SUMMER WEDDING AT RIVER FARM: A WHIMSICAL GARDEN CELEBRATION IN VIRGINIA

Peanut Butter Creative
Dec 7, 2025
2 min read

Margaret and Joe’s wedding at River Farm in Alexandria, Virginia was a celebration filled with sunshine, blooming florals, and effortless summer romance. On June 8, 2024, the couple invited loved ones to experience a whimsical garden party wedding that beautifully reflected their nature-loving personalities and timeless, refined style.

Elegant wedding tent with white drapes, chandeliers, and decorated tables. Lush greenery and floral arrangements create a serene atmosphere. — Photos By: Molly Lichten Photography

Nestled along the Potomac River, River Farm—one of Northern Virginia’s most picturesque wedding venues—offered the perfect backdrop. Its historic gardens, sweeping water views, and lush landscapes created a setting that felt both serene and enchanting. Margaret and Joe envisioned a day that felt organic yet elegant, blending classic garden-inspired design with modern touches that felt fresh, intentional, and deeply personal.

Rows of wooden chairs facing a large tree in a garden setting, decorated with white flowers. Sunlight filters through green leaves, creating a serene atmosphere. — Photos By: Molly Lichten Photography

A Soft, Elegant Garden-Inspired Palette

The couple’s design palette centered around soft blues, crisp whites, and abundant greenery—tones that echoed the venue’s natural beauty. Floral arrangements were crafted to mirror the gardens themselves, allowing blossoms, vines, and textures to flow as if they had always been part of the landscape. Bridesmaids carried petite bouquets placed in rattan baskets, adding a charming, relaxed detail that fit perfectly within the garden-party aesthetic.

Thoughtful, Handcrafted Details

From the beginning, Margaret and Joe were intentional about weaving meaningful details into their day. Margaret hand-painted oyster shell ring dishes and created coastal-inspired guest favors, a nod to the couple’s shared love of the water and their commitment to sustainable, handcrafted design. These personal touches added layers of heart and storytelling to the celebration, making each moment and detail uniquely theirs.

Bride and groom pour champagne into a cascading glass tower outdoors. A white cake and flowers decorate the setting, creating a festive mood. — Photos By: Molly Lichten Photography

A Champagne Sabrage Ceremony Moment

One of the most unforgettable highlights of the day came during the ceremony, when Joe performed a champagne sabrage to mark the start of their marriage. The sabered bottle flowed into a champagne tower, sending shimmering bubbles through cascading glasses—a celebratory moment that set a joyful, effervescent tone for the evening festivities.

A Sweet Tribute to Their Love Story

As the reception unfolded, guests were welcomed with a delicate macaron tower, a sweet and elegant nod to the city where the couple became engaged. Each macaron carried a bit of their story—blending romance, travel, and a love for simple, meaningful indulgences that feel both modern and timeless.

Margaret and Joe’s celebration at River Farm was a perfect early-summer dream—lush, light-filled, intentional, and beautifully captured through thoughtful design and heartfelt moments.