Wedding Planning: The Bradford Venue September 2024
Luisa Paz and Gerson Portillo were married the first of September, 2024 at The Bradford. It’s European brand of beauty hooked them all the way to their home in Washington, DC, so they contacted us at Premier to help them plan their wedding, site unseen. Of course, we were in! We love this gem of a venue and couldn’t wait to get started.
Set & Setting at The Bradford
We know The Bradford well and can say that this place does nothing by halves. Their claim to fame is European charm and approachable luxury and elegance, and the setting and service have these in spades. Getting images of the couple in various locations was an embarrassment of riches. And the site itself is always ready for a closeup once it is decked out for incoming wedding goers. Every angle and every spot just shines.
Wedding Preparations
The wedding parties arrived at the Bradford on the day ready to prepare for the ceremony and ready to celebrate. If you were anywhere near the bride and bridesmaids, or groom and groomsmen, you could hear laughter.
First Looks at The Bradford
Luisa and Gerson chose to read letters that they’d written to each other and share only a first touch. Luisa had first looks with her family and the pastor instead.
Pretty Ladies and Parasols
Soft blue hues were used as the signature color of the day, along with pops of yellow to compliment this late summer wedding. The addition of parasols was inspired, playful and practical too.
The Bradford Ceremony
The couple said their vows in the Daughtry Ballroom, which was simply and elegantly decorated.
Luisa made her way to a smiling Gerson arm-in-arm with her mother and brother. During their vows, they chose to perform the traditional unity sand ceremony, symbolizing the joining of their lives together. But they were also surprised by something less traditional: Luisa’s mother sang a song to the couple in a truly touching moment.
Far be it from us to brag, but we do prepare our couples well, and this includes the post-ceremony “dip” in the aisle. Our own Tara Ruffier – who planned this gorgeous affair – made sure that Luisa and Gerson had the move locked down.
Love & Laugher at The Bradford
Photographer Madeline Serio took advantage of the weather that day, as well as the incredible setting, beautiful couple and really captured the most romantic shots of the pair after their vows.
The Bradford Reception
Due to the large guest count, Luisa chose a minimalist approach for the reception décor, using budvases and taper candles as lovely accents. Guests enjoyed a seated salad course followed by a large buffet dinner. The couple created the board and guest seating chart themselves for their favorite people. There were toasts, plenty of dancing, donuts passed around to keep energy up, and massive amounts of fun.
Congratulations to this darling pair of newlyweds. We wish you nothing but a lifetime of joy!
Are you ready to start planning your big day with Premier Party Planners by your side? Then Let’s Chat!
Vendor info:
Ceremony & Reception: The Bradford
Caterer: Under the Oak
Photographer: Madeline Serio Photography
Florist: Mood Fleuriste
DJ: One and Done Events
Stylists: Wedded Kiss & Monique Bray
Rentals: Curated Events
Photo Booth: Bunn DJ
Phone Guest Book: After the Tone
Wedding Planners: Premier Party Planners @premierpartyplanners
