Panda & Des | A Washington Beginning

Some love stories don’t just choose a person — they choose a place.

For Panda and Des, that place was Washington.

Both originally from Virginia, the two independently answered “Washington” when asked where they’d want to live one day. It felt less like coincidence and more like clarity. So when it came time to begin their new journey together — as a blended family — Washington became more than a destination. It became a declaration.

A Weeklong Welcome

To honor that intention, Panda and Des rented an estate for their entire wedding party and immediate family, turning their celebration into a full, weeklong experience. The days were filled with exploring iconic Pacific Northwest sights, sharing meals, laughing late into the night, and intentionally slowing down before the festivities began.

It wasn’t just a wedding weekend — it was time. Time to connect, to breathe, and to arrive fully present.

Bringing the Forest Indoors

The couple dreamed of being surrounded by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest outdoors, but winter in Washington has its own plans. Rather than compromise the vision, we reimagined it.

So we brought the forest inside.

Lush greenery, layered textures, and organic details transformed the space into an intimate woodland setting — warm, intentional, and deeply reflective of the couple’s love for nature.

A Ceremony Rooted in Family

One of the most meaningful moments of the day unfolded as Des was walked down the aisle by her sons, with their daughter & bonus daughter leading the way as flower girl and Maid of Honor. Her sons later took their place beside Panda as his best “boys” — a moment that perfectly captured the heart of their blended family.

Surrounded by a small circle of their closest friends and family, the ceremony felt personal, grounded, and full of quiet joy.

An Intimate Celebration

Following the ceremony, guests were welcomed into a relaxed cocktail hour featuring passed appetizers and a seafood station before gathering for a family-style meal. The evening flowed effortlessly into a dessert bar — because celebration should always include choice.

Every detail was selected with intention:

Dandelion petals captured in corked bottles served as favors, symbolizing wishes, resilience, and new beginnings
Vintage books were woven into the table décor — a thoughtful nod to the bride’s love of literature and storytelling

Nothing felt excessive. Everything felt meaningful.

A Thoughtful Beginning

Panda and Des didn’t just plan a wedding — they designed a beginning. One rooted in place, family, and shared intention. Washington wasn’t simply where they said “I do.” It was where they chose to build their life together.

And that made all the difference.