A MODERN AND CLASSIC DC WEDDING AT HOTEL WASHINGTON
Kaitlyn and Eric Karian met in early December of 2019. After viewing a picture of Kaitlyn in a Steelers jersey on the Hinge dating app, Eric asked, “How would you feel about an Eagles fan?” Kaitlyn let that go and agreed to meet him for their first date – a Sunday brunch at Unconventional Diner, a local DC staple. There was instant chemistry, and their date went so well that it carried on through the evening.
During that first date, Kaitlyn and Eric discovered they already had several things in common, such as being raised in Pennsylvania, their love for family, traditions, and Frank Sinatra. They walked around Washington, DC, stopped for drinks at the iconic Old Ebbitt Grill, and viewed the spectacular White House Christmas Tree – all while forging what would develop into a deep connection and enduring love. Needless to say, they have been inseparable ever since.
“Kaitlyn and Eric most enjoyed celebrating their love and welcoming their guests to DC.”
The Easiest “YES”
Both Kaitlyn and Eric celebrate their birthdays in May, just a few days apart, giving Eric the perfect opportunity to plan the proposal. In May 2022, he surprised Kaitlyn with a romantic brunch at the same restaurant where they had that unforgettable first date, followed by a stroll around the National Mall.
Later that afternoon, Eric told Kaitlyn that they had another reservation to get to before their dinner that evening. When they got into an Uber, the car started heading in the direction of Georgetown, leaving Kaitlyn to assume they were going to grab a drink before dinner along the water. Instead, they arrived at the Dumbarton Oaks Gardens, where Eric had found the perfect spot to get down on one knee and ask Kaitlyn to marry him. For Kaitlin, “It was the easiest YES!”
Planning a Modern and Classic DC Wedding
Kaitlin and Eric thoroughly enjoyed planning their wedding together. As their first step in the wedding planning process, the couple selected Hotel Washington as their venue because of its one-of-a-kind fusion of modern and classic elements. Its location right next to the White House also provided fantastic views of downtown DC and the National Mall. With most of their wedding guests traveling into the capital for their celebration, Hotel Washington provided them with the best of everything that DC had to offer.
With the help from their vendor team, the bride and groom were able to bring their vision to life. Sticking with a conceptual theme of “modern classic,” they chose a striking black and white color scheme for their event. White florals of varying textures, and romantic candlelight enhanced the ceremony and reception spaces.
The Wedding Details
The ceremony was an extra special part of the wedding day that the couple will forever cherish. They had decided early on in the planning process that they would not do a first look photo session, as they wanted to experience a “down the aisle moment.” This decision was one they did not regret – it only intensified the excitement to see each other and share their own personal vows they had written.
The officiant, Dr. Vais, baptized Kaitlyn and she grew up with him as her pastor in New Castle, PA. Signature cocktail drinks included classics, which were a gimlet for the bride, and an old fashion for the groom. Plated meals were served for dinner, including a choice of halibut or stuffed chicken. The vanilla cake had a passion fruit filling. Kaitlyn carried a bouquet wrapped in the sleeve from her mother's wedding gown and her grandmother's six pence.
The couple had made it a priority to stay together throughout the night. This allowed them to enjoy all of the big and small moments together, from sharing their first dance to stepping away for a moment to grab drinks at the bar. Kaitlyn and Eric most enjoyed celebrating their love and welcoming their guests to DC. They also loved watching their families and friends come together on the dance floor for a memorable time.
Honeymoon in Hawaii
After their beautiful wedding weekend, Kaitlyn and Eric enjoyed an unforgettable honeymoon in Hawaii. They explored three islands: Lāna'i, Maui, and Kauai. The trip was the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. Highlights of their trip included Nobu Lāna’i Teppanyaki Experiences at the Four Seasons Lāna’i, exploring Maui in a Jeep, and a helicopter tour over the Napali Coast in Kauai.
WEDDING TALENT
Location: Hotel Washington, Washington, DC; Planner: Allore Events & Design; Floral Design: B Floral; Bridal Salon: Lovely Bride; Hair & Makeup: Hair & Makeup by Claudine; Groom’s Attire: Sid Mashburn; Entertainment: Sway Entertainment, Sage String Quartet; Cinematography: Paperboys; Photography: Anna Schmidt Photography