Decatur House on Lafayette Square

02/09/2021

Speaking of doors (see our last post 👉) we absolutely love the front door to the Decatur House. This grand entrance is perfect for guest entry and photos! #decaturhouse #dcwedding #dcweddingvenue
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#Repost @eleganceandsimplicityinc with @get_repost
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Going into this weekend like...

💙🙏🏽💙🙏🏽💙🙏🏽💙🙏🏽💙

📸 @theobservatorydc

Venue (and one of the most fab doors in DC) @decatur_house_rentals

Wedding Planning 🙋🏻‍♀️😉 / @eleganceandsimplicityinc

#decaturhouse #dcweddingplanner #microwedding

02/04/2021

Our grand French doors that connect the Carriage House and Courtyard are perfect for a grand entrance ✨#weddingwednesday #decaturhouse

With Sugarplum Tent Company Something Vintage Rentals The Ociana Group @susangagecaterers on IG

02/03/2021

Magnolia Bluebird design & events

Wedding planning can be stressful no matter what. If you need some extra help navigating all the ins and outs of planning, we recommend checking out the guide below. You can't go wrong with expert advice by the amazing Magnolia Bluebird design & events! #dcwedding #dcweddingplanner #dcweddingcoordinator #dcweddingvenue #decaturhouse

We know navigating the ins and outs of the wedding planning world can be a bit challenging. We were thrilled to work with our friends over at Washingtonian Weddings to create this handy guide to help you figure out if you need a planner, design, coordinator, stylist or all of the above! Let us know if you have any questions.

https://www.washingtonian.com/2021/01/19/from-our-guide-wedding-planners-designers-managers-what-do-they-do/

01/27/2021

#tablescapetuesday transports us directly to summer! With all of the gloomy DC weather ❄️we have been having we are ready for some ☀️🌞
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#Repost Amaryllis, Inc. Floral + Event Design with @get_repost
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Chic Summer setting!! A perfect al fresco celebration staged at the historic Decatur House with Magnolia Bluebird design & events 📷 @jodiandkurtphoto @decatur_house_rentals #amaryllisinc #eventdesign #eventdecor #floraldesign #stagingandstyling #tablescape #smallbusiness #alfresco #dcevents #weareevents #dceventscoalition #teamamaryllis

01/22/2021

#tbt to this gorgeous celebration that has us looking forward to when we can have all of our friends and families together to celebrate life’s wonderful moments in the safest possible way 💛
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Michele Hodges Events Sugarplum Tent Company Occasions Caterers @williamthomasfloral on Instagram @stevecanpix on IG

#Repost @williamthomasfloral with @get_repost
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Lovely wedding this weekend with a great family !

01/13/2021

We are honored to be named, yet again, one of Washingtonian Weddings best wedding vendors! To be recognized and included in a list of the best event professionals in the Washington D.C. area is such a huge honor. Thank you to Washingtonian Weddings and our event partners who made this possible. We miss you and can’t wait to create timeless memories with you once again soon!

01/11/2021

#motivationmonday has us daydreaming of gorgeous flowers just like this stunning centerpiece by @David Beahm [email protected] with yummy bites from Occasions Caterers displayed in the historic Decatur House. Check out Carats and Cake for more images from this wedding with an all-star event team!
Planning: Evoke Design & Creative photography: @AbbyJiu on Instagram
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#Repost @caratsandcake with @get_repost
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@occasionscaterers created the ultimate spread for Lily & Brad's #DCWedding -- Planner @evoke_dc -- Photography @abbyjiu -- Flowers @davidbeahm -- Lighting John Farr Lighting Design

01/04/2021

Happy New Year! 🎆

We hope you & yours had a healthy and joyous holiday!

We are excited to jump-start 2021 with one of our favorite things - Cherry Blossom inspiration!!! Check out the stunning wedding that Washingtonian Weddings featured below 👇
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Vendor Team: Photography: Costola Photography; Catering: Spilled Milk Catering; Floral: LynnVale Studios, llc Cake: Bakeshop; Planning and Entertainment: Black Tie Entertainment; Late Night Bites: District Doughnut, Hair & Makeup: Georgetown Bride; Grooms Attire: Suitsupply; Groomsmen Attire: THE BLACK TUX; Bridesmaid Attire: Bella Bridesmaids; Bridal Gown: @elliesbridal on Instagram and Choreographer: @champlifestyle on Instagram

#washingtonianwedding #dcwedding #cherryblossom #washingtondc #decaturhouse #historicvenue #historichome #weddinginspo #dcweddinginspo #dcweddingphotography #dcweddingplanner

12/23/2020

The White House Historical Association’s Special Events Department wishes you & yours a happy, healthy and safe holiday filled with joy, laughter and love!
The White House Historical Association offices and the historic Decatur House will be closed for the winter holidays from 12/23 at 5:00pm and will reopen at 9:00am on Monday, January 4th for normal business hours. If you need to reach us, email [email protected] or [email protected] and we will get back to you after the break.
We look forward to connecting with you after the holiday. ❄️

12/21/2020

This beautiful parquet flooring and wood representation of the great seal of California was installed in one of the Decatur House upper parlors, duly named the California Room, between 1872 and 1874. When General Edward Beale and his wife Mary Beale purchased the property in 1871, the couple made several changes to the interior of the home including adding this striking parquet flooring.

Photo credit: @whitehousehistory White House Historical Association

12/19/2020

As a part of the Decatur House collection, “Diana and her Handmaidens” is displayed in the upper level parlors of the historic home. Historians believe the painting was completed ca. 1800 by an unknown painter in the school of Jacques-Louis David, a painter who embodied the style known as Neoclassism. This painting is just one treasure you will find in the Decatur House collection. We encourage you to visit our Digital Library to see and learn more about the objects on display. Go to the link in our bio for more information.
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Photo credit: @whitehousehistory White House Historical Association

12/16/2020

It is likely that General Edward F. Beale acquired Utagawa Kunitsuru’s series while living and working in California. At that time California was the country’s primary port for Asian trade. It is estimated that they came to Decatur House sometime between 1872 and late 1873. Previously the panels, which depict the seasons, were originally displayed as wallpaper.
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To learn more about each panel visit our Digital Library and the article by History Fellow Sarah Fling (link in bio)
Photo credit: @whitehousehistory White House Historical Association

12/13/2020

One of early Washington D.C.’s most sophisticated rooms, the front hall of the Decatur House is a brilliant example of Benjamin Latrobe’s work. Latrobe was the architect behind the Decatur House, Capitol and St. John’s Church across H Street. These beautifully carved doors are part of the front hall’s rear apse covered by a semidome. The curved doors were made specifically to fit the lines of the apse, the semi-circular recess leading toward the Grand Staircase of the home.

Photo credit: @whitehousehistory White House Historical Association
Check out more Decatur House details by visiting the link in our bio 👆

12/09/2020

Many of the objects on display at Decatur House belonged to the Beale family, the last private owners of the home. Included in this impressive collection is a beautiful ornate mirror. The mirror features a carved wooden frame with a large eagle finial at the top and is located in the living room of the Decatur House. Inscription on the back reads “To Gen. E. F. Beale (sic) by his old shipmate, Francis Garland, a Mexican veteran and one of the Old Cumberland Crew”
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For more information on this and other objects from the Decatur House collection, visit link in our bio.

Photo credit: @whitehousehistory White House Historical Association

12/04/2020

#didyouknow General Edward F. Beale, one of the last private owners of Decatur House, helped form and lead the United States Army Camel Corps. from 1856-1866? The corps used camels as pack animals in the Southwestern United States in an experimental program that ended during the Civil War. This oil painting on canvas by Ernest E. de F. Narjot depicts horses eagerly drinking while camels in the background are handing out some major shade.

This painting is prominently displayed above the fireplace in the Decatur House dining room.

For more information on this painting titled “Horses Eagerly Quenching their Thirst, Camels Disdaining” and other objects from the Decatur House collection, visit the link in our bio 👆

Image credit @whitehousehistory White House Historical Association

12/01/2020

#tastytuesday is a winter wonderland 🍫❄️☃️ and we are all for it! 🤩
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#Repost Spilled Milk Catering with @get_repost
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These cooler temperatures are giving us all the cozy vibes 🌬Who else could go for a treat from this hot cocoa bar right about now? 🍫⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Photography Rachel May Photography Event Planner A. Dominick Events Venue @decatur_house_rentals Floral design Sophie Felts Floral Design

11/26/2020

Thanksgiving this year might be different but nonetheless we are so very thankful. We are thankful for our fantastic event partners, our resilient community and all of you who support us. We wish you a safe & wonderful Thanksgiving ✨

11/24/2020

#tastytuesday has us looking forward to Thanksgiving goodies on Thursday 👏
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#Repost @vieiraevents with @get_repost
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Recovering from an amazing wedding weekend! Congratulations A+M !

11/19/2020

#tbt winter wedding magic ✨🤩

#Repost Spilled Milk Cateringwith @get_repost
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Our spring wedding season has turned in to spring planning season for lots of amazing fall and winter weddings 🍁❄️This cozy and stunning winter wedding by @adominickevents is the perfect reminder that spring doesn't have a monopoly on beautiful celebrations 🥂⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Photography Rachel May Photography Planning and Design A. Dominick Events Venue @decatur_house_rentals Floral Sophie Felts Floral Design Day of Paper Flourishing Penguin Tent Sugarplum Tent Company Lighting FROST DC Event Lighting & Production

11/12/2020

The White House Historical Association’s Special Events team honors those who have served their country in peace and in wartime and the sacrifices they made for our country. Thank you for your service 🇺🇸

11/03/2020

🚨We interupt your IG and FB feed to insert some gorgeous flowers to brighten your day 💜
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#Repost Simply Breathe Events with @get_repost
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Monday Muse: Brittany and her bridesmaids 💜. Because this has probably been my favorite way to do purple and now any chance I get to use color I want to elevate it into its own super color. The layers upon layers that Rocking Bird Flower Co. incorporated into these bouquets still have us gushing for more. Can’t wait to share more from this October wedding at @decatur_house_rentals. Photo cred: Darling Photographers #simplybreatheevents #dcweddingplanner #decaturhouse #decaturhousewedding #purplebridesmaids

10/31/2020

We hope that you & yours have a safe and spooky 👻 Halloween!
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#Repost @pelonkey with @get_repost
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Our Colonial Greeters brought class, elegance and sophistication to the Decatur House and to hundreds of guests at last night's big event under the stars.
#production #entertainment #event #events #dc #washingtondc #washingtondc #costume #costumes #makeup #colonial #actor #actors #live #theatre #performance #performer #decaturhouse

10/29/2020

#weddingwednesday has us swooning over this gorgeous tablescape!! @karsonbutler always does an amazing job creating beautiful and memorable events for every client and this was no exception. We always enjoy seeing what creative ideas they come up with. Check out their Instagram for more great #weddinginspiration or #partyinspiration
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#Repost @karsonbutler with @get_repost
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L+D's romantic #decaturhouse DC wedding is featured on @smpweddings today!! Photo by @abbyjiu #kbeeast with @sidraforman @lhcalligraphy @amiedeckerbeauty @zeggane & more!

10/23/2020

Earlier this month we were honored to be a part of J + M’s wedding. With the help of our vendor partners Main Event Caterers, Dan Goldman Events & Production, Jenny B Photography, Rising Virgo, Ace Beverage Fine Wines and Spirits, Select Event Group, Cedar and Lime Co, Sweets by E and SRS Events, we are proud to have had a safe space for J + M and their guests to gather and celebrate one of life’s greatest moments. Photography by the talented Jenny B Photography! #dcwedding #loveisnotcancelled
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For more information on Rising Virgo videography, please visit http://www.risingvirgo.com/

10/21/2020

Let the excitement of the #holidayseason inspire you this #weddingwednesday! https://flowersat38.com/, @taren_mbde Spilled Milk Catering Dan Goldman Events & Production and Magnolia Bluebird design & events created this winter wonderland for a fantastic couple and it makes us love the holidays even more 😍 #decaturhouse
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#Repost @flowersat38 with @get_repost
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About last night (that’s always been one of my favorite phrases) December 1 - that’s a date I like to start thinking about the holidays and no better way than with a crazy romantic winter wedding - the WHOLE deal, Christmas trees, lanterns, fur shrugs, velvet ribbons, wreaths, red berries, even candy canes - every detail, right down to the mistletoe kissing ball - yes you can tell I was excited about this!! And it got me in the spirit enough I’m going to put up my tree tonight and this may be the earliest I’ve ever done it! and thanks to everyone who helped vacuum up the pine needles afterwards 🎄😬#christmas #christmastree #christmasdecor #winterwedding #weddinginspo #happyeverafter #congratulations #underthefloralspell #mrandmrs #itsbeginningtolookalotlikechristmas #inthespirit #romance #kissingunderthemistletoe

10/15/2020

#tbt With or without a tent the Courtyard is the perfect outdoor space to safely gather and celebrate while social distancing #loveisnotcancelled #dcwedding
#throwbackthursday

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#Repost @bohemia.dc with @get_repost
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This.⠀
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This moment right here. ⠀
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It’s when wedding guests are enjoying their cocktails and the final touches are being made. ⠀
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It’s just a moment of total joy and admiration- looking at how everything has come together and is somehow way better than what was ever on paper. ⠀
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These are the moments that remind me that I am right where I’m meant to be. We should celebrate them more.⠀
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Photo by Jenny B Photography // Bohemia Events + Design // Florals by Cedar and Lime Co // Lightning by FROST DC Event Lighting & Production // Catering by Purple Onion Catering Co. // Video by SkipperFilms: Video Production / DC / VA / MD / // Lovebirds @lualbares + @mike.albares

09/30/2020

Our Courtyard is the perfect outside oasis for your event. Add in dreamy cafe bistro lights for a truly magical evening ✨
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#Repost @sugarplumtents with @get_repost
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#cafebistrolights and al fresco dining made this #decaturhouse wedding perfect! We were glad to be a part of it. @susangagecaterers photo by @amydeputy

09/23/2020

Treat yourself on this #weddingwednesday - you deserve it. This is also great inspiration for custom cocktails! Cheers! 🍾🥂
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#Repost @robertsandco with @get_repost
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Custom crafted pumpkin cocktails by @occasionscaterers were a hit at this pre thanksgiving @decatur_house_rentals wedding last year with @amaryllisinc @duhonphotography @whitegloverentals !!

09/21/2020

Monday motivation at its finest! #mondaymotivation #dcweddinginspo #dcweddingphotographer #dcweddingplanner

#Repost @unitedwithlove with @get_repost
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Pouring over every pretty image by @fotomama from this classic #DCwedding by @amaryllisinc @adominickevents on the blog today!

09/18/2020

Who says you can’t cocktail and lounge at the same time? We give you permission to do both - especially while enjoying this glamorous setup in the Carriage House 😎
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#Repost @smevents with @get_repost
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Can’t wait to fill these couches... @bd3design #loungeseating #eventseating #smewedding #washingtondcweddings 📷 @procopiophoto

09/16/2020

#Engagement gifts aren’t just for modern couples! Before Stephen Decatur married Susan Wheeler he was engaged to a “Miss King.” As an engagement present, Stephen presented his fiancée this beautiful sewing table made of wood and coated with fine black and gold lacquer. The sewing table was then passed down from generation to generation in the King family despite the broken engagement.
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Interested in seeing this in person? Contact the Special Events Department today to inquire about site visits and don’t forget to check out the link in the comments below to read up on more objects displayed in the Decatur House.
Photo credit: Bruce White for The White House Historical Association #history #historicvenue #historichome #washingtondc

09/14/2020

Objects collected and obtained over Decatur House’s 200-year history add to its charm and sophistication. In addition to the ceremonial sword we featured in a previous post, this intricate celestial globe displayed in the lower level parlors captures the position of the stars observed in 1800 by Dr. William Hershel. The globe was created by William and Thomas Marriott Bardin and was a part of the 1820 estate inventory of Decatur House. To see this object, and many others in person, contact the Special Events Department today!
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For more information on this and other objects from the Decatur House collection, visit link in our comments below.
Photo credit: Bruce White for The White House Historical Association #history #washingtondc #decaturhouse #historichome #historicvenue