Oct 14

A Modern Swann House Wedding Inspired by the Rococo Era

Bridal portraits at Swann House in Washington, D.C.

Recently, I had the honor of designing stationery for another styled shoot at Swann House in D.C. Northern Virginia wedding planner Chelsea Quenum was the creative visionary behind this shoot, themed “Modern Muse in Montmartre.” Rococo-inspired details, painterly florals, and pops of bold color merged to create a modern Swann House wedding with hints of 18th-century Paris. This stunning editorial was also featured on Wedding Chicks, a leading wedding inspiration site for couples nationwide. Morgan Kay Photo captured it all flawlessly, focusing on the interplay between the contemporary design elements and the venue’s historic architecture.

Whether you’re planning a wedding at Swann House or you love the combination of Old-World details and a modern color palette, I hope this styled shoot inspires you.

A Perfectly Balanced, Modern Rococo Invitation Suite

To reflect the “Modern Muse in Montmartre” theme of this styled shoot, I designed a romantic and ethereal invitation suite. The invitation featured a delicate floral wreath, rendered in blush, ivory, and light blue watercolors with accents of red and hot pink. By incorporating bright hues into the pastel palette of the Rococo era, I wanted to create a color scheme that would suit the modern Parisian bride.

Each element of the invitation suite aimed to balance the opulence of the Rococo style with modern refinement. A light blue velvet ribbon wrapped around the suite, finished with a gold wax seal as a subtle nod to the luxuries enjoyed by the nobility of 18th-century France. Meanwhile, the hot pink envelope added a bold, unexpected touch. The hint of playfulness perfectly offset the suite’s overall sophistication.

Dusty blue velvet ring case on a floral wedding invitation Flatlay of a Turnage and Watts wedding invitation with pink and red flowers Details of a pink and red invitation suite for a Swann House wedding RSVP card and envelope with a gold wax seal

A Swann House Wedding with Touches of Paris

This styled shoot took place at Swann House, an elegant, 19th-century bed and breakfast in D.C. The mansion—known for its ornate plasterwork and romantic architectural details—was the perfect backdrop for our Rococo Revival theme.

The concept drew inspiration from the artistic spirit of Paris’ Montmartre district, marrying the neighborhood’s Old-World charm with a modern muse’s flair. Swann House’s light-filled rooms and vintage character beautifully complemented our color palette of ivory, hot pink, light blue, and red, creating an atmosphere that felt airy yet bold.

Swann House is one of those wedding venues that feels both grand and intimate, making it ideal for small celebrations with timeless style. I would love to design stationery for more weddings here! It’s the kind of space where artistry and romance intertwine effortlessly. If you’re planning a Swann House wedding, let’s connect to discuss how this enchanting space could inspire your invitation design.

Chelsea Quenum - Northern Virginia Wedding Planner Small floral centerpiece with blush and hot pink roses for a Swann House wedding Pink napkin on a stack of white and blue china plates Table with ivory taper candles and pink roses for a Swann House wedding Bridal portraits at Swann House in Washington, D.C. Bride and groom cutting into their wedding cake at Swann House

You can view the full feature and gallery on Wedding Chicks here.

Let’s Bring Your Wedding Vision to Life

Your wedding stationery should tell your story with the same artistry and intention as the rest of your celebration. Whether you’re planning a wedding at Swann House or dreaming of a venue anywhere in Washington D.C., Maryland, or Virginia, I’d love to create designs that capture your personality and style — from your Save the Dates to your Invitation Suite and Day-Of Details.

Inquire about your custom wedding stationery →