When out-of-towners think of Washington, DC weddings, they think of the White House, maybe the National Cathedral, and almost certainly the National Mall and its Monuments. Thinking of getting married at the National Mall or DC War Memorials? This article is for you.
Many DC wedding timelines will have a portrait session on the Mall or in front of a monument. But did you know you can have your wedding ceremony on the iconic lawn? It’s a unique opportunity to make your wedding stand out and provide a lifetime of memories. Here’s our perspective and tips as National Mall Wedding Planners.
Choosing the Perfect Spot: Getting Married at the National Mall
Before you start your Pinterest board of floral arrangements in the Lincoln Memorial, most places do not allow wedding ceremonies (but allow couples and their wedding parties to take photos!). There are three venues – all quintessentially DC – where you can say your vows in front of your loved ones.
The three locations where you can say your vows are all located south of the White House and close to the river – perfect for a picturesque backdrop. Also close to The Wharf and classic hotels like The Willard InterContinental and the Waldorf Astoria to travel to your reception. You can choose between the DC War Memorial, The West Lawn of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, or the George Mason Memorial for smaller, more intimate ceremonies.
Need help selecting the perfect location? Contact Boxwood and Bloom today to start planning your dream National Mall wedding.
The DC War Memorial
Arguably the most-used Mall venue for wedding ceremonies, the DC War Memorial is just off a main roadway across from the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. The memorial, dedicated to the 499 Washington, DC residents who died while serving in World War 1, is large enough to house the US Marine Band, so there will be plenty of room for up to 200 guests. While you’re just off Independence Avenue, you’re far enough away from the road to enjoy a quiet, serene feeling while you’re under the monument’s dome.
The West Lawn of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial
While it’s not the South Lawn of the White House – where Naomi Biden was recently wed – you can still be married on a lawn just off the National Mall. The lawn of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial hugs the Tidal Basin and would be ideal during peak cherry blossom season. There is no cover at this location (like the DC War Memorial), so you must be an optimist and bet on beautiful weather for up to 200 of your nearest and dearest.
The George Mason Memorial
One of the newest memorials on the National Mall, the George Mason Memorial can only accommodate up to 100 people and does not allow chairs, speakers, microphones, or rentals. However, the trellis, benches, and gardens provide a stunning backdrop for a brief, intimate ceremony before your reception.
Need help selecting the perfect location? Contact us today to start planning your dream National Mall wedding.
National Mall & DC War Memorial Parks Wedding: Permits, Fees & Regulations
To apply for a permit, you or your wedding planner must contact the National Mall & Memorial Parks division of the US National Park Service. Applications can be submitted one year before your desired wedding date until four days before. Permits are granted on a first-come, first-served basis, so getting that in early is essential to grab your date.
Here are a couple of other things to consider:
- A non-refundable $90 application fee is required, and you can submit your application in person or by mail
- You cannot close the space just for you and your guests, so you may have some onlookers
- There is no electricity at the three locations, so a battery source will be required to power microphones or speakers.
- Alcoholic beverages are prohibited, so a celebratory glass of champagne will have to wait for the reception.
Planning Your National Mall Wedding
Weather Considerations for a National Mall Wedding
While the National Mall is a stunning backdrop for a wedding, it’s important to remember that the weather in Washington, D.C. can be unpredictable. To ensure your special day goes off without a hitch, prepare a backup plan just in case. Here are some tips that can help:
- Check the Weather Forecast: Keep a close eye on the forecast leading up to your wedding. Be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly.
- Choose an Indoor Backup Venue: Select an indoor venue nearby that can accommodate your guest list in case of inclement weather.
- Prepare Your Guests: Inform your guests about the possibility of inclement weather and provide them with information about the backup plan.
- Have a Contingency Plan for Photography: Discuss your backup plan with your photographer and ensure you’re all on the same page.
Time of year: Best seasons for a National Mall wedding
Choosing the right time of year for your National Mall wedding can significantly impact your overall experience. Consider these factors when making your decision:
Spring (March-May)
The pros of getting married in the Spring are you get mild temperatures, a fresh atmosphere, and if you’re lucky blooming cherry blossoms. The cons are there is always the potential for rain showers and a bit of unpredictability with the weather.
Summer (June-August)
The pros of getting married in the summer are longer daylight hours, ideal lighting for outdoor photography, and the vibrant greenery in the background. The cons are that the summer months can also be hot and humid, and have larger tourist groups at DC Monuments and Parks.
Fall (September-November)
The pros of getting married in the Fall are the temperatures are a bit cooler than in the summer months, you get the beautiful Fall foliage, and often fewer tourists. The cons are shorter daylight hours and earlier sunsets (which can also be a pro!).
Winter (December-February)
The pros of getting married in the winter months are that it is more unique as fewer couples opt for this option. You also have the potential for gorgeous snowy backdrops. The cons are that the temperature is undoubtedly colder than the other seasons, daylight time is limited and you run into the possibility of snow or ice.
Ultimately, the best time of year for your National Mall wedding depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Weigh the pros and cons of each season carefully to make an informed decision.
Tips for a Memorable Wedding Ceremony at the National Mall
Your wedding ceremony at the National Mall is an opportunity to create a truly unique experience. Here are some tips to help you plan a memorable celebration:
Incorporate DC History and Culture
- Choose a meaningful location: Select a spot on the Mall with historical significance to you or your partner.
- Incorporate local elements: Use DC-inspired decor or incorporate local florals into your arrangements.
- Write personalized vows: Reflect on the city’s history and your love story in your vows.
Ideas for Wedding Decor That Complement the Surroundings
- Keep it simple: Let the natural beauty of the National Mall be the focal point.
- Use natural elements: Incorporate greenery, flowers, and white linens for an elegant and timeless look.
- Consider the time of day: Choose decor that complements the lighting conditions.
Photography Tips: Capturing the Best Shots at the National Mall
- Scout locations: Your DC wedding photographer will be a huge asset here, but explore the Mall beforehand to find the perfect spots for photos.
- Utilize the iconic landmarks: Incorporate monuments and memorials into your photos.
- Consider different angles: Experiment with various perspectives to capture the beauty of the setting.
Post-Wedding Activities in Washington DC
A National Mall wedding offers a truly unforgettable setting, and the celebration shouldn’t end with the ceremony. Here are some ideas for post-wedding activities to keep the magic alive:
Nearby Venues for Receptions or After-Parties
As mentioned earlier, the National Mall is close to The Wharf and classic hotels like The Willard InterContinental and the Waldorf Astoria which makes it easy to travel to your reception location of choice. You can also explore the option of a dinner cruise on the Potomac River if that’s your vibe.
We also recommend exploring hotels with rooftop bars for stunning views of the city, especially in the Spring and Summer months. DC is a city that is rich in history, so you’re never short of historic DC venues to choose from.
Need DC Wedding Venue Suggestions? Contact us and we’re happy to share our top favorites.
Recommend Tourist Attractions for Out-of-Town Guests
If you have guests from out of town give them options for exploring the city outside of your wedding events. DC is home to many galleries and world-class museums such as the Smithsonian Institution. You can also provide recommendations for bus or walking tours where they can check out the city’s highlights.
While your hotel might provide you with options for dinner, our philosophy is never to leave anything to chance. Provide your guests with a variety of restaurants to suit different tastes and budgets.
Conclusion: Getting Married at the National Mall
With careful planning and attention to detail, you can transform this iconic location into the perfect backdrop for your wedding day. From choosing the perfect spot and navigating the permit process to selecting vendors and planning post-wedding activities. This guide provides essential information to help you create a memorable experience for you and your guests.
Remember, while the National Mall offers a stunning setting, it’s important to consider factors such as weather, crowds, and permit restrictions. By working closely with the National Park Service and your DC wedding planner and carefully planning your event, you can ensure a seamless and unforgettable wedding day.
Ready to say “I do” at the National Mall? Let’s make it happen. Contact us for a free consultation.
