception in the venue’s indoor spaces. The result was a flawless day that Megan and Andrew will cherish forever.
About O’Neil Events: Your Wedding Planning Partner for a Carlyle House Wedding
I am Colleen, owner of O’Neil Events. We plan classic, guest-friendly weddings across DC and Virginia with a calm, detail-driven approach. At Carlyle House, our role is to protect your timeline, coordinate your vendors, and make sure your guests feel taken care of while you enjoy the night.
If Carlyle House is on your shortlist, share your guest count, season, and top three priorities. I will send a quick venue fit check to help you decide faster.
Month Of Planner – O’Neil Events
Venue – Carlyle House
Photographer – Erica Harrison
Frequently Asked Questions about Carlyle House
How much does a Carlyle House wedding cost?
Pricing will depend on your wedding date, hours, and rentals. For more accurate pricing, you can request a current rate sheet and a full proposal from Carlyle House here.
Can I hold my ceremony outdoors at Carlyle House?
Yes! The walled garden offers the signature ceremony space.
Can we bring our own caterer to Carlyle House?
Licensed, insured caterers from the venue’s approved list are typically allowed. Though we always recommend confirming current policies, staffing ratios, and delivery windows with your wedding coordinator.
