Modern Muse In Montmartre At The Swann House Washington D.c.

There’s something so effortlessly romantic about Paris, and for this shoot at Washington, D.C.’s historic Swann House, we wanted to capture that same sense of whimsy and charm. With its Victorian architecture and boutique setting, the inn became the perfect backdrop for a design that feels both playful and refined.Bright pinks and bold reds mixed with soft dusty blue accents set a joyful tone, while lush florals, layered textures, and thoughtful styling tied the vision together. The bride wore a stunning designer gown from True Bride VA in Fredericksburg, paired with elegant hair and makeup that highlighted the editorial yet romantic mood.What makes this shoot even more special is the all-female team of DMV creatives behind it — a collaboration that brought together some of the area’s most talented women in weddings to create an inspiring vision full of artistry, color, and heart.

Florals & Décor

The florals brought a modern, Parisian-inspired flair to the design—full of lush blooms in vibrant pinks, deep reds. Arranged in artful, clustered centerpieces down the length of the table, they felt both elevated and approachable. A soft, embroidered tablecloth added tactile detail, while gold-rimmed glassware, tall taper candles, blue-toned plates and blush eyelet napkins brought depth and dimension. Every element worked in harmony to create a look that felt intentional, playful, and romantic.

Favorite Design Element

One of our favorite design elements was the floral-lined tablescape. The bright pinks and reds popped beautifully against the neutral embroidered linen and soft blues, creating a dynamic visual story. The balance of bold color, timeless tableware, and romantic candlelight made the design feel layered without being overdone.

Tips to Pull Off the Look

Begin with a strong color palette and build around it with intentional contrast. In this case, deep florals paired with soft blue and gold accents kept the look grounded and elevated.Incorporate texture, like embroidered linens, cut glass, and metallic finishes, to add subtle interest without overwhelming the table.Keep the design cohesive by repeating key tones (like florals and napkins) throughout the space, and lean on a planner or stylist to help balance bold elements with refined ones.

Wedding Gown

The editorial featured two stunning gowns from True Bride in Fredericksburg, VA—one for the ceremony and one for the reception. The ceremony dress embraced timeless romance with a structured bodice and soft A-line silhouette, creating an effortlessly elegant bridal look. For the reception, the second dress brought a sense of modern movement with a sleek, draped neckline and flowing skirt, perfect for dancing the night away in style. Each gown complemented the day’s aesthetic while showcasing two distinct facets of bridal beauty: refined and romantic, then effortlessly chic.

Venue

The Swann House in Washington, D.C. was the ideal backdrop—charming, elegant, and full of European character. Its historic architecture, serene exterior spaces, and timeless interiors created the perfect canvas for a shoot inspired by old-world beauty and modern-day style.

“Le Premier Morsel” (The First Bite)

No detail was overlooked in this editorial, and the cake was no exception. Designed by Mimi’s Mocha Treats, the confection was as much a work of art as it was a sweet ending. Soft, textured buttercream gave the tiers a romantic, hand-crafted feel, while delicate floral accents tied it seamlessly to the vibrant arrangements throughout the day.

Wedding Colors

The palette was a modern blend of rich reds, bright pinks, softened by embroidered ivory and anchored with blue and gold accents. It offered a playful yet sophisticated take on Parisian romance which was perfect for the editorial’s elevated European-inspired vision.

An Editorial Ceremony SettingFor the ceremony, we embraced the unique character of the Swann House, where every corner holds a story. Guests would be welcomed beneath the grandeur of a textured tree that seemed to climb effortlessly toward the light, creating a natural frame that echoed the romance of the day. Inside, the intricate boutique wallpaper and ornate ceiling details added layers of elegance, blending historic artistry with modern design sensibility.This juxtaposition of organic beauty and architectural refinement transformed the space into an elevated ceremony backdrop — one that feels both intimate and timeless, offering couples a setting that’s as memorable as their vows.