Home is where the heart is.
June 8, 2024–River Farm, Alexandria
Sun filtered through centuries-old trees as lush gardens blossomed by the Potomac River. There was no better place for nature-loving couple Margaret Platner and Joseph Franco to have their June wedding than River Farm, just outside of Old Town Alexandria where they first met.
Love flowed—and so did the Champagne. A fine bottle of bubbly, gifted from the matron of honor as an engagement present, and the best man’s Champagne saber made for a perfect combination. “Joe and I couldn’t think of a more meaningful use of this bottle than to drink it on our wedding day, so at the end of his speech, Joe’s best man sabered this bottle, which we poured onto a small Champagne tower—don’t ask if it toppled over!” Margaret says.
The day was filled with heartfelt nods to the past, like photos of the parents on their respective wedding days, baby photos, and handkerchiefs borrowed from family—which were in heavy usage throughout the day.
“We also wanted to ensure the day felt deeply personal and meaningful,” Margaret says. Mission accomplished.





She Said, He Said
First intro?
He said: Margaret and I met at work—I was new, and she trained me (first thing I loved—her brain and her wit!). There was a spark right away, but we took the time to get to know each other in a work context.
Proposal?
She said: Joseph proposed in my favorite city in the world: Paris! I know—so clichè—but it’s loved for a reason. I speak French and loved showing Joseph my favorite neighborhoods, museums, cafés, and secret spots. We love to have such a special memory in our favorite city.
Honeymoon?
He said: We waited a few months, then had a truly once-in-a-lifetime vacation in Kenya on safari and island-hopping in the Seychelles. It was the perfect combination of adventure followed by relaxation, and an experience we’ll never forget.
Advice for the engaged?
She said: It’s okay to stress about the details now, but when you get the wedding day, try your best to let it all go. It goes by so fast, so focus on your partner, your family, your friends, and this beautiful celebration!
Favorite splurge?
He said: We definitely splurged on food, combining Margaret’s love of France and my Filipino heritage into our dinner. Also featuring hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails that we’d discovered and loved during some of our travels. Plus a macaron tower, French 75s as a welcome cocktail, and late-night milkshakes and cookies and milk.
First look?
She said: We had a chaotic few hours before our first look, and I was feeling a bit overwhelmed and stressed. Everything wrapped up right before our first look, and I walked into that moment with so much joy and excitement. It was a true turning of a corner—leaving the stress and anxiety of planning behind and stepping into love. I remember seeing Joseph turn around (and of course, I start to cry!) and feel all that stress leave my body. When I saw him, everything melted away, and we began our beautiful day together.
The Details
Photography: Molly Lichten Photography
Music: Dan Goldman Events
Cake: Dunn From Scratch
Stationary: Live Life Lettered
Glam: Jamie D’Agostino Makeup + Hair
Planner: Cherry Blossom Event
Rentals: Table Manners
This article originally appeared in the February 2025 issue.