There are some days that just make you say.."Oh yeah, this is why I do this". Mark and Elizabeth's day was perfect. The weather was dry and beautiful.
St. Johns Episcopal church is one DCs most beautiful, intimate and historic churches. Every sitting President has visited St.Johns. It has played an august role in many inaugurations and has been host to more great Military and Civil leaders then any church in the nation.
St. Johns is the home church for Mark and Elizabeth so their ceremony was filled with warmth, friendship and love.
There is nothing more wonderful then a traditional military ceremony in front of St. Johns. Elizabeth and Mark came through the traditional sword arch and were stopped by each set of swords. "THE PRICE OF PASSAGE IS A KISS" and so they kissed and passed to the next set of swords.
At the final set of swords was a salute from the Navy and a "whack" on the behind from a sword. I have no idea where this "unique" military tradition comes from but tourists stopped and felt compelled to photograph it. Mark and Elizabeth took everything graciously in stride, so befitting their military heritage.
Mark & Elizabeth took some alone time and wandered through Lafayette Park. Benjamin Franklin wandered up and posed with them. You just can't make this stuff up. Only in DC.
They went on to the Capitol, roamed around senate fountains in flip flops and did a victory spin in front of the Capitol Dome. It could not have been a more perfect day.
The Army Navy Club is one of the most beautiful venues on earth. What made this day so special was that it was a daytime brunch. The 25 foot stunning arch windows were filled with daylight and every amazing detail of the room shone more then I have ever seen it.
They chose the most wonderful, jazz trio. It was so perfect for this classy venue. Sarah a beloved niece shared one of the most stunning renditions of Somewhere Over the Rainbow I have ever heard. The room was spellbound. It is one of those moments you remember forever no matter how exciting the day. I don't doubt that Mark and Liz will sit in rocking chairs in 50 years and reminis about this beautiful song.
:) So you think this is all so proper :) A cardboard President Obama joined the event posed with guests, tasted their cake and joined in on their cake cutting. Honest! Gotta love it.
Our special thanks to the Andrew Chrecky Salon and Spa for making the getting ready so wonderful.
With our heartfelt thanks to Elizabeth and Mark for sharing such their joyful, amazing day.
:)
The Army and Navy Club
901 17th Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20006-2594
