Top Brandywine Venues

• Spaces for 100 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

It's possible that the word "traditional" will make you want to put on your leopard print loafers and run for the hills, but Malmaison might be the place for you. We can assist you in making your wedding or civil ceremony as big as you want it to be by providing the perfect combination of beautiful, unconventional spaces to hold your ceremony, as well as a mission to make those spaces uniquely yours. Some people may be fine with a stuffy reception room and a half-bottle of wine per person, but we have our own way of doing things. Creative canapés, master mixologists, eccentric interiors... everyone's love story is unique, and we're here to celebrate that in everything that we do at The Love Story. Malmaison are considered the forefathers of the modern metropolitan boutique hotel, with an emphasis on style and sophistication. We believe that food and drink are integral to the character of each Malmaison hotel; our bars and brasseries are well-known destinations in their respective communities. Malmaison is a sophisticated, flirty, and sexy retreat. It's both inviting and seductive. Our customers are made to feel special. They're all celebrities in our eyes, and they all deserve to be treated like celebrities. Our locations also distinguish us from other hotels in the United Kingdom. A converted church, a former prison, a hospital, or even a Royal Mail sorting office are all possibilities for guests to stay in while visiting London.

• Spaces for 60 Guests
• 1 Event Space

In our shared wonderspace, work hard and play hard. BUREAU is a members-only, boutique coworking space and event studio for creative entrepreneurs. By cultivating an exclusive community of like-minded Bosses and hosting specialist professionals in monthly WERQshops, meetings, and social events, BUREAU is committed to supporting members and their developing enterprises. Join our community and make yourself at home in our coworking space (which has many bonuses!). We can help with your daily work environment, conferences, business vacations, celebrations, and more. BUREAU is a members-only DC coworking space in NW Washington, DC's Adams Morgan area. BUREAU, which was created with entrepreneurs in mind, is a safe haven for women to network, cooperate, and share ideas. This designer space may also be reserved for events, and it holds monthly gatherings and WERQshops for members and the community. Have you ever wondered who is behind BUREAU's stunning bounty? Meet Kerra Michele, our resident Boss Bish. Kerra Michele is the owner and main designer of her namesake design firm, Kerra Michele Interiors, in addition to being the owner and founder of this lovely DC coworking space. Kerra is noted for her unique ability to adjust her aesthetic to each specific client project and create warm, comfortable rooms, in addition to her regular journeys to remote places in search of one-of-a-kind treasures. Her fluffy puppy, Lunchbox, little Smart vehicle, and bearded boyfriend live three blocks from BUREAU. HGTV, Better Homes & Gardens, The Today Show, The Washington Post, Washingtonian Magazine, DC Modern Luxury, Domino, Apartment Therapy, Joss & Main, CNN, and several other local, national, and international magazines have all featured her work.

• Spaces for 40-75 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Mission is a saloon in Dupont Circle that is well-known for its expansive patio, daily happy hour, weekend brunch, and multiple private event spaces. It is located just steps away from the Metro station. Mission's features include brick walls, antique sconces, reclaimed wood ceilings, and a large main bar with a glass atrium ceiling. It is housed in a large renovated turn of the century townhouse. The cuisine is Tex-Mex, with favorites such as six different kinds of tacos, wings, fajitas, and sliders, as well as delicious margaritas, among other options. From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, Mission offers a happy hour. Starting at 11 a.m. on weekends and some holidays, Mission serves bottomless brunch, which includes classics such as breakfast bowls, burritos, and chilaquiles, as well as lunch items such as burgers and sandwiches. Reservations for brunch are highly recommended; for more information, contact brunch@missiondupont.com. The Mission is one of the most popular venues in Washington, D.C. for events of all sizes and types of events. With a variety of event spaces and a prime location in the heart of Dupont Circle, Mission is the ideal location for your next event, no matter what size or budget you are working with. A variety of events can be held at the venue, including birthday parties, alumni functions, late-night wedding after-parties, corporate receptions, fundraising events, and large-group brunches and dinners, among other things. Please see the links below for additional information. Mission, which opened its doors in 2014 and is owned and operated by Mission Group, a locally-owned bar and restaurant group, is a popular destination in the area. The Mission is one of the most popular venues in Washington, D.C. for events of all sizes. With a variety of event spaces and a prime location in Dupont Circle, Mission is the ideal location for your next meeting or celebration. A variety of events can be hosted at Mission thanks to its two floors, two large bar areas, three dining areas, and spacious patios, including birthday parties, alumni events and late-night wedding after-parties, corporate receptions, fundraising galas, group brunches and dinners, and more. Because a large portion of our event business is comprised of repeat customers, Mission goes above and beyond to ensure that your event is flawless! The events team will collaborate with you to choose food and beverage options, as well as decorations and other details. For event hosts, our goal is to make the process of planning and executing a gathering as simple and stress-free as possible. In contrast to other venues, Mission does not charge a fee for room rental. Depending on the amount of space desired, a bare minimum may be required. Mission can be purchased outright for larger gatherings and events. Large groups can also be accommodated at Mission's sister restaurants, Hawthorne and Mission Navy Yard, both of which are located nearby.

• Spaces for 140 Guests

The Woodrow Wilson House is located in Washington, DC. This historic landmark and National Trust for Historic Preservation site first opened its doors to the public as a museum in 1963. It is now a museum dedicated to President Woodrow Wilson's life and presidency. As stewards of this House, we take our responsibilities seriously. In trying to learn from regressive policies that institutionalized racism and segregation as well as the loss and obstruction of civil liberties, we share Wilson's legacy, which includes the First World War, the League of Nations, and his vision for world peace. As historians, preservationists, and educators, we are committed to sharing the truth about history, even when it is not complimentary to the subjects of the history being discussed. An accurate assessment of history aids in our understanding of ourselves as a nation and as individuals. The timeless home of our 28th President, which has been meticulously restored to its 1920s splendor, provides an unforgettable backdrop for your special event or celebration. Throughout the house, marvellous architectural details and over 8,000 one-of-a-kind historical artifacts lend a distinct charm to the interior, while the expansive garden space serves as a blank canvas for guests to personalize. The Wilson House is the ideal location for any wedding, meeting, dinner reception, or party thanks to its numerous event spaces and packages. Using the entire property, you can host seated dinner receptions for up to 180 people, weddings for up to 120 people, and standing receptions for up to 200 people. For the duration of your rental, you will have exclusive access to the rented spaces as well as tables and chairs, staff, and security for the event. All events are equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi. In order to ensure a successful event for our clients, our knowledgeable team is available to answer questions and make recommendations.

• Spaces for 30-130 Guests
• 2 Restaurants

You'll be enveloped in the warmth of deep, rich cherry and handcrafted silk wall coverings as you dine, and you'll be able to hear the sound of water falling, just as you would in the world-renowned spas of Saturnia. This elegant room is the ideal setting for any occasion, but it is particularly well-suited for rehearsal dinners and board dinners. Cocktail receptions are transformed into an opulent setting for networking or hosting a special occasion that will be remembered for many years to come. Whatever the reason, you and your guests will leave with the hope of returning to Piccolo for yet another memorable meal in the not-too-distant future. You can relive the passion that Romeo and Juliet felt while dining on the entire second floor, and you can enjoy a view of the historic C&O Canal from your own personal balcony. Take advantage of everything Italy has to offer right in the heart of Historic Georgetown, which is exclusively yours. Discover Ristorante Piccolo and fall in love with the warm, inviting atmosphere. Take in the warmth of the three fireplaces as you ascend the wrought iron staircase to the balcony above, which provides a view of the C&O Canal. Pour yourself a glass of Prosecco and allow the sweet aroma of our freshly made pasta, savory meats, and decadent tiramisu to envelop your senses. The ideal location to host your wedding reception or rehearsal dinner; corporate luncheon or dinner; anniversary or graduation celebration; or any other special event. Our courteous and professional staff will see to it that your special occasion runs smoothly from beginning to end. Take a seat by the fireplace and enjoy our award-winning Agnolotti ai Porcini or our special Nodino di Vitello all Piccolo before finishing the evening with a glass of our housemade grappa. This is an ideal location to celebrate any occasion with family and friends, or to host a corporate dinner that will make everyone feel important in the company's hierarchy. Every member of our team is dedicated to meeting your every need in order to make your experience nothing short of extraordinary.

• Spaces for 200 Guests

Dumbarton House offers a setting that is stately, charming, and elegant for private events ranging from corporate luncheons, meetings and conferences to wedding ceremonies and receptions, garden and tea parties. The museum ‘s first floor is normally open as guests arrive, giving them an opportunity to view the period rooms. The mission of Dumbarton House, the national headquarters of The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America (NSCDA), is to support the NSCDA Corporate Societies and their members; to maintain an historic museum property, which serves as a resource for the NSCDA nationally; and to contribute to the cultural life of the surrounding community. Through the interpretation of its historic site and collections, the Dumbarton House Museum promotes the understanding of historic preservation and of the early history of our nation, so that the lives and ideals of early Americans inspire current and future generations. Details of our organization and achievements are presented in our annual reports.

• Spaces for 400 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Make a Reservation for an Event Johnny Pistolas has the space to accommodate any and all of your event requirements. Additionally, we have over four bars, the largest projection screen in Adams Morgan, a capacity to accommodate 400 guests, and we provide excellent catering. If you are interested in hosting an event, please fill out the form below and we will contact you as soon as possible to discuss your requirements and requirements further. Johnny Pistolas is a Taqueria in the heart of Adams Morgan that takes its inspiration from Los Angeles. It is our mission to provide our guests with authentic tasting LA style tacos, as well as a wide variety of craft beers and refreshing cocktail options. We are open from Monday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily. The store opens at 11 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Serving up mexican street food with a touch of coastal flavor, this upscale casual Mexican restaurant is a must visit. We provide the ideal setting for good times and delicious food.

• Spaces for 300 Guests
• 1 Event Space

The Josephine Butler Parks Center is a mansion in Washington, DC, built in the Renaissance revival style. This structure previously housed the Hungarian and Brazilian embassies, however it has subsequently been repurposed into an Earth Embassy. Parks & People has funded the project, which is registered as a Nonprofit Center for Shared Space. The group Parks & People was founded over 20 years ago by community and park leaders, as well as organizations. They are now proponents of environmental causes. They are also leaders in restoration efforts and social justice campaigns. George Oakley Totten Jr. constructed this home. This renowned architect designed a number of embassy buildings in Washington, D.C. This architect designed all but one of the estates in the Meridian Hill and Malcolm X Park neighborhoods. Mary Foote Henderson, who took over the development of the home, also contributed to its construction. Mary made significant contributions to the transformation of Meridian Hill into a cultural hub. Meridian Hill Park became the United States' first national park for the performing arts as a result of her efforts. The surrounding area is rich in historical details, adding to the overall mood of the house. The Josephine Butler Parks Center has been updated without jeopardizing its historical significance. The interior of the building has lots of room for events. Chandeliers, parquet floors, and grand staircases are among the enticing features in these spaces. Weddings can be held both inside and outside the mansion, and can be held in a variety of settings. The external walls are adorned with balconies, stunning architectural elements, and different creative adornments. There are many beautiful locations for picture shoots, many of which provide breathtaking backdrops to depict a couple's loving story. This venue's staff would be delighted to host weddings for Washington Parks & People members. Marriages, receptions, special events, and other celebrations may be held here in addition to weddings. Couples with questions are invited to contact the venue to discuss bookings, services, and other pertinent details.

• Spaces for 40-75 Guests
• 1 Ballroom
• 2 Museums
• 2 Total Spaces

Riversdale House Museum is a National Historic Landmark set on a former 19th-century plantation in Riverdale Park, Maryland. The stucco-covered brick mansion was built between 1801 and 1807, blending European and Federal architectural styles, and has been home to the Stier and Calvert families across more than two centuries of diverse history. The museum offers rental of its historic interiors for weddings, receptions, luncheons, and business meetings. The property's largest space, the Ballroom, is an unfurnished room lit by an elegant chandelier and suited for receptions and celebrations of up to 75 guests. The adjoining East Wing and period-furnished Dining and Sitting Rooms provide more intimate settings for smaller gatherings, each appointed with antique art and furniture. A catering kitchen serves all rental areas, and the property's grounds are available as well.

• Spaces for 10-300 Guests
• 4 Hotels
• 1 Ballroom
• 3 Meeting Spaces

Embassy Suites by Hilton Springfield is a LEED-certified, all-suite hotel in Springfield, Virginia's business district, within three miles of Fort Belvoir, the Department of Defense, TSA, and Microsoft. The Franconia-Springfield Metro Station is less than 10 minutes away and connects directly to downtown D.C., putting the hotel roughly 16 miles south of the U.S. Capitol and the city's monuments and museums. The hotel offers more than 7,500 square feet of event space across five meeting rooms, including the 4,000-square-foot Hunter Ballroom, which can be divided into three smaller salons for more intimate gatherings, weddings, and meetings. Every stay includes a cooked-to-order breakfast and a complimentary evening reception, and guests can dine on-site at Crossroads Bar & Grill, which serves contemporary American lunch and dinner menus with room service available. The hotel also features an indoor pool and a fitness center. For group travel, Embassy Suites Springfield allows organizers to instantly reserve blocks of 10 to 25 rooms online, with an on-site events team available to help coordinate meetings, weddings, and celebrations.

• Spaces for 100 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Are you looking for the ideal party location for your next office celebration? There's no need to look any further! Buca di Beppo has all of your needs covered. Buca can accommodate all types of corporate parties, no matter the size or budget, whether you're celebrating a colleague's well-deserved promotion, hosting a motivational team building dinner, or simply showing appreciation for outstanding employees. Take one look at Buca and you'll realize how much we enjoy a good party. Its charming atmosphere and semi-private dining rooms will put you and your co-workers in a festive mood, thanks to a kitschy combination of Old World charm, authentic décor, and a celebration of literally everything Italian. Buca's charming atmosphere and semi-private dining rooms will put you and your co-workers in a festive mood. Our diverse group menu options are sure to please everyone in your group, and we serve them family-style, which makes them ideal for sharing and sampling among friends and family. So, if you're looking to build a successful team or are celebrating the success of a team you've already assembled, why not allow the best Italian restaurant in town to assist you in making the process even simpler? Get in touch with a Buca group sales manager today and let's get the festivities started! Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant honors the recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation by Italian immigrants in the United States. Every Buca di Beppo location boasts an eclectic setting that is designed to make any occasion a celebration. In addition, we have private and semi-private dining rooms available for your special occasion. So indulge your inner Italian and come to Buca di Beppo today to celebrate the occasion. Ciao! The bride's bridal shower, the wedding rehearsal dinner, and the reception are all special occasions, so why not let Buca assist you in making them even more memorable? In addition to having an eclectic decor that celebrates everything Italian, we also have a helpful and friendly staff and delicious traditional Italian dishes to offer our guests at our unique party venue. Buca offers a variety of group dining and bar packages, as well as an authentic menu that is served family-style, allowing everyone to enjoy and sample our Old World flavors and traditions. Whether you're planning a wedding event dinner for a small group of close family members or your guest list is as long as Tony and Tina's wedding guest list, our party experts can assist you in creating an unforgettable wedding dinner reception.

• Spaces for 500 Guests

The City Tavern Club, which is located at the intersection of M Street and Wisconsin Avenue in Georgetown, has long been a hub of activity in the city. As a result of its inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places, the City Tavern Club operates as a non-profit organization with the mission of preserving one of Washington, D.C.'s oldest Federal-period buildings and the city's only remaining founding-era tavern. Construction on the City Tavern began in 1796 and the building served as both an inn and a major center of civic life in the surrounding area during the early Federal period. While in town, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and other Founding Fathers stopped by the Tavern for a drink or two. On June 6, 1800, President John Adams was honored at a banquet in the Long Room of the Tavern, where he delivered the following toast: "To the President of the United States of America." The Great Hall is a large, open space with a lot of natural light. The Great Hall, one of Georgetown's most sophisticated and elegant spaces, can accommodate up to 160 guests for a formal luncheon or dinner in a formal setting. 200 guests can be comfortably accommodated in splendor and history for a cocktail reception that your guests will never forget! The Receiving Rooms are located on the first floor of the building. Our Receiving Rooms are the ideal place to unwind before heading to the Great Hall for a formal dinner. On the wall is a handwritten dinner invitation from Abigail Adams, which she sent to her friends. For a reception, these rooms can accommodate up to 50 guests at a time. The Long Room is a large room with a lot of furniture. On June 6, 1800, in this very room, John Adams delivered his famous toast. In addition to having a spectacular view of "M" Street. The Long Room is a beautiful space with a great view. A formal dinner for 40 guests or a cocktail reception for 80 guests can be held in this historic space with ease.

• Spaces for 100 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

An aperitif (cocktail) bar, a wine and cocktail bar, and a French restaurant owned and operated by a sommelier Located at 2622 P St NW in the heart of historic Georgetown, it offers a neighborhood vibe along a quiet street lined with row homes and colonial era architecture. It offers barista service weekdays, evening dinner service, and weekend brunch service on the weekends. For an intimate dinner or a drink and a snack, this is the ideal location. With dishes like sustainably farmed caviar, accoutrement, and waffles, as well as Seabass en pappillote, the culinary team is led by consulting Chef Paul Stearman. The overarching mission of Apéro is to create a space that fosters joy and a sense of belonging for everyone who enters the building. Owner Elli Benchimol believes that acts of service are the most effective way to express how much you care. 'Hospitality' is defined as the act of making others feel welcome, at ease, and familiar. As an Advanced Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers, Elli is also a skilled mixologist with a diverse range of experience. An expertly crafted fusion of the two specialties in one package! Benchimol has more than 22 years of experience in the hospitality industry to his credit.. Alexa Jaenicke is a model and actress who was born in the United Kingdom. Following her undergraduate studies in the arts at Boston University, Alexa discovered her true passion in the wine, spirits, and hospitality sectors. At George Washington University, she graduated first in her class, worked at some of the city's most prestigious museums, and realized that her side jobs were their own form of art.

• Spaces for 350 Guests

Bar Bao is an Asian fusion restaurant and bar in the heart of Arlington's Clarendon neighborhood, just steps from the metro station with street and garage parking nearby. The window-lined space spans 5,000 square feet and includes an outdoor patio, giving planners room to shape anything from an intimate dinner to a larger reception. The restaurant hosts private dinners and special occasions of all types, including birthday parties, corporate events, networking happy hours, and holiday parties. Its team helps plan each event from start to finish, pairing Bar Bao's creative take on traditional Asian fare with a full bar program. Bar Bao is open for good times seven days a week, making it a flexible option for planners working around a range of schedules and party sizes.

• Spaces for 200 Guests

Meridian House is a residential jewel, designed by renowned architect John Russell Pope, who designed the Jefferson Memorial, the National Gallery of Art (West Building) and the National Archives.

• Spaces for 100 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom

It is located in the heart of old Washington, D.C., and it is a rustic German bier hall and event space. This contemporary wedding site, located on the banks of the Potomac River, offers panoramic views of the Key Bridge, the Rosslyn skyline, and all of the city's well-known monuments, including the Washington Monument. Looking for a riverfront venue in the center of America's capital city where you may organize an amazing wedding day? The Berliner is the place to be! Infrastructure and Capacity Couples can hold events for up to 400 guests at this location. The building is more than 4,000 square feet in size. The bi-level venue is equipped with enormous garage doors that can be opened to provide a panoramic view of the Potomac River and surrounding area. White walls, hardwood floors, and a completely personalized area await you once you walk through the doors of The Berliner. The ceremony will take place on the top floor of this accommodating venue, followed by a memorable cocktail hour that will take place just outside of this unique venue. On the bottom level, your guests will enjoy a delicious dinner before returning to the upper level, where they will be treated to limitless dancing and celebration. Services that are provided There are a multitude of services available at The Berliner in order to ensure that your wedding day is flawless and stress-free for you. You won't have to bother about the complexities of putting up your own speakers when you have a built-in, state-of-the-art sound system readily available. The location also has an 18-foot projector screen, which can be used to create a memorable slideshow of your wedding day memories. With everything from in-house bar services to top-of-the-line serving staff, The Berliner will provide you with all you need to have the wedding of your dreams. Their services include the following: Lighting/sound Chairs, tables, servers, wireless internet, setup, and cleanup are all included. The Berliner's catering crew is pleased to provide its services to you. In collaboration with you, their expert chef will create a cuisine that is uniquely tailored to the couple's personality and tastes. In addition, there is a bar on site to serve guests. It was known as Malmaison when it first opened its doors.

• Spaces for 150 Guests

Named after the Spanish city famed for its annual Running of the Bulls, Pamplona is a Spanish tapas and sangria restaurant in Arlington's Clarendon neighborhood, drawing its inspiration from Ernest Hemingway's travels through the Basque region of Spain. The restaurant pairs an innovative take on traditional Spanish fare with an extensive sangria program in a modern, sophisticated atmosphere. Pamplona hosts private and semi-private events of any size, from birthday parties and bridal showers to office happy hours, fundraisers, product launches, corporate dinners, and holiday parties. Food and beverage minimums vary depending on the date and time of the event.

• Spaces for 60 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

SPACYCLOUD LOUNGE DC is a first-generation immigrant and woman-owned and operated vegan restaurant, skate shop, art gallery, coffee shop, tea house, and community hub that allows locals to taste, touch, and feel the spirit of DC's green culture in a non-traditional environment. WELCOME TO SPACYCLOUD LOUNGE DC! We believe in the importance of empowering entrepreneurs, and we provide a space for them to test out new concepts and market them to retail customers. DURABILITY: WE ARE A SUSTAINABILITY-BASED COMPANY THAT HAS A SPECIALIZED IN ALTERNATIVE RESOURCES AND SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES. EXTREME SPORT AND PLANT BASED LIVING are two ways in which we promote well-being in our lives. sPACYcLOUd Lounge DC would like to thank you for your interest in renting a space. Availability: Available for hire seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. weekdays and Sundays, and from 8 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday. WHAT CAN BE DONE WITH OUR RESIDENCE HIRE A PRIVATE COMPANY This location is ideal for meetings and 'away days' because the sPACYcLOUd Lounge offers a wide selection of Vegan and Vegetarian menu items. PARTIES Our two-story building contains a full restaurant, bar, outdoor patio, gallery, and dance area. We also have a dance studio. We are able to accommodate both children and adults! EVENTS For small music concerts or album launches, we have enough space to accommodate up to 60 people indoors and an additional 25 guests on the patio.

• Spaces for 150-155 Guests
• 1 Museum
• 1 Landmark
• 1 space at this venue

Housed in a former Arlington County school building, the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington (MoCA Arlington) has occupied its location since 1976. The building was constructed in 1910 to a design by architect Charles M. Robinson and served as a school before being adapted for cultural use; it is designated both an Arlington County Landmark and a listing on the National Register of Historic Places. A 2005 renovation restored the building's original Louis Comfort Tiffany Studio stained-glass windows, which remain a signature feature of the space today. Spanning 17,000 square feet, the museum houses nine exhibition galleries, twelve artist studios, and three classrooms. Its event spaces include the Tiffany Gallery, set beneath the restored stained-glass windows, along with several of the museum's rotating contemporary art galleries, together accommodating up to 150 guests for ceremonies, cocktail hours, and receptions. Rentals include round and cocktail tables, chairs, a large projection screen, and high-speed Wi-Fi, along with on-site and street parking, and hosts are free to choose their own caterer and bring their own bar.

• Spaces for 100-250 Guests
• 1 Event Space

A HOME THAT HAS CHANGED HISTORY President Lincoln’s Cottage was built for banker George W. Riggs in 1842. Architect John Skirving designed the house, situated on a hilltop overlooking downtown Washington, D.C. in the Gothic-Revival style popularized by A.J. Downing. During the Civil War, President Lincoln and his family relocated to the Soldiers’ Home for the “hot season.” The tranquil surroundings at the Soldiers’ Home offered refreshing breezes, a relief from White House protocol, and a place for the President to reflect on all-consuming decisions about military strategy, domestic policy, and foreign relations. Though often viewed as a sanctuary for the president, Lincoln was no less consumed with the war and issues of freedom and slavery here. In many ways, life at the Cottage brought the first family closer to the war and its human cost. At the Soldiers’ Home, Lincoln made some of the decisions that defined his presidency. He met and consulted with Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, Secretary of State William Seward, Vice President Hannibal Hamlin, and many others. He also formulated his ideas on how to bring about an end to slavery during the war in what became the Emancipation Proclamation.