Story by Liesel Schmidt + Photography by Astrid Photography
When it comes time to take those first steps toward forever, being surrounded by beauty is what every couple dreams of. And while some find their perfect place in a venue surrounded by four walls, it is often the breathtaking beauty of being outside, surrounded by nothing but open sky and a limitless palette of colors painted by nature that makes hearts soar at their highest.
Resting on 25 acres of gardens and woods overlooking the Potomac River, the historic River Farm offers captivating and picturesque views as well as formal and informal gardens and a gorgeous manor house. Though located within easy driving distance from the Washington, D.C. metro area, it seems far removed from the bustle of the city life—a fact which is not lost on couples wanting to get away. “People love the amazing view, the dreamy gardens, the stately manor house, and the feeling that you are a million miles away without the lengthy drive,” says Janet Daniels, River Farm Rental Events Manager. So, too, do they love the new tent, which is included with all in-season rentals and features retractable side walls, crystal chandeliers, perimeter bistro lights, and a billowy ceiling liner to create an elegant outdoor setting.
Another big draw is, of course, the amazing history at River Farm. “River Farm was once part of George Washington’s land and served as a working farm for him,” Daniels explains. But it doesn’t just stop there; and one look around at the amazing visual display of the gardens leaves little wonder at the fact that it now serves as the headquarters of the American Horticultural Society. “Through the generosity of Enid Annenberg Haupt, the AHS purchased the land and made it our national headquarters in 1973, and it was opened that same year,” Daniels says.
Naturally, being headquarters to AHS brings expectations that are nothing short of natural splendor, and River Farm delivers, offering gardens whose beauty is incomparable, endless stretches of color and texture that seem out of a picture book. With so much gorgeous scenery at every turn, the estate offers a wide variety of areas perfect for hosting wedding celebrations, and decades of couples have made these grounds the memorable place to take their first steps into a life blooming with hope and love.
American Horticultural Society at River Farm
7931 East Boulevard Drive, Alexandria, VA 22314 | (703) 768-5700