This micro-wedding was a perfect blend of artistry and individuality. As two creatives, Sarah and Jack infused every detail with intention, from the vintage-inspired 8mm film capturing their day to the bold floral arrangements and thoughtfully designed reception space. With cozy morning preparations and an intimate ceremony overlooking the Capitol, their wedding was a reflection of their vision, modern, artistic, and undeniably them.
Location: Washington, D.C., USA
Style: Moody, organic, contemporary
Time of planning: 10 months
Number of guests: Microwedding
Setting: Hotel
Season: Early spring
Sarah and Jack had unknowingly lived and worked next to each other for years before fate finally brought them together. Their connection was instant, within weeks, they were inseparable and had even gotten matching tattoos. Sarah, a social media influencer, and Jack, a music producer, also shared a passion for visuals as a wedding photography duo. When it came time to propose, neither wanted to simply be asked, so they secretly planned to surprise each other. Sarah and Jack both chose Longwood Gardens, where they set up a vlog and proposed at the same time. Full of joy, they celebrated the moment in their favorite tavern, where they surprised friends and family with the news.
Couple's Morning
The couple started their day at the Riggs Hotel, preparing for the ceremony ahead in a calm and intimate setting. Matching blue robes, a cup of delicious coffee, and the cozy ambiance of the suite made up for the perfect setting.
Sarah and Jack helped each other into their wedding attire. It was a moment just as special as the first look itself. The intimacy of getting ready side by side made the morning feel deeply personal and perfectly right for them, setting the tone for the authentic celebration. “We’re having a bigger reception this year with our family and friends and decided to get ready together then too because we loved it so much!” the bride admits.
Bride's Look
Sarah’s stunning Helix gown from Hera Couture featured a classic silhouette and light flowy sleeves, which added a magical and romantic touch. Her glam by Makeup By Kevan channeled old Hollywood, with dark-toned makeup and soft waves, accented by striking bleached-white strands framing her face. The pieces from Eaarthbones Jewelry were dainty and minimal, letting the gown shine.
Every detail was thoughtfully curated, the light, flowy fabric of the gown contrasted beautifully with the bold black-ink tattoos, giving her an effortlessly cool and captivating edge. The result was a gorgeous blend of vintage romance and daring modern style, a true reflection of the bride’s vision.
Groom's Fashion
Jack opted for a tailored deep charcoal suit, pairing it with a sleek black tie and a crisp white shirt. This refined yet relaxed ensemble complemented the wedding’s aesthetic, being the perfect counterpart to his bride’s look.
Ceremony
The ceremony space was intimate and elegant, set against the backdrop of the Riggs Hotel ballroom. Nestled in the corner where windows met, the seating arrangement allowed a breathtaking view of the Capitol building in the distance, a subtle nod to Washington, D.C.
Rather than obstructing the view, sleek columns supported an array of floral arrangements, creating an eclectic and sophisticated aesthetic. Each floral display was uniquely designed by Cedar and Lime Co., adding texture to the space and maintaining a natural feel. It was the desired setting of the couple, as it both personal and stylish.
The wedding cake was adorned with intricate, baroque-style piping and deep-hued cherries. Displayed on a draped table, surrounded by lush florals, the dessert became a stunning focal point, both a visual and culinary delight.
Private Moment
Stealing a few quiet moments away from the celebration, Sarah and Jack explored their venue, savoring the intimacy of the day. From the grand lobby to the vintage elevators, they wandered hand in hand, exchanging glances and soft laughter. Every step felt like a cinematic moment, the two of them, soaking in the magic of their wedding day.
These heartfelt moments were masterfully captured by Rachel V King, who had the exciting task of documenting two creative souls on their special day. With a keen eye for detail, the photographer blended different media. The hazy Polaroids, with their subtly distorted hues and analog warmth, give the images a cinematic, almost ethereal quality. Each image reflected the couple’s unique aesthetic and artistic spirit, turning their love story into a beautiful visual narrative.
The photographer also used an 8mm camera to create a stunning vintage film of the wedding, capturing the day with a nostalgic feel. This detail was especially meaningful for the couple, as the bride, a videographer herself, was moved by the charm of the footage.
Reception
The vision behind the reception decor was to create a space that felt both playful and elegant, blending contemporary design with organic textures. The planner and designer Margot & Co Creative executed the idea perfectly. The curved dinner table served as the focal point, oversized lamps with cascading amaranthus added dimension, drawing the eye upward and creating a dramatic effect.
The tablescape embraced natural textiles, which inspired some of the paper elements, including napkins featuring delicate landscapes and herons, echoed in the elegant heron-shaped place cards. To enhance the moody yet whimsical aesthetic, black ink accents were incorporated into the stationery by Elizabeth Bloom.
Deep burgundy anthuriums added a rich contrast, while blush-toned roses brought a romantic feel. Each floral element was intentionally placed, from the monofloral clusters on pleated columns to the tablescape’s natural, cascading greenery, ensuring the space felt elegant and artfully curated.
The newlyweds shared sparkling champagne in elegant glasses, congratulating each other with the new chapter. The warm and sophisticated setting, with its ambient lighting and a beautifully decorated table, created just the right atmosphere.
Sarah and Jack couldn’t have been happier with their stylish and deeply personal wedding day. They were thrilled to bring their unique vision to life, crafting a celebration that beautifully reflected their creativity in an intimate setting where they could truly enjoy each other’s company. From choosing the perfect spot together to capturing every moment through vlogging, the day was a perfect reflection of their bond. Later in the same year, they held a bigger reception with their loved ones, sharing the contagious joy of their celebration.
"A film documentary wedding photographer and a unique out of the box planner were what we were looking for and they nailed it!"
Advice from the couple:
• Work with an amazing planner Margot & Co Creative and photographer Rachel V King because, as artists, they will nail the aesthetic you’re going for!
PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEOGRAPHER Rachel V King | PLANNER & DESIGNER Margot & Co Creative | VENUE Riggs Hotel | FLORALS Cedar and Lime Co. | MUAH Makeup By Kevan | DRESS Hera Couture & Clifton Bridal Boutique | JEWELRY Eaarthbones Jewelry | STATIONERY Elizabeth Bloom | LINENS Stradley Davidson Linen Collective | RENTALS Select Event Group & Event Rentals DC | CONTENT CREATION Smitten Content
