The couple was also very interested in any green elements to incorporate into their wedding. The grooms family grew the grass for the DIY centerpieces and as favors, they gave reusable bags with their wedding date on them.

They also wanted to think outside the box just a bit. We set up the ceremony in the middle of the grove with guests surrounding them instead of the traditional set up. In liu of a guestbook, Emily bought lots of Washington DC postcards that guests wrote on which will be mailed to them at a later date.

Ben & Emily, it was fantastic working with you both and congrats!! And a huge THANKS to Moshe Zusman Photography for these fabulous images!

Vendors:

Wedding Planner: Cherry Blossom Weddings & Events

Ceremony & Reception: Meadowlark

Photographer: Genevieve Leiper Photography

Florist: Da Vinci’s

Caterer: Windows

Ceremony Music: Classical Guitarist, Michael Kolmstetter

DJ: Jaime Easson

Hair: Hair by Diane

Makeup: Susey Caceda

Transportation: LSA

A few highlights:

-Use stylish, high quality gift wrap to create a decorative table runner or table topper

-Instead of pricey fresh flower arrangements, try filling large glass vases or bowls with inexpensive, yet interesting filler elements, such as colorful glass ornaments, fresh cranberries, feathers, or modern potpourri/decorative ball 

-To add height to centerpieces or food tables, flip small bowls upside down and use them as pedestals for larger bowls. This will eliminate the need to buy brand-new pedestal bowls or cake stands.

-Garnish water glasses at each place setting with a flower or wedge of lemon and lime. Though they may seem small, little details like this can actually play a huge role in the overall look of your table!

-Use the "layer rule" to add interest to your place settings, but opt for budget-friendly elements. Set patterned or contrast-color salad plates on top of neutral dinner plates (or vice versa), then top salad plates with napkins and a decorative element such as a large flower bloom, cinnamon stick, party favor, or unique place card. No need to splurge on expensive dishware and linens if you don't already own them! In the image pictured at top, both sets of plates were purchased at IKEA, inexpensive paper napkins were folded into squares for a dressier look, and the orchid blooms that top each napkin were pulled from inexpensive faux stems purchased at Target.

Chantal's additional thoughts: 

-Tablecloths make a huge impression, but if your budget is really tight, consider just renting colorful napkins or patterned salad plates to help add a punch to the table.  One of our brides ended up buying hot pink napkins from a wholesaler to enhance the tabletop appearance- go Chaeli!

-Colored tea lights are another easy, cost-effective way to add color and play up accent colors.

-Stemware combinations can also add intrigue to the table, as shown above.  A classic champagne glass with a funky water glass can help add some attitude to the table and usher in the modern feeling.

-Napkin folds can make a big difference on the table.  The square fold is very sleek and modern, whereas other standard hotel folds may not dictate the same style.  Make sure you know what napkin fold will be on your tables to ensure it fits the style and design you are creating! 

Any other ideas you love or are inspired by?  Add a comment and let us know!

12 ounces Prosecco, chilled
2 ounces vodka, chilled
1 1/2 ounces cinnamon schnapps (Recommended: Goldschlager)

Pour Prosecco into a clear glass without ice. Add vodka and cinnamon schnapps, and stir to mix gold flakes evenly through the drink.