A Stunning Meridian House Wedding in Washington, DC

There is something undeniably classy about a Meridian House Wedding in Washington, DC. Josh and John’s celebration was the perfect blend of elegance, personality, and connection, all set against one of the most iconic venues in the city. Recently featured on Washingtonian Weddings, their unforgettable first dance (complete with a surprise lift!) captured hearts both in person and online.

Josh and John spent their morning getting ready in the ways that suited them best. John hosted a cozy brunch at home with his closest friends, with the sweetest finishing touch — his sister helping him into his custom suit. Meanwhile, Josh reminisced and laughed with his crew in his swanky hotel room at The Line. Both of them wore constant smiles, soaking in every moment and carrying a charged sense of anticipation for the incredible day ahead.

1630 Crescent Pl NW, Washington, DC 20009

A Love Story That Started Three Blocks Apart

Josh and John met in 2018 on the dating app The League after John responded to Josh’s profile, where he jokingly described himself as “Phil Dunphy in training.” As it turns out, they lived only three blocks away from each other in DC, likely crossing paths countless times before finally connecting. It feels fitting that their love story would eventually lead to a stunning Meridian House Wedding in Washington, DC, surrounded by the very city that brought them together.

Grooms first look before they get married at the historic Meridian House in Washington DC Groom Portraits before their LGBTQ wedding at the historic Meridian House in Washington DC

Groom Portraits as they walk to their LGBTQ wedding at the historic Meridian House in Washington DC Group wedding party photos taken outside the charming Meridian House in Washington DC at an LGBTQ wedding.

The Perfect Balance of Grand and Intimate

When it came to planning, Josh and John were initially on different pages. Josh loves a big crowd and a spotlight moment, while John prefers intimacy and meaningful connection with close loved ones. They found their middle ground, and the wedding beautifully reflected both personalities: a lively, high-energy celebration layered with thoughtful, personal touches.

As a winter wedding in DC, they embraced a subdued, sophisticated color palette. Bright hues were intentionally avoided in favor of tones that complemented the historic charm of Meridian House. Known as one of the finest examples of French urban architecture in the United States, the venue’s stone walls, formal gardens, and grove of over 40 European linden trees created an elegant and timeless backdrop. A Meridian House Wedding in Washington, DC truly offers a setting that feels both grand and tucked away—a private retreat in the heart of the city.

Meridian House wedding ceremony set up with gorgeous greenery on a chuppah
Green and Florals at Meridian House Ceremony Set up

Gorgeous Details of the inside of Meridian House in Washington DC

Two grooms get married under the chuppah at their Meridian House wedding ceremony

Custom Style & Meaningful Details

Both grooms wore custom-designed tuxedos created specifically for them, adding a refined and personal element to their look. Inside the reception, guests were greeted with deeply sentimental details: framed photos of their parents’ and grandparents’ weddings, photos of Josh and John at corresponding ages placed at each table, and disposable cameras so guests could capture candid moments throughout the night.

The cake? Three giant cakes from John’s favorite local bakery—because John loves cake, and one simply wouldn’t do.

Celebrating Love & Community

This Meridian House Wedding in Washington, DC was more than just a stunning event—it was a celebration of love, joy, and the beauty of LGBTQ weddings in the nation’s capital. Friends from high school danced with friends from DC. Worlds collided. Love expanded.

“Our wedding was the most perfect moment,” Josh said. “Nothing about the day could have been more perfect.”

John echoed that sentiment: “I loved every second. Having all our friends and family there meant the world to me.”

Wedding reception candid photos at the stunning Meridian House in Washington DC

The Library at Meridian House

The reception in the Library at Meridian House felt like stepping into another era. Just one of the many reasons a Meridian House Wedding in Washington, DC is so unforgettable. Designed by architect John Russell Pope in the 1920s, the room is a masterclass in 18th-century French-inspired, Beaux-Arts elegance. Floor-to-ceiling built-in bookcases (this is literally a dream room), wrap the space in rich wood tones with gorgeous corner cabinets, original brass shelving labels, and even a hidden door seamlessly tucked into the cabinetry. It is designed to create the feeling of being completely surrounded by books.

Originally built to house more than 5,000 rare volumes for Ambassador Irwin Laughlin, the library still holds its intimate, intellectual charm. The custom “made-to-measure” woodwork and intricate detailing are nearly impossible to replicate today, and many of the original elements remain, including fixtures that once held pendant lights and the brass-lettered cataloging system. I love the history of this room so much.

For a classy wedding reception, it really doesn’t get any better. The space feels warm, refined, and deeply romantic. Perfect for candlelight, heartfelt toasts, and guests lingering in conversation beneath shelves lined with history. It’s the kind of setting that elevates every detail and makes a wedding celebration feel timeless. I imagine this is what couples envision when planning a Meridian House Wedding in Washington, DC.

Meridian House DC Library Wedding Reception Set Up
Moody reception set up at the Meridian House Library in Washington DC.

Classy reception set up at the Meridian House in Washington DC.

Dancing that No One Will Forget

Josh’s favorite moment was the first dance, which featured a surprise lift that had the entire room cheering. It was playful, dramatic, and perfectly “them.” His mother-son dance followed with an entirely different vibe—less choreographed and more spontaneous – think kitchen dance party. As a former professional ballerina, Josh’s mom brought joyful energy as they danced to Somebody to Love. Meanwhile, John and his mom had practiced their routine ahead of time, creating a beautiful contrast between polished and carefree.

For John, the highlight was simpler: dancing all night with friends and family. He rarely left the dance floor, soaking in every second. As he shared, his favorite part was watching people from different chapters of their lives meet for the first time and then hearing the next day how much they loved each other.

Two grooms take their first dance during their LGBTQ wedding held at Meridian House

Groom and his mom dance at his meridian house wedding

Mom dances with her son at his wedding at Meridian House in DC

Advice for Engaged Couples from the Newlyweds

Their biggest advice? Start early. Engaged in August 2023 for a February 2025 wedding, they gave themselves plenty of time to plan. And just as importantly, they recommend hiring vendors you genuinely trust and connect with. Their team worked seamlessly together. Something that made the day feel effortless.

A winter Meridian House Wedding in Washington, DC offers history, romance, and architectural beauty. However, it’s the people, the laughter, and the packed dance floor that truly make it unforgettable.

The Grooms cakes from their meridian house wedding in DC

If you’re planning your own Meridian House Wedding in Washington, DC or dreaming of an elegant wedding celebration in the heart of DC, this venue is truly one of a kind.