Thanks to Rachel Smith for the lovely photographs

Happy planning!

Situated in the middle of the quaint and historic Mount Vernon, The Walters Art Museum is the perfect site for a sophisticated wedding. It’s a hidden gem in a big field. Your ceremony and reception will be held in the sculpture court, which is large, light and airy -and can accommodate parties (with a dance floor) for up to 200. The openness of the space naturally lends itself to creativity in table arrangements and sizes. Your cocktail hour will be one of a kind with the ability to treat your guests to some of the finest art in the area.

Easily accessible, there is ample parking and elegant accommodations nearby -making it easy for your guests to enjoy the festivities.

Catering at the Walters is a dream. You have the freedom to “use who you want”! If your caterer of choice is not on the list, it’s easy to get them approved. There are minimal roadblocks along the way.

The “rules” of the museum are not much different than any other museum. It’s of utmost importance to preserve the priceless works of art, therefore, no red wine and music must be within a particular range. Tables and chairs must be moved in a certain way – but all of the logistics are cleared with your caterer prior to the big day!

The event director at the Museum is a dream to work with. He’s easy, available and always willing to answer questions by phone or email.

All of these qualities make the Walters Art Museum my pick for “best of” venue 2009!

Photography by Rachel Smith

When you call Robert, let him know that you read about him here.

Happy planning!

Orchids abound, I used bold colors to create the backdrop to this simple yet stately affair. The Bride wore a simple silk satin gown. Simple orange Mokara orchid blooms were placed elegantly in her hair – creating a simple but unique headpiece. The custom arbor, made with a sheer ivory fabric – gathered and tied at both ends with a cluster of red hypericum berries and orange orchids hanging in the background – provided the focal point for the traditional Catholic ceremony, and later housed the sweetheart table during the reception. The Bride and Groom chairs were marked with simple wreathes made from vivid yellow button mums, tied with an orange coordinating ribbon.

While guests took pictures and enjoyed signature cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres among Greek and medieval art, the ceremony was transformed into an elegant reception. Two long rectangular tables, covered with yellow overlays and finished with tall and short centerpieces of submerged orange Mokara orchids, and white Manzanita branches, provided seating for 85 guests. Each place setting was finished off with an orange folded napkin containing a custom-printed menu card – on which the Bride described her and her new Groom’s relation to each invited guest – and a single red gloriosa lily.

The food was made up of two bountiful displays of American and African fare. The, 3 tiered, 3 flavor cake was accompanied by fresh fruit, chocolate covered strawberries and an assortment of African delicacies.

Upon exiting this spectacular affair, guests were treated to a monogrammed bag containing a silk fan, personalized mints, couture Godiva chocolates, a shot glass and a customized bookmark.

Every detail was carefully considered – down to the custom designed monogram which was placed on the menu cards, bar cards, programs, cake and favors.

Floral Design by Wicked Willow, LLC – www.wickedwillow.com

Photography by Rachel Smith – http://www.rachelsmithphoto.com