ally + doug | an ellicott city wedding full of love + puppies

It may have been a cold and dreary March day when Ally + Doug got married but you would never know it by looking at their photos — they were full of love, energy, and happiness all day long. A little rain wasn’t going to keep them from making the best of their big day! 

This Ellicott City wedding had it all – including a visit from the most handsome, tuxedo-wearing pups that brought out the biggest smiles from Ally + Doug!

Ally + Doug’s wedding was the perfect mixture of time-honored traditions and their unique personalities. They incorporated their families into their special day while still keeping it centered on their relationship. From where they got ready, to the church they got married in, the sentimental details they incorporated really added a unique feel to this wedding.

11 Memorable Moments and Details from Ally + Doug’s Ellicott City Wedding:

1. No other wedding has given me this unique opportunity: the chance to document a joyful and down-to-earth couple at Merriweather Post Pavilion before heading to the church and Main Street Ballroom for their reception.

2. Both Ally and Doug got ready in the dressing rooms of this concert venue, which made for the most unique getting ready photos!

3. Before she put on her wedding dress, Ally had a special surprise for her mom. The family had a wedding dress that had been worn by Ally’s grandmother and her mother at their weddings. It also played a role in Ally's sister’s wedding and other family milestones. Originally, Ally had planned to wear it but, even after getting it professionally cleaned, it had yellowed too much for her taste. Rather than not include it, Ally decided to surprise her mom by putting it on before her actual wedding dress. When she emerged from the dressing room, her mom was moved to tears. It was so heartwarming to see Ally, her mom and sister all sharing this special moment together.

4. After surprising her mom, Ally changed into her actual wedding dress, which was a beautiful layered tulle and lace gown. She paired it with her mom’s lace wedding shoes but also had pearl studded Betsey Johnson platform sneakers ready to change into for the reception.

5. Unfortunately, Doug + Ally both lost their fathers during their teenage years. This was something they bonded over and Ally knew she wanted to include her dad in their ceremony somehow. As her something blue, she used a piece of one of her dad’s old shirts as the ribbon on her bouquet of fresh white, blue, and green flowers.

6. Merriweather Post Pavilion provides so many unique backdrops for photos, but we decided to keep it simple for their first look. Taken against a stone wall, these portraits are simple, timeless, and classic – with one addition of course! The couple’s cute little pups, Brantley and Jackson, joined them for their first look (thanks to the amazingly helpful team at Furever and Fur Always!). Donning little tuxedos, they were ready to party and added such a sweet addition to their first look photos.

7. St. Paul’s Catholic Church atop a hill in Ellicott City, Maryland plays a huge role in both of their families. Doug’s parents, as well as members of Ally’s family, have been married in this historic church. Ally’s great-uncle is also a member of the Parish staff and officiated the wedding.

8. Since it was still raining when we arrived for their reception at Main Street Ballroom, we grabbed a few clear umbrellas (I always keep them on hand in my car!) and walked around the venue to take a few rainy yet adorably romantic photos with painted brick walls and string lights above. 

9. Their cute little pups popped up again a few times at the reception… on the cake topper and on their personalized koozies. I always love these little personal additions #urpcouples include in their weddings!

10. Since Ally’s father was not with us, her 5 uncles stepped in for the father-daughter dance. It was so much fun to see her go around the dance floor, floating from uncle to uncle. There was just so much happiness in the room!

11. Finally, as the night was winding down, Ally + Doug went outside with me to get some cool end-of-the-night photos. I love when couples choose to do this for two reasons: 1. We get some really fun and festive photos at your venue in a different light AND 2. It allows you to take a break from the craziness of your wedding and spend a few moments with just each other (+ my camera of course!) to really soak in the fact that you are now a married couple!!

Ally + Doug, you are such a beautiful, strong, and incredible couple. Your love of family traditions was inspiring to see and I know that you’ll continue to laugh together everyday in the future. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your special day. I wish you all of the happiness in the world!

xoxo,
Naomi

VENDOR TEAM:

planning + coordination: Simply Created Events
getting ready venue: Merriweather Post Pavilion
ceremony: St. Paul’s Catholic Church
reception venue: Main Street Ballroom
photography: Urban Row Photography
catering: Absolutely Perfect Catering
florist: Radebaugh’s
beauty: Happily Ever After
gown: Casablanca Bridal
boutique: Love it at Stella’s
DJ: Thiery Banks of Red Carpet Entertainment
cake: Sugarbakers
wedding day dog care: Furever & Fur Always
bridesmaid dresses + groomsmen ties: Azazie
groom’s attire: Jos A. Bank
invitations: Minted Weddings

rose + ryan | a rustic industrial black and white wedding at main street ballroom

On a perfectly cozy November evening in Ellicott City, MD, Rose and Ryan were married at Main Street Ballroom and looked pretty freakin’ incredible while doing it… actually, they made it look easy because they’re just that cute together.

I knew as soon as we were together at their engagement photos, that these two love to laugh, but what I didn’t know was how much they love to cry happy tears together too! Their November wedding was classic with a modern twist, fun, sentimental, heartfelt, unique and full of so much love… I don’t know how your celebration could have been any better!

Enjoy these favorites from their day… you may need a tissue nearby! ;)

10 MEMORABLE MOMENTS AND DETAILS FROM THIS BLACK AND WHITE, INDUSTRIAL CHIC MAIN STREET BALLROOM WEDDING:

1. Rose’s oversized white and greenery-filled bridal bouquet with a king protea as the focal point and palms framing the outer edges; so much texture!

2. The enormous and lush hanging floral installation over the dance floor and the white rose petals lining the aisle created such a romantic feel

3. The pearls that cascaded down Rose’s cathedral veil

4. Ryan’s Spongebob Squarepants socks and all of the grooms wearing different cartoon socks with Ryan in a white jacket with a black lapel

5. Rose’s emotional first look with her dad before seeing Ryan

6. Seeing each other for their first look as their wedding party watched from behind the window… TEARS x a million!!!

7. Their signature drink, “dos hermanos” named for their 2 #urbanrowpup (s); a spicy margarita

8. The seating display and welcome signage in black acrylic: crisp, clean and modern

9. The elegant and luxe black and white table decor combined with the rustic nature of the driftwood on the long wood head table.

10. Skeeball, Taco Bell and a donut bar to end the night!

There are no words to describe their emotional first look… happy tears were flowing from every single corner and I’ve never seen two people so genuinely overwhelmed with joy, emotion, love and excitement to see each other and get married! It was absolutely incredible and don’t worry, there were also more tears while walking down the aisle!

I loved how Rose’s bridesmaids hid her inside until we were ready for her to see Ryan! Group hug or hiding the bride? ;)

Rose and Ryan, your wedding is one that I will never forget; you’re the perfect team and compliment each other so well. You have an incredible sense of style (…obsessed with both your wedding dress and silk jumpsuit!) while also keeping it real and fun (cartoon socks for the win!)...

I miss being around you and seeing the effortless way you make each other smile - it’s the sweetest! Give the pups a hug for me and don’t ever stop making each other laugh; the way it comes so easily is your superpower!

xo,
Naomi

HUGE THANKS TO THIS AMAZING VENDOR TEAM:

venue: Main Street Ballroom
planning: The Otherside Creatives
photography: Urban Row Photography
catering: Zeffert & Gold
beauty: Bridal Glow with Victoria O
florist: Thurman & Fig
DJ: District Remix
wedding dress: Pronovias
dress boutique: Garnish Boutique
bridesmaid dresses: Lulu’s Bridal
shoes: Kate Spade
groom’s attire: Men’s Wearhouse
signage: Steph G Calligraphy
rentals: Barnes Farm Tables, Honeywood Rentals, The Otherside Rentals
skeeball: Talk of the Town Events

katie + chris | a cozy holiday engagement in historic downtown sykesville

I can’t get enough of how adorable Katie and Chris are together! You’d never know it was basically 40 degrees outside during their engagement photos…! We started in Patapsco State Park with their pups and ended in downtown Sykesville.

They were completely up for having fun — being playful, cuddly and sweet is definitely a recipe for success during engagement photos in a state park (especially when it’s chilly out); it made all the difference! :) Here’s to more wintry snuggles with your favorite person forever and ever…

After Patapsco, we headed over to Main Street in Sykesville to take advantage of the cozy and festive time of year with all the lights, holiday decorations and quaint, historic architecture… basically, my favorite combination!

I thoroughly enjoyed my time exploring Sykesville with you and can’t wait for your wedding at Main Street Ballroom!! It’s going to be the best day with everything you have planned, but especially, including because your pups Peppa and Lucy will be there as your flower dogs!!!

See you soon, cuties!

xo,
Naomi

cynthia + dave | a celebratory wedding reception at Main Street Ballroom

Cynthia and Dave had their second wedding celebration at Main Street Ballroom and it was so fun to be able to see this family again and gather together with the sole purpose of a fun celebration without most of the formalities. Their traditional and chinese tea ceremony occurred last year — see more here!

This time, Dave parted the big barn doors for their vow renewal with a light saber and they both entered the reception with their wedding party dancing to a remix of the song ‘best friend’… it was the most fun!

The dance floor was packed the whole night and the energy was ridiculously high. Ending the night popping champagne under bistro lights was incredible - I’m so glad you finally got to celebrate this way, you both deserve it!!

5 OF MY FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT THIS MAIN STREET BALLROOM WEDDING RECEPTION:

1. The greenery by Wander and Whimsy above the white barn doors added a lush, softness to their vow renewal backdrop.

2. Cynthia changed into a sparkly sequin reception dress and flats to dance the night away. Dave’s boutonniere was made of some dried elements from Cynthia’s dried bouquet from last year’s ceremony and was the perfect touch on his navy blue suit.

3. The newlyweds entered with Dave leading the way holding a light saber and the Imperial March playing… they then went into their first dance with a few upbeat songs following it, to get their guests partying right away!

4. Their textured cake had flecks of gold leaf and a perfect topper… ‘f*cking finally’. AMEN!

5. Popping champagne and taking night portraits outside on the patio was the perfect celebratory end to almost 2 straight years of planning their big day(s)!

Congratulations, cuties! Your emotional speeches and epic entrances were unforgettable. You guys definitely know how to throw one heck of a party… it finally happened!!

xo,
Naomi

venue: Main Street Ballroom
DJ: Brian of My Deejay
caterer: Chef’s Expressions
beauty: Kim of Poetically Brushed
florist: Wander and Whimsy Floral

cynthia + dave | an intimate and emotional main street ballroom wedding

On a picture perfect September day, Cynthia and Dave got married at Main Street Ballroom in front of 18 friends and family members. The emotion and anticipation of seeing each other during their first look came over them both at the same time… it was so genuine and beautiful to be a part of; the same thing happened during their heartfelt vows (I love it when couples write their own vows - cue all the happy tears and sentimental laughter)!

Their love story began 8 years ago at UMBC (see more here); finally being able to have the intimate wedding they had dreamt of for so long, meant so much, especially after everything they’ve gone through in having a pandemic uproot their original plans!

I’m SO happy we not only had amazing weather, but made time to walk along Main Street during sunset… the golden glow was perfect and it was the one thing missing from their engagement photos so we took advantage and definitely made golden hour magic along a historic street that is full of incredible portrait locations!

Cynthia and her bridesmaids started the day getting ready at a cute airBnB full of charm and personality in Federal Hill while Dave got ready at Main Street Ballroom. There were 3 sets of dresses and shoes that made up Cynthia’s wedding day look and each one was so perfect for that specific part of the day…

5 FUN FACTS ABOUT C+D’S MAIN STREET BALLROOM INDUSTRIAL CHIC WEDDING:

1. Cynthia’s main look was a timeless and chic Allure Bridals gown with a deep v-neck in the front paired with classic white Cole Haan heels and a BHLDN veil; for the tea ceremony, she wore this red lace Lulu’s dress with red heels and for the dinner reception at the Elkridge Furnace Inn, she paired comfort with style while wearing sparkly white Keds and a shorter fitted white dress.

2. This was my first time photographing a tea ceremony and it was so lovely! The double happiness symbol on the tea set paired with all of the gold jewelry that Cynthia’s mother passed down to her was such a memorable and respectful ceremonial tradition that made for joyful and relaxed photos with both of their parents.

3. Dave and his groomsmen showed off their personality with custom Star Wars socks and embroidered monogrammed fabric inside their Indochino tuxes.

4. After all the family and wedding party portraits, they popped champagne on the patio together… more post-ceremony champagne explosions please!

5. Despite having a small number of guests, they still came up with the most adorable and unique wedding favors; I have never seen anyone do this before and am completely obsessed! “Thank you for everything (but the bagel)…” Everything but the bagel spice in little glass jars!!!! Scroll down to see!!

When it was time for their intimate ceremony to begin against the white barn doors and chandelier above, the floral arch that Wander and Whimsy created, framed their love and provided a perfectly lush yet minimal backdrop to all of their photos…

Their traditional tea ceremony was full of love, laughter, lots of festive red and black details and an outfit change!

After cutting the cake and enjoying champagne (not the popped bottles, that came later!), it was time to head out for golden hour portraits and oh man, was it goooood… just look at how we started, with that light coming around the corner of the venue as Cynthia and Dave just happened to be walking up the hill. I saw them standing this way completely naturally and freaked out, telling them “DON’T MOVE! STAY RIGHT THERE and SLOW YOUR ROLL!” Haha, but for real… Cynthia had a few key spots where she wanted to take portraits and I honestly don’t know how to choose a favorite!

Congratulations again, cuties! From your proposal full of plushies to your party full of the people you love most, I am so excited for you both and can’t wait to celebrate with you again in 2021!

xo,
Naomi

VENDOR LOVE:

venue: Main Street Ballroom
photography: Urban Row Photography
florals: Wander and Whimsy
beauty: Poetically Brushed by Kim
gown: Allure Bridals
dresses: BHLDN Damaris dress and Lulu’s red lace dress
accessories: BHLDN floating flowers veil, BHLDN fairyn earrings and Etsy flower comb
boutique: The Bridal Boutique in Columbia
bridesmaid dresses: Azazie
groom’s attire: Indochino + The Tie Bar
Star Wars socks: Etsy
cufflinks: Hello Sunshine
teaset: Double Happiness Red Wedding Tea Set
shoes: Cole Haan
invitation: Minted

julia + keegan | a classic Fall wedding at main street ballroom

Julia and Keegan have known each other since 2012 and their adventures have taken them to college in different states and work in different countries... but if there’s one thing they both knew without a doubt, it’s how special of a bond they truly have and THAT is worth celebrating everyday.

On one of the most perfect holiday wedding weather weekends (Labor Day during a pandemic!), these cuties got married at Main Street Ballroom in Ellicott City and were able to enjoy not only celebrating with their friends and family, but throwing an epic party you have to see to believe!

The 5 unique ways Julia + Keegan designed their wedding to be full of classic, historic elegance and a fun, memorable experience for their guests:

1. Keegan wore a black tux with tails, a white vest and an all-white bowtie while Julia’s satin ballgown was chic and minimal with a deep curved v-neckline, hidden pockets (ALWAYS a fan of wedding gowns with pockets to make twirling more fun) and the same veil her sister wore at her wedding.

2. Julia’s bouquet was made up of burgundy, cream, magenta, blush and peach colored flowers interspersed with eucalyptus leaves; the heirloom silver balls that both her grandmother and sister carried in their wedding bouquets added a level of meaning and shine to what she carried with her.

3. Hosting their wedding in an industrial warehouse turned event space in historic Ellicott City, MD that has original windows, high-gloss concrete floors and exposed stone walls made for endless portrait locations with natural light near the front, a moody and private feel to getting ready photos and a beautiful patio space for cocktail hour, dancing, lawn games and portraits.

4. Keegan’s dad made personalized cornhole boards for everyone to enjoy playing during cocktail hour and even after dinner since the dance floor was closest to the front doors - it made it easy breezy for guests to dance and play!

5. Julia made their mini wedding cake herself with no professional or prior formal baking experience; it was an exercise in edible creativity and Keegan was more than happy to have to taste-test each version. ;)

6. The sparkler exit was one of the things Julia was most excited for at the end of the night and it’s easy to see why: with all of their guests lined up cheering them on, there was so much energy, romance and excitement as they left for the first time as husband and wife!

Julia + Keegan chose to have their first look in front of the classic white barn doors at Main Street Ballroom and their reactions say it all…

And then it was time to head out to explore historic Ellicott City and all of the incredibly unique backdrops along Main Street; the red bridge marking the entrance, the trolley museum, the rock wall, and so many beautiful stone, brick and painted wood alleys provided tons of creative photo ops!

This is the third wedding I’ve photographed at Main Street Ballroom (the first two are here and here!) and each time, the ceremony and reception setup has been different! I love when a venue has an endless number of layout options to truly design the day to be what best suits you.

Julia and Keegan chose to host their ceremony in the annex space off to the side of the main ballroom with a circular arbor structure adorned with greenery and florals by Everyday Rose Events. It was a stunning setup that allowed Julia to enter through the side door stairwell of MSB and have a long walk down the aisle and through the barn doors…

After the toasts during dinner, we went outside to take advantage of golden hour and all of the glowy light around the venue! These always end up being some of my favorite photos of our time together… you’re relaxed and married, your guests are eating, you’ve had a few drinks and the light is soft, romantic and the night is young!

I love the series of photos below because it shows the same moment captured in a very different way (having a second photographer has its perks)! And, how fun is that heart and black and white awning behind them!?

Congratulations, lovebirds! You’re officially married and looked incredible while doing it!! I hope your marriage continues to have as much sparkle as your wedding exit did!!

xo,
Naomi

the talented vendor team:

venue: Main Street Ballroom
florist: Everyday Rose Events
DJ: Frank of My Deejay
beauty: Vintage Veils
gown: Essense of Australia style D3080
boutique: Posh Bridal
bridesmaid dresses: Birdy Grey
veil/headpiece: Clarissa Boutique
catering: Carterque BBQ + Grilling Co.
cake: the bride!
cupcakes: Wegmans

megan + chris | modern Main Street Ballroom wedding | ellicott city maryland

You know how some people come into your life at the right time and you don’t exactly know how it happened but you count your lucky stars that they aligned when they did? Megan + Chris are those people for me.

Not only do you easily feel like you’ve known them forever after first meeting them, but you immediately see how perfectly paired they are for each other. Just look at the way he looks at her!! We share a love of so many aspects of city life (Patterson Park love story couples unite!), urban art/murals and craft beer…

The way Chris makes Megan laugh is so honest, genuine and full of life. I can’t wait to share their wedding day with you and the 6 reasons you will LOVE Megan + Chris’ modern industrial Main Street Ballroom wedding!!!

1. her Dad wore a kilt during their father daughter first look to nod to his Scottish heritage

2. Megan knew she wanted her bridesmaids to wear comfortable and cute shirts while getting ready but not the typical robes or pajamas… for a fall wedding, what’s better than FLANNEL with champagne bottles being popped by the bride?

3. they changed into personalized Converse shoes for the reception and their dance moves as they were introduced are some of my favorite EVER

4. their signature drink menu was a nod to their pups (yay for #urbanrowpup cameo appearances at weddings)

5. the most unique and larger than life handmade ceremony backdrop you’ve ever seen!!!

6. Megan and Chris took advantage of their historic and picturesque location in Ellicott City and prioritized portraits throughout Main Street which meant an amazing variety of backdrops for their photos… there was even a vintage blue 1962 Ford Falcon on the Main Street Ballroom patio waiting for them!

The inspiration for their decor started with the timing of the wedding day - it marked 3 years since Megan and Chris had their very first date. Since Chris proposed at the pagoda in Patterson Park (peek their engagement photos here!), getting ready at The Wayside Inn was a perfect way to incorporate the comfort of a spacious and historic bed and breakfast with a park-like setting for portraits before arriving at Main Street Ballroom.

From the start of the planning process, Megan and Chris had their friends and family in mind for every detail of their Ellicott City wedding. Macy and Jeanne of Enchanting Events & Design lead the planning of their day and executed it all so flawlessly, we were so grateful for all their talent and help both behind the scenes and on-site every step of the way - they never stopped smiling!

Cheers to endlessly celebrating your newlywed status, Mr. + Mrs. DeMillo! We loved being a part of your love story and can’t wait to see what the future holds for you both!!

xo,
Naomi

Nothing but love for this incredible vendor team!

planning: Enchanting Events & Design
venue: Main Street Ballroom
getting ready (ladies): The Wayside Inn
getting ready (gents): The Quintessential Gentleman
flowers: Washday Floral
caterer: Eleven Courses Catering
dress: Essense of Australia, D2126 style
dress boutique: Amanda Ritchey Bridal
earrings: Kendra Scott
bridesmaids dresses: Adrianna Papell
bride’s shoes: Badgley Mischka and Converse
suits: Jos A Bank
ties: Tie Bar
rings: Nelson Coleman
makeup: Dorsey Beauty
hair: Pins Curls Hair Artistry
officiant: Rev. Lauren Muratore
DJ: Theron Steiner
videographer: Thomas Edges
photobooth: Pixilated
invitations: Melanie Emerson
desserts: Sugar Bakers Cakes
leather jacket lettering: Adam Stab
signage: Signs of Our Lives
calligraphy: Jes Smith Designs
ceremony metal heart backdrop: Machen Art

unique and fun ways to personalize your wedding day

If there’s one thing I constantly hear from couples it’s that they want their wedding to be fun, memorable and a great experience for their guests who are traveling far and wide to celebrate their relationship…

But you know what I hear just as often that makes me even more excited for what’s to come in this industry? NON-TRADITIONAL details, elements, approaches and experiences making their way into wedding days like never before. HECK to the YES, PLEASE!!

Notice the custom hanging metal sculpture behind Megan + Chris below!? A super talented metalworker friend designed and fabricated it for them! *note to self: brainstorm how to incorporate friends talents…*

There are so many great ways to personalize your wedding and ensure stunning and sophisticated photos. Here are just a few of the favorites we’ve seen in 2018 paired together as opposites to show you all the creative ideas out there… if there’s one thing I’m all about, it’s visual inspiration! Some bright, bold and vibrant, others moody, monochromatic and minimalist… ALL beautiful and part of the story of your best day ever!!

Let’s begin with where it officially starts for you, the RING! So many choices to hold your precious diamond… are you a Kate Spade lover? Or a Mrs. Box collector (so many colors to choose from!)? Or something with more of a handmade, textured feel?

Which pup has the best style?! ;) 1000% YES to having your dog at your wedding! Furever & Fur Always is a great resource for all of your wedding day doggie care needs!

Are you envisioning blush floral print dresses for your girls (BHLDN/Jenny Yoo style) or more moody jewel-tones with some sparkle and beading? Maybe cool blue/green tone variations or preppy striped navy bridesmaid dresses?! Either way, mix and match looks have my heart!

The grooms and their guys have definitely been stepping up their style game too! Most popular continues to be gray and navy suits…

I can’t help but love slate blue suits as well, especially against an industrial backdrop like this metal wall at the Accelerator Space! This combo of light blue ties for the guys with a floral tie for the groom is making me swoon… or are you team black tie with classic black tuxes and bowties like Miles and his men?

What about fun custom shirts for your squad? Loving the preppy look of personalized pajamas and monogrammed floral robes!

Florals… aka I never met a bouquet I didn’t love. What’s your favorite when it comes to flowers? Do you love a certain style or shape of bouquet?

Speaking of flowers and greenery… what kind of portrait backdrops do you love? Ivy walls are always so classic and lush but mosaics add a fun artistic twist! Hint, hint: the American Visionary Art Museum has both and is one of the most unique venues I’ve ever seen that just happens to be steps away from downtown Baltimore and the waterfront… ;)

Have you considered custom invitations for your wedding? MLC Designs created this elegant and comprehensive suite for our December couple (below) and it was the perfect way to set the tone for their festive winter wedding at the Baltimore Country Club! Programs, napkins, escort cards, drink menus and other reception signage are all additional ways to make a statement with your day of details!

An October wedding at Holly Hedge Estate incorporated a subdued rustic theme while the whimsical vintage invitation by Hello Tenfold (with the fox save the date below) carried a botanical aesthetic throughout the suite for our Richmond, VA couple.

Loving this splash of color in a bright, garden inspired floral invitation suite paired with the floral lace on the bride’s veil! Another floral look focused on a soft romantic feel with Lauren’s lavender and gold invitation suite.

PRO TIP: Want an easy way to bring variety to your bridal look without breaking the bank? Some brides have 2 dresses but even more frequently I’m seeing 2 totally different pairs of shoes and I LOVE IT! Shoes can easily be worn again after your wedding and they’ll make your feet smile when you change into flats to dance the night away! ;)

The hardest part is going to be narrowing down your choices…

First looks! Inside or outside, I LOVE when couples take advantage of them… more time together means more photos before the day gets away from you, more intimate emotions and quiet moments to make memories of just the two of you…

Chuppahs and ceremony backdrops designed with lush flowers and natural elements or more minimally designed with copper tubing to accent a venue full of unique architectural features… which do you prefer?

There are so many creative ways to feed your guests! Oyster bars, mashed potato bars, brunch bars… you dream it, it can be fed to you.

Eleven Courses Catering (below) is one of the most talented caterers I’ve worked with and not only presents their food in artistic and beautiful ways but also ensures it tastes better than you’d ever imagine a catered dinner could taste!

Donut towers, custom cotton candy flavors, cookie tables, smith island cakes, cinnamon rolls… who wants just cake anymore?

Ombre tablescape, anyone? Crimson + Clover Floral Design CRUSHED this one!!

Lighting can make such a difference in a space! When it poured at the end of Lauren + Matt’s wedding, we still were able to go outside for some epic shots on the patio at the Accelerator Space since it was tented and they had hung string lights to enhance the twinkle effect!

At Lauren + Jeff’s Holly Hedge Estate wedding, mother nature played a role in their portraits at the end of the night and I loved the opportunity we had to take advantage of creative lighting in the rain!

Exiting at the end of the night is another way to have fun and create a lasting memory for your guests with sparklers, confetti, bubbles, lanterns or simply a fun getaway car!

Here’s to making your wedding the best celebration it can be, full of as much personality as the two of you!! I’d love to hear from you… leave a comment with some of the unique details and elements you’re thinking of including on your day!

sneak peeks | julie + joe's burgundy and rose gold main street ballroom wedding

“Everything with Joe just felt right from the very first day.” …shouldn’t all love stories start like this?!

Being from the same hometown, growing up in the same church, attending rival high schools and having countless mutual connections in their small community in Carroll County, Julie + Joe were truly meant to find each other!

Their wedding day at Main Street Ballroom in Ellicott City was full of overwhelming emotion, radiant joy and the most beautiful rose gold details that complimented the industrial metals and stone foundation walls that make up this historic venue!! Julie was an incredible bride, glowing from the inside out and the way Joe looked at his beautiful bride made my heart explode! I couldn’t get enough of Julie’s gorgeous red hair swept up in her mom’s veil and alllllll the flowing soft tulle netting on her WToo by Watters wedding gown. Speaking of dresses, the mix-n-match styles of the girls’ colored floor length Birdy Grey bridesmaid dresses in pinot noir, had me swooning from the second I saw them!

For now, enjoy these sneak peeks and know much more is to come!

Aren’t those scarves the perfect touch of subtle pattern and softness for a winter wedding?!

Pure JOY.

Hard to pick one, but the off the shoulder ruffled top of the Jane convertible Birdy Grey dresses might be my favorite!

cheers, newlyweds!
xo,
Naomi

---

huge thanks to this rockstar team!

planning: Sara Reynolds Events
venue: Main Street Ballroom
rentals: Something Vintage Rentals
DJ: One Rock Studio
caterer: Eleven Courses
flowers: Blossom and Basket Boutique
beauty: In Style Salon
officiant: Rev. Kirsten Blom-Westbrook
dress: WToo by Watters
boutique: Betsy Robinson's Bridal Collection
bridesmaid dresses: Birdy Grey in Pinot Noir
ring: Smyth Jewelers
shoes: Betsey Johnson
tux: Generation Tux
videography: Clay Estes Productions
cake: Santoni's Marketplace & Catering
donuts: Maple Donuts
transportation: Lasting Impressions: Maryland & Pennsylvania Limo Services