The National Arboretum
Committing to one another in a natural setting was very important to Elena and Aidan. Hiking and exploring together were a large part of how the two grew closer when they met and started dating in college.
While they floated the idea of eloping into Shenandoah National Park, where Aidan works as a park ranger, they knew that being present for their wedding would be important to their parents and other loved ones. When considering a location that could offer both natural beauty and international accessibility for their guests, the National Arboretum quickly made itself the only worthy choice.
Benefits:
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Venue fees go toward preserving the Arboretum, rather than simply funding a hotel or similar venue.
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The event planning contingent of the Arboretum, MTG Hospitality, offers a micro-wedding discount on Fridays and Sundays, which made such a beautiful venue more attainable for Elena and Aidan's budget.
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The Arboretum has many gorgeous natural settings to choose from, including the Grove of State trees, which is described as, "a display of trees representing the states and the District of Columbia. This area is over 30 acres and provides an ideal place for a ceremony among the trees and nature.”
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The couple loves the idea of joining their lives together within an area that already holds within it a sense of togetherness, adventure, and unity.
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Considerations:
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Chair rentals are not included in the venue fee.
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Clients must work with an approved vendor to bring in chairs, etc.
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The couple has opted for white wooden folding chairs, such as these.
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Tenting in the ceremony space would be inordinately expensive as flooring must be put down before the delivery trucks can advance, in order to protect the land of the Arboretum.
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For this reason, the couple has ordered twenty-four clear plastic umbrellas in case of inclement weather on their big day.
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If it does rain, these will allow guests to remain relatively dry, while still visible for photos.
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If it does not rain, the vendor offers free returns, so the couple may receive a small cash reimbursement.
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