Not only did Kathleen (Katie) Baniewicz and Todd Zinicola start with a gorgeous setting–the Oatlands property in Leesburg–they enhanced it with their own clever decor, including signs and framed love quotes, that added a personal touch. Their beautiful day was captured in the photos below by Jennifer Gulley Photography.
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Though Katie and Todd had many friends in common, they didn’t meet in person until–after months of hearing about one another and how well they’d get along–Todd decided to step up and message Katie on Facebook. They met for drinks with friends at Reston Town Center, where Katie quickly fell for the “Infamous Todd,” as she’d come to think of him. They went on a first official date at Rio Grande, beginning their two-year relationship.
Katie came home on a Friday night after a long week at work. It was December, so Katie at first thought little of the fact that Todd had decorated the house with candles and Christmas lights. But when Todd got down on one knee before her, she realized what the sweet gesture was really about.
For their early September wedding, they planned an intimate black tie wedding in Leesburg. The beautiful Oatlands property stood as a background as Katie and Todd recited their vows and included their guests in a ring warming ceremony, giving guests the chance to pledge their support of the marriage. For the outdoor celebrations, guests were provided with sunglasses favors so they wouldn’t be “blinded by love.”
At the tent reception, guests dined on Southern comfort food–fried chicken, collared greens, macaroni and cheese–and finished the meal with sweets from a pie and cookie bar. After a night of eating and dancing to the live band with loved ones, the new Mr. and Mrs. departed, with plans to honeymoon in Mexico.
VENDORS
Venue: Oatlands Historic House and Gardens | Photographer: Jennifer Gulley Photography | Bride’s Gown: Allure, Bella Sera Bridal & Occasion | Groom’s Tux: Calvin Klein, Men’s Wearhouse | Hair & Makeup Artist: Lori Nansi | Event Coordinator: Nicole Bascope | Dessert: Mom’s Apple Pie Company and Tom’s Mom’s Cookies | Florist: Bluebells | Caterers: RSVP Catering | Transportation: Reston Limousine | Music/Entertainment: St. Charles String Quartet and Jump Street Band, East Coast Entertainment | Invitations: Minted | Signage: The Floral Foundry | Photo Booth: Bash Booths | Tent & Lighting: Capital Party Rentals
No wedding is complete without amazing food–that’s why you should check out our vendor guide for the best caterers in the DC area.
Caroline Cunningham joined Washingtonian in 2014 after moving to the DC area from Cincinnati, where she interned and freelanced for Cincinnati Magazine and worked in content marketing. She currently resides in College Park.
