Weddings and Events by Catherine

Weddings by Catherine introduces our new home!

2012-01-17T15:48:00.000-08:00

As many of you may already know, this blog and I have moved on from the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax. In the professional interest of allowing the team at the hotel adequate time to identify, hire and train a suitable replacement for me, I've delayed posting the exciting news of my new opportunity. Two months time is, I believe, sufficient time to allow for that. So, on to the exciting news!

As of early December, I have been working at the Hilton Arlington in the Ballston area of Arlington. It is a fabulous property with a dynamic team in a trendy neighborhood - everything I could ask for!

The hotel itself offers full service amenities while retaining an intimate charm. There is space for both ceremony and reception. All of the meeting space is named after famous artists. The Gallery Ballroom is large - accommodating 250 or possibly more for a wedding reception or other dinner/dance. The pre-function foyer is spacious and convenient. Best of all, everything is newly renovated in a festive color scheme. Check out this video from local photographer Mindy Belcher with Ever After Visuals.

Wedding Story In Motion - BJ + Kristin = Love from Mindy & Joriana of Ever After Vi on Vimeo.

Thank you to everyone for your patience during this transition! Stay tuned for more good stuff to come soon!

Include a photo shoot at DCs monuments to add panache to your wedding photos

2011-12-11T12:22:00.000-08:00

Many couples planning their weddings in the DC area would like to take advantage of the unique photo opportunities Washington's monuments afford. Unfortunately, venues in DC that are in close proximity to the desired photo locations tend to be out of the financial grasp of most couples. Here are a few tips for how to get those monumental photos while staying within budget.

1. Consider venues with a view. Several venues in Arlington have high floor ballrooms looking into some of the most scenic parts of DC including the Doubletree Crystal City, Key Bridge Marriott, Sheraton National and Top of the Town. By selecting one of these venues, you can have the DC setting as a back drop for your wedding reception photos.

2. Build extra photo time into your day’s schedule. Many churches schedule ceremonies at 11 and 2 while many reception venues schedule parties at 12 and 6. There are two ways to work this to your advantage. Select the earlier ceremony and reception time in a convenient location such as Arlington and then head into DC afterward. You'll have plenty of opportunity to take your photos and depending on the time of year, possibly capitalize on the setting sun. Select the later ceremony time and you'll have an exaggerated break in between the ceremony and reception, sufficient time to get away for a photo shoot and return in time for the festivities. Again, choose ceremony and reception venues that are close enough to avoid the potential for DC traffic to cut into your photo time.

3. Schedule your photo shoot for a different day. With the popularity of trash the dress/rock the dress photo sessions, after wedding photo shoots are increasingly popular. Many couples report feeling more relaxed and carefree after the pressures of the wedding day are finally over. Without the rush of the actual wedding day and all of the guests waiting on the couple's arrival at the reception, you can take your time and enjoy the photo session even more.

Photos provided courtesy of Ron Jones, FairfaxWeddings.net

October 9, 2010 - A few memories from Nicole and Brian

2011-11-12T11:42:00.000-08:00

I don't have the full spread from their wedding day but I love these images from Nicole and Brian's wedding on October 9, 2010 and just had to share! Photos provided courtesy of Rachel with RMN Photography! You can also see officiant Joyce Cochran with Say I Do Your Way.

Annelie and Chris - September 4, 2010

2011-10-22T14:22:00.000-07:00

I couldn't have asked for a sweeter couple to work with. Annelie and Chris were incredibly easy going, gracious and fun. They were blessed with a day as beautiful as they are! They began their ceremony by exchanging notes to one another in their dressing rooms.

Annelie took a quick peek out the window as the guests arrive for the ceremony.

And then it was time.

Soon the ceremony was over and they were married! Time for some photos around the area with the bridal party.

Meanwhile, all of the details were set and ready for the night's reception.

And then Chris and Annelie were introduced into their ballroom full of waiting guests!

After a delicious buffet dinner featuring Herb Crusted Sirloin of Beef with Green Peppercorn Sauce, Marinated Salmon with Roma Tomatoes and Lobster Sauce and Roasted Garlic Yukon Mashed Potatoes, it was time to answer the dance floor. Dave Palmer with Kirkabees kept the dance floor packed.

Then it was time to cut the cake and toss the garter.

Then it was time to send the happy couple off under a sparkly hail of stars!

Best wishes to Annelie and Chris for a life time of happiness!

Professional images provided by Photos By Kelly.

April and Dwayne, July 9, 2011

2011-10-03T13:08:00.000-07:00

I love this fresh new video from April and Dwayne's wedding this past July! Take a look!

To see more videos I love, check out my channel on YouTube!

A 4th of July weekend of fun for Hilary and Aaron: July 2, 2011

2011-10-03T11:33:00.001-07:00

Hilary and Aaron were such kind people and so dynamic. They are really lucky to have found one another and were such a pleasure to work with.

Because they were planning their wedding in such a short time frame, the bridesmaids did not have time to throw a shower for Hilary in advance so they gathered together for a nice luncheon in the restaurant on the day of the wedding. Conveniently, Amy Mayo, photographer, was on hand to capture not only the ceremony and reception but also the shower and getting ready fun of the day.

Hilary and Aaron already have children and they managed to incorporate them into various roles throughout the day.

And here comes the bride!

After the ceremony, the bridal party gathered together for a few photos around the hotel.

After their first dance, they had a toast and blessing before dinner.

Best wishes to Hilary and Aaron for a lifetime of happiness!

Reminder - Menu Tasting is next Wednesday, 9/21/11

2011-09-14T12:39:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already given your reply, please do so. The new tasting dates for next year are also already set in case you'd prefer to wait!

Bridal Showcase at Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax

You and up to 3 guests are cordially invited to attend one of the following Bridal Showcase and Menu Tasting events in preparation for your wedding reception at the

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax.

Please RSVP to Laurie at laurie.pitzely@hilton.com at least four days prior to your selected date and we will look forward to having you join us at 6:30 in our Providence Ballroom!

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax welcomes local author John Gilstrap

2011-08-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

Have you read Threat Warning yet? This thrilling novel by local author John Gilstrap kept my eyes glued to the page from the beginning to the end. It was my first introduction to his work and to him. John lives in the local area and has been writing novels for several years. But his personal life's story is just as interesting as the characters he writes about. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to meet him late July when we were chosen as the host hotel for a Hilton Garden Inn sponsored book signing and meet and greet with the author.

And just why, you may ask, was Hilton Garden Inn so interested in this particular story? As it turns out, John set a scene in a ficticious Hilton Garden Inn following an episode of outstanding customer service at real Hilton Garden Inn. That's a way to get the word out!

Thank you to our vendor sponsors. These gorgeous linens were provided courtesy of Gala Cloths by Dulaney and the fresh floral centerpieces were provided by Maryam Flowers. They looked fabulous that night and lasted forever. So long, in fact, I was able to have fresh flowers on my desk all week! Thank you both for making this event beautiful!

John is such a warm person and he's so easy to talk to. Here he is speaking with our General Manager, Steve Steinberg.

Amado offers up some yummy crab cakes! For those who are thirsty, we offered traditional martinis and our own variation called the Threatini featuring the juice of blood oranges. Delish!

Mmmmmm. Four flavors of mousse including my favorite - S'mores! I can't resist!

And of course, HGIs own Josh Thompson was on hand to tweet about the whole event as it was unfolding live.

Thank you to everyone who made this event a success and especially to John Gilstrap for joining us at this fun party!

New Packages take effect September 1

2011-08-13T10:18:00.000-07:00

We've issued the new Wedding Packages for 2012 and 2013. If you haven't locked in prior to then, please call me to secure your date and your rates right away! All contracts signed prior to September 1st can reserve at the 2011 rates. To see the new package pricing, please click here.

Bob and Meg's Wedding Video - July 30, 2011

2011-08-03T12:27:00.000-07:00

Our latest video shot this weekend at Meg and Bob's wedding. Enjoy!

bob+meg from sandy meitzner on Vimeo.

Video courtesy of Sandy Meitzner, The Camera Chick.

FOAA Fun in February!

2011-07-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

Fair Oaks Anesthesia held their annual party with us on February 12, 2011 - yes, it was Valentine's Day weekend so we went with a red and white color scheme. As you can see, a good time was had by all! Anne Lord Photography was on hand to capture the event as it unfolded.

Yummy fabulous desserts!

A ton of gifts at the ready!

Notice the impact of our new upgraded LED lighting effects in red!

Regina and Dan: July 25, 2009

2011-07-09T14:44:00.000-07:00

Regina and Dan were a darling couple and their wedding day turned out to be just as lovely as they are! They began with a ceremony at Our Lady of Angels in Woodbridge.

Then they took their hummer stretch limo to the hotel for dinner and dancing.

Here are their place cards all lined up on the place card table.

Vegetable Crudite with Creamy Herb and Red Pepper Dip.

The guests enjoying the cocktail reception outside in the garden.

Meanwhile, inside the ballroom, everything was perfect! Fresh floral centerpieces, a ribbon banded wedding cake and some floating candles!

Upon entering the ballroom, Dan led Regina into their first dance.

Then Regina danced with her father and Dan danced with his mother.

By the time dinner was over, everyone was dancing.

Later, it was time to slice and serve the wedding cake.

Best wishes to Regina and Dan for a long and happy marriage!

Professional photography provided by Laura with Exclamation Imagery.

ADJA seeking newlyweds to serve on panel

2011-07-07T14:13:00.000-07:00

The local chapter of the American Disc Jockey Association is seeking newlyweds to share their experiences (good or bad) in interviewing, hiring and working with DJs for their recent weddings. The panel discussion will take place at the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax on Monday, July 18, 2011 from 7pm - 9pm. If anyone is interested, please send an e-mail to me at catherine.calvin@hilton.com so I can get you in touch with their panel Jake Ritchie.

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax observes Nature at her most violent and beautiful

2011-05-28T08:47:00.000-07:00

You may recall some of the fabulous images that came from the meadow across the street from the hotel. Here are some of the most recent from October 2010:

Photos from Liz and Joey's Wedding

Unfortunately, on February 19, 2011, the meadow caught a spark on one of the red flag warning days and burned completely do the ground. Here are some amazing videos as it occurred.

Not to worry, however, as a team of our employees replanted the meadow with wildflowers. Here are some images of how it looks today.

From 2007, Anita and Gerald: September 1, 2007

2011-05-06T13:07:00.000-07:00

Seeing these photos from Anita and Gerald's wedding takes me back to when I first started here at the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax and how much fun I've had here over the years. When I first met with Anita, I had only been here a few months but even then, I knew how lucky I was to be working with such a great team of professionals and to have such amazing clients to assist in the planning of their weddings. Anita was absolutely one of those memorable brides who was gracious and kind. I hope you enjoy looking at them as much as I enjoyed posting them!

Professional photography provided by Jan Michele Photography.

Garden Report from April 14, 2011.

2011-04-20T12:53:00.000-07:00

Well, the cherry blossoms are off the trees but everything is growing in green and lovely with all of this rain we've been having. Stay tuned for more!

Reminder: Menu tasting is this Thursday, April 21 at 6:30

2011-04-16T11:23:00.000-07:00

Please remember to RSVP by Tuesday so I can let the chef know how many will attend.

To whet your appetite, here are some photos from our February tasting provided courtesy of Laura with Exclamation Imagery.

You can also see our upgraded lighting effects ($300 for the ballroom) in addition to the standard table lighting available at no extra charge.

Garden Report: Things are blooming at the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax

2011-03-25T13:24:00.000-07:00

Although I had a fantastic vacation, it's always good to return home. Feeling refreshed, I was excited to get back to work, a homecoming even more sweet by the changes in the garden. What a difference 12 days can make! The trees had fluffy pink blossoms on them and the pansies were lifting their cheery yellow heads. Our dove couple has returned to their home in the arbor. Spring has sprung at the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax.

Stay tuned for updates as things will start to change quickly in the garden!

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax and ADJA Welcome Peter Merry

2011-03-09T11:28:00.000-08:00

Monday night proved very exciting at the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax as the DC Chapter of the American Disc Jockey Association hosted the famous Peter Merry, Weddings Entertainment Director and published author of The Best Wedding Reception . . . Ever! Ron Jones of FairfaxWeddings.net was on hand to capture the mesmerizing Mr. Merry as he presented to DJs from the local area as well as internationally as far as Australia.

Introduction by Jake Ritchie, Dream Day DJs.

Erin and Toby: September 11, 2010

2011-03-06T06:10:00.000-08:00

It was a golden autumn afternoon for Erin and Toby! The guys were just applying the finishing touches before heading out for a photo shoot.

And then it was time for the ladies!

Then all together!

Meanwhile, the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax team was finishing up with the details so that everything was ready to begin on time from family photos

To a guest tree of wishes and wisdom

the fall themed centerpieces

and candy buffet

little birdie place cards

to the fans and programs for each guest

everything was in it's place.

The ceremony was held in the garden patio.

After the ceremony, Erin and Toby found time for a few more photos while guests enjoyed the cocktail hour.

Inside the ballroom, everything was ready for the grand entrance. This lovely cake was provided by Unique Bakery.

The bridal party really showed their personality as they entered the ballroom.

Then Toby led Erin into their first dance.

Then on to the toasts and

a few shots shared among friends.

Black Tie DJs kept the dance floor packed all night long.

Then it was time for Erin and Toby to cut their cake.

After cake, Erin threw her bouquet and Toby tossed the garter.

The momentum stayed high as they all partied late into the night.

Finally, it was time to send Erin and Toby out in style with a sparkler send off.

Best wishes to Erin and Toby for a lifetime of happiness!

Professional images provided courtesy of Laura with Exclamation Imagery.

Packed with Personality! Liz and Joey, October 1, 2010

2011-02-26T12:16:00.000-08:00

This couple had personality! While every detail was planned with style, Liz and Joey also had a quirky sense of fun that they infused into their wedding day. Here they are getting ready before the ceremony.

Liz and the bridesmaids took some time to pose for photos beforehand.

The wedding ceremony was held in our Garden Patio. Liz provided a pale blue drape to use as the back drop and some fun bride and groom rubber duckies.

After the ceremony, the bridal party found some time to clown around at the meadow across the street from the hotel.

A photobooth and props provided by Booth-O-Rama kept the guests entertained during the cocktail hour and beyond!

Then it was time to enter the ballroom in grand style and Joey led Liz into their first dance together.

The entire bridal party seems to have gotten into the cake act!

DJ Jake Ritchie of Dream Day DJs kept the tempo up for this fun-loving bunch as they danced and partied the night away.

And then it was time to say good night and send the happily married couple off into the night!

Professional photography provided by Rachel Naft, RMN Photography.

See us on Black Tie DJs web-site

2011-02-15T14:11:00.000-08:00

Look for the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax on Black Tie DJs web-site! Thanks to Dave for making our ballroom gorgeous with colored lights! See what decorative lighting can do for your event!

Thank you to all of those who voted for us for the third year in a row!

2011-01-28T11:06:00.000-08:00

Fairfax, VA – January 28, 2011 - WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, is thrilled to announce Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax has been selected to receive the prestigious annual WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 for Ceremony and Reception Venues.

Recognition for the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 is determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds. Our past clients are among those that shared their experiences on WeddingWire, the largest wedding review site in the nation.

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax stands among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire community, representing quality and service excellence within the wedding industry. Awards were given to the top wedding professionals across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and were based on the overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is honored to celebrate the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire community,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program, WeddingWire has the unique opportunity to recognize the best wedding professionals across the US and Canada. We applaud Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax for their professionalism and dedication to enhancing the wedding planning experience last year.”

We are happy to announce that Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax is among the very best Ceremony and Reception Venues within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Martha Stewart Weddings, Project Wedding and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for nominating us to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today at http://weddingwire.com/hiltongardeninnfairfax .

For more information on the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire.com, the nation's leading technology company serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 local wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives local businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. Businesses that join the WeddingWire Network appear on WeddingWire.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com (NYSE: MSO), ProjectWedding.com and Weddingbee.com (both part of eHarmony), and Celebrations.com (part of the 1-800-Flowers family of brands, NASDAQ: FLWS).

More on new uplighting package!

2011-01-21T08:41:00.001-08:00

Professional photos will be on their way shortly but in the meantime, here are some additional photos that we took to introduce you to our newest decor item - ballroom uplighting! These lights feature 100 different colors and be set to one or more colors of your choosing, alternate between many colors at different rates of speed or switch colors in sync to the beat of your music. This is an upgraded option for only $300 per event. Consider it for a dramatic look for your reception! Photos here show green uplighting (upgrade) with pink under skirt lighting (standard option) from a recent corporate holiday party. See more photos in blue here!

Another great video from The Philip Kent Studio

2011-01-19T06:53:00.000-08:00

This video is from Julie and Matt's Wedding last May! Images courtesy of The Philip Kent Studio.

Do It Yourself Day 2011 dates announced

2011-01-14T09:05:00.000-08:00

As a continuation of our popular DIY Day program, the dates for 2011 DIY Days are below! We hope that you can join us and work on all of the details for your upcoming event!

Do you have Do It Yourself projects you’ve been meaning to get to?

Do you wonder how your ideas will look inside the ballroom?

Could you use a few hours of quiet time to get some work done?

Wish you had an extra pair of hands to help out?

If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, grab your materials, some friends and join us at the

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax DIY Day.

Free event for you and your guests
Meet & share ideas with other HGIF clients
Catherine will be an extra set of hands
Have fun
Leave with your project completed

Save the Dates ~ Favors ~ Escort Cards ~ Address Invitations ~ Thank you notes ~ Photo Collage ~ Centerpieces

DIY Day is scheduled from 1pm

– 4pm. Please RSVP to

Catherine by Thursday.

January 29

February 26

March 26

April 9

May 21

June 25

July 30

August 27

September 24

October 29

November 19

December 17

ADJA hosts Alan Berg with TheKnot.com at Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax

2010-12-30T13:11:00.000-08:00

On November 16, 2010, the DC Chapter of the American Disc Jockey Association hosted their monthly meeting at the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax. In addition to the DJs, a variety of other event specialists were in attendance. Alan Berg, the Director of The Knot Market Intelligence was the speaker with amazing insight on improving our web-sites.

Ron Jones, Jones Photography provided the professional images. Look at his blog to see more of this event.

Alan with Kimberly Feys of TheKnot.

Jake Ritchie of Dream Day DJs and current President of ADJA DC made the opening remarks.

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax on Video

2010-12-21T08:02:00.000-08:00

This video was shot at Jenny and Michael's wedding featured in this blog here. I love how this brief highlights real captures the loveliness of this May 1st afternoon and evening! This video is courtesy of Mark and Julie at Video Express Productions!

Menu tasting photos - RSVP now for January's tasting!

2010-12-03T12:16:00.000-08:00

Here are a few photos taken at September's menu tasting party and provided courtesy of Hadar Goren Photography. Remember to RSVP for one of the upcoming tasting events: January 26, April 21, June 21 or September 21 at 6:30 pm.

The ballroom was set with our complimentary under the skirt lighting in an array of colors.

Yummy Seafood Stuffed Mushrooms and Mini Empanadas!

An assortment of buffet salad options including Fruit Salad and Waldorf Salad above and Couscous with Confetti Vegetables and Orzo Salad below.

Roasted Red Pepper Tapenade - a delicious component of our Trio Platter of Tapenades Dips and Spreads.

One of our top sellers - Champagne Garlic Shrimp.

Our Cheese Fondue comes with sliced Red and Green Apples, Crisp Garden Crudite, French Bread and Crackers.

Curry Chicken Salad on Polenta.

A completed plat with Grilled Chicken, Roasted Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables.

Jennifer and Jason: October 16, 2010

2010-11-30T15:27:00.000-08:00

Jennifer and Jason planned for a perfect fall evening ceremony and reception. Although it was breezy, the temperature was mild and there was a lot of bright sunshine.

The guys posed for some photos in the lobby before the ceremony and then it was the ladies turn. I love these hot pink flowers with the black and white color scheme!

Outside the garden patio was set for the ceremony. Jennifer elected to use our columns for her altar arrangements as well as our drape for the back-drop.

Inside the Prosperity Ballroom, everything was set in white with black and pink accents. Look at this adorable cake!

The Sweetheart Table featured a live floral centerpiece and underskirt lighting in white.

The guest tables had black napkins and fresh floral centerpieces in hot pink.

Everyone seemed to have a great time and then it was time to send Jennifer and Jason off in grand style with a sparkler departure!

Best wishes to Jennifer and Jason for a long and happy marriage!

Professional photography courtesy of Paula Lockhart, Four Seasons Photography.

Cake provided by Wanda's Cake Decorating.
Floral arrangements provided by Flower Gallery of Chantilly.
Ceremony Officiant Diane Stanley.
Hair and Make-up by Bridal Artistry.

Jenny and Michael: May 1, 2010

2010-11-24T11:07:00.000-08:00

Michael and Jenny were a fun couple to work with. I was happy that they had a beautiful wedding day for an outside ceremony. They both got ready here at the hotel before the ceremony began and found time to shoot a few photos before the guests arrived.

I love the fresh spring combination of the yellow against the aqua.

After a lovely ceremony, including a sand ceremony, Michael and Jenny found time to shoot a few photos around the inside of the hotel and the gardens.

I love the perspective of this one taken on the staircase.

Jenny and Michael chose to have a head table for their bridal party. You can see here how it looks under the large ballroom mirror.

The guest tables featured our house hurricane globe centerpieces accompanied by a sprinkling of yellow and blue petals. Look closely and you can see the table name - all of the tables were named after U2 songs.

While the guests seemed to enjoy themselves dancing, Jenny and Michael found time to share a quiet moment together in the garden before making their grand departure with sparklers in the garden.

Best wishes to Jenny and Michael for a long and happy marriage!

Participating Vendors
Photographer - Photography by Kelly
Bakery - Wanda's Cake Decorating
Videographer - Video Express Productions
Florist - Manassas Flower Gallery

Menu Tasting Dates announced for 2011

2010-11-21T05:23:00.000-08:00

Bridal Showcase at

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax

You and up to 3 guests are cordially invited to attend one of the following Bridal Showcase and Menu Tasting events in preparation for your wedding reception at the

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax.

Please RSVP to Catherine at (703) 667-9363 at least four days prior to your selected date and we will look forward to having you join us at 6:30 in our Providence Ballroom!

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Holiday Fun at Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax

2010-11-19T09:18:00.001-08:00

Lets face it, the holidays are a stressful time. With a full schedule holiday parties and events coming up in the next 5 weeks or so, our team was looking to blow off a little steam. Taking our cue from the fun singing and dance routines of Glee, we've decided to put together our own little ensemble group. Look for Heathr, Corporate Catering Manager; Shannon, Rooms Sales Manager; Cervando, Banquet Captain, Steve, General Manager and me, collectively known as the HGI Fairfax Fantastics starring in some festive holiday videos.

First up, a Disco Christmas!

And next for your viewing pleasure, a Hair Band Hard Rock Christmas!

The HGI Fairfax Fantastics are available to perform at your next function! Please contact us for booking details!

Something new and exciting at Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax

2010-11-13T13:53:00.000-08:00

There is something new and exciting around the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax! A brand new way to add drama and style to your ballroom decor. Check out these non-professional photos of our new lighting shown here in blue although there are actually 99 other colors to choose from. They can also be set to alternate on a timer or with the beat of the music. Professional photos will be coming shortly.

Note that this lighting upgrade is very labor intensive and will be available only as an upgrade of $250 per ballroom set-up. The existing 4 colors for under the skirt lighting (also pictured here in white) will still be available at no extra charge.

Renaissance Romance: Terri and Chico, March 13, 2010

2010-11-03T09:45:00.000-07:00

It was a rainy day in March but Terri and Chico did not let them put a damper on their fun and neither did their guests! Terri worked hard to infuse a sense of historic glamor into this renaissance style wedding. Notice Terri's rich purple and silver gown and the elaborate braided hair style.

Chico, meanwhile, was handsomely attired in a more traditional black tuxedo.

In this bridal party photo, you can see that the bridesmaids were also dressed in Renaissance gowns designed to coordinate with Terri's gown in shades of purple and lavender.

Due to the chilly and damp conditions, the ceremony was held in the Patriot Room which was decorated with the lattice panels and columns with lovely altar flowers.

The ballroom featured decor in a coordinated purple color scheme.

DJ Jake Ritchie of Dream Day DJs kept the dance floor packed all night long until it was time to send the happy couple in style with glow bracelets! Best wishes to Terri and Chico for a long and happy marriage!

Professional photography provided courtesy of Photography by Trisha, 703-753-5981.

HGI Fairfax recognized for going green!

2010-10-23T11:05:00.000-07:00

The team at Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax is thrilled to be recognized by Virginia Green, Virginia's Campaign to Promote Environmentally-Friendly Practices in the Tourism Industry. This award was presented based on our commitment to upholding the Virginia Green program's Core Activities including:

Optional Linen Service
Recycling Opportunities for Guests
Water Efficiency
Energy Conservation
Green Events

For more details on the Virginia Green program, visit Virginia Green Travel.

Erika and Jeff: Chic and Savvy in September, September 25, 2010

2010-10-14T14:17:00.000-07:00

Although Erika claimed that she was never really in to planning her wedding, she still managed to put together a beautiful event that reflected her fun and funky sense of style and made it seem like so much fun.

September 25th was sunny and mild - perfect for a garden ceremony. Erika put the finishing touches on her look and posed for a few photos before the ceremony began.

Inside the Providence Ballroom, everything was set in shades of blue.

We were able to bring in the beautiful altar flowers from the ceremony and use them alongside the head table.

In addition to the traditional wedding cake, the cake table featured a laptop styled grooms cake.

Jeff and Erika shared their first dance before enjoying a delicious buffet dinner including Asian Sesame Salad, Dijon Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Wild Mushrooms, Herb Crusted Sirloin of Beef with Green Peppercorn Sauce and Roasted Garlic Yukon Mashed Potatoes. Our banquet staff assisted in preparing the first plates.

The bar featured the usual assortment of top shelf liquors, Copper Ridge Wines and a selection of beers.

DJ Mark Harman of Harmany DJs kept up the soundtrack for the evening as photographer Ron Jones of Jones Photography captured the moments to savor for years to come. Flowers provided by Maryam Flowers.

Best wishes to Jeff and Erika for a long and happy marriage!

Welcome Brittany!

2010-10-09T13:15:00.000-07:00

Please join me in welcoming Brittany to the catering team as our fall semester intern. Brittany will be working on holiday parties as well as any other odds and ends of events that come our way in the next few months!

Best wishes to Brittany for a successful internship and an exciting career upon graduation!

Jessica and Brad: June 5, 2010

2010-09-10T09:51:00.000-07:00

Jessica and Brad were a very sweet and laid back couple. Their ceremony was held at Vienna Presbyterian Church which, as you can see, is a very beautiful and well lit venue.

The reception, while elegant, reflected a sense of fun. Instead of the traditional wedding cake, they had cupcakes with simply a top tier to cut.

Here Jessica and Brad enjoy their first dance together.

Afterward, the DJ kept the dance floor full all night long and the guests appeared to have a great time!

Best wishes to Brad and Jessica for a long and happy marriage!

Professional photography provided by Stephen Gosling Photography.

How to Check Your Guest List from Personalized Webpage

2010-09-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

For those clients with room blocks, you can easily check your reservations listing from your own computer at home or work. Here's how:

From your Personalized Web Page, you will need to create a user ID and log in. If you have hhonors, you will be able to use your hhonors # and password to log in.

Once you log on using your user id password, click e-Events.

Now you need to "link" your group. Use the Hotel Property Code IADFH, the Group Code provided to you by Cynthia - typically 3 - 4 letters, and your Group Event Nickname (usually in the format "Bride's Last Name ~ Grooms Last Name Wedding" or your function name.)

Next enter your event start date and event end date provided to you by Cynthia.

Click "I agree" to the terms and conditions.

From My Guest List Manager section you will be able to click “manage your guest list”

At this screen you should be able to:

Book reservations

View / change Reservations

View Room Count Summary

Please feel free to email Cynthia at Cynthia.Park@hilton.com for assistance if you have any questions.

Meet Shannon

2010-08-31T09:02:00.000-07:00

We have another new face around the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax! Shannon Mora comes to us from sunny California and has taken a position with the team as Sales Manager. She may be assisting clients with room block questions, reservations and more. Welcome to Shannon!

Kalima and John: A Midsummer Nights Dream, July 9, 2010

2010-08-26T14:43:00.000-07:00

Kalima and John were an easy going couple so it's no wonder that things turned out so beautifully for their July wedding. Here you can see the guests getting ready for the garden ceremony to begin - signing the guest book

- settling into their seats

Meanwhile, the ladies are applying the finishing touches to Kalima's look

as John waits for his first glimpse of his new bride.

The bridesmaids were escorted in by the groomsmen and

the flower girl and ring bearer made an adorable couple. They entered together but split around the fountain and each went to their respective sides of the ceremony.

Then it was Kalima's turn to walk down the aisle.

Their beautiful and heartfelt ceremony included a unity candle service.

"You may now kiss the bride!"

I love Kalima's beaming face after the ceremony is over!

As the guests moved into the cocktail reception, Kalima, John and the bridal party found time to pose for a few photos around the hotel - in the garden,

by the fountain,

and on the staircase in front of the flag. They had chosen and international theme for their wedding complete with tables named after countries and designated by that country's flag so the photos meshed perfectly!

The floral arrangements and bouquets looked light and dreamy - perfect for a summer wedding.

A sprinkling of flower petals coordinated to match the green of the florals and the bridal party attire added the right splash of color to the place card frames displayed outside the ballroom.

The cake continued the summery motif with a simple summery design topped with a monogram.

The unity candles were brought in to be on display during the reception.

Even the mint garnish on the raspberry sorbet seemed to join in the fun!

Kalima and John found a moment to enjoy the cocktail reception with their guests before making their way into the Prosperity Ballroom for the grand introductions and their first dance.

The best man gave his toast and dinner was served followed by dancing,

dancing and more dancing. DJ Ed Witles of The Elegant DJ provided the soundtrack that kept the dance floor packed all night long.

But finally it was time for the night to end for Kalima and John. Kalima tossed her bouquet to a crowd of eager women!

To close the night in style, guests waved ribbons at the happy couple as they made their way into their own happily ever after.

Although our happy couple had retired for the evening, the guests stayed to close out a perfect evening with more dancing and even more fun with their ribbons!

Best wishes to John and Kalima for a lifetime of happiness!

Professional photography provided courtesy of June Stanich Photography.