A VERSAILLES-INSPIRED LUXURY WEDDING AT THE WILLARD

Peanut Butter Creative
Nov 15, 2025
2 min read

Nadia and Shahriar’s wedding was a breathtaking homage to the gardens and grandeur of the Palace of Versailles; a celebration where regal European elegance met modern romance in the heart of Washington, D.C. Drawing inspiration from the ornate interiors and manicured grounds of Versailles, the couple envisioned a design that felt both opulent and ethereal.

Elegant table set with ornate platters, flowers, and candles in a lavish ballroom with chandeliers and rows of gold chairs. — Photography Credit: Rudney Novaes Photography

A Venue Fit for Royalty: The Willard InterContinental

The Willard InterContinental Hotel, with its iconic chandeliers, gilded detailing, and classic European architecture, became the perfect backdrop for their luxury DC wedding. Inside the famed ballroom, we created a visual narrative that blended the palace’s lush exterior gardens with its lavish interiors.

Two dramatic head tables, lush with sprawling greenery, were intentionally styled to evoke the grand alleys and sculpted hedges leading toward the Palace of Versailles. These tables guided guests’ eyes directly to the custom wrap dance floor and the couple’s romantic sweetheart table. Soft, muted dusty hues added a refined whisper of color against the rich textures of greenery and gold.

Elegant wedding venue with floral arch, chandeliers, and gold chairs. Opulent decor in soft greens and whites, creating a luxurious ambiance. — Photography Credit: Rudney Novaes Photography

A Night of Performances and Cultural Beauty

In honor of their Persian heritage, Nadia and Shahriar curated a lineup of unforgettable entertainment to surprise their guests throughout the evening.

The reception began with a Persian dance troupe, dressed in elegant flowing gowns, who ushered the couple into the ballroom with a grand, joy-filled entrance. Throughout dinner, two additional performances enchanted the room - each dance and musical piece representing symbolic blessings for love, unity, and a prosperous marriage.

Later in the night, following the traditional Persian knife dance before cake cutting, guests were treated to the biggest surprise of all. A lively Dobke drumming group burst through the doors, timed with hidden cold sparks, to reintroduce the couple after their outfit change. The energy was electric as the drummers and dancers stayed to celebrate alongside guests, turning the dance floor into an unforgettable, high-energy celebration that lasted well into the night.

Three women in colorful dresses perform a Persian dance on a custom-decorated floor, surrounded by applauding guests in a lavish hall with chandeliers. — Photography Credit: Rudney Novaes Photography

A Cake Majestic Enough for a Palace

Standing over six tiers tall, their wedding cake was nothing short of architectural artistry. Designed in a soft dusty blue with handcrafted gold detailing reminiscent of Versailles ornamentation, the towering confection became a centerpiece worthy of royalty.

An Intimate, Candlelit Ceremony

Before the glamorous reception, Nadia and Shahriar exchanged vows in an intimate, candlelit ceremony surrounded by close family. The Sofreh Aghd, curated with meaningful, hand-selected items to match the Versailles theme, glowed beautifully in the warm candlelight. After the ceremony, we repurposed the grand floral arch to frame the sweetheart table, giving the design new life and continuity throughout the celebration.

Elegant ballroom with chandeliers, floral arrangements on long banquet tables, and a decorated stage. Warm lighting creates a luxurious mood. — Photography Credit: Rudney Novaes Photography

At Cherry Blossom Weddings & Events, we specialize in crafting refined, immersive celebrations that feel effortlessly luxurious and deeply personal. If you're dreaming of a wedding infused with artistry, cultural significance, and elevated design, our team would love to bring your vision to life.

Ready to begin planning your own unforgettable event? Contact Us