Make Magical Memories by Saying 'I Do' in Washington

Photo Credit: The Greenes Photo & Films

This article was written by our sponsor, Washington Tourism Development Authority.

One of those historic locations is the Washington Civic Center. The building is a restored train station dating back to 1906.The vaulted ceilings and exposed beams combine to make the space feel rustic and elegant, while hardwood floors offer a refined platform for the newlyweds to have a memorable first dance. But don’t let the rustic charm of this venue fool you. It has all the modern amenities you could ask for in a venue, including state of the art audio/video equipment, bridal suite, free Wifi, and rentals such as tables, chairs, decor extras.

Washington Civic Center Event & Venue Manager Charlotte Stubbs says Washington is the perfect place for nuptials, reception, rehearsal dinner, and more. “Here at the Civic Center, we offer a couple of services. We offer a two-day package that includes a space to set up, have your rehearsal or a bridal luncheon, a space to get ready, have the ceremony, and reception as well. With the rental, there are tables, chairs, and you also have the option to rent linens and cocktail tables. We do have packages for micro-weddings, which have a lot of the same offerings, but on a smaller scale with less time in the venue.”

Stubbs has been managing the facility for about a year and a half, and she says weddings anywhere in Washington are very special. “People here really embrace weddings. They love seeing the brides and the bridesmaids, the bridal party walking around downtown, taking pictures.  It’s just a really cool place; everything is within walking distance in the harbor district, and there’s the beauty of the waterfront and the historic buildings.  All these things just really add to the romance of the weekend.”

Stubbs says that there is a lot of freedom with choice at the Civic Center. “We allow you to choose your own decor, caterer, and florist. You can make your own vision come to life.”

Custom floral Designer Beth Shackleford agrees that Washington is an extraordinary location. “Just the fact that Washington has such an organic and beautiful backdrop for hosting weddings. Just the charm of the historic city in and of itself. We have such great venues. There’s Festival Park with the river right there at your fingertips. [The town] is such an enchanting place to hold a wedding.” Shackleford owns Cotton Sails Design & Events, a custom floral design and event planning business in Washington. She says it’s important to plan well in advance because the beauty of the town attracts many couples to have their weddings here. “I would recommend 12-18 months for a larger wedding, and at least 6 months for a micro wedding.”

Shackleford says some of the themes and styles that are trending for weddings right now are very diverse. “Couples are making their event very personal and authentic, very specific to their interests and their life together. They’re being very unique and creative in their design choices.”

Dr Reem Darar, co-owner of The Mulberry House, says their rooftop venue (which also has a partial inside section) is perfect for weddings, receptions, dinners, engagement parties, and bridal luncheons. “Even the outside section is heated, so it’s a great location any time of year.” Drarar says advance planning is great, but they can turn out a great event in as little as a week’s time. “We have everything we need onsite. Our own tables, linens, table settings.” She says Washington is great because there are florists and bakeries within just a couple of blocks.

Drarar is also the Executive Chef for The Mulberry House and says they can accommodate any dietary need. “Vegan, gluten-free, allergies..you name it, and we can work with you.”

All of the wedding professionals agree that spring and fall are the most popular seasons for weddings. Their advice: if you have a date in mind, go ahead and make a deposit on your venue.

But no matter what time of year it is, Washington is a magical location to have your wedding. Whether it’s an intimate gathering at the waterfront gazebo, a formal affair on the river view rooftop, or a storybook event set in a historic train depot, Washington will set the stage for a lifetime of beautiful memories.

This article was written by our sponsor, Washington Tourism Development Authority.