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An Ornamental Experience
By SUE G. COLLINS
An annual ornament exchange among friends and creatives brings magic to Salamander Middleburg.
Ornaments Over the Years
Initially hosted in Jiu's living room for 20 local wedding industry professionals, the Ornament Exchange has blossomed into a prominent national event in the wedding industry. Jiu is a fine art wedding photographer, her art strongly influenced by high fashion, interior design, and international travel. She's had the honor of photographing weddings throughout the U.S., Mexico, and Europe since she launched her company in 2009.
Jiu and Prattes deep-rooted friendship and professional synergy have propelled the event's success. Each year, the event not only embraces the festive spirit, but also complements the fairytale setting at Salamander Middleburg. Nestled within the heart of Virginia's horse and wine country outside Washington, DC, the gracious hospitality and historic charm of the resort sprawls across 340 breathtaking acres, a fitting backdrop for the annual exchange.
Ornaments Over the Years
In 2024, the theme was inspired by the surge in surrealism within the fashion industry. "Within the wedding industry, fashion is really taking front stage," explains Prattes. "You are seeing more risks and expression through fashion and Abby and I both embrace this in our work."
Jiu has been named a top wedding photographer by Martha Stewart Weddings, and her couples' days have been featured in People, Brides, The Knot, Over the Moon, Washingtonian Weddings, and Inside Weddings.
Ornaments Over the Years
One charity benefiting from the event is Playtime Project, which aims to cultivate resilience in children experiencing family housing insecurity by providing and expanding access to transformative play experiences. And, the friends also forged a partnership with VOW for Girls, a growing global movement that partners with brands, individuals and the wedding industry to end the international child marriage crisis.
Ornaments Over the Years
The Ornament Exchange has become a pinnacle for Jiu and Prattes, who personally greeted each and every guest. "Looking ahead, we aspire to further cultivate community spirit, celebrate the festive season in grand style, and support charitable endeavors," says Jiu.
Ornaments Over the Years
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