We would never have known that “greyscale” could be a wedding color, and we never could’ve guessed it would look this amazing if not for Alexis Merin and Kevin Hancock’s November nuptials at Long View Gallery. Check out these photos by K. Thompson Photography to see how the decor, combined with the bride’s beautiful emerald green gown, makes for an ultra-chic urban celebration–with a side of kiddy fun with a Ping-Pong table and dominoes to entertain their guests.
Therapist Alexis paved the way for her thoroughly modern wedding by doing a thoroughly modern thing: Intrigued by the cute guy at the bar, she didn’t wait for him to come over; she approached him and his group of friends. It took a bit of conversation before Kevin, an attorney for the Federal Election Commission, figured out that he was her target. “Alexis was beautiful, blond, and exuded a confidence and intelligence that had me hooked at hello,” he remembers. She also knew how to play it cool. When Kevin went in for the kiss at the end of the night, she gave him her cheek—and her phone number.
Four years later, Kevin proposed at home with a slide show of their relationship and a ring hidden between the couch cushions. The couple kicked off their contemporary nuptials by mingling with guests before the secular outdoor ceremony. “It gave us time to really say hello to everyone who came to celebrate with us,” Alexis says.
Ikea chandeliers and clusters of candles took the place of floral accents, a Ping-Pong table entertained those who didn’t feel like dancing, and, at the end of the night, guests headed off with cake pops baked by the emerald-clad bride herself.
VENDORS
Venue: Long View Gallery | Photographer: K. Thompson Photography | Event Designer/coordinator: Megan Pollard of Events in the City | Bride’s Gown: Carmen Marc Valvo, Neiman Marcus | Hair: Hair by Giselle | Makeup: Claire Ashley Beauty | Groom’s Attire: Michael Thomas Custom Clothiers | Caterer: Well Dunn Catering | Cake: Praline Bakery & Restaurant | Music: Round Midnight, Entertainment Exchange | Videography: William Karell | Transportation: Uber | Honeymoon: Omni Homestead Resort | Where they currently live: Washington, DC
Want to plan your own chic modern wedding? Find the perfect planner to bring your ideas to life on our vendor list.
Sarah is the Editor-in-Chief of Washingtonian Bride & Groom, and writes about weddings, fashion, and shopping. Her work has also appeared in Refinery29, Bethesda Magazine, and Washington City Paper, among others. She is a Georgetown University graduate, lives in Columbia Heights, and you can find her on Instagram at @washbridegroom and @sarahzlot.
