Fireworks and Fruit Decor Were Highlights of This Wharf Wedding

Kristen and Paul met at a house party thrown by some mutual friends where Paul—whose self-assuredness impressed Kristen—asked for a date the following weekend. Three and a half years after that first dinner at Hank’s Oyster Bar, they were engaged in Paris. Their September wedding began with a ceremony at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation on Capitol Hill (officiated by Kristen’s pastor of nearly 30 years), and culminated in a reception at the InterContinental on the Wharf.

Paul’s favorite part was the indoor fireworks that lit up their first dance photos and added excitement to the evening; one of Kristen’s favorite parts was the inclusion of pennies hidden in each of the bouquets—a nod to a tradition she’s had for years in which whenever she sees a penny, she writes down the date and time, what she’s thinking about, and what she’s grateful for. For decor, they took inspiration from vineyards and the outdoors, combining natural elements such as fruit (plums, figs, and berries) and greenery with candlelight for a romantic, getaway-in-the-city vibe. Following the reception, the newlyweds hosted their guests for an afterparty at Kirwan’s pub nearby. See all the details below.

The Details

Fashion & Weddings Editor

Amy leads Washingtonian Weddings and writes Style Setters for Washingtonian. Prior to joining Washingtonian in March 2016, she was the editor of Capitol File magazine in DC and before that, editor of What’s Up? Weddings in Annapolis.