Beautiful Spring Wedding at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington D.C
Last Saturday , on a warm spring afternoon , I made my way to a Washington D.C. to live sketch guest portraits at Caitlyn and Jonathan’s ( C +J ) wedding. The event was predominantly an outdoor event at the DAR Constitution Hall.
I expected it to be really hot during the ceremony , but we lucked out on the weather. It can get a little muggy and uncomfortable for me when its hot , but I couldn’t have asked for a better day to be sketching outdoors.
I reached the venue ahead of time because I am petrified about parking in D.C ! Again, I got lucky with parking - I got my pick of street parking . There is ample street parking around DAR , especially if you can get there on time. I believe the nearest parking garage is a mile away - I’m glad I didn’t have to experience that. It can get difficult walking with 1-2 bags with sketching supplies and looking put together as you show up for work at a wedding.
DAR is a beautiful venue . It has gorgeous architecture as is evident when you see it . The venue is perfect as far as location in D.C is concerned. It is close to the White House and there are plenty of hotels nearby.
As I chatted with one of the staff members, I got an interesting tidbit about the DAR. Apparently the DAR is used for filming movies / shows since the entrance the on the 17th street is a replica of the White House. For obvious security reasons, filming cannot happen at the White House.
The main address is 1776 D St NW, Washington, DC 20006 . But C + J’s wedding was on the C Street entrance . It really is a gorgeous part of the venue as guests climb up a flight of stairs to enter on the outdoor portico / terrace area.
Guests were greeted with cool champagne , refreshing strawberry mint drink and lemonade with a hint of lavender . The ceremony took place on the portico overlooking the Washington Monument on the most beautiful sunny, warm , light breezy day. It was followed by cocktail hour with refreshments and a raw bar and coffee. The reception and dinner was indoors in the stunning O’Byrne Gallery. It was followed by music and dancing in the rotunda on the portico.
I sketched alongside my friend Sam Shammas during the cocktail hour and reception. The guests were incredibly excited to see themselves as a work of art . Many of them had never heard about or seen a live sketch artist in person.
It was fun to sketch the beautiful outfits and create these fun 10 minute fashion illustrations. If you are familiar with my work , you know how much I enjoy fashion illustrations.
I used my favorite watercolors to sketch the guest portraits. The lovely couple stopped by to chat with us for a bit and I sketched them as well . Cailtyn looked ethereal in her wedding gown . I do love sketching wedding dresses :)
Sketching outdoors at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington D.C. was absolutely picturesque! The combination of the historic architecture and the natural beauty of the setting sun and cool breeze provided endless inspiration. With the sun gently setting, casting a warm glow over everything, and a fashionable guests it was the dream setting for any live sketch artist.
Brielle Davis was the wedding planner for this beautiful spring wedding. She’s amazing to work with . She’s great with communication and very organized - perfect for a planner.
Our meal were simply mouth watering . My dinner was a vegan lasagna and I couldn’t get enough of it . I don’t think I have had a more delicious lasagna before. Thank you Corcoran Caterers !
During the course of 5 hours of non stop painting and interacting with the guests , I went through sketches of 36 guests. I think the guests loved their sketches as was evident with their reactions and compliments .
I’m so thankful to have been a small part of this beautiful celebration . And I didn’t have to go very far to enjoy the evening :)
The Incredible team below :
Planner: @brielledavisevents
Photographer: Courtney with @abbyjiu
Venue: @eventsdar
Catering: @corcorancaterers
Florist: @floralandbloom
Video: @whiteflair_productions
DJ: @belasonomusic
Hair: @amiedeckerbeauty
Makeup: @mab.artistry
Linens: @nuagedesignsinc, @bbjlatavola
Rentals: @whitegloverentals
Gown shop: @lovelybride
Gown designer: @louvienne
Groom’s attire: @EnzoCustomClothiers
Sketch artists: @samialynndesign @lakshsarkar ( your's truly !)
Stationery: @madebyvictorialaine
Invitations: @mintedweddings
