Georgetown Engagement & Wedding Planning

It’s what’s on the inside that counts…unless it’s your wedding day, and then what you’re wearing is kind of a big deal. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind dress from an independent shop, a more casual, off-the-rack option from a national brand, or a suit from a family-owned business, there’s a style for every person.

The most expensive part of an engagement are the months leading up to it when you’re getting a manicure every Friday just *in case* it happens that weekend. (This woman was clearly ready.) Once that day actually does arrive, there are a lot of ring options in Georgetown – from lab-grown diamonds, to vintage collections, and gemstone alternatives.

If Georgetown is one thing, it’s photogenic. Get your engagement or wedding photos taken by the Potomac at Georgetown Waterfront Park, along the first mile of the C&O Canal, or in the European-esque Cady’s Alley.

There are so many people that get in your hair during the wedding planning process, and then there’s the person you actually need to get in your hair. With nearly 20 salons in Georgetown, the hardest part is choosing the right one for your big day.

So many parts of the body to worry about, so little time. From nails, to brows, lashes, and waxing, start making your appointments for head-to-toe TLC.

If you’ve just started to plan your wedding: There’s still time to save yourself! But if you’re too far down the road to consider eloping, a 60-minute massage or acupuncture treatment can work wonders on that pent-up stress.

No shame in the pale game, but if you want to glow both inside and out on the big day, a little airbrush tanning can go a long way.

It’s a crazy time in a couple’s life but it’s important to stop and (literally) smell the roses. From beautiful bouquets to show-shopping table centerpieces, create the perfect backdrop for your wedding.

There’s a lid for every pot, as they say – and a venue for every lid-pot couple. Get hitched, then hit the lanes at an upscale bowling alley, say your “I do’s” at a historic estate, or tie the knot surrounded by art.

If you’re interested in saving yourself from a full-blown breakdown, consider hiring an event planner to handle the headaches of wedding planning. Any company with “mimosa” in its name is automatically on our preferred vendors list.

The sweetest part of the whole process. Georgetown is the unofficial cupcake capital of DC; order a classic or custom flavor and personalize them with monograms and decorations. Several French bakeries offer signature cakes if you’re envisioning more of a dessert table than a single cake, and macaron and chocolate boxes are the perfect desserts for a bridal shower or wedding favor. Bakeshop’s menu is fully vegan, for those who are, too.

As the bride or groom, you have a much greater chance of eating during the rehearsal dinner than at your actual wedding – so enjoy it! Georgetown’s restaurants and hotels offer both historic and contemporary settings for your rehearsal dinner, and an equally varied array of food options. Check out our Event, Reception and Private Dining Venues spreadsheet to start planning.

If your guests are staying in Georgetown, keep them entertained with everything from live music to historic tours and unmatched recreational opportunities.

Georgetown’s history is part of what makes it so special. Follow The African American Heritage Trail to see the churches and residences that were at the heart of Georgetown’s African American community in the 19th and 20th centuries. Or trace the path of those most iconic Georgetown residents, the Kennedys, to see where they lived, worshipped, worked and played. The Old Stone House is the oldest building in DC, and a great example of Revolutionary War-era architecture. Two other tour options are Tudor Place – one of America’s best preserved neoclassical estates that was built by Martha Washington’s granddaughter, or Dumbarton House – a Federal period historic house museum featuring a significant, extensive collection of Federal-era decorative arts, paintings and furniture. If the weather is nice, head to Dumbarton Oaks Gardens, which contains 10-acres of trees including Washington’s famed cherry blossoms, as well as flowers and ornamental garden fixtures.

Blues Alley, the nation’s oldest continuing jazz supper club is open nightly and offers the best in live jazz. For a fun party vibe after the wedding reception, head to Georgetown Piano Bar for dueling sing-alongs.

Film buffs can visit the 75 infamous steps from the classic 1973 horror film, The Exorcist, which also serve as a popular workout spot.

If there are kids in tow, The Escape Game challenges you to solve clues and puzzles to escape a movie-themed room before time runs out. Alternatively, you can sit back and relax while watching an actual movie at AMC Loews, with reserved seats and reclining chairs. Pinstripes also offers indoor activities, with bowling and bocce courts inside the restaurant.

For waterfront fun, take a walking tour along the C&O Canal, or rent a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard from Key Bridge Boathouse and hit the Potomac. In the winter, Washington Harbour has the largest outdoor ice rink in the area – in addition to rink-side restaurants and bars. You can also bike, run or walk along the water in Georgetown Waterfront Park.

There’s plenty more to do in Georgetown – from visiting art galleries, to shopping at local boutiques, and having lunch in the booth where JFK proposed to Jackie. Check out our website for more.