West Belmont Place Blog

Spring Trends by Guest Blogger, Lawan McFerran

admin — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 20:15:54 +0000

The wedding and special event arena is ever changing and that is reflected more and more each year as technology plays a greater role in our lives. We have access to web sites such as Pinterest with our smart phones so that we can keep up with what’s hot instantly. Some of the latest trends are leaning towards the NYC club or lounge feel. Brides and grooms are frequently requesting hi-end lounge sofas and chairs to create a club feel to their cocktail reception or even the evening reception space. The idea is to create a space that invites guests to kick back and relax during and after dancing as well as to facilitate more guest interaction. The furniture pieces can be provided by a local furniture company or a party & event rental company. The cost can be steep but if creating that club feel is important, it can be accomplished.

Guests are also asking for live and interactive projection so that all of the day’s festivities are not only recorded but projected live on a full size projector screen. Interactive photo booths are also “in” because those fun shots can be displayed instantaneously for all of your guests to see. Hi-end and elaborate lighting and staging continues to be popular especially for So. Asian receptions that require the bride & groom sit on a stage for a portion of the evening. Lighting and staging companies can provide these services but shop around for the best deals.

As trends evolve throughout the year, the most important thing to remember is to make the event your own, whether that is done with lounge furniture, lighting or simply weaving your favorite hobbies or sporting activities into the day, make it reflect you!

Learn more about Lawan, wedding planning extraordinaire here!

West Belmont Place Wins “Best Venue”

admin — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 19:16:29 +0000

We are thrilled to announce that Rachael Mull, catering manager at NCC, recently won the “Best Venue” award at the International Special Events Society (ISES) 18th Annual Capital Awards Gala, for her submission of a decadent Indian wedding at West Belmont Place.

You might recall the utter gorgeousness of this wedding from last summer…

Here’s a brief recap to jog your memory:

Pooja and Vivek’s wedding took place on June 9, 2012 with 310 guests in attendance. Pooja arrived at 9:30 that morning and had her make-up and hair done in our executive bridal suite. Close family and friends arrived at 2:00pm to take part in the festive Baraat, where Vivek arrived in a blue mustang. Following the Baraat was the traditional Hindu ceremony, which took place on our beautiful courtyard patio adorned with white and pink paper lanterns. After the ceremony, guests enjoyed an ice-cream reception under our covered porte cochere, followed by dinner and dancing in our National Ballroom. More photos here.

Congratulations to Rachael and the catering team on your well-deserved award! It’s no wonder why our brides love working with you!

Spring Wedding Inspiration

admin — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 12:17:22 +0000

Happy Spring! While the weather is still a bit chilly, we can’t help but be excited for Spring weddings. From pastels to peonies to whimsical details, we’re ready for all of it! Here are some ideas we’re loving this week. Hope everyone enjoys the first weekend of the new season!

Nothing says Spring like Cherry Blossoms!

Credit: Wedding Inspiri

Creative DIY: Coffee filters as floral decor

Credit: Ruffled

Almost too pretty to eat! The hot pink peonies are such a nice touch.

Credit: Scoop.It!

Water color utensils!

Couture petals.

Credit: St. Pucchi.com Spring 2013 Collection

Valentine’s Day Wedding

admin — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 21:24:50 +0000

Love was truly in the air on February 14^th at West Belmont Place, as we had the pleasure of hosting a traditional Hindu wedding. The Valentine’s Day wedding was nothing short of magical, with an ornately decorated mandap and ganesh display. The bride, who was carried into the ceremony on a doli (palanquin), chose a vibrant fuschia, red and gold theme. The décor was beautifully executed by Partyland Flowers and Event Rental. Check out the photos of the morning and afternoon setup in our ballroom!

AM Ceremony Setup

Afternoon Setup

St. Theresa School’s B&W Masquerade Auction

admin — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 22:52:39 +0000

On February 9^th, St. Theresa School of Ashburn, held its Black and White Masquerade Auction at West Belmont Place. As the school’s biggest fundraiser of the year, the event drew over 200 guests including parents, staff and supporters. Past fundraising efforts have helped to raise money for educational tools and equipment including books, science lab equipment, technology, safety and expansion. Due to the overwhelming response from supporters, St. Theresa’s efforts have grown tremendously, prompting them to hold the event outside of its campus for the very first time. The event had a wide variety of donors including Bowl America, DC United, Great American Restaurant, Paula Deen Enterprises, Baltimore Orioles and many more.

Setup from the Live Auction

Table Decor

Tourism Forum: Loudoun’s Wedding Industry

admin — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 14:25:49 +0000

As Loudoun County continues to be a booming destination wedding location, there’s no secret that it’s home to some of the best wedding professionals in the industry. So what do you get when you put all this talent in one room? A very informative, engaging discussion on how collaboration equals success. Over a hundred wedding professionals gathered for Visit Loudoun University’s Tourism Forum to discuss working together to meet an ever-increasing demand.

Hosted by the Briar Patch Bed and Breakfast Inn, the discussion was moderated by Ashleigh Dawson and featured four panelists, Holly Heider Chapple, Kristina Bouweiri, Kimberley Feys and Rachel Merkle. As each guest shared their experiences, one thing was clear: Social media and networking/developing relationships continue to be driving forces in the wedding industry. It was enlightening to hear their pearls of wisdom, especially with such diverse areas of expertise. Our team had a wonderful time and left with some great takeaways. The 60 degree, Springlike weather was just the icing on the cake!

Marketing Manager, Dyanne Lagman and Catering Sales Managers, Rachael Mull and Lawan McFerren

Beautiful day in Middleburg

Tips for Bridal Shows

admin — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 16:32:08 +0000

Bridal shows are extremely helpful when planning for the big day. You’ll meet a ton of wedding professionals, see the latest bridal trends, taste delicious food (you may find yourself in a cake coma) and even have a chance to win prizes! While these shows will provide you with plenty of wedding inspiration, depending on the size, they can be rather overwhelming, especially if your groom comes along

Here are some quick tips for preparing and navigating through your first bridal show:

1. Make labels- This is the best, timesaving tip! Talk about an efficient bride. Not only will vendors be impressed that you took the time to make them, but it will lend you more 1 on 1 time. Make sure to include your name, mailing address, telephone number, e-mail address and wedding date (if you’ve already set one).

2. Bring an entourage- Whether your groom, family, friends or everyone comes along, make it a fun outing! It’s even better when you can divide and conquer.

3. Snap some photos- These shows are filled with aisles of breath-taking displays making it difficult for you to keep track. Snap some photos with a phone or camera (always ask the vendor first) and then add it to your Pinterest or any other inspiration boards.

4. Wear comfortable shoes- Leave the stilettos at home and opt for some flats instead. You’ll be on your feet for most of the day, so make sure to come ready with comfortable footwear.

5. Organize, organize, organize- Take some time to relax after the show and then start organizing all of the info. This allows you to stay on top of your first-pick vendors and also take advantage of special deals.

No matter where you are in your planning, bridal shows can be your very best friend. By following these tips, you’ll be able to make the most of the experience and even more importantly, have fun!

REAL Events: Diane’s Quinceanera Celebration

admin — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 17:56:15 +0000

On October 27, Diane Valesco celebrated her Quinceanera with us. Her theme was “Vintage Barbie,” so of course there was a lot of pink! Other cute details included an actual vintage Barbie doll as cake toppers and a silhouette of Barbie on the wall. Thanks for celebrating with us, Diane!

REAL Events: Gabriela’s Quinceanera Celebration

admin — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 08:00:00 +0000

Gabriela’s family celebrated her 15th birthday with a Quinceanera in our ballroom. The event marked Gabriela’s transition from childhood into adulthood. We were happy to share this special day with Gabby and her family. Thank you to L.H. Lindberg photography for sharing these gorgeous pictures with us!

The Beautiful Birthday Girl

The Quincenera Party

The PINK Details

The Reception

Gabby, thank you for celebrating your special day with us. Congratulations on this milestone! We look forward to sharing many more with you…

Real Weddings: Sandi & Justin’s Summer Ceremony

admin — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 08:00:00 +0000

Sandi and Justin were wed in early August at West Belmont Place. They had perfect summer weather for their outdoor Virginia ceremony, followed by a reception in the National Ballroom. Hands down to the photographer Sara (with whitebox photography) for taking such gorgeous photos and sharing them with us! Congratulations Sandi & Justin; we enjoyed being a part of your special day.

The Dress

The Shoes

The Flowers

The Rings

The Beautiful Bride

The Groom

The Great Outdoors

The First Look

The Cuteness

The Bridal Party

The Ceremony

Mr. & Mrs.

The Reception

The Details

The Deliciousness!

The First Dance

The Excitement

Happily Ever After

Congrats Sandi and Justin!