When I first met with Ann and she explained to me their idea of an over-the-top secret elopement, I knew I had to be involved in this ultra-romantic affair. Because none of their friends and family were to know about it, I was really the only one Ann could bounce ideas off of and get advice from – whether it was about florals, hair styles or statement necklaces. Like myself, Ann has a background in interior design and I was quickly impressed with her great sense of style and sophisticated taste. For this unique wedding, not only did I play the role of planner but also in part as stylist, confidant and friend.
Ann knew one thing for certain from the moment we met – she wanted fabulous pictures. Ann and Scott’s big day functioned as one big photoshoot complete with Maxim cover model, Krista Mills, serving as a posing coach. She couldn’t have hired a better photographer for the job –
David Hartcorn rocked it.We had so much fun – a lot of times pictures can feel rushed on the wedding day, but here it was {almost} the main event! We were privileged to work with some of the best DC vendors on this unique wedding.
Posing Coach – Maxim Cover Model, Krista Mills
I was so excited to work with the amazing celebrity makeup artist Carl Ray – who is also Michelle Obama’s personal makeup artist.
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| Carl Ray, celebrity makeup artist |
Giselle is the go-to hair guru in the district. She is a delight and a true pro when it comes to lovely locks.
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| Giselle works her hair magic |
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| The groom enjoys a little pampering with a hot lather shave |
I have to pause to tell you about Rev. Settembrini. When I worked as Wedding Sales Manager for a hotel downtown we did 60+ weddings a year. One of my brides brought Gioele in as her officiant and I immediately fell for his charms. He is nothing short of adorable – his beautiful italian accent, his warm charisma and the obvious passion for what he does. I swear, the first time you meet him you’ll feel like he’s your best friend’s grandfather that you’ve known for years. And did I mention opera? Oh yes, he is also an amazing opera singer (which will catch you off guard in a marvelous way when he busts into an amazing rendition of an old Italian song at the end of the vows.) To make a long story short, the first time I met him and was smitten at that wedding some years ago, he didn’t have a card on him. He said he would follow up with me the next week – but things happen and people forget. He was always in the back of my mind – but I didn’t even have a name to go on and my bride who had hired him was now living in France.
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| Rev. Gioele Settembrini gazing out at the DC Monuments |
Fast forward to Ann and Scott’s wedding – I’m in the kitchen of the Presidential Suite styling some fruit and cheese trays when I hear someone enter the suite singing opera at the top of their lungs. It only took me half a second and my heart fluttered a little – could it really be him?! And indeed it was! It was so serendipitous. He was still cute as a button and arrived 3 hours early, in his way, because he likes to be prepared. He kept me company telling me stories about Italy and his family as I styled away. I was so surprised to learn that he officiates wedding ceremonies out of the goodness of his heart and considers it a ministry. He said he doesn’t ask for any money, but some people still pay him. You don’t run across that very much these days! Needless to say I got several cards this time – and we have even chatted on the phone a few times since the wedding.
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| The stunning diamond earrings were Ann’s mothers and functioned as her “something old.” |
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| Prepping for First Look! |
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| I love her expression here! |
