Lucia C.
Yelp
Stunning. This is one of the most beautiful venues for a wedding that I have ever seen. Located in Mount Vernon outside the Washington Monument, the George Peabody Library is (as Bradley N said) an architectural wonder in Neo-Grec style. The height of the stack room, lined with cast-iron balconies and embellished with gold-leaf, is awe-inspiring. The black and white marbled floor below, the skylight above, and the six tiers of decorative railings makes for a very sophisticated, yet intimate space to celebrate a beautiful occasion. I took several photos, but I could not fully capture the beauty of the room.
The wedding ceremony took place in the stack room - minimal decoration, warm lighting, and rows of iron chairs lined the room, complementing the overall symmetry of the space. An hors d'oeuvres hour took place in the exhibition room, just outside the stack room. This space had historical pieces in glass cases and was set up with 2 bar areas. The doors were opened for dinner in the main stack room. The caterers (I belief Chef Expressions - approved for the Peabody) were wonderful and the round tables were set beautifully. The servers were attentive and professional. Dinner was excellent. They also made space at the back of the room for a dance floor and DJ.
The library itself also houses space for musical and theatrical productions. There is parking on the street, and you are able to hire valet service for your event. I am not sure of the costs for this venue, or how easy/difficult they are to work with, but they seem to be flexible for any number of guests. Overall, the George Peabody Library is elegant, and perfect for any celebration.