THRILLED TO HAVE YOU HERE!

If you're considering the American Institute of Architects in Washington, DC for your big day, you've made an excellent choice! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure your wedding is seamless and unforgettable.

GETTING MARRIED AT THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS

1. SECURE YOUR DATE

First, contact the American Institute of Architects (AIA) to check availability and book your preferred date. It's crucial to do this early as dates can fill up fast!

Contact Information:

2. VISIT AND PLAN YOUR LAYOUT

Once your date is secured, schedule a visit to the venue to visualize your wedding layout. The AIA offers multiple spaces including a beautiful lawn for ceremonies, a patio for cocktails, and versatile indoor areas for dinner and dancing.

3. HIRE YOUR VENDORS

You'll need to hire a team to bring your wedding vision to life. Consider the following:

  • Planner: Someone like Aprill Gordon from Tulle & Tinsel Event Co. can be a huge help.
  • Caterer: Choose a caterer familiar with the AIA's kitchen and dining spaces.
  • Photographer: Capture every moment with a skilled photographer.
  • Florist: Ensure they can access the venue to set up on time.

4. COORDINATE WITH YOUR VENDORS

Share your timeline and logistics with your vendors. Here’s an example based on a real event at the AIA:

TIMELINE OF EVENTS:

  • 1:30 PM: Bridegroom travels to the venue.
  • 2:00 PM: Second photographer greets the bridegroom at the venue.
  • 2:30 PM: Bride travels to the venue.
  • 3:00-3:30 PM: Wedding party photos.
  • 4:15 PM: Guests begin arriving for the ceremony.
  • 4:45 PM: Ceremony on the lawn.
  • 5:00-5:30 PM: Cocktail hour on the patio.
  • 6:30-6:40 PM: Introductions and first dance.
  • 6:45-7:50 PM: Dinner and toasts.
  • 8:00-8:10 PM: Special performance and cake cutting.
  • 8:15-10:10 PM: Dance and celebrate.
  • 10:20 PM: End of the event.
  • 11:30 PM: Vendor load-out complete.

5. DECORATE AND SET UP

Ensure all ceremony and cocktail hour setups are completed by 4:30 PM. Dinner setup should be finished by 6:00 PM. Remember, AIA allows loading through the front doors and has a convenient loading dock on 18th St between New York and F St.

6. PARKING

Make arrangements for your guests' parking. SpotHero is a great option, and street parking is also available with zone restrictions.

7. ENJOY YOUR DAY!

With everything planned and coordinated, your wedding day at the AIA will run smoothly. Focus on enjoying every moment with your partner and guests.


REMINDERS:

  • Reconfirm arrival times with all vendors.
  • Be mindful of any specific requests from the couple, such as preferred terms of address.
  • Make sure your guests are aware of the venue's amenities and parking options.

By following these steps, you'll ensure a fantastic wedding experience at the American Institute of Architects. Here's to a beautiful day and a lifetime of happiness!


If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. We're here to help make your wedding dreams come true!