Bridal News

I recently attended the Summer Social of the Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association, held on the rooftop terrace of the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites. I had the pleasure of meeting their new Executive Chef Mark Henry and enjoying his fine cuisine. Big time yummy!

Mark joined the Holiday Inn, and its sister property The Crowne Plaza, in May. He is a native of beautiful Jamaica and is a graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America (CIA). He received a Bachelor’s Degree with Honors in Culinary Management and is a Certified Executive Chef. “Mark brings a highly eclectic and well-rounded culinary background to our hotels,” says Wedding Specialist Erin Hobson, “as he has worked in fabulous locations such as the US Virgin Islands, Italy, trained in India, Houston and North Carolina. Most recently Chef Mark came to us from a Marriott Hotel which he opened in North Carolina.”

Mark will be launching The Crowne Plaza’s very first five-course Progressive Dinner which will include beverage pairings alongside each course. Erin says to stay tuned for upcoming dates to enjoy this faulous cuisine, mouth-watering beverages, and electrifying company.

Mark and Erin are sure to make your wedding reception something special, and Erin has the following “hot dates” available at her hotels: Crowne Plaza - July 3, 10, 24; August 14, 21, 28; September 4, 11,18. Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites - July 17; August 14, 28; September 4, 11. Book one of these dates for your wedding reception and save 15%.

To learn more about these properties and to schedule your tour, contact Erin at 703.299.4960 or email erin.hobson@ihg.com.

I dropped by one of my favorite Old Town Alexandria restaurants recently and visited with Jennifer Russell of Stardust, located at 608 Montgomery Avenue. If you’re at the north end of town, stop by for lunch, dinner or a cocktail with friends. You will love the atmosphere of the place - cozy, eclectic and hip. Their motto is “general fabulousness” and it shows.

Stardust is getting ready to roll out a new menu, departing from their Asian-influenced offerings (although there will still be a few classics for your dining pleasure). Jennifer calls it “retro food” and says, “It’s not gourmet - it’s better!”

The new menu will feature classic items like Steak Diane and Seafood Croquilles, simply prepared comfort food packed with flavor. There’s also a new three-course price fix menu that’s perfect for rehearsal dinners.

Stardust offer private and semi-private dining options for your rehearsal dinner. And if you’re looking for a truly different wedding experience, the entire restaurant is available and can accommodate up to 200. There’s a cozy fireplace, fun decor and the gang will even write a sidewalk chalk message commemorating your day. To learn more about hosting your event at Stardust, call Jennifer at 703.548.9864. And visit www.stardustrestaurant.com.

Cindie

Outdoor ceremony at the Hilton

One of the things that’s so great about Northern Virginia is the wonderful selection of reception sites the area has to offer. And hotels, with their all inclusive packages and ability to accommodate your out of town wedding guests, offer a great value.

The Hilton Alexandria Old Town provides city style in one of the nation’s most historic settings. They have a newly renovated grand ballroom that includes a dance floor and can hold up to 230 guests. Smaller banquet rooms are also available for receptions, rehearsal dinners and guest brunches. There’s an elegant pre-function space for outdoor events, and if you’re having an intimate wedding of up to 50 guests, the hotel has a lovely outdoor courtyard and patio.

If you’re looking to host a wedding weekend close to area attractions, consider the Hilton Alexandria Old Town. The hotel is just steps from the King Street Metro and your guests can also take advantage of the King Street trolley to visit the shops and restaurants of Old Town Alexandria. For more details and to schedule a consultation, call 703.837.0440 or visit www.alexandriahilton.com.

Cindie