on the blog

Curated inspiration, thoughtful tips, and timeless ideas for your wedding day

An Evening of Connection at Clyde’s Willow Creek Farm

October 31, 2025

Candlelit dinner at Clyde’s Willow Creek Farm in Northern Virginia, planned by Chelsea Quenum Wedding Planning & Event Design

There’s a kind of beauty that happens only when people come together—when creativity and conversation intertwine, when laughter fills the air, when we pause long enough to enjoy one another’s presence. Gathering the Northern Virginia Creative Community As a planner and designer, so much of my work revolves around creating space for others—making sure every […]

Venue Highlight: Swann House — A Historic, Elegant Wedding Venue in Washington, D.C.

October 24, 2025

Swann House wedding venue exterior in Dupont Circle, Washington DC — photo by Morgan Kay Photography

Step inside the Swann House, a historic Washington, D.C. bed-and-breakfast filled with charm, character, and luminous beauty. This inviting venue blends timeless architecture and intimate elegance—an inspiring backdrop for couples who love design with a story.

Modern Parisian Wedding Inspiration at Swann House in Washington D.C.

October 17, 2025

Modern Parisian wedding editorial at Swann House in Washington D.C., planned and designed by Chelsea Quenum Weddings & Design.

Step into Parisian elegance without leaving DC. This Swann House wedding editorial features bold florals, couture gowns, and timeless romance—perfect inspiration for the modern couple.

10 Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring Your Wedding Planner

August 6, 2025

Chelsea Quenum, Northern Virginia wedding planner, seated at an elegant floral table setting

Choosing a wedding planner is one of the most important decisions you’ll make—but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here are 10 thoughtful questions to ask that will help you find the right planner for your vision, values, and wedding day peace.

5 Things to Do After You Get Engaged

July 31, 2025

Close-up of an engaged couple holding hands, featuring an oval diamond ring against a floral backdrop

Newly engaged? Start here. These five grounding steps will help you begin your planning journey with clarity, joy, and ease.

Your Wedding Planning Timeline (and a Free Checklist to Keep You on Track)

May 27, 2025

What to Do (and When) for a Joyful, Stress-Free Planning Experience

A Day in the Life of a Northern Virginia Wedding Planner

May 27, 2025

Spoiler alert: my day does not start with a 5 a.m. workout or a perfectly balanced smoothie.

5 Unique Wedding Venues in Northern Virginia

May 27, 2025

Handpicked Spaces for Meaningful, Beautiful, and Personal Celebrations

Feeling overwhelmed by what to do (and when)?

DOWNLOAD My FREE WEDDING PLANNING TIMELINE CHECKLIST

Thoughtfully created for brides ready to get organized, this step-by-step wedding timeline checklist is simple, straightforward, and designed to walk you through every major milestone. From booking your dream venue to managing the final details, it gives you a clear picture of what’s ahead—and when to handle each task.

Download your complimentary copy to kick off your planning with confidence. And when you're ready to pass off the to-dos, I’ll be here to take your checklist and turn it into the wedding you’ve been dreaming of.

GRAB My Free Checklist