It’s time again for the Filene’s Basement “Running of the Brides” in Washington, DC!  We’ve been asked by our good pals at WeddingWire to help out again this year – we’ll be cranking out the jams from 6am-8am this Friday, July 30th, to get everyone awake and pumped up for crinoline-laced warfare.  You can check out all the details on the Running of the Brides event here, if you’re a bride-to-be and still need a dress, this is a great chance to find a steal.  The dresses are comparatively cheap ($250-$700) which is a huge discount from the $900-$9000+ on the original price tag. 

The line starts forming overnight on Thursday (last year, there was a group who had been there since 6pm the night before – wow!) so it’s best to get there early and stake out a spot.  Bring some chairs or a blanket – the sidewalk is hard.  It’s a really unique and fun experience, we’ll see you there!

Couple: Kim and Bryan

Wedding Date: May 30, 2010

DJ: David Johnson

Kim’s and Bryan’s wedding was all about family and friends, with so many special touches that made the wedding truly one-of-a-kind.   Their guests clearly had a wonderful time and felt so welcomed at this beautiful celebration.

Held at the always-spectacular Woodend Sanctuary at the Audubon Naturalist Society, guests witnessed Kim’s and Bryan’s thoughtful ceremony, officiated by Rev. Alberta Eaton.  As they entered the reception, they were greeted by a really pretty and whimsical display consisting of a small tree set atop a table, with small cards and pens on which they could write special notes to the groom.  They could then hang the notes on the tree, making for a very special alternative to a guestbook.

Kim and Bryan shared their first dance to the timeless “At Last” by Etta James, and everyone was then treated to catering by Xochitl Gutierrez and her team at Marco Polo Caterers.  Then, after the traditional parent dances, the bridal party enjoyed a fun dance and guests were invited onto the floor.  This was a very festive and fun way to start the party!

Throughout the evening, Kim, Bryan and their guests had a great time dancing to everything from Motown to 80s, disco to country, hip hop to pop, and everything in between.  Kim and Bryan also dedicated a variety of songs to particular friends and family members over the course of the evening, making the reception even more inclusive.

After cutting their cake (provided by Cakes for Cause, an organization close to our own hearts) and enjoying a fun bouquet and garter toss, Kim and Bryan wound things down with some heartfelt comments.  It truly was a very warm and touching wedding, and we’re so glad to have been included!  Many thanks to the brilliant and talented Andrea Jacobson of The Observatory for these fantastic images, and congratulations to Kim and Bryan!

Couple:  Kate and Ryan

Wedding Date:  June 5, 2010

DJ:  David Johnson

Kate and Ryan clearly put so much thoughtfulness and creativity into their wedding, and it really showed in every detail.  Their guests obviously had an amazing time, too.  This was a wonderful celebration!

Natalie Turner and her team at Brittland Estates in Chestertown, Maryland were the hosts for this gorgeous afternoon wedding with Eastern Shore flair.  As guests entered the tented receptions, they were greeted by colorful, handcrafted place cards hanging along the walkway.  Beautiful hydrangeas and other florals in soft blues and greens added to the ambiance, and the golden Honey Bear favors were a whimsical touch.

The happy couple took their first spin as husband and wife to the classic “L-O-V-E” by Nat King Cole, and later shared a combined father/daughter and mother/son dance to “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder.  About 90 seconds into the song, they had the music change to “Can’t Turn You Loose” by Otis Redding, at which point several other couples joined them on the dance floor for a fun, upbeat finish.  That energy really carried through to the rest of the dancing and everyone seemed to have a blast.

Many thanks to Liz Hough of Hough Photography for providing these great images — and thanks so much to Kate and Ryan!  Best wishes!