This DC Wedding Was Inspired By the Couple’s Favorite Natural Wine Bars in New York City
Feb 20, 2026
Allison, from Bethesda, and Ben, from Philadelphia, met on a dating app and their first date included a walk and a wine bar in the West Village. Ultimately, Ben proposed in an “intimate, perfectly imperfect moment” at their apartment as the pair were getting ready for brunch.
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Inspired by their favorite natural wine bars in New York City and fond memories of trips to South America, the couple say they wanted their June wedding to feel welcoming and understated, yet elegant, with a modern California-meets-South American-inspired aesthetic and a farm-to-table menu. The color palette included warm neutrals and earth tones, such as ecru and mustard yellow, plus accents of rust, olive, and apricot.
At the ceremony, guests were greeted with cucumber lime mint aquas fresca along with chilled towels, sun umbrellas, and raffia fans. During cocktail hour, the newlyweds stole a moment alone to practice their first dance in the reception space before the guests entered. Design elements included warm wood, textured linens, hand-thrown ceramic urns, plus floral designs that included wildflowers, dried blooms, grassy elements, and rocks. Instead of a traditional guest book, guests signed a favorite New York City photography coffee-table book. At dinner, the “Alice Waters-inspired meal,” they say, showcased local seasonal vegetables. Signature cocktails included a strawberry balsamic concoction with vodka and prosecco, and a bitter sweet bourbon drink. For dessert, the newlyweds skipped the cake in lieu of passed petite sweets and an ice cream taco station that they say was a true crowd-pleaser on a hot summer night.
Wedding Details
Photographer: Lindley Battle Photography
Venue: The REACH at The Kennedy Center
Planning and design: Vieira Events
Florals: Steelcut Flower Co.
Invitations: Isidore Augustine
Caterer: Occasions Caterers
Hair and makeup: Caitlyn Meyer
Bride’s attire: Pnina Tornai
Groom’s attire: Brioni
Entertainment: Pop Culture Strings and SoundConnection via Washington Talent Agency
Rentals: Something Vintage; Table Manners; BBJ La Tavola
Transportation: Fleet Transportation
The post This DC Wedding Was Inspired By the Couple’s Favorite Natural Wine Bars in New York City first appeared on Washingtonian.
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