Real Wedding | Toby + Aaron

Family and friends watched Toby and Aaron tie the knot in a joyous outdoor ceremony under huge oak trees. Then guests followed them inside for an elegant celebration and delicious dinner. Make sure to check out Toby’s centerpieces and floral arrangements…they are simply beautiful. But the real star of the show? Toby and her one-of-a-kind wedding gown. Her Monique Lhullier dress is just amazing! It really set the tone for a classic wedding with modern flair. So lovely!

Toby + Aaron | October 3, 2010 | Chevy Chase, Maryland

How they met

We met while attending graduate school in Florida.

The Ceremony

Our ceremony was held just outside the mansion in a grove surrounded by big oak trees. The florist created an amazing huppah out of birch, moss and clusters of roses and hydrangea. We made the programs ourselves, which featured a section titled “Which tree did you fall from?” a sort of tree astrology.  Guests found their corresponding tree according to birthday, which included a cute description. Otherwise, we kept things simple and let the surroundings speak for themselves.

The Reception

Together our florist and caterer created a dreamy reception. For the centerpieces, the florist went above and beyond with the flowers we chose, which were a victorian color palate. The elevated centerpieces sat atop a brass/iron stand with hanging votive candles. The low center pieces sat upon a bed of moss. Everything else was very simple with gold and ivory. Our cake followed suit….a simple Swiss Dot cake with decadent buttercream. We served it with Napoleon Pastry…the grooms favorite! Favors were Parisian Macaroon’s…the brides favorite!

The moment Toby will never forget

I will never forget the look on Aaron’s face as I walked down the aisle. Both of us will also never forget the father of the groom’s speech. It was so touching that there wasn’t a dry eye in the house, especially when he sang an excerpt from “Sunrise, Sunset.”

How Toby knew her wedding dress was “The One”

I probably tried on about five dresses, but it would have been much less if I had tried “the one” on first. We purposely saved the best for last…the rest is history. I bought it from the first store on my first day of shopping. I knew it was the one because both my mother and maid of honor burst into tears. Sold!

Why Toby decided to sell her wedding dress

I truly feel that this is the most beautiful dress anyone could ever wear! It has life, a personality! One that meshes with, not overshadows you. So why keep that locked up in a box in my closet when there is another bride out there that deserves to feel as beautiful as I did?

Toby’s Wedding dress: Monique Lhuillier, Sunday Rose / Photographer: Kate Headley Photography