Corcoran Gallery of Art Archives - Deb Lindsey Photography

Memorial Day Saturday started for me with a welcome reception at El Tamarindo in Adams Morgan for Francesca + Joey’s (aka Froey) wedding weekend. It was nice to be back at a restaurant I used to frequent when I lived in the neighborhood a million years ago. Warm speeches from a steady stream of friends and family let me know that I’d be in for a great party the next day. Sunday was another gorgeous sunny day which gave us the perfect backdrop for all of our outdoor photos before the ceremony & reception at the Corcoran Gallery. One of my favorite moments early the in the day was the first look. Francesca came up behind Joey, carrying her phone that was playing her favorite Justin Timberlake song and the two of them were laughing by the time they turned to see each other. And really, is there a more beautiful setting than the steps of the Corcoran for portraits? We did scoot next door to the Red Cross HQ for a few shots in the sun and then it was off to the ceremony. As expected, their vows were funny and sweet and paid tribute to both Francesca’s Lebanese heritage as well as Joey’s Jewish background. That carried over to the reception where they did the Hora and then segued into Lebanese dancing that culminated with Francesca being lifted up above the crowd. A word about the absolutely gorgeous room…I know, I’m using that word a lot in this post but it just seems necessary. The gallery is stunning on it’s own but the transformation of the room with a mirrored head table, large high flower arrangements and seriously cool textured hot pink and gold linens made for a truly breathtaking room. Kudos to Anne at Atrendy Wedding for pulling it all together so beautifully.

Wedding Planner Anne Kelley Atrendy Wedding 703.932.2185

Welcome Reception Venue El Tamarindo 1785 Florida Ave NW 202.328.3660

Ceremony + Reception Venue The Corcoran Gallery of Art 500 17th Street, NW Wash, DC 20006

Officiants Father Michael Kelley 202.232.1144 and Rabbi Kenneth Block 410.459.6161

Hair for bride Karma Salon 202.293.3333

Hair for bridesmaids Dry Bar Georgetown 202.609.8644

Make Up Blend Marquia Kinard 240.603.3136

Videographer Stan PE Films 703.338.3490

Catering Occasions Caterers 202.546.7400

Lebanese Food Caterer Shemali’s 202.686.7070

Wedding Cake Pastry Xpo 571.282.4970

Florals & Lounge Furniture Edge Flowers 301.330.5232

Lighting John Farr Lighting 301.390.2728

Ceremony & Reception Music DJ D-MAC & Associates DJ Rusty Belicek, 703.839.5080

Pipe & Drape Fabrication Events 240.457.4041 ‪

Additional Linen rental DC Rental 703.899.5397

Live Artist The Painted Lens Jamie Peterson 202-768-2662

Many of my couples’ plan their weddings long distance. It’s possible that Chantal + Robert win the distance award by planning theirs from London. Yet they managed to pull off an elegant Washington wedding with many cultural traditions that reflected where their heritage. The gorgeous sunny September day started at the W Hotel where the bride and groom got ready. We made a quick trip to Freedom Plaza for photos and then off to St. Matthews. I’m on the verge of becoming a regular at the 7 pm Mass (and I’ll be there again next Sept.!) But I was most excited for my first time shooting at the Corcoran and I wasn’t disappointed. What a fabulous reception site. Some of my favorite photos of the day were the bridal party portraits on the grand staircase. I asked for attitude and the photos turned out very fun. The party kicked off with the introductions in a typically African fashion. The guests wave lapas (An African woven cloth signifying happiness) as the couple descended the staircase. The two were mobbed by their friends and family as they made their way onto the dance floor. The lapas are also laid on the ground for them to walk on and for their first dance. Later in the evening they had a Liberian Grand March led by the bride’s father and aunt. It was a little like a promenade/line dance—very regal and joyful.