Catherine and Chris first met via the powers of the internet and the budding “dating app” scene. Their first date included local craft beer, a dozen oysters and lots of interesting conversation. The pair dated for about a year and a half before deciding that they were ready to get married. Chris wanted the engagement to be something special; he planned a trip to Rome and Croatia since travel is something they both greatly enjoy. One evening in Rome, Chris took Catherine to a quiet wine bar near their hotel before dinner. Right before the second glass of wine, Chris got down on one knee and asked Catherine to take a permanent vacation with him. How romantic is that?! A proposal in Rome? Swoon. This sweet proposal leads us to today’s modern romantic Long View Gallery wedding.

Since Catherine and Chris enjoy exploring “the real DC,” a modern venue in their favorite neighborhood was a priority when planning their DC wedding. Long View Gallery provided the perfect backdrop. And it allowed them to include details that reflected who they are as a couple. Chris and Catherine both wanted to make sure all their guests felt as if they were entertaining them in their own home. Because of this, live music, outstanding food and great cocktails were very important.

They included elements in the cocktail hour that originated from their childhoods: lobster rolls from Chris’ home town of Gloucester, MA, chips and seven layer dip as part of a long running family joke for Catherine. They also picked craft beers from locations that were special to their relationship, to reflect their first date. We love this idea! It’s so important to make your wedding day feel like you. It is, after all is said and done, a celebration of you two and your love. Thank you to A. Dominick Events for sharing this modern, art gallery wedding with us today!

Favorite memories of the day: Watching Catherine walk down the aisle was a favorite memory for Chris; time slowed down and he realized how special the moment was. We also loved having the ability to sneak away from the venue for a few moments right after the ceremony. Not only did we capture amazing pictures during this time, but it was great to be able to take that time to reflect on the significant moment we just shared. Another great moment was when the best man asked us to stand up and take a few moments to look at our guests and “take it all in.” That was genuinely such a treat for us since the day moved by so quickly.

The following Washington DC wedding professionals contributed to this Long View Gallery wedding:

For more wedding vendors, please visit our Washington DC area wedding vendor guide. For additional local ideas, check out our wedding inspiration galleries. Especially relevant would be our Washington DC area real weddings.