Multicultural Wedding Day in DC

Some weddings feel like a party from the very first minute. Maria and Alex’s multicultural wedding was one of them. She’s Ecuadorian, he’s Colombian, and their families showed up ready to celebrate. They said their vows under marble columns on the National Mall, then danced the afternoon away on a rooftop. All between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Labor Day weekend.

A Day Wedding Built Around Family

Maria and Alex brought three kids into this marriage. Alex has one, and Maria has two. So this wasn’t just a wedding. It was a new family coming together, and the kids were part of every moment.

That’s why they chose a day wedding. An evening reception would’ve meant tired kids and early goodbyes. Instead, nobody rushed, and everyone was there for all of it.

The ceremony took place at the DC War Memorial, surrounded by trees and guests in lavender, butter yellow, and sage. It felt like a summer garden. (Planning a ceremony there? My DC War Memorial wedding guide covers permits, parking, and timing.) Afterward, we took a slow walk across the Mall, with the girls on veil duty the whole way.

Candid Moments on Film

I photographed the day with a mix of digital and 35mm film. Digital means I never miss a moment. Film adds warm color and soft grain that feel like a memory. On a day this colorful, it was the perfect match.

Because I work in a documentary style, I don’t stop the day to set up shots. I just follow along. That’s how you get the real stuff: a tearful hug after the vows, a chair saved for someone who was missed, and kids completely ignoring the camera.

A Latin Fiesta at Ciel Social Club

Next stop: Ciel Social Club, a rooftop lounge in Mount Vernon Triangle. Fun fact from this French girl: ciel means “sky.” Think black and white tile floors, mirrored walls, and a ceiling full of pink bougainvillea and woven lanterns.

Maria switched into a short lace dress, heart sunglasses, and platform heels. Then DJ Phlipz kicked off the Latin playlist, and the dance floor never emptied.

The couple also had a secret weapon: their captains. These friends had one job: getting guests onto the dance floor. No rest, just party! They took it very seriously.

Colombian sombreros vueltiaos made the rounds. Hand fans kept everyone cool, and the kids ran the bubble guns. By 4 p.m., everyone was on the dance floor and partying hard, kids and adults. That’s what I love about a multicultural wedding. You don’t have to choose one tradition. You get to celebrate both!

Planning your own multicultural wedding in DC? I’m so excited to hear about it. Let’s chat →