Giovanini-Poon

Erica Giovanini & Derek Poon
Aug. 9, 2008
Herndon, Va.

Photography by Andy John, Bella Pictures

by Kate Parrott

Their Story
Though Erica Giovanini admits that she was initially attracted to now-husband Derek Poon’s handsome looks, she says it was his personality that truly won her heart. “Especially when I saw how well he fit in with my family,” she says.

When the two first met, their friends had to find other people with whom they could mingle because Erica and Derek just couldn’t stop talking. “Derek and I hit it off from the start, and we never got tired of each other,” Erica says.

After dating for two years, Derek popped the question, which came as a complete surprise to Erica. “We had definitely talked about marriage before … but I had no idea it was coming!” she says. During a vacation to Amelia Island, Fla., Derek asked Erica to accompany him on a seaside walk, wherein he planned to propose. Erica, however, politely declined his invitation, saying, “No thanks.” The next evening, she agreed to accompany him to the beach, where Derek finally had the opportunity to ask her to be his wife.

Wedding Sources

Bridal Gown Designer/Source: Rivini/Jeanette’s Bridal, Manassas, Va.

Bridesmaid Dresses: J. Crew

Caterer and Reception Site: Sheraton National Hotel, Arlington, Va.

Ceremony Site: Floris United Methodist,Herndon, Va.

Florist: Fields and Chambers Floral Events, Washington, D.C.

Groom’s Attire: Hugo Boss Red Label

Groom’s Cake: Wegmans, Fairfax, Va.

Hair: Julie Eppard, Radiance Salon & Spa, Lansdowne, Va.

Honeymoon Destination: Big Island and Kauai, Hawaii, Sheraton Kauai Resort,
and Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa

Invitations: The Dandelion Patch, Reston, Va.

Makeup: Nancy Nesby, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Tyson’s Corner Bloomingdales, McLean, Va., 703-556-4600

Music: DJ Johnny Hernandez, Washington Talent

Photographer/Company: Andy John, Bella Pictures

Rings: Bride – Jared, Dulles, Va.; Groom – Aspen Jewelers, Herndon, Va.

Veil: Jeanette’s Bridal

Wedding Cake: Heidelberg Bakery, Arlington, Va.

Wedding Night Accommodations: Sheraton National Hotel

Wedding Planner: Betsy Jones, Sheraton National Hotel