Kim and Frank’s wedding at The Willard InterContinental was a study in refined restraint, leaning into a black and white color scheme with cream accents that felt both timeless and quietly luxurious. Kim had long admired The Willard, making it an easy choice for the venue. She wanted something that felt “old money” with a hint of Titanic-era glamour, a vision carried out through careful details and a warm, elegant atmosphere.
Their engagement was straightforward, much like their style. “Simple easy, very us,” Kim said, describing the moment when Frank proposed over dinner at a local restaurant. The wedding’s aesthetic followed that same refined simplicity, with a monochrome palette that never felt stark but rather inviting.
Kim’s gown was a Kelly Faetanini creation, purchased at The Bridal Room in McLean, Virginia. The dress was a sleek fit-to-flare silhouette with exposed bonding and a row of buttons running down the train, giving it a subtle but memorable architectural detail. The bridesmaids wore floor-length black gowns from BHLDN, complementing the black and white theme without overwhelming it.
The Willard’s Willard Room, already dressed with marble columns and warm wood paneling, provided a natural backdrop to the couple’s vision. They layered in candlelight, golden-toned glassware, velvet linens, and florals that spilled across the bar and head table. The flowers, arranged by Darling & Daughters, were in soft whites, creams, and touches of pink with greenery, adding a hint of color while maintaining the overall understated elegance.
Dinner began with a classic wedge salad before guests chose between oven-roasted herb-crusted chicken or pepper-crusted filet mignon. Dessert was a choice of vanilla or chocolate cake, both layered with chocolate ganache and buttercream, alongside an ice cream bar that gave the sweet tooth crowd options. The couple’s signature cocktails were espresso martinis and old-fashioneds, with Shirley Temples offered as a mocktail.
Music played a role in setting the tone throughout the day. Cherry Blossom Strings provided ceremony music, and DJ Craig Wood took over for the reception, keeping the energy tailored to the room’s old-school glam vibe. Officiant Sincerely Pete led the ceremony with a personal touch.
Kim’s hair and makeup were handled by Makeup by Ana B, enhancing her natural features without overshadowing the clean lines of her gown. Invitations were designed by Laura Hooper Design House, matching the event’s polished yet inviting look.
Photographer Maddy Williams captured the moments with an eye for the venue’s architectural beauty and the couple’s chemistry, while Laureland Films produced a cinematic record of the day.
The wedding’s feel was quiet luxury in action: nothing screamed for attention, but every element was carefully chosen to create a cohesive whole. Velvet linens and gold accents warmed the space, and the floral arrangements softened the marble and wood with nature’s touch. The black and white dresses paired with the venue’s historic elegance created a setting that felt both intimate and grand.
Kim and Frank’s wedding was a reminder that a celebration doesn’t need excess to feel special. The Willard’s classic architecture and their taste for subtle glamour gave the day a timeless feel that will age well in photos and memories alike. If you’re drawn to weddings that feel quietly elegant and intentionally curated, this one offers a clear example.
What’s your take on black and white weddings with a vintage twist? Share your thoughts with us at wepostweddings.com.
According to Style Me Pretty.
