Narissa and Scott contacted us two months before their Brookside Gardens micro wedding in Maryland. Narissa knew exactly what she wanted and is probably one of the most detailed brides we have worked with. Google documents were created that listed everything we typically asks of our couples. Also, Narissa identified some of the vendors she planned to use and those already booked. Talk about a detailed bride.
Our goal was to help Scott and Narissa create a seamless wedding ceremony and outdoor cocktail reception for their 30 guests. Coupled with a few emails and phone calls, we got to work on their Maryland micro wedding.

Brookside Gardens Micro Wedding Design Concept
Most of the work we do for micro weddings is around the look and feel of the environment. When asked what concept Narissa and Scott wanted to see, they gave the following:
- Modern
- Romantic
- White roses
- More candles than flowers
- White hydrangeas
- Clean lines
- Chill
- Not too girly
Moreover, Narissa communicated that she wanted a touch of Paris in the design. She had already sourced Paris themed cookies as favors for guests. In looking at the overall design, I wanted to introduce some vintage elements. Comparatively, Paris has old world charm that makes it special. At first, Narissa was hesitant to our recommendation for vintage furniture mixed with modern elements. In light of mixed feelings, our couple beamed with joy in seeing the finished product.

11 COVID-19 Wedding Tips to Consider
Brookside Gardens Micro Wedding Ceremony
During our site visit, we toured the various options for the ceremony. The original garden of 25 acres was built on the former site of Stadler Nursery and consisted of three formal gardens, a gazebo, and a conservatory. Today, Brookside Gardens encompasses 54 acres, of which 32 acres are cultivated gardens.
We ended up selecting the Yew Garden for the wedding ceremony. The Yew Garden, a room enclosed within clipped yew hedges, features a mix of annuals, tropicals, and other tender plants in a mixed border of bright and bold colors. Both Scott and Narissa felt that the Yew Garden spoke for itself and needed little design touches. We agreed. Also, there is something about being in nature that many wedding ceremonies overlook.

Brookside Gardens Micro Wedding Reception
The bells and whistles came out for this intimate Maryland wedding reception. The color palette was all white which was perfect being that the reception space was surrounded by gardens. Having greenery surrounding the reception allows the white color palette to shine even brighter forcing you to focus on the décor.
In like manner, our couple wanted a relax mix between a formal reception and a lounge setting. We used vintage furniture and reception tables without place settings. Due to COVID-19, we also incorporated café tables into the design allowing individuals or couples to sit safely together. Equally, the larger reception tables allows families to dine together.



Looking to host a DC or Maryland micro wedding? Check out what we offer here.
Maryland Micro Wedding Vendors
Planner and Designer: Andrew Roby Events
Venue: Brookside Gardens
Florist: Violet Gardens Floral Designs
Photographer: Iris Manning Photography
Vintage Lounge Furniture: Something Vintage Rentals
Linen, Tables, Chairs: Select Event Group
Videography: Blair Williams Production
Catering: Get Plated DC