Elizabeth + Andrew’s traditional Jewish wedding at the National Museum of Women in the Arts was a beautiful and formal affair complete with marble architecture, a breathtaking chandelier and an exquisite Oscar de la Renta wedding dress. This is a beautiful gown made of layers of silk with an all over swirl pattern detailed in beads with a lace trim. Thanks for sharing your special day Elizabeth + Andrew and congrats on your recent nuptials and the birth of your baby boy last month!
Elizabeth + Andrew | December 6, 2015 | National Museum of Women in the Arts, Washington, DC | Dress Listing: Oscar de la Renta, 44EO7-HRT
The Ceremony
We had a traditional Jewish ceremony whereby we were each walked down the aisle by both of our parents. My Rabbi married us under a magnificent willow “chuppah” studded with orchids and fairy lights. In addition to the traditional Hebrew prayers, he was wonderfully personal having met with us several times prior to our marriage. He described in a charming and comical way how we met pointing out that in life, it is “who you know” that sometimes makes the difference. I descended a magnificent grand marble staircase before walking down the aisle and in truth fear of tripping was my major source of anxiety. A string quartet played while guests were seated and throughout the procession and recession. Andrew was nervous that when he stepped on the glass after our Rabbi concluded the service, it wouldn’t break. All went exceptionally smoothly and we were overjoyed to be married!
The Reception
We had a formal wedding reception at the same location as our ceremony at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. It was drizzly outside but inside the Museum, all was perfect. Everyone, especially Andrew and I were joyful; love truly filled the air. Our brothers gave wonderfully humorous toasts. The dance floor was rocking and we took time to do the Hora, a traditional Jewish celebratory dance replete with the bride and groom raised on chairs. As Andrew — and the large Boston contingency present– are AVID Red Sox fans, we had the band play “Sweet Caroline”. Oh what a night!
Elizabeth’s Dress Search
I tried on 22 dresses at a variety of different bridal boutiques…in the end it was between a Vera Wang gown and an Oscar de la Renta gown. I finally decided on my Oscar de la Renta wedding dress, it was indescribably gorgeous and the most perfect for my figure…I know I made the right choice – it was absolutely THE ONE!
How Elizabeth Felt in Her Wedding Dress
My exquisite dress made me feel truly “beautiful” and emphasized the how special this occasion was. Being a bride in this dress was a “sublime” dream-like experience.
Why Elizabeth Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
I have decided to sell my dress in hopes that another woman will have the privilege of being married in the most elegant and magnificent of dresses ever created. The original price makes it unattainable for most and I recognize that. In addition, I want my daughter, should I be so fortunate to have one, to have the opportunity to choose her own dress and not feel obligated to wear mine. My Mom preserved her dress for me but understood my need to choose my own in a very different style for a very different type of venue. However, I was very sad that she did not keep her veil; I will have my veil available should a daughter or future daughter in law wish to use it.
