the loom baltimore | a new modern, intimate industrial mill wedding venue

The Loom is one of Baltimore’s newest event space and a sister venue to the Dye House and Winslow, two of my favorite industrial wedding venues in Baltimore!

One of the major differences you’ll notice at The Loom is how both light and bright the space is while at the same time, having an edgy, modern, industrial aesthetic from the exterior and when you first step inside.

These 3 elements featured in the design are my favorite:

The built-in 360° bar creates quite a focal point to the space and makes for quick and easy service. 

The “secret bar” can be used either open as an additional bar or food service station, or closed, becomes a fun backdrop for décor or photo booth. 

The gas fireplace in the front courtyard makes for cozy cocktail hours in the cooler months.

ABOUT THE LOOM AT MEADOW MILL:

Dating back to the mid 1800’s, Meadow Mill was one of Hooper’s Woodberry Manufacturing Company located in the Jones Falls Valley. The mill was first intended for the manufacturing of twines and cotton duck (a heavy canvas used primarily for ship sails). After a long life in the textiles, the mill was sold to Londontown Manufacturing Company in the 1960’s and became home to the famous London Fog Raincoats. Today Meadow Mill is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Included below are quick facts about capacity, logistics and what truly makes The Loom a unique Baltimore wedding venue; hope you find it to be a helpful resource! 

INTERESTED IN HAVING YOUR WEDDING AT THE LOOM? HERE ARE SOME QUICK FACTS:

What makes The Loom unique as a new wedding venue in Baltimore?
The Loom is a beautiful blend of industrial and historic details, yet full of natural light and modern.

How many guests can be accommodated for a seated dinner and dancing?
120 guests for ceremony, cocktails, seated dinner, DJ & dancing (100 guests with a band). The exterior courtyard provides seating for approximately 60 guests.

Where do guests park?
On-site parking is located adjacent to the venue.

How many events are hosted per day? 
We host just one event per day.

How early do couples have access to the space on their wedding day?
Clients have access to the venue starting up to 1 hour prior to the event start time for use of the on-site suite and photos both inside and outside.

Are there spaces for the wedding party to get ready on site?
We have a small suite that is available for use starting up to 1 hour prior to the event start, and then through until the end of the evening.  Wedding party should plan to come with hair & makeup already completed.

Are outside caterers permitted? 
The exclusive on-site caterer for the Loom is Copper Kitchen.

Is a representative from the venue going to be on-site for the duration of the event?
Yes – we have a venue manager on-site from vendor set up (3 hours prior to event start) through the duration of the event, and for the 1 hour of vendor clean up at the end.

What does it cost to host a wedding at The Loom?
Saturday 2023/2024 rental rate is $7000, $6500 for Fridays/Sundays (non-holiday rates).

What is included with the rental of the space (tables, chairs, other specialty furniture / items, etc)?

• 3 hours for vendor load in/set up, 4 hours of event time, 1 hour for vendor clean up.

• Use of the suite

• 16 60” rd dinner tables, 6 cocktail tables, 1 48” rd table, and 150 Willow Back wood chairs

Is the venue accessible?
Yes — all areas of the venue except the private suite and coat room are accessible.

Is the venue climate controlled?
Yes — the interior of the venue is fully climate controlled.

CONTACT + DIRECTIONS

Website: The Loom Baltimore
Directions: 3600 Clipper Mill Road, Baltimore, MD 21211
Phone: 410-779-1217
Email: events@loombaltimore.com
Contact: Michele Coziahr, Director of Events

brianna + bryant | an elopement at rawlings conservatory

Brianna and Bryant were planning to get married at the courthouse in downtown Baltimore with photos nearby in Mt. Vernon… but when rain threatened to ruin their plan for beautiful elopement portraits, Brianna had the best idea: to reserve time at the Rawlings Conservatory and embrace the fact that after 7 years, they were still going to be married at the end of the day!

Their families arrived at the Conservatory with them and Brianna + Bryant not only had a memorable first look with all the happy tears, but they took advantage of soft light for all of their portraits. They were both beaming and full of excitement, kindness and joy; couples with an attitude and approach like this truly make my heart so happy! This is what it’s about!

Fun fact: cloudy, rainy days are even better for photos when you’re in a space like this since the light is diffused and even, as it pours through the glass windows of this lush, beautiful, indoor greenhouse (side note: it will be humid though! ;)).

Congratulations again, newlyweds!! I’m absolutely honored that you had me there to document such a special and memorable day… you both looked incredible! To have the support of so many loved ones by your side as you became husband and wife, what a forever moment I hope you continue to remember and enjoy for years to come!!

xo,
Naomi

heather + geof | a flower-filled, romantic + intimate spring wedding at citron

On an unseasonably warm and (eventually) bright and sunny March Saturday, Heather & Geof were married at Citron, among their closest friends and family and it was a day filled with warmth in so many ways!

The day had a relaxing feel from the start at the Sagamore Pendry in Fells Point with Remy, their sweet little pup there for lots of sweet snuggles and smiles. When added to Heather’s impeccable sense of style, the way Geof looks at her, the TWO confetti tosses, glowing sun during the lakeside ceremony and warm wishes and memories shared during multiple toasts throughout their 6 course dinner, their wedding was absolutely incredible!

Enjoy these early highlights from Heather + Geof’s spring wedding at Citron, overlooking Quarry Lake…

3 HIGHLIGHTS FROM HEATHER + GEOF’S
PRE-CEREMONY MOMENTS AT THE PENDRY:

1. It was one of the first things I noticed when I arrived — the calm excitement that Heather exuded while getting ready. With an effortless chic, and timeless sense of style; the feather-trimmed crepe strapless midi dress she chose from 16 Arlington looked like it was made just for her. I loved the custom light blue Jimmy Choo heels with the date inscribed on the bottom; it was a fun and unexpected touch since Geof’s bright navy Indochino suit had the date embroidered inside as well.

2. Her bouquet from Local Color Flowers was made up of shades of cream, blush, light pink and the most perfect pale spring yellow among anemones, ranunculus, butterfly ranunculus and eucalyptus (and more local flowers that I never remember the names of)!

3. Their private first look on the balcony overlooking the heart of Fells Point followed by portraits in the modern courtyard at the Pendry and a confetti toss during group photos on the water… it was perfection in so many ways!!

4 UNFORGETTABLE ELEMENTS FROM H+G’S INTIMATE WEDDING CEREMONY + DINNER RECEPTION AT CITRON:

1. The bright ceremony on the water - not a cloud in the sky! A gentle breeze came through as Heather met Geof at the altar and her veil had a mind of it’s own, adding lighthearted laughter to the start of the moving ceremony that ended in a joyful bubble exit!

2. We took golden hour photos out on the deck as the sun went down and the minimal yet modern copper arch wrapped in spring blooms and flowering branches, formed such a gorgeous backdrop for their couple’s portraits. I couldn’t get enough!!

3. Guests were seated at two long rectangular tables with floral arrangements of varying heights, wooden crossback chairs, modern menus, gold flatware, votives and a beautifully subtle gold and ivory patterned linen.

4. Two Rivers Chamber Music played instrumental music throughout dinner and ended the night with their favorite song, Everlong as Heather + Geof ran through a tunnel of confetti tossed by their guests; it was energetic, fun and such a perfect send-off for these adorable newlyweds!

Cheers to you, Heather and Geof! You deserve all the happiness and joy that this season of life will bring; your wedding was incredibly warm (literally, 70 degrees in March!), bright, loving and full of so many memorable moments.

I wish you all the best and can’t wait to see your future adventures together (with Remy alongside, of course)!

xo,
Naomi

VENDOR TEAM:
planning: Simply Created Events
venue: Citron
catering: Charles Levine Caterers
florals: Local Color Flowers
photography: Urban Row Photography
music: Two Rivers Chamber Music
officiant: Taylored Vows
invitation: mlc designs
getting ready: Sagamore Pendry
hair: Kimi Harbaugh
makeup: Nicole Palermo
dress: 16 Arlington Minelli Dress
shoes: Jimmy Choo
rings: Brilliant Earth
veil: Lord and Grey Bridal
groom’s attire: Indochino
linens and rentals: Select Event Group

13 of the best unique and intimate wedding venues in baltimore

Having an intimate wedding celebration is the perfect way to celebrate what makes your relationship memorable, unique and fun… there are so many benefits to having a smaller celebration (but that’s a topic for an entirely separate blog post)!

Micro weddings with an intimate group of loved ones have become increasingly popular — in this blog post I’m highlighting some of my favorite Baltimore venues for a tiny wedding ceremony and reception celebration. There are so many places in Charm City to bring family and friends together that speak to your values, personalities and relationship.

Enjoy these 13 unique and beautifully intimate and photogenic (both inside and out!) wedding venues in Baltimore!

1. The Ivy Hotel; luxe 19th century restored mansion in historic Mt. Vernon
   
   The sunken, private courtyard is my favorite place for an intimate wedding ceremony within The Ivy Hotel. It is lush, serene, meticulously designed and allows you to feel like you’re in an exquisite urban oasis.
   
   Planning a first look? The conservatory is a gorgeous backdrop for this special moment with a modern black and white aesthetic softened by all the greenery and old-world furnishings.

2. Sagamore Pendry; sophisticated, lush and stylish former pier building at the center of historic Fells Point

This venue earns all the heart eyes if you ask me — there are so many photogenic spots!! The hardest part is narrowing down where to take your portraits. The modern glass facade along Thames St. in the heart of Fells Point showcases the historic Main Street buildings across the street while the iconic red carpeted staircase feels chic, timeless and grand.

The courtyard is an incredibly lush and contemporary garden space that is like nothing you’ve ever experienced before and looks beautiful no matter the season.

3. Rye Street Tavern; refined, modern distillery on the waterfront in South Baltimore

It’s probably no secret that well-designed spaces catch my eye (thanks to my degree and previous career in architecture and design!); both the Sagamore Spirit Distillery and Rye Street Tavern are as crisp and contemporary as they come. With interiors designed by Patrick Sutton, this venue offers a warm, relaxed and polished vibe with unobstructed views of the industrial waterfront.

4. Mt. Washington Mill Dye House; industrial textile mill with historic character and modern design in Northern Baltimore

Full of rustic stone and brick, the courtyard space at the Dye House is perfect for intimate outdoor ceremonies; the large tree centrally located at one end adds a splash of green and softens the feel of the patio. The back patio is a fabulous place to have dinner under the stars with 30 people… adding bistro lights takes it to another level!

5. Gunther & Co; urban chic with a 16’ high living plant wall in Brewer’s Hill

This former brewery turned New American restaurant is full of modern design and brick + bluestone outdoor spaces that are stunning for photos; in the warmer months, the hanging greenery frames a beautiful place for cozy and fun moments together.

6. Artifact Coffee; historic mill building with cozy coffeehouse vibes near Clipper Mill and Woodberry

Full of charm, character and a cozy, romantic atmosphere, Artifact Coffee not only makes delicious coffee, but makes you look good inside or outside of its walls. The patio area surrounded by rustic, stone walls is simply perfect for small outdoor ceremonies.

Bonus that Clipper Mill is just a short walk away for some epic shots full of all the industrial vibes and textured backdrops you can imagine!

7. Rawlings Conservatory; botanical gardens + glass conservatory in Druid Hill Park

The architecture and design of this glass conservatory is an incredible backdrop on its own, yet the gardens flanking the front and side of the exquisitely planted grounds and the incredible variety of rooms and spaces inside, will leave you with endless choices for backdrops… it’s truly a garden lover’s dream come true, right in Baltimore city!

Established in 1888, the greenhouses are organized by climate and include a Mediterranean greenhouse, a tropical forest greenhouse, a desert greenhouse, an orchid room and the Palm House.

8. Woodberry Kitchen; rustic industrial within Clipper Mill

The string lights and vaulted ceiling with full-length windows let in as much natural light as possible and worn wood floorboards underfoot, add a romantic feel as your guests mingle...

The firepit patio area is surrounded by a facade of beautiful arches to form a backdrop to your portraits. If we have time to explore the rest of the Clipper Mill area, there are so many brick, wood and iron textured patterns to take advantage of!

No matter the season, Woodberry Kitchen’s vibe is always cozy, warm, comfortable and full of incredible food and aromas.

9. Heron Room; charming, natural, industrial vibes at Mill No. 1 on the Jones Falls

This restored mill complex is one of my favorites in Baltimore for many reasons; the views from the bridge above the Jones Falls are like nothing else in Baltimore and the texture of the brick and oversized rusted shutters just give it so much charm.

The cobblestone courtyard allows your ceremony to feel like you’re in a European piazza! Guests can enjoy cocktail hour outside on the overlook facing the Falls and you can have your first look and portraits in a number of places. It’s also dog-friendly!

10. Cielo Verde; a Latin-Mediteranean garden restaurant (operated by the Alma Cocina Latina team)

If you love food that is unique, full of flavor and an art form in and of itself, Cielo Verde will check all of your boxes! Located at the top of the AVAM with sweeping views of Federal Hill and the Inner Harbor, this restaurant has a beautiful private terrace and is filled with bright light and lush greenery throughout.

11. Mt. Washington Tavern; modern bistro with a Chesapeake Bay equestrian theme

With a modern aesthetic full of natural light, Mt. Washington Tavern has a variety of spaces to celebrate and a fun classic tavern feel both upstairs and downstairs.

The Pimlico and Chesapeake Rooms are bright and spacious, while the Sky Bar’s open-air seating area overlooks the heart of Mt. Washington.

12. Blue Pit BBQ; woman-owned, dog-friendly bbq + whiskey bar in Woodberry

This hidden gem in the Woodberry neighborhood has the best BBQ in Baltimore; their upstairs room and back patio make intimate wedding celebrations easy, laidback and fun so you can enjoy the day with your favorite people and know the food/drink and atmosphere are more than taken care of.

Everything at Blue Pit BBQ is made from scratch: meats are smoked slow and low, sides are carefully crafted and cocktails use fresh squeezed juices and homemade syrups. Blue Pit BBQ is named for pit bbq and their beloved blue pit bull… I love their dog-friendly patio that always welcomes well-behaved pups!

13. your rooftop deck and favorite spots in Charm City… (I’m 100% SERIOUS!)

Some of my favorite couples chose to elope at the Baltimore City or Towson courthouse and then go on a tour stopping at the places that are most meaningful to them… nothing is off limits!

• Want to flower a bench on a street close to your rowhome? DO IT!

• Have a rooftop deck with killer views of Federal Hill, Patterson Park or Canton? LET’S GO.

• Want to sit in Patterson Park and enjoy the greenery with a relaxing picnic or charcuterie board? WHY NOT!

I hope this list is a helpful starting point for the intimate wedding you may be planning in Baltimore… there are so many incredibly unique and creative venues and locations to get married in throughout Charm City!

Please reach out if you have specific questions about any of them or others you’re considering, I love learning about new venues and using my architecture and design background to be a helpful resource…

xo,
Naomi

caroline + josh | an intimate winter wedding at woodberry kitchen

Caroline + Josh chose to get married on an incredible wedding date — one that actually won’t happen again for 200 years! On a rainy and overcast Twosday (and it was actually a Tuesday!) February 22, 2022, these two sweethearts shared an intimate, memorable and cozy dinner wedding celebration with their closest family and friends at Woodberry Kitchen in the Clipper Mill neighborhood of Baltimore.

The rain stopped just in time for us to take portraits in and around the restaurant, one of my favorite spots in Baltimore full of all the best historic industrial vibes. Smiles never left their faces (and mine!); I hope you enjoy reliving their once-in-a-lifetime love story as much as I enjoyed being a part of it…

Woodberry Kitchen is such a unique and inviting space for intimate, micro weddings in Baltimore. Here are 5 reasons why this couple and their wedding stole my heart:

1. Caroline’s engagement ring was Josh’s grandmother’s and the bracelet she wore was her great-grandmother’s.

2. Caroline and Josh were beaming as they walked down the aisle together into their intimate ceremony. I love seeing how couples make traditions their own - Josh’s aunt even officiated and married them!

3. Guests were seated at 2 12’ long tables that allowed an intimate, family style feel to the dinner celebration with 3 course menus, checkered plaid napkins and tealights at each placesetting, to add to the cozy feel.

4. Caroline wore a fur wrap and Josh wore a paisley mustard yellow vest! Her bouquet included maroon calla lillies, dark red king protea, white and red roses and seeded eucalyptus.

5. The string lights and vaulted ceiling with full-length windows letting in as much natural light as possible and worn wood floorboards underfoot, added a romantic feel as appetizers were passed and guests mingled happily into the night.

6. Caroline and Josh share such a gentle, caring relationship full of sweet gestures and goofy laughs; while they now live in the heart of Fells Point, proposing at the Pagoda in Patterson Park is how it all started for these cuties!

Congratulations again, Caroline + Josh!! Your winter wedding at Woodberry Kitchen was such a joy and honor to be a part of; I hope you both continue to enjoy cozy, warm and delicious meals together with your favorite people for decades to come!

xo,
Naomi

venue: Woodberry Kitchen
flowers: Flowers Extraordinaire
dress: Allure, Romance 3457
boutique: Love It! At Stella’s
fur wrap: Sissily Designs
jewelry: Tigerlilly Couture

lucie + chris | a relaxed fall wedding at cielo verde at avam

All smiles and ready for a fun, relaxed, bright and happy wedding day…

Lucie + Chris were able to enjoy a beautifully warm October day as they got married at St. Ignatius Church and then celebrated their newlywed status with dinner, drinks and toasts at Cielo Verde! It was absolutely incredible - everything came together so effortlessly; everyone was ready on time allowing us so much time for a relaxed first look and portraits in the Pope John Paul II Prayer Garden on Charles St.

I just love the way you make each other smile; it warms my heart! Getting to know you both has been so much fun ever since we met up at Guinness for your engagement photos to learning you added an adorable #urbanrowpup to your family (hi Mila!!)… newlywed status looks SO good on you!

5 memorable moments and unique details from Lucie + Chris’ intimate wedding reception at Cielo Verde

1. The moody + textured Fall palette inspiring not only the florals, but Lucie’s lace BHLDN dress and her bridesmaids’ velvet maxi dresses by Baltic Born… so much gorgeousness!

2. The bouquets by Local Color Flowers not only looked incredible but smelled amazing too! I love that the bridesmaids’ bouquets were all foliage made up of locally grown mint, eucalyptus, sage, diervilla, sea oats, scented geranium, nandina, rosemary, forsythia, bush ivy and lotus pods.

3. The groomsmen all wore Star Wars cufflinks and crisp navy suits by The Modern Groom - so sharp!

4. Their first look took place in a beautiful urban garden along Charles St. in Mt. Vernon; it was private, lush and full of gorgeous light. The alley right next to it provided a simple wall of stone and stucco as the perfect backdrop for wedding party portraits!

5. Lucie + Chris chose to forego the traditional idea of a wedding reception and focus on an amazingly delicious dinner with their favorite people. Catered by Irena Stein and the Cielo Verde team, they ate, drank and were merry together all night.
   
   As their website describes, Cielo Verde is “a food garden on the top floor of the beloved American Visionary Art Museum, overlooking the historic Federal Hill. Cielo Verde 'Green Sky' offers a soothing & vibrant atmosphere, intended to nurture the eyes, mind and palate. With a focus on clean, green, sustainable food, Cielo Verde unifies the connection between food and culture. A culture where there is a deep rooted appreciation of food that transcends flavor, into gratitude of the earth and bounty from which it came. Enjoy full Latin-Mediterranean essence in a jungle oasis while you take a pause, have a drink, breath in and contemplate the old adage "as above, so below."

Cheers to you and your best day ever, Lucie + Chris!! Your wedding was full of so many bright and happy moments, an incredibly tasty and unique dinner reception, gorgeous warm October weather and newlywed portraits full of love and laughter… what more could you ask for?!

Thank you for all of your trust, kindness, excitement and genuine love - it was an honor to document it all! Give Mila a hug and kiss for me!!

xo,
Naomi

huge thanks to this vendor team!

venue + catering: Cielo Verde at AVAM
planning: Gretchen Savick
ceremony: St. Ignatius Church
officiant: Deacon Andrew from St. Ignatius Church
florals: Local Color Flowers
beauty: Brushed Beauty
dress: BHLDN Wtoo by Watters Francila Gown
bridesmaid dresses: Baltic Born
jewelry: Anthropologie
groom + groomsmen attire: The Modern Groom
groom’s ring: Sesto Synergy
desserts: Kupcakes & Co.
invitations: Minted
signage: DIY by bride
cookie favors: Be More Cookie Company
transportation: Baltimore Limo

elizabeth + steven | a lush, romantic micro wedding at the tannery barn

The sky was bright, the temperatures were warm and Elizabeth and Steven were beyond ready to be married at the Tannery Barn and celebrate with their loved ones in an intimate dinner under the stars.

This minimal, modern white barn with lush greenery and gardens surrounding it on all sides is an absolutely stunning Maryland venue full of charm, character and clean lines. It was the perfect space for Elizabeth and Steven’s intimate wedding ceremony — enjoy these early favorites!!!

4 MEMORABLE MOMENTS FROM E+S’ INTIMATE WEDDING AT THE TANNERY BARN:

1. Their first look — both full of such wonderful excitement and energy, their expressions said it all; they had waited so long for this day and to become husband and wife… I’m so glad they were able to have a few private moments to themselves!

2. The moment when their youngest son saw Elizabeth all dressed up was so incredibly loving and sweet. He was speechless, of course! :)

3. Their intimate dinner under the stars in the courtyard with one long table for their 20 guests, bistro lights hanging above and green and white florals and flatware to compliment the surrounding gardens.

4. Right before I left, Steven did a handstand and walked on his hands across the lawn so we could get a photo of it since he’s so good at what he does; it was awe-inspiring!

Congratulations again, Mr. + Mrs. Hamilton!! Your families were such a joy to be around, I’m so grateful for the opportunity to document this memorable day for you both!

Wishing you the brightest future together filled with lots of good food, great conversation and many more beautiful dinners under the stars!

huge thanks to this vendor team:

venue: The Tannery Barn
florals: Victoria Clausen Florals
catering: Linwoods
beauty: Spa on West Main
gown: Wtoo by Watters, Hemingway
boutique: BHLDN
groom’s attire: J Crew
officiant: Sharon Tillman

lizzie + jon | a heron room wedding full of muted + modern textured details

Lizzie and Jon are not only the best parents to their #urbanrowpup, Molly, but they have a killer sense of style, an impeccable eye for design and hosted an unforgettable wedding day that was intimate, modern, gorgeous, industrial and fun.

Living in Clipper Mill (my favorite historic + industrial neighborhood in Baltimore!), we took both their engagement photos there and Jon getting ready with his groomsmen and Molly, of course. :) The vibe of the entire day was relaxed yet excited, which led to some incredible candid moments with everyone!

Enjoy these early favorites from their wedding, 2+ years in the making… I am SO happy for you two and constantly want to relive this day!!!

6 memorable moments and details from Lizzie and Jon’s Heron Room wedding

1. The modern, muted and natural palette of organic texture, lush florals and mixed metals. The velvet dress that Lizzie’s sister Catherine wore, paired with the beading on Lizzie’s gown beautifully complimented and softened the historic brick and stone buildings of the old Mill.

2. Their pup Molly, was a huge part of the day bringing lots of smiles to everyone!

3. Jon looked so dapper in his crisp navy suit with a polka dot tie. When he and his groomsmen put on their sunglasses, I felt like I was on the set of a GQ photoshoot.

4. All of the lush, greenery combined with the textured brick and cobblestones at the Heron Room and the Mill No. 1 complex along the Jones Falls made it feel like we were in a tiny, cozy European city.

5. The floral arch by Emma of Steelcut Flower Co. was not only a gorgeous backdrop for their ceremony, but was able to be repurposed as their seating chart that Lizzie made in varying shades of pink to compliment the warm tones at the venue.

6. Forgoing the traditional parent dances, they instead had 5 toasts and speeches that brought everyone to tears and then kicked off a dance party that never stopped!

Congratulations, Lizzie + Jon! I can’t express how happy I am for you both and your families and how grateful I am to have been able to document this day… all the stars aligned to make your wedding day happen in a beautifully, relaxed and intimate way with your favorite people next to you!

Here’s to so many more moments together with Molly, dance party beats and the most beautiful memories, both big and small…

xo,
Naomi

kudos to this talented vendor team!

venue: Heron Room
caterer: Copper Kitchen
photography: Urban Row Photography
florist: Steelcut Flower Co.
DJ: CTL Entertainment
gown: BHLDN Sanders Dress from BHLDN Bethesda
bridesmaid dress: BHLDN Jenny Yoo Logan Velvet Maxi in English Rose
shoes: Steve Madden
groom and groomsmen’s attire: J Crew and Tie Bar
rings + groom’s watch: Radcliffe Jewelers
beauty: Autumn Estelle Artistry
officiant: Ben Dunn (friend)
invitation: Minted
escort display: DIY by bride + repurposed floral ceremony arch
custom flasks: Smathers & Branson

ilana + ben | elegant garden wedding at Tusculum Farm

As soon as I arrived at Tusculum Farm for Ilana + Ben’s intimate wedding, I knew it was going to be a beautiful day. The gardens were lush and in bloom, the sky was full of fluffy clouds and Ben’s dad happened to meet me as I parked my car.

Shortly before my first conversation with Ilana and Ben, I had recently photographed a wedding here. I mentioned it to them since they were still looking for a venue to get married that would allow their closest family and friends to stay and relax in a serene setting for a few days. Ben’s dad mentioned to me how grateful they were to have found this incredible wedding venue / family retreat after I suggested it… I’m just so glad it resonated with them!

The idea of a wedding as a relaxing retreat with your favorite people is the best thing ever — isn’t it?! While at Tusculum Farm, it truly feels like an escape from the rest of the world. I’m so excited to share Ilana and Ben’s wedding with you that was full of SO many memorable and magical moments unique to them, their values and beliefs.

These two beautiful souls share immense joy in just being present and it’s so easy to see how they are better together. Ben’s calmness is a perfect compliment to Ilana’s joie-de-vivre; at their engagement session, Ilana surprised Ben with a chess board because he loves games, strategy and puzzles. They share such a deep love of food, family and togetherness; I hope you enjoy these moments from their elegant farm wedding!

8 DETAILS FROM ILANA + BEN’S TUSCULUM FARM WEDDING THAT WILL MAKE YOU SMILE:

1. Ilana got ready in the Fox Den suite of the modern farmhouse while Ben got ready and enjoyed time with his family during the Tisch in the Hay Barn. Both settings were incredibly relaxed, spacious and comfortable.

2. They wed under a chuppah that Ilana hand-painted, her veil was made from French lace that had been worn by 4 generations before her and Ben’s kittel was also passed down to him.

3. A whimsical garden feel was woven throughout their details; Ilana’s gown was modern, elegant and full of lace florals while her heirloom lace veil had the most intricate detail - I couldn’t stop staring at it!
   
   Ben and his brother / best man, both wore floral shirts from Paisley & Gray.
   
   Ilana’s wildflower bouquet, chuppah florals and bud vases at the reception from Lucky Penny Floral were the perfect variety of scale, color and texture.

4. While seeing each other for their first look, they chose to read notes to each other. Ilana mentioned that hers wasn’t fully complete yet; the full version was on the computer, she just didn’t get to finish writing it all out… made for such a fun, honest, laugh between them!

5. The ketubah signing was followed by the bedeken and prayers for both Ilana and Ben by each of their parents. Since the veil was so long, Ilana got tangled up in it and it made for such a fun sequence of photos (see below)!

6. With such an intimate group, they invited most of their guests to come up individually and say a blessing during their ceremony.

7. Guests waved fabric streamers at the end of their ceremony to celebrate as they recessed down the aisle; colorful ribbon was also strung from the barn and the back of their chairs, to add a festive touch to the outdoor reception!

8. Cocktail hour was held by the pool, dinner was held under the stars overlooking the fields and dancing began as the full moon rose. There are SO many places to take photos (I guess I shouldn’t be surprised since they own 500 acres!), I could have easily spent all day taking their portraits… at the pond, near the greenhouse garden, the courtyard and gardens behind the house, the pool, the large lawn with the enormous trees, the Hay Barn, the rolling hills and fields…

I’m not sure if you can tell how much I loved this 3 level staircase…

Congratulations, lovebirds! I was so honored to document your intimate wedding at Tusculum Farm and witness all of the love, pride and joy your family and friends have for you. I wish you both nothing but a future full of simchas!

xo,
Naomi

VENDOR TEAM

venue: Tusculum Farm
planning: Vanessa of Little Black Book
photography: Urban Row Photography
videography: Isabel Studios
catering: Get Plated
florist: Lucky Penny Floral
officiant: Rabbi Daniel Burg
hair and makeup: Carla Pressley
band: The High and Wides
invitation: Greenvelope
ketubah: The Delicate Brush
gown: Made with Love - Stevie
shoes: Bryr Studio
groom’s attire: Paisley & Gray, Baltimore Custom Clothiers
cake: Taste This Cake

francesca + zach | a modern Gunther & Co. engagement

Francesca and Zach were so relaxed in front of the camera, making them an absolute joy to photograph… these two are model material and seriously set the bar so high! Their relationship is effortless and so full of joy - not to mention, incredible style…

5 REASONS WHY GUNTHER & CO. WAS THE PERFECT SPOT FOR FRANCESCA + ZACH’S ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS

1. Francesca + Zach had their first date here…

2. …and named their dog Gunther, since that’s where it all started!

3. The modern design of Gunther & Co was a beautifully simple backdrop to show off their love and relationship.

4. We had the back patio at Gunther & Co to ourselves and it was the perfect spot for a relaxing cocktail!

5. The golden hour sun peeked around the front of the building at just the right time for us to take advantage of it - this light is what all engagement session dreams are made of!

I love the way they look at each other and how Zach makes Francesca smile. It’s so genuine and full of excitement for what’s to come!

When golden hour came out to play, we were ready and waiting for those glowy shots… and they CRUSHED it!!

Francesca and Zach, I’m SO excited to see you again and document your wedding day in May - I know you’ve been waiting for this day for years, literally!!

xo,
Naomi