Intimate Wedding Venue in Washington DC
The Meridian House is one of Washington, DC’s most elegant and intimate wedding venues. Located just 1.5 miles from the White House in a charming residential neighborhood, this historic venue offers a unique blend of elegance and history. Designed by renowned architect John Russell Pope, who also designed the Jefferson Memorial and the National Gallery of Art, the Meridian House is a masterpiece of architecture and style.
Historic Elegance
The Meridian House has undergone renovations over the years, but it has retained its historic charm. The venue’s courtyard, adorned with 40 European-imported linden trees and original statues, is such a whimsical and romantic setting. Inside, the dining room features a stunning Mortlake tapestry from the late 17th century, depicting the legendary reception given to Alexander the Great by the Greek philosopher Diogenes. This tapestry was purchased by the Laughlin family in England at the turn of the century.
Event Spaces
The venue offers several elegant spaces for your reception, including the drawing room, dining room, and library. These rooms are beautifully decorated with marble tables, Chinese temple vases, crystal chandeliers, and pillars that can be adorned with your choice of florals. The venue can accommodate up to 150 guests, though for a more comfortable setting with a larger bar, band, or dance floor, a guest list of 100-130 is ideal. The library can seat approximately 50 guests, while the reception space can host around 100. The gardens also provide a beautiful setting for ceremonies and cocktail hours. If the weather holds, ceremony in the gardens or dining al fresco is a great option.
Unique Details
One of the unique features of the Meridian House is the Latin inscriptions above the doors. The inscription above the front door reads, “Quo habitat felicitas nil intret mali,” which translates to “Where happiness dwells, evil will not enter.” The inscription above the rear courtyard doors, “Purior hic aer: late hinc conspectus in urbem,” translates to “Purer here the air whence we overlook the city,” a quotation also found on a house at the top of Rome’s Spanish Steps.
Guest Accommodations and Logistics
Given its location in a residential area, it is recommended to arrange a hotel room block at a nearby hotel or provide transportation for your guests, as parking is limited. You will be required to use smaller shuttles so they are able to turn around.
A Perfect Venue for Stylish, Intimate Weddings
The Meridian House is a hidden gem in Washington, DC, perfect for couples seeking a highly stylish, chic, romantic, and intimate wedding venue. Its historic elegance and unique features make it an ideal location for smaller weddings that are big on style and romance.
Photography: David Abel Photography
