By james art 
Home is where the heart is.
June 8, 2024 – River Farm, Alexandria
The sun is filtered through centuries -old trees as lush gardens blossomed from the Potomak River. There was no better place for the love of nature, a couple Margaret Platner and Joseph Franco to have their wedding in June from River Farm, just outside the old town of Alexandria, where they first met.
Love was flowing – and so made the champagne. A fine bottle of bubble, endowed by the Matron of Honor, as a person present and the best champagne person, made it a perfect combination. “Joe and I couldn’t think of more thoughtful use of this bottle than drink it on the day of our wedding, so at the end of our speech the best man of Joe Sabili this bottle we poured on a small tower For Champagne – Don Don “Don’t ask if it is transferred!” Says Margaret.
The day was filled with heartfelt nods in the past, as pictures of parents on their respective wedding days, baby photos and handkerchiefs borrowed from the family – who were of great use throughout the day.
“We also wanted to ensure that the day felt deeply personal and meaningful,” Margaret says. Mission fulfilled.
She said, he said
First Introduction?
He said: Margaret and I met at work – she was new and she trained me (the first thing I loved – her brain and wit!). There was a spark immediately, but we took the time to get to know each other in a working context.
Suggestion?
She said: Joseph offered in my favorite city in the world: Paris! I know – so much cliché – but it’s loved for a reason. I speak French and I loved to show Joseph my favorite neighborhoods, museums, cafes and secret spots. We like to have such a special memory in our favorite city.
Honeymoon?
He said: We waited a few months, after which we really had a vacation in Kenya on Safari and Hopping on the Island Island in Kenya. It was the perfect combination of adventure, followed by a relaxation and experience we would never forget.
Advice on those involved?
She said: It’s a good idea to emphasize the details now, but when you get the wedding day, try to leave it all. It went so fast, so focus on your partner, your family, your friends and this beautiful celebration!
Favorite Splurge?
He said: We were definitely shaking the food, combining Margaret’s love for France and my Philippine heritage at our dinner. Also with the participation of hordes and cocktails with a signature that we had found and loved during some of our trips. Plus a pasta tower, French 75 as a welcome cocktail and dairy shakes on late night and cookies and milk.
First glance?
She said: We had chaotic a few hours before my first glance, and I felt a little overloaded and stressed. Everything wrapped just before our first glance, and I came in at that moment with so much joy and excitement. It was a real angle turning – leaving the stress and anxiety of planning behind and stepping into love. I remember seeing Joseph to turn (and of course, I’m starting to cry!) And I feel all this stress to leave my body. When I saw it, everything melted and we started our beautiful day together.
Details
Photography: Molly Lichten Photography
Music: Dan Goldman events
Cake: Dunn from scratch
Stationary: Life of Lives
Splendor: Jamie d’Agostino makeup + hair
Planning: Cherry
Rents: Mass
This article originally appeared in February 2025.