Northern Virginia offers more range than most couples expect. Close to the city, Old Town Alexandria brings brick-lined streets and Potomac waterfront views, Arlington looks out toward the D.C. skyline, and Great Falls is home to quiet, tree-lined estates.
Head farther west and the landscape opens up. Around Middleburg, Upperville, and The Plains, hunt country unfolds in stone walls, old barns, and long green views. Loudoun County's vineyards settle into the hills near Leesburg, and Warrenton's historic homes bring a quieter, small-town charm. Between Reagan National and Dulles International, guests flying in have easy options, too.
We map all of that early, so the day you picture works just as beautifully in real life. Whether you imagine a waterfront evening in Old Town or open sky and a good view out in wine country, you're in the right place, with planning experts who know their way around Northern Virginia wedding venues.
Marriage licenses are issued by any Virginia circuit court clerk's office, and there's no residency requirement, so you can apply in whichever county or city is most convenient. Both of you generally need to appear in person with valid photo ID. There's no waiting period, and the license is valid for 60 days, so it's easy to apply close to your wedding. The ceremony must take place in Virginia.
Often, yes. Many estates and vineyards host tented weddings, though each property sets its own rules for tent placement, power, restrooms, guest counts, and music curfews. We review a property's requirements before you commit and build the tent, the rain plan, and the logistics into your timeline.
Yes! We plan weddings across the DMV, including Washington D.C. and Maryland, as well as other parts of the state like Richmond and Charlottesville. We also plan events in both domestic and international destinations (our favorite is France).
Spring blooms and early-fall harvest and foliage are the most popular. Summer is hot and humid, which makes evening ceremonies and shade or tenting worth planning for. Winter weddings in historic homes and estates can feel especially cozy.Spring and fall are the most popular, with cherry blossoms in late March or early April and comfortable weather and golden light in the fall. Summer is hot and humid, and winter is quieter and more intimate. We'll help you weigh season against availability.
Sought-after estates, vineyards, and historic venues, especially in Fauquier and Loudoun counties and for spring and fall weekends, often book a year or more ahead. Flexibility on the day of the week or the season can open up more options.
Officiants must be authorized by a Virginia circuit court, including clergy visiting from out of state. Many couples also choose a civil celebrant from the court's list. If you'd like a friend or family member to officiate, it's a touch complicated for it to be legal. Many couples have their friend symbolically perform the ceremony, and then hire a civil celebrant to legally sign the marriage license before or after. We can help you with this!
At the heart of Fête du Jour Events is Jennifer, a visionary planner whose journey from fashion and beauty editor to wedding planner brings the perfect blend of design sophistication and meticulous attention to detail. A one woman show has since transformed into a powerhouse trio with the addition of Michelle and Elise! Whether you're planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, the Fête du Jour Events team of DC wedding planners brings 7 years of experience, creative vision, and genuine care to make your special day truly unforgettable.