When Daniel Castle met Rachel Ley at the SneakerBall, a black-tie fundraiser at the National Building Museum, he instantly thought she “checked all the boxes.” It turns out he was right, and they soon went on their first date at Rio Grande. After three years of dating, the groom, who works in commercial fire protection, asked for Rachel’s hand at Congressional Country Club during what turned out to be a very romantic round of golf. They returned to the club a year later for their wedding on March 8, 2014. “The biggest surprise of the wedding was the weather,” says Rachel, who works in commercial real estate. “After a week of snow, the sun came out, and we enjoyed unseasonably warm weather.”
Details:
Photographer: Mary Kate McKenna Photography
Ceremony Venue: The Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes, Georgetown Preparatory School
Reception Venue/ Caterer/ Cake: Congressional Country Club
Bride’s Gown: Rivini, Hannelore’s
Hair: Bridal Hair by Remona
Makeup: Blend
Groom’s Tux: Suitsupply
Florist: Amaryllis
Flowers: Blush pink and white roses and hydrangeas with a touch of lamb’s ears
Music/Entertainment: The Winn Brothers Band
First Dance Song: “Just the Way You Are” by Billy Joel
Videographer: Blue Sky Films
Invitations/Calligraphy: Always Write Calligraphy
Programs, Menus, and Seating Cards: RL Productions
Bride’s Favorite Detail: “I thought it would be hard to compete with beauty of our chapel, so I decided to go very light on the flowers. Dan’s mom surprised us with huge stunning arrangements that set the stage for a beautiful and romantic night.”
Groom’s Favorite Detail: “The black-and-white-checkered dance floor our florist was able to find for us.”
Decor Details: “We had a big framed picture on display, up high on a mantel, of Dan’s dad and best friend who passed away recently.”
Theme: Classic black tie with romantic touches
Four Words That Describe the Wedding: Romantic and classic decor with wild and fun friends and family
Honeymoon Spot: Rome, Capri, Positano, and London
Where They Currently Live: Georgetown