Recognized as one of the top event and wedding venues by the Washingtonian since 1999, Decatur House offers the ideal balance of historical significance and classic Washington style. Whether entertaining in the courtyard surrounded by lavish green gardens, the Carriage House with stunning vaulted ceilings, or the elegant historic parlors, Decatur House provides an unrivaled setting for your special event.
For more than 180 years, the most important names in politics, business and society have gathered to celebrate and mingle in the shadow of the White House. At Decatur House, we welcome you to continue the tradition of fine Washington entertaining with your special event, holiday party, conference or wedding reception.
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Recommended by 95% of couples
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Rebecca · Married on 10/27/2018
Classic, historic charm in downtown DC
The moment we stepped into the Decatur House courtyard, my husband and I knew it was the place we wanted to get married. Adjacent to the White House and Lafayette Square, the venue is steeped in history and is such a charming setting for a wedding. We had about 120 guests and enjoyed the indoor/outdoor flexibility the space provides--we held our ceremony in the tented courtyard, cocktail hour in the carriage house while the courtyard was flipped for dinner, dinner in the courtyard, then back inside for dancing. With a similar set-up, we could've comfortably accommodated up to 150 guests (but 120-140 provide the most flexibility).
Sent on 01/01/2019
Decatur House also offers a ton of great options for portraits nearby. We did bridal party portraits in Lafayette Square park and by the rowhomes along Jackson Place, and family portraits in the historic Decatur House second floor.
If you're considering Decatur House and plan to have your ceremony and reception there, be sure to factor in the cost of the tent package (you have to go with Sugarplum--the only approved tent vendor for the site) and the cost of pipe and drape to conceal the catering prep area during the ceremony. (And if you want a cheaper pipe and drape option, go with 27 Studios!)
Arioth, the event manager at Decatur House, was a delight to work with. She is responsive and super helpful if you need any information recommended vendors and specifics on the space.
Julia · Married on 10/13/2018
Highly recommended for a fall wedding
I had my October wedding at the Decatur House and highly recommend the venue. The location is amazing and there are so many ways to use the space. We had our ceremony in the courtyard, cocktail hour in the museum, and reception in the carriage house (but we kept tables and lighting in the courtyard during dinner/dancing so guests could go outside to cool off). It was perfect! Plus, Rachel and Arioth were great to work with - both very responsive and professional.
Sent on 11/06/2018
Emma · Married on 04/28/2018
The absolute best venue for a wedding in DC! Gorgeous backdrop for my spring wedding in the city.
Sent on 05/02/2018
1 Endorsement
We always enjoy working at Decatur House. Arioth Harrison is a creative site director, knows the history of the space and all the possibilities for taking the existing space in a new direction while maintaining the integrity of an historic home. Arioth's calm seems to permeate the place. The site offers a lot of possibilities, so if the budget allows for it, please consider incorporating the main house in the event, even if just for cocktails or a tour before going to the courtyard and Carriage House. It's a special place....and the gift shop is one of the best in the city!
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