catherine + joey | a garden-inspired tented wedding with bright, colorful florals

The florals were bright and colorful, the sky was a bright blue and yet, Catherine and Joey’s smiles were the brightest and most radiant sight all day long. I can’t say enough about how beautiful their summer, garden-inspired wedding was!!

With more than one surprise confetti cannon sendoff, this vibrant backyard tented wedding had the most stunning and lush florals (the floral chandelier was my favorite!) and a tent full of bistro lights to provide the perfect glow as it got dark - enjoy these sneak peeks of Catherine and Joey’s September wedding day!

5 of the most memorable details and moments from Catherine + Joey’s wedding:

1. Her flower girl wore a dress that is a family heirloom and Catherine wore when she was that little.

2. The pops of blue in all of the details… from Catherine’s Loeffler Randall blue bow shoes to her bouquet, the bracelet Joey gave her and the textured invitation suite with blue lettering. The linens on the cocktail tables paired with the cozy wood lounge seating and simple blue and white seating chart, culminating in blue glass goblets and knotted napkins at each place setting were all so perfectly designed!

3. The surprise confetti cannons thanks to Lauren Corrigan Events and her team ensuring they were going off at exactly the right time at the end of the ceremony and on the dance floor!

4. Their #urbanrowpup Mosey, was able to join the fun before the ceremony got underway since they got married at Catherine’s childhood home.

5. The love and immeasurable joy that was felt throughout the day with each speech, warm glance and embrace that was shared.

Congratulations again, newlyweds!! Your wedding celebration was absolutely breathtaking every step of the was; it felt like a dream to be a part of and I hope you continue to always celebrate with confetti sendoffs from now on! ;)

xo,
Naomi

huge thanks to this incredible vendor team!

planning + design: Lauren Corrigan Events
beauty: Soiree Salon
florals: Crimson & Clover
band: Bachelor Boys
caterer + desserts: Copper Kitchen
paper goods + signage: Lauren Corrigan Events and Steph G Calligraphy
wedding dress: Peter Langner Chloe
boutique: Gamberdella
bride’s shoes: Loeffler Randall Dahlia Blue Bow
getting ready: Canopy by Hilton Baltimore Harbor Point
venue: private residence
rentals: White Glove Rentals
linens: Select Event Group
tent: Loane Brothers
transportation: Extraordinar

holly + josh | a vibrant and joyful rainy Wyndridge Farm wedding in May

It was a rainy and unseasonably cool this Memorial Day weekend, but that didn’t stop Holly and Josh from having the biggest smiles on their faces as they got married at Wyndridge Farm in a ‘quirky, different, and not too traditional’ ceremony that was respectful and reflective of who they are as a couple and ended with a packed dance floor before dinner even started… what more could you ask for?!

Their love story began as a mutual friend started a monthly dinner party where a group of friends pick a theme and meet at someone's house to cook and eat together. They met at one of those, talked some more at one a few months later, and then had their first "I'm not sure if this is a date" date at IKEA. That date lasted 13 hours and included their first coffee together of many more to come…

“Before I met Josh, I made a list of things I desired and required in a partner. He checks every box… (and the list is hanging up next to his desk to remind him of that).”

6 REASONS WHY HOLLY + JOSH’S WYNDRIDGE FARM WEDDING WAS SO UNIQUE + MEMORABLE:

1. Holly was an incredibly relaxed bride the morning of the wedding (and this candid photo below is one of my favorites - the Inn at Wyndridge had an air of calm excitement and anticipation as everyone got ready), despite the weather forecast forcing their outdoor ceremony to move indoors to Plan B… there was no shortage of love, smiles and witty jokes during their vows.

2. Those colorful floral Jessica Simpson heels and their way too cute coffee mugs.

3. Josh had his 3 piece suit custom designed, tailored and personalized by Baltimore Custom Clothiers; the buttons, lining and attention to detail were impeccable. He also wore it for their engagement photos at the Bromo Seltzer Clock Tower; it was so stylish and perfect (see more HERE)!

4. Holly’s 90+ year old grandmother was her flower girl!

5. They had a ringwarming station at their wedding ceremony for guests to hold and warm the rings with their best wishes before finding their seats.

6. For dessert they sipped coffee and enjoyed a cannoli in lieu of a traditional cake - The Traveling Tap provided gourmet coffee drinks for all of their guests!

Holly’s grandmother was her flower girl and the sweetest, most joyful lady to be around!

Who says family portraits have to be boring?

When it was time for the ceremony, Holly’s close friend Adam married them; they exchanged vows that were heartfelt and hilarious while the rings were full of warmth and love. It was incredibly heartwarming to see so many friends and family ready to celebrate with these soulmates!

Cheers to you Holly + Josh, you adorable newlyweds! You did it! I hope you’re enjoying your time away and savoring each sip of coffee as husband and wife! ;)

xo,
Naomi

Vendor Team

Venue + Catering: Wyndridge Farm
Photography: Urban Row Photography
Florist: Custom Florals
DJ: Howie of 3 West Productions
Desserts: Farmhouse Cakes
Hair: Leah of Arundel Village Hair Cuttery
Makeup: Morgan Allan
Groom’s Suit: Baltimore Custom Clothiers
Officiant: Adam McCaffery
Espresso Bar: Traveling Tap

sarma + chandler | an elegant and refined wedding at home in annapolis

The sky was full of clouds for most of the day this past Saturday. The temperature was perfect, but the sky wasn’t sure what it wanted to do as gray storm clouds hovered above with blue sky trying to peek out. Just before the sun actually set, golden light beamed through the trees and cast the warmest glow on this beautiful newlywed couple.

Sarma and Chandler had very different wedding plans a few months ago; their winter wedding in downtown Baltimore suddenly couldn’t take place due to Covid, so they moved their wedding to the lawn of their serene yard overlooking the water, in the place they now call home.

Watching their first dance together as husband and wife under the stars and bistro lights of the clear top tent, they radiated joy and so much promise for the life they will continue to build together for decades to come.

Their late October wedding was full of incredibly simple yet chic details that tied everything together so perfectly:

1. I almost lost it when I saw Sarma in her beaded cape from BHLDN - it looked like it was made for her! Talk about breathtaking!!

2. Her half-up, half-down hairstyle with twists and loose curls created a playfully elegant and soft, romantic vibe.

3. A lush and modern bouquet full of ranunculus, garden roses, scabiosa, burgundy dahlias, butterfly ranunculus and pink lisianthus was the perfect combination of dark and light tones.

4. An intimate dinner was held on the deck, under a clear top tent lined with bistro lights, burgundy linens, floral napkins and gold cutlery. The clear chiavari chairs only elevated the look.

5. Signature cocktails (French 75 for her, Bulleit on the rocks for him) and cigars were enjoyed while the sun set within a pastel colored Fall sky.

Congratulations to you both!! I was honored to document the official start of your married life together and wish you many more epic sunsets together!

xo,
Naomi

VENDOR LOVE:

planning + design: Lynn Aaron of Nouvelle Weddings
photography: Urban Row Photography
florals: Stacy Bowen Floral Design
caterer: Classic Catering
tent + lighting: Loane Bros.
music: Hill Chamber Music
makeup: Kristen Floyd Bridal
hair: Up Do’s for I Do’s
officiant: Anita Varzbergs-Paža
rentals: Select Event Group
day of paper: MLC Designs
dress: BHLDN Caron V-Neck Crepe
cape: BHLDN Palmer Cape
shoes: Badgley Mischka Jewel Tessy Embellished Sandal

nakeia + chris | a micro wedding with an old world feel in dickeyville, baltimore

Nakeia + Chris are still planning a larger party in the future but for now, they embraced the idea of a small and memorable intimate wedding at a historic home with their closest family and friends and it was absolutely PERFECT! The Dickeyville neighborhood where they celebrated, felt like it was MADE for them: it was relaxed, quiet, beautiful, full of charm and tons of character!

These lovebirds designed and planned their wedding to take place in one of the larger homes in the neighborhood on one of the 2 main historic streets; the upstairs bedroom served as Nakeia’s getting ready space, while the large gathering space on the first floor held the ceremony and was later transformed into a dinner reception.

We took advantage of the backyard full of greenery for family portraits and then explored the neighborhood together for their adorable just married, golden hour portraits (my favorite time of day)!

SIX UNIQUE AND MEANINGFUL DETAILS NAKEIA + CHRIS INCORPORATED INTO THEIR CANDID AND INTIMATE WEDDING:

1. Nakeia’s off the shoulder crepe dress had buttons running the entire way down her back as well as on her sleeves. So classic and modern all at once.

2. The baby’s breath in her updo added a romantic, whimsical and soft, textured look - the perfect way to tie in garden elements!

3. Nakeia’s Uncle Terry walked her down the aisle and was beaming the entire way; it was absolutely heartwarming.

4. They jumped the broom to symbolize starting their lives together!

5. The wedding party wore burgundy colors with orange ribbons tying the hydrangea bouquets together to represent Virginia Tech, the groom’s alma mater… Go Hokies!

6. Nakeia and Chris loved the Dickeyville aesthetic, so they prioritized portraits during golden hour… (more on what unfolded, below)!

Nakeia met her Uncle Terry at the bottom of the stairs and this moment of him beaming at her, makes me so happy. So much pride and joy!

We walked along the tree-lined streets, stopped in front of stone knee walls from the 1800s and ivy covered garden residences marveling at how quaint and cozy this hidden gem felt - it was like we were in a tiny European village (definitely reminded me of Cinque Terre in Italy!) as neighbors shouted down from open windows and came out of their homes to share in the excitement of their newlywed status!

Congratulations, Mr. + Mrs. Gardner! Your easygoing, relaxed and fun personalities were a joy to document - I can’t wait to see how you continue to celebrate your love next year and make memories together for decades to come!!!

xo,
Naomi

grace + david | an elaborate dinner party wedding at woodend sanctuary

Grace + David’s wedding day made me fall head over heels in love with them as a couple again… they personalized their day to be exactly what they wanted while staying true to themselves and prioritizing safety, family and a fabulous celebration (but you need to scroll down to see the way they both reacted during their first look and how to make a dinner for 9 incredibly elegant and memorable with a few key elements).

If you missed their engagement photos, go see them here, where I share more about the start of their love story and all the sophisticated, silly, sweetness that makes up their relationship! One of my favorite details that stands out and is still so rare these days is that they planned and executed their proposal together.

THIS ELABORATE YET INTIMATE DINNER PARTY WEDDING AT WOODEND SANCTUARY FELT LIKE A DREAM DAY FOR THESE 5 REASONS:

1. Yes they had a small guest list, but that didn’t stop Grace and David from having a celebration that was full of texture and fancy, luxurious and lush garden party vibes.

2. Incorporating one of the bride’s favorite landmarks, the Bishop’s garden at the National Cathedral, not only made for breathtaking portraits, but it complimented the feel of the entire day being primarily outdoors in an elegant and stately garden setting while still having covered areas in case of rain.

3. There were toasts, appetizers, multiple courses, dancing and lounging in a setting that consistently celebrated nature as the backdrop. Woodend Sanctuary has so many unique areas to host the entire wedding day: the tented terrace, grove of trees, portico, great hall and 2 separate getting ready suites!

4. With an intimate guest list of 11 including the couple and the bride’s adorable little nephews, everyone had a chance to share their wishes for the couple! David’s parents each gave a toast that was full of the sweetest life lessons and memories of his childhood while Grace’s parents recited a poem they created. When David’s Dad ended his thoughts with “now he’ll always have Grace to love him”, I nearly lost it behind the camera…

5. Grace changed dresses (I love when couples embrace an outfit change to make the reception more easily danceable and fun!) while David enjoyed whiskey in the library with his groomsmen.

But let’s back up to how the day started, as Grace got ready with her parents… here are some of the adjectives that come to mind as the day began: relaxed, classic, timeless, genuine, thoughtful, beautiful, sentimental, intimate, focused on family…

Throughout the wedding planning process (and even more so as we got closer to the big day that was postponed from May to August due to the pandemic), Grace and David always had the right attitude... they found their person and were excited to be married in whatever form that took!

I was so looking forward to documenting their rehearsal dinner and welcome reception at The Hay-Adams in DC with a ceremony and reception at Woodend Sanctuary in Chevy Chase, MD the next day. Then when COVID hit, those plans weren’t feasible. They knew that safely celebrating with their parents and siblings was the top priority and so downsizing to an extremely intimate and elaborate dinner party for 9 at Woodend Sanctuary after a ceremony where both of their fathers officiated, became the new plan. Working with Vanessa of Little Black Book they planned an extraordinarily relaxing and picturesque day that started with a first look and newlywed portraits at Bishop’s Garden at the National Cathedral.

Grace and David not only saw each other for the first time on their wedding day among the roses of Bishop’s Garden, but they were able to truly relax, enjoy and savor a slower pace before their ceremony since we had set aside 2 hours of time for portraits and signing their marriage license in a courtyard at the National Cathedral.

When it started to drizzle, we moved under one of the covered areas of the Cathedral where there is a beautifully tranquil space to sit and regroup… proof that a little rain is not only good luck, but inspires creativity in finding new portrait backdrops that have become some of my favorite from the day!

Originally planning to hold the ceremony in the tree grove at Woodend, their plan B turned out just as beautiful, if not more, because the garden-inspired florals on the long headtable were able to frame the ceremony views. Nadine DeLeon Designs incorporated pink and white blooms intertwined with greenery garland running along the front of the table - paired with light blue glassware and matching napkins to compliment the blue hues of their summer dinner party, it was such an inviting and elegantly whimsical tented patio ceremony and reception!

As soon as the ceremony was over, lounge seating was setup surrounding the perimeter of the ‘dance floor’ and a warm palette of mustard, gold and pink whimsical garden vibes with pops of blue and greenery accenting the space. David and the groomsmen (their dads and brothers!) enjoyed drinks in the library of the historic estate while Grace changed into her second dress of the evening that was clearly made for twirling...!

Congratulations again to you both and your loving families!! I was honored to be able to celebrate alongside you and document all of the love, support and joy that went into such a perfect intimate wedding - I can’t wait for you to continue to twirl and dance your way into married life!

xo,
Naomi

kudos to this talented vendor team!

design + planning: Little Black Book
venue: Woodend Sanctuary
portraits: Bishop’s Garden at the National Cathedral
florals: Nadine DeLeon Designs
catering: Purple Onion Catering
transportation: Reston Limousine

sneak peeks | kelsey + bryan's modern gray wedding at frederick douglass

One look at these two together and your heart just melts! The vibrant, contagious smiles on both of their faces stayed there all day; we couldn’t have been happier to be a part of Kelsey + Bryan’s modern waterfront wedding at Frederick Douglass Isaac Myers Maritime Park in Baltimore, one of the city’s oldest existing waterfront industrial buildings.

To say their day was perfect is an understatement! Here are 7 reasons why this September wedding is one I’ll want to repeat over and over:

1. dramatic clouds with no precipitation, no squinting and no harsh shadows; we had our pick of portrait locations because the clouds provided such even light

2. a gentle breeze coming off the harbor as they recited their vows on a historic pier between two absolutely stunning sailboats, Lady Maryland and Sigsbee

3. family that traveled from across the country and the pond to witness the beginning of their marriage together (some had never been to a big city like Baltimore!)

4. a wedding party that helped us run ahead of schedule the entire time which rarely happens and made me so happy for them and the endless amount of photos we were able to take… my favorite of the day was when we found scooters right in front of the metal doors at Frederick Douglass and this too-cute-for-words couple, hopped on for a photo like it was their JOB!

5. the ice cream sandwich bar with cookies made by the groom’s mom and ice cream by Taharka Bros… we won’t talk about the mini donut burger appetizers that Copper Kitchen provided during cocktail hour (!)

6. the bride’s dad built wooden lanterns that were the perfect ceremony and cocktail hour decor filled with eucalyptus, greenery and anemones.

7. and if all of that wasn’t enough, guests enjoyed a prime view of fireworks across the harbor from the dance floor during the reception (that were completely unexpected and a happy accident, thanks to Fort McHenry’s Defenders Day)!

We are so happy and honored to have gotten to know you two over the last year and hope you have the most memorable and relaxing honeymoon in Key West! Here’s hoping they can make you a Camden Crush to sip on the beach!! ;) Cheers to the new, #marriedmacks!

shoutout to the incredible vendor team!

venue: Frederick Douglass Isaac Myers Maritime Park
photography: Urban Row Photography
florist: Bay Blossoms
DJ: Paul Parrinello
Officiant: Rev. Lauren Muratore
catering: Copper Kitchen
dessert: Taharka Bros. Ice Cream + cookies by groom’s mom
hair: Allison Harper & Co
makeup: Swept LLC
wedding dress: Casablanca
dress boutique: Savvi
groomsmen attire: The Black Tux
groomsmen accessories: The Tie Bar
invitations: Etsy + couple DIY
reception decor: Event Dynamics
transportation: Apollo Transportation

steve + joe | a bolton hill + brewer's art sailboat engagement in baltimore

Steve + Joe are such a perfect compliment to each other. This thoughtful, fun-loving couple incorporates a sense of spontaneous adventure and a love of art, architecture and culture into their busy lives. Knowing that, it was no surprise that they chose Bolton Hill, one of Baltimore’s most beautiful and historic neighborhoods, for the start of our engagement session together with their #urbanrowpup, Luther (always include your furry friends, please)!

Between the park they live near and the collection of magnificently restored 19th-century brick rowhouses on tree-lined streets among pocket parks and garden residences, Bolton Hill set the bar pretty high when we started out! We stumbled on my favorite urban backdrop: an ivy-covered brick wall that perfectly framed these two and set the tone for a relaxed, urban oasis feel to their Baltimore engagement session…

In Joe’s words, the story of how they met…

“We got together for our first date at Max's in Fell's Point. Steve had been running around for work the entire day and I had been planning to meet some of my friends from my masters program at Bad Decisions around the corner for drinks after my date was over. And then the date didn't end. We went for a walk along the waterfront (Early November so I'm sure it was chilly but I don't remember being cold) and had our first kiss on a secluded stretch between Fell's and Canton. Then we saw each other the next day and the next…”

With Brewer’s Art being one of their favorite local bars with Baltimore brews, we had to stop there on the way from Bolton Hill to Fells, where Steve’s boat was docked and waiting for us. I’m so glad we did - what an incredible place to enjoy a beer!

TIME OUT. Why are sunsets from a sailboat that much more amazing!? The breeze, the colors, the smells… life is so much fun while enjoyed by the water. I’m so glad Steve suggested incorporating his boat during our time together; it was the absolute perfect way to end a gorgeous summer night on the harbor!!

As if that all wasn’t enough, they were featured on Equally Wed, and I couldn’t be happier to have their love story and engagement photos shared with the world. Their vision of celebrating their life and love in Baltimore both during their engagement session and at their upcoming wedding at Mt. Vernon Park and The Assembly Room is simply perfect.

We are incredibly honored to be a part of your wedding day and can’t wait to capture all the urban art and industrial love you share with so many friends and family!!

xo,
Naomi

5 tips for a stress-free wedding day

No matter how intimate or lowkey your wedding day plans are, if you’re planning a party and celebration with family/friends from many different seasons of your life, it has the potential to be a stressful, whirlwind experience.

After photographing weddings for the last 7 years, I’ve seen the day organized in so many different ways to learn what works best and what adds stress. In order to ensure your photos and your experience on the big day is the best it can possibly be, I’m happy to share the knowledge I’ve gained for your benefit.

Here are five tips to reduce stress on your wedding day (in no particular order)!

BONUS: if you hire experienced professionals, even the wedding planning process will go more smoothly with these tips for a stress free wedding day in mind!

1. Be strategic about your ceremony start time since it will determine the flow of the rest of the day.

If you plan it well, you can have beautiful portraits of the two of you together while you’re relaxed and excited, not feeling rushed and your hair and makeup is still fresh by choosing to see each other before the ceremony and take advantage of all the benefits of a first look. Not only is it quiet, uninterrupted time for just the two of you, but then you can enjoy the entire cocktail hour since you’ve paid for it and deserve to enjoy a drink and apps with your guests! We’ll also be able to focus on alllll the candid photos of you two (and your guests) since the formal portraits have been taken care of: WIN-WIN!

Also, if all of your formal portraits are done before cocktail hour, we can spend quality time in your reception space capturing all of those details (florals, place-settings, cake, escort cards) that will be untouched by guests and their stuff before they find their seats.

For all of our winter couples, please keep this in mind! It’s almost impossible to get gorgeous naturally lit photos of you after the ceremony (if you don’t do a first look beforehand) unless your ceremony starts super early in the day - which means an earlier wake up call and start time for hair/makeup, since the sun sets so early.

2. TRUST your photographer and the creative eye that comes with their experience.

…and talk through your vision of the day to help you determine the right kind and amount of photography coverage you need!

Do you need 2 photographers?
Generally speaking, if you and your partner are going to be getting ready at 2 completely different locations, you’ll want 2 photographers otherwise moments may be missed while we’re with your other half.

If you have a large bridal party and/or guest list (140+), you’ll want 2 photographers so we can divide and conquer groomsmen/bridesmaid group portraits and then be sure once the reception begins, that one of us is able to focus on candid shots of guests mingling, reacting to speeches/toasts, dancing, etc. while the other is focused on YOU as a couple and the details you’ve spent so long dreaming of and planning for.

Will 8 hours be enough?
9 hours of coverage is the sweet spot for most couples, especially if your wedding takes place in a city where traffic, road closures, races, festivals can/will happen without advanced notice as we travel from the ceremony to reception!

Do you have a special exit planned for the end of the night? …sparklers, a getaway vehicle, petal toss, beach balls, confetti/streamers, glow sticks are all fun options!

Do you have 2-3 locations that we’ll need to travel to throughout the day? ie: getting ready at a hotel/airBnB/your childhood home, a church/beach/park ceremony then a reception at a different venue?

3. The venue coordinator is NOT the same as an experienced and professional event designer / wedding planner.

Hire a professional event planner/coordinator who has your vision and best interests in mind, not the venue’s (and let that close family friend enjoy the day as a guest, despite how much she may enjoy helping you plan and is great at wrangling people)!

If they’ve worked at your venue it’s a bonus, but definitely not necessary. What is necessary is professionalism, good communication skills, and a knowledge of local vendors within the industry that can execute your vision or come through in an emergency. If a planner/coordinator is involved, you may not even know that something happened until you learn about it while on your honeymoon ;) but can you imagine how stressful it will be for you or your family members to troubleshoot if your DJ / officiant / caterer doesn’t show up on time? what if a groomsmen’s pants don’t match the rest of the group and/or 1 set is missing? what if boutonnieres are left at the hotel 45 minutes away? what if there’s a sudden flood / snowstorm? what if the shuttle gets lost and isn’t there on time to transport you, your wedding party and/or all of your guests?

Having a planner on your side means it’s THEIR job to worry and solve any and all of the above circumstances!

4. As much as possible, limit how often people are moving from one venue/site to another.

This affects logistics like the amount of time your photographer/videographer are contracted for, extra costs for shuttles/transportation, clear communication to your guests to ensure no one gets lost or arrives late. Couples that choose one site for everything to take place from start to finish are always less stressed and have more time and mental / physical energy to enjoy the day… not to mention, you’ll have more photos of all the moments since your photographers won’t be spending precious time traveling from one place to another either!

5. Do the da*n photos… as in, take advantage of and enjoy the time you spend on your engagement photos.

I know I’m biased, but I have to say, no one I’ve worked with has ever regretted taking engagement photos. You can read the 6 main reasons why I recommend them HERE, but the reason I mention it as a way to make your wedding day less stressful is because there are so many emotions, thoughts, logistics and personalities coming together that day - the last thing you want to worry about is how to relax and be comfortable in front of the camera. No one should meet the person documenting one of the biggest days of their lives (hopefully it’s me!) for the first time, on their wedding day. In fact, my favorite photos happen when we have a relationship that feels like I’m a friend of yours who happens to show up with a fancy camera. ;) Let all the awkwardness work itself out during your engagement photos, not on your #bestdayever.

Regardless of the flowers, dessert and music, at the end of the day, you’re marrying your soulmate and that is all there is to it. The next day you’ll wake up with a whole new adventure in front of you whether it’s a honeymoon, a new house, a new last name, a new family or simply knowing you’ll always have someone to snuggle next to on the couch while you watch Dateline on Friday nights, because you know, #dontwatchalone. ;)

katie + zach | a bmore licks + fells point engagement

When I first spoke to Katie and Zach, one word kept coming up in the conversation: relational. In all honesty, I’d never heard one of my couples use that word as often as they did. After learning how Zach proposed to Katie, hearing how they finish each other’s sentences, and watching them interact together as we started at Bmore Licks for their engagement session, I immediately got it…

Their upcoming wedding at Rosewood Farms is going to be quite the celebration - after you read more about these two lovebirds below, you’ll understand why!

4 reasons why these Fells Point / Patterson Park locations were so meaningful for Katie + Zach’s Baltimore engagement session:

1. Ice cream with rainbow sprinkles (Katie’s favorite ice cream topping) was part of Zach’s proposal scavenger hunt which started and ended in Fells Point…

2. Zach proposed to Katie on the same bench we ended at on Bond Street Pier in Fells Point

3. It’s their favorite way to spend a Friday night: with a walk by the water, ice cream and cuddles. But Katie also added, “as long as … our two future golden retrievers are there”. (#urbanrowpup love at its best)

4. This last fact has nothing to do with where we took their engagement photos, but has everything to do with how thoughtful Zach is. He designed and created the wooden ring box he presented to Katie WITH her Dad’s help since he is an incredible woodworker and it was something they could bond over and create together, leading up to the proposal.

Katie radiates joy and Zach described it perfectly: “When Katie smiles, she smiles so much that her eyes close shut.” I believe that they’re both incredibly relational as they highly value thoughtful, meaningful moments and gestures in their relationship and it’s apparent as soon as soon as you are around them.

In Zach’s words, how they met:

“We met early on in college at Johns Hopkins. Katie was the star point guard on the basketball team and I rode the bench on the football team (kidding, sort of). Needless to say, I definitely noticed Katie first. We were both a part of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at Hopkins, and I distinctly remember telling a buddy of mine “she’s my kind of girl”. I was drawn to Katie from the very first moment.

One night while at dinner with FCA, Katie mentioned that she likes to bring a cupcake to friends for their birthdays. I jokingly (read: pleadingly) asked her if she would do the same for me. Katie, being the sweet, relational person that she is, agreed. She was pretty surprised to learn that my birthday was in fact the very next day! I think the fact that Katie actually brought me one the next day is more of a testament to the person she is than any interest she had in me at the time. Needless to say, I like to think it all started with a cupcake.

…during finals week, she let me meet up with her and walk her home from the library every night. I even surprised her with her own cupcake on her birthday. Finally, we went on a few more dates!”

In Katie’s words, how the proposal unfolded:

“Zach made the decision at the end of his third year of medical school to take a year off so that we would be in the same class and would be eligible to apply for a couples match for residency. It was since we made that decision that I knew I wanted to marry this man and he later asked me to marry him in the most perfect proposal ever: a scavenger hunt to all of our favorite places in the city.

[By the end] I was so stinking excited that all I wanted to do was finally see Zach. I was then given the last clue that sent me back down to Fells Point, to a particular park bench overlooking the harbor that Zach and I have sat and talked at many times. Only tonight, our favorite park bench was decorated with jars of lights and looked even more perfect. It was there that Zach got down on one knee and asked me to marry him and with a great big smile on my face, I said “YES”. We had a few minutes to ourselves to just soak in the moment, walking around by the water before finding our hidden photographer who had captured the whole thing. After that, Zach and I went to a nearby bar where so many of our friends, as well as Zach’s family were gathered, many of whom had traveled many hours to celebrate with us. As Zach mentioned, I am a pretty relational person so it meant so much to me that Zach incorporated not only so many of my favorite things, but also so many of our favorite people in the proposal. All I can say is that he set the bar pretty high for himself for any future anniversary or celebration.”

I have loved getting to know you both so far and admire how heartfelt your relationship is. I already have tissues ready and waiting for your wedding day because I know I’m going to be crying all the happy tears throughout the day as you become husband and wife and never have to say goodbye on a Sunday again… I can. not. wait. for your spring wedding at Rosewood Farms!!!

xo,
Naomi

sneak peeks | rachel + hale's kent island wedding at maria's love point

Rachel + Hale’s wedding was my first on Kent Island and wow… it set the bar as high as you can imagine. Between the picture perfect June wedding weather, a private first look on the beach, a ceremony full of so many family and friends out on the lawn, a poolside cocktail hour and sunset photos on the dock, I really don’t think they could have asked for a better day (and location) to celebrate their love!

To give you a taste of what makes this adoring couple so special, here’s how they answered… “what's your favorite thing about your fiancé?”

“I don’t know where to start with this question. If there weren’t a million reasons, we wouldn’t be engaged. Hale is my support, my reason to better myself, and my other half. We fill the gaps that the other cannot on a day-to-day basis. He is intelligent, kind almost to excess, and has a super power that gets people to open up to him where they normally wouldn’t. We each need each other.”

Hale’s answer: “I’m not allowed to answer that right now. It’s pretty much my vows word for word. I agree with everything Rachel said. :)”

Their father daughter first look and his expression was simply priceless! Such pride…

I’ll never forget how Rachel responded when we said to just enjoy each other and this moment, right before he saw her for the first time… “you won’t have a problem getting us to smile…”

Is their joy and love for each other not the sweetest thing you’ve ever seen?! She was absolutely right though… these lovebirds just wanted to snuggle up, get cozy and enjoy every minute of their wedding day, together. Which is exactly what I love about our couples! Photos are a huge priority. Rather than focus on the details and mingling during cocktail hour, Rachel + Hale prioritized portraits: of them, their families and their friends, out by the water.

Do you see this sky?! Cotton candy skies at golden hour are my FAVORITE. I couldn’t believe how perfect the light was! Not only at the dock but then turning the opposite direction, the pale peachy glow along the rocks and grassy hill was just as beautiful too. Weddings at Maria’s Love Point are so picturesque with so many different places to explore for portraits. It was a match made in heaven for a couple that wanted nothing more than intimate, heartfelt meaning to their day.

When Rachel’s sister, the Maid of Honor, surprised them with the shoe game as part of her speech, the whole tent was roaring in laughter. They had the best matching answers, every time and of course both answered “me!” to the question of who loves the other most.

Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and exploring all the medieval castles together! Congratulations again, newlyweds!!!

vendor team:

venue: Maria’s Love Point Bed & Breakfast
planning + design: The Otherside Creatives
hair: Lauren Riesett
makeup: Attomic Cupcake
cake: Sugarbakers Cakes
catering: Windows on the Bay, Dennis Walz
DJ: My Deejay
florals: Petal Pusher
officiant: Carole Kerr

BRIDES: 3 important details to have with you at your wedding

Over the years of capturing countless weddings, I’ve noticed 3 things that come up time and time again that are small on their own but can make a big difference in your photos, your physical comfort and even your mindset that day.

Brides, here are 3 important things to have with you on your wedding day that you may not have thought of… (ps - a blog post specifically for grooms is coming soon!)

1. A second pair of shoes to wear
   
   This allows you to have your fancy (high heeled!) shoes captured in detail photos and worn during the ceremony but then change into a more comfortable flat or wedge for portrait time and dancing…
   
   Speaking of shoes, if your ceremony is outside and you’ll be walking down a grassy aisle with you or your ‘maids wearing heels, make sure to get heel protectors so you don’t sink in the grass!

Sparkly Badgley Mischkas or any of Kate Spade’s wedding shoes are always a classic way to go!

2. A nice hanger or a thoughtful way to display your dress if it’s more than 1 piece

I always bring a solid white wood hanger with me for your dress in case you don't have one, but use this as a fun excuse for something your friends or family can gift you that will definitely be captured in detail photos!

I’m LOVING these simple, solid gold (or rose gold) hangers and in gun metal for the guys!

3. Knowledge of how the bustle of your dress works

Pro tip: Take a video of it while at your last dress fitting so you have a reference when it comes time to bustle it after the ceremony; you won't want to be away from your guests for 20 minutes trying to figure it out and remember how it works - who wants to miss that precious time at cocktail hour?!

The best bustle I've ever seen was done so intuitively: the seamstress color coded the loops and buttons that were supposed to be matched and connected together so it only took 3 seconds to do. Why aren’t they all done like that?!

And what NOT to have with you…

• a hair band / FitBit / AppleWatch on you or your bridesmaids wrists. This dark black line/square distracts from the beauty of your photos and time/steps are not what you should be worrying about on that day! (…this also applies during your engagement photos and maybe even more so, then)

• Your phone. It goes without saying (I hope), but this is the one day EVERYONE else will document for you... and instead of a device, you should be present and either hold your spouse's hand, a drink or your bouquet. ;)

Hope this helps ensure your best day ever is that much more comfortable, beautiful and easy to manage in the final weeks leading up to the big day!

sneak peeks | ashley + greg's classic sagamore pendry wedding

Ashley + Greg’s Sagamore Pendry wedding in the heart of Fells Point will be filed under what wedding dreams are made of and then some... hearing this incredible couple keep saying ‘this is honestly better than we could have ever asked for’ made an already GORGEOUS day into one that I don’t know how we’re going to top!!!

It’s hard for me to put into words how wonderful these two are together as a couple but also as individuals that compliment each other and create a perfect balance of modern, playful love, genuine happiness and honest connection.

While it was our first time capturing a Pendry wedding (…and ready to go back in a heartbeat!), we’ve worked with the Lemon & Lime Event Design team numerous times over the years and each and every time, the timeline runs like clockwork, we get to have fun as part of a creative and collaborative team and our couples are relaxed, happy and completely overjoyed. All of that translates to epic photos… especially when it’s 75 degrees outside on the last Saturday in March and the sun, wind + clouds play together perfectly timed for portraits on the pool deck, pier and balcony.

The red carpeted grand staircase was literally made for moments like this…!

I love both of these photos on their own but also since the sequence shows the value in having the perspective of 2 photographers capturing the same moment. They both tell very different stories of Greg’s first look at Ashley and I personally, can’t pick a favorite.

From happy tears streaming down cheeks within a glowing courtyard to vows that included how Ashley will still never fold her laundry (I’m with ya, girl!) to a ceremony processional with cheers of joy surrounded by their best family and friends… truly magical in every sense of the word.

Cheers to you both!!! We couldn’t be happier and more honored to have captured the start of your married life together! We’ll just be right here reliving this day over and over until we see you again!

xo,
Naomi

Team of Wedding Professionals

venue: Sagamore Pendry Baltimore
planning + design: Lemon + Lime Event Design
photography: Urban Row Photography
florist: Flowers & Fancies
DJ: Mixing Maryland DJs
hair + makeup: Up Do’s for I Do’s
officiant: Patrick of Elegant Ceremonies
lighting + lounge furniture: Event Pro
rentals + linens: Select Event Group
wedding gown: Essence of Australia
dress boutique + veil: The Bridal Boutique
bridesmaids dresses, ties + pocket squares: Azazie
shoes: Betsey Johnson
groom + groomsmen attire: Menguin
wedding bands: Zales + Kay Jewelers
cake: Sugar Bakers Cakes
invitation: Minted

lauren + matt | industrial garden wedding at the Accelerator Space

Lauren and Matt are such a fun-loving and creative, happy couple that it was no surprise to me that they wanted to celebrate their love of Baltimore and their neighborhood as much as possible on the day of their wedding! They had their first look at the rowhouse they owned less than a block from Patterson Park (and one street over from where Anthony and I used to live!)… you may remember their engagement photos we did in Patterson Park and Fells Point; to this day, I’m still obsessed with Lauren’s vibrant and carefree colorful dress paired with a denim jacket and mustard heels.

I’ll never forget the first time we met at R House; we bonded over a love of being outside, city life, upstate NY travel and rowhouse renovation stories. I was so excited to see their Baltimore wedding come together celebrating so many local, talented vendors and Lauren’s love of flowers and a garden-inspired aesthetic to soften the structure of their industrial chic wedding venue!

Lauren wore 2 BHLDN gowns throughout the day and 3 different pairs of shoes (the Rifle Paper Co x Keds were my favorite!). The vintage suitcase she used to hold all of her details as she gathered them throughout the wedding planning process was a gift from a family member that was so functional and beautiful, we had to feature it in her getting ready photos!

Want to know a huge bonus to getting ready at your house? The ability to easily include your dog! Penny, their sweet little pup got to be a part of the photos and even, their first look!

Matt and his groomsmen treated themselves to a day at the Pendry while they got ready there. The courtyard is all sorts of groomsmen goals…!! That architecture and dark steel softened by the lush greenery…

Quite possibly my favorite first look ever.

When you live steps from Patterson Park, portraits in the park are a must do. The bouquet from Lucky Penny Floral Co. had just the right touch of blue with an incredible texture and shape to it!

I loved how they changed up the order of their day to allow for time to mingle with their guests BEFORE the ceremony. Yes, cocktail hour preceded the ceremony at the Accelerator Space! Hint, hint… more couples should do this! It was such a fun, casual way to allow the bride and groom to interact with their guests before the actual formal events started. Notice Lauren’s second dress and pair of shoes of the day! How cute, sparkly and festive is it with her earrings from J’Adorn Designs and that clutch and signature cocktail!??!

The reception details and tablescape elements were all handmade by Lauren (menus, favors) and the ceremony backdrop was designed and installed/hung by Matt, an engineer.

They danced the night away with the help of Bachelor Boys Band after enjoying a local meal by Tablefield Catering, Taste this Cake and Pietime, all vendors at Bmore Kitchen, the food incubator directly below the Accelerator Space.

Cheers to you, adorable lovebirds!! We are so honored to have been part of your wedding and can’t wait to see what the future holds for you both!

xo,
Naomi

Vendor Team
venue: Accelerator Space
florist: Lucky Penny Floral
wedding gown: Catherine Deane
dress boutique: BHLDN Georgetown
veil: Noon on the Moon
shoes: Blue by Betsey Johnson, Keds x Rifle Paper Co
bridesmaid dresses: Azazie
earrings: J’Adorn Designs
rings: Nelson Coleman Jewelers
hair / makeup: Haute on Wheels
groom + groomsmen attire: Indochino
caterer: Tablefield Catering
dessert: Taste This Cake + Pietime
band: Bachelor Boys Band
invitations: Wedding Paper Divas
favors / centerpieces / reception decor: Lauren, the bride ;)
transportation: Martin’s Sedan and Limo Service

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!

winter holiday soiree at liriodendron mansion | maryland wedding venue

Imagine hundreds of twinkle lights wrapped inside wisteria branches arching over a patio that overlooks 100 acres of exquisite grounds in Harford County… a cozy and chic winter gathering of dear friends inside a Georgian Revival mansion that dates back to 1898…

In early December, we kicked off the holiday season with a festive soirée to remember! Hosted by Caitie Welch of Betty Lou Events and Melissa & Jim Benson, Owners of Eleven Courses Catering at The Liriodendron Mansion, the entire place was filled with magic that only this time of year can bring…

The stately architecture of the historic Liriodendron Mansion in Bel Air, MD provided the perfect backdrop as daylight faded into golden hour and guests began to arrive!

Non-traditional textured magnolia leaves, dark red roses and hand painted gold greenery decked the halls as nearly 40 of the DMV’s best creatives were serenaded while sipping gourmet hot chocolate and festive cocktails on velvet settees. Small bites were wrapped like presents and served in whimsical ways, by servers wearing tartan plaid ties to match the runners in the stunning holiday inspired tablescape.

Directly following cocktails, guests were invited to take their seats; farm tables were set with chic black and white place settings for all to enjoy an incredible 3 course dinner. Each seat was set with a hand lettered ornament and a delicate contemporary menu.

Vendor Team:

Creative Direction: Betty Lou Events
Videographer: Rivion Films
Photography: Urban Row Photography
Menu Design & Catering: Eleven Courses Catering
Tabletop Design: Pretty Little Wedding Co.
Rentals + Styling: Emerald Event Design
Farm Tables + Benches: Barnes Farm Tables
Floral: Steelcut Flower Co. 
Stationery: Ruby the Fox
Lettering + Signage: The Letter Grey
Venue: The Liriodendron Mansion
Pianist: The Concert Truck
Makeup: Chrissy Forbes

video by Nevin Baker for Rivion Films

ABOUT THE LIRIODENDRON MANSION:

The Liriodendron is a historic home and estate of one of the four founding physicians of the Johns Hopkins Medical College, Dr. Howard Kelly. Liriodendron is the botanical name for the tulip poplar, many of which can be found around the grounds of this historic property in Bel Air, Maryland.

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

What makes the Liriodendron Mansion unique?
The Liriodendron is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Purchased in 1890s, the property now consists of approximately 100 acres and a variety of structures: the mansion, a bank barn, a carriage house, a board and batten cottage and 5 other outhouses including a smokehouse and 2 ice houses.

The wisteria arching up to the main facade forms such an elegant setting for portraits and outdoor dining! No matter the wedding season, the architecture and grounds are absolutely breathtaking. Imagine cocktail hour out on the portico under the twinkling lights, a fireplace in every room and entering from the staircase of your dreams…!

How many guests can be accommodated?
Up to 120 people can be accommodated at your event.

Where do guests park?
A large surface parking lot is available on the grounds, just a short walk from the mansion.

How many events are hosted per day?
On Saturdays, one event may occur in the morning and one in the evening. Fridays and Sundays only host one event.

Are there options for smaller, intimate weddings?
Yes! Petite weddings are available during weekday hours and brunch weddings are available on Saturday and Sunday mornings between 8am-12:30pm; both at a discounted rental rate.

How early do couples have access to the space on their wedding day?
Friday weddings choose a 6.5 hour contract time for a 4 hour event. On Saturdays, there is a choice of a 9am-4pm contract time for an event time of 11am-3pm or 4pm-11pm contract time, for an event time of 6-10pm. Additional time can be arranged should it be necessary.

Are there spaces for the bridal party to get ready on site?
Both the bride and groom are able to get ready upstairs in original and separate bedrooms and suites within the mansion.

Do couples have access to the entire facility on their wedding day?
Yes, all rentals enjoy the full use of our mansion and grounds.

Are chairs and tables included with rental of the space?
Chiavari chairs for indoor and outdoor dining and white lawn chairs are included in the rental rates, as well as tables in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Are outside caterers permitted?
There is a list of 11 experienced caterers from which you can choose.

Is a representative from the venue going to be on-site for the duration of the event? 
Yes; a venue manager will be on site from open to close.

What does it cost to host a wedding at The Liriodendron Mansion?
Rates vary depending on the season and day of the week; an introduction to rates can be found here.

Is the facility handicapped accessible?
The first floor is fully accessible.

CONTACT + DIRECTIONS:

The Liriodendron Mansion website: www.liriodendron.com
Directions to The Liriodendron Mansion: 502 West Gordon Street, Bel Air, MD 21014
Phone: (410) 879-4424
Contact: Leslie Dohler, info@liriodendron.com

erin + greg | tide point baltimore waterfront engagement

With winter allowing me some time to breathe and catch up with all the things, I can’t wait to finally share warmer weather vibes and all the madly in love 2019 urban row couples that I haven’t shared yet!

Before we dive into how wonderfully matched Erin and Greg are, I have to say how grateful I am not only for fun-loving couples like them, but how they came to be part of the Urban Row Photography family... Mandi and Miles, one of our 2016 couples (see their incredible July waterfront wedding in Baltimore here!), are good friends with Erin and Greg and connected us soon after they got engaged. Referrals like this mean the absolute world to us - there are not enough words to express how much we appreciate knowing you felt that comfortable and confident in sharing our work and your experience with your best friends!

Meeting up with Erin + Greg at Tide Point was the perfect spot to capture their love story since it all begin by the water!! I’m always amazed to hear stories like theirs! If this doesn’t make you believe in fate, I don’t know what will…

“We met at Seacrets in Ocean City! An unlikely spot! Greg was visiting Ocean City with a group of guy friends. It was the weekend he was supposed to be in Vegas for a friend's bachelor party. When that friend's wedding was called off, they decided to go on a quick trip to Ocean City instead of going to Vegas. Erin was staying in Fenwick DE (not far from OCMD) with her friend (and maid of honor) Maddy. Both groups ended up at Seacrets on Friday night. Maddy was dancing with one of Greg's friends, so when Greg saw Erin alone, he asked to buy her a drink. We exchanged numbers at the end of the night and have been texting daily ever since!”

As soon as we started, Erin and Greg fell into such a groove, they were complete naturals in front of the camera and if they didn’t feel like it, I definitely couldn’t tell… (that’s always the goal: I want you to have fun, be silly and belly laugh as much as possible… just so ya know!)

Erin’s favorite thing about Greg makes me smile since I could totally see it during their engagement session! Their faces both light up whenever they look at each other… “My favorite thing about Greg is his laugh. It sums up his care free attitude and overall "fun to be around" spirit. And, it's what stood out about him the first night we met.”

Their proposal story gave me butterflies and also involved a view of boats and Baltimore waterfront sunset perfection!

“Greg planned to propose at Erin's family's cabin on the Susquehanna River. They were supposed to spend a Saturday there so Greg could help put the docks in the water for the season. However, Erin was asked to go to Los Angeles for work last minute and booked a flight home the Saturday he planned to propose, so that plan wouldn't work. Greg says he couldn't wait until another weekend, so he decided to propose the night before Erin left for Los Angeles, on Wednesday evening. They went to dinner at Blair's on Hudson (favorite neighborhood spot where we always order the same thing - Guinness Filet!) and went for a walk on the water afterward. Greg proposed on the waterfront in Canton when the sun was setting. It was a beauuuuutiful early May evening. It was a pretty private spot, but after he proposed, a few people sitting on their boats docked in the water nearby started cheering! They continued walking to Fells Point for a celebratory drink and started making calls to family and friends to share the news.”

You both are the sweetest and we can’t wait to capture your wedding at the Accelerator Space in April! If you bring your best laughs and adorable carefree love, it will be a day to remember like no other!

Cheers to 2019 being your best year yet!

xo,
Naomi

chinnu + suganth | burgundy, pink and gold indian wedding at the belvedere hotel

When Chinnu and Suganth described their Belvedere Hotel wedding day as an Indian American wedding celebration with traditions from both cultures, I couldn’t stop smiling!! I immediately knew that this, our first Indian wedding and first time capturing the incredibly rich Belvedere Hotel ballrooms, was going to be so memorable and filled with meaningful details and traditions… I wasn’t wrong. ;)

While watching Chinnu and her family get ready at The Lord Baltimore Hotel, I was in awe of the beautiful jewelry, the colorful saris and rich textures and patterns present in every detail of their garments. The henna was incredible! I loved that Suganth also had Chinnu’s name on the inside of his palm… (this detail was also included in Baltimore Weddings’ It’s All in the Details feature in their new 2019 print magazine)!

This… one of my favorite moments from their entire day happened during their first look in Mt. Vernon. I asked them to turn towards each other and share all the love they were feeling at that moment and among the excitement of the day… and helllloooo, there it was: the most adorable, joyful and genuine smiles.

Crimson and Clover Floral Design added SO much soft, natural beauty to their wedding - it was the perfect touch. The mandap was literally covered in and dripping with such lush and rich flowers! Burgundy amaranthus, light pink roses, white hydrangea and eucalyptus perfection!

The Belvedere Hotel’s Grand Ballroom was literally glowing with gold trim, enormous crystal chandeliers, elevated floral vessels and sparkling gold candlesticks to tie it all together. Mahogany chiavari chairs completed the luxurious look at a mix of round tables and a long head table for the bridal party and newlyweds to have a prime dance floor view!

When Chinnu changed after the ceremony into a lighter look, she transformed into a stunning gold and light blue princess with a touch of sheer light pink wrapping around her… her soft curls cascaded down to allow for a completely different look to end the reception!

C+S, it was such an honor being part of your joyous and family-filled wedding day! We’re so grateful you came to us from a mutual friend (heyyy Lost Note Productions!) and wish you all the best!!

xo,
Naomi

getting ready location: Lord Baltimore Hotel
ceremony + reception: Belvedere & Co.
florals: Crimson & Clover Floral Design, Inc.
DJ: Dynasty AV & Entertainment
HMU: Styles By Swati - Salon SBS
Caterer: Rupa Vira's The Signature - Finest Indian Cuisine
Desserts: Patisserie Poupon Bakery

sneak peeks | elizabeth + donald's winter wedding at the baltimore country club

Elizabeth and Donald’s winter wedding at the Baltimore Country Club had the most incredibly chic, elegant and beautiful meaningful elements making up their day - I’m overjoyed to share these early favorites with you!

You need to peek at this exquisite December wedding that had:

• Jayce the pug as their dog of honor in a bowtie

• an ivory, burgundy and gold festive holiday color palette

• a bouquet of burgundy peonies, white anemones, white calla lilies + eucalyptus

• Elizabeth’s grandmother’s fur stole

• confetti cannons raining on the dance floor

And I also want to share a PSA that rain on your wedding does NOT mean disappointment and dreary photos - quite the opposite! With creative areas of cover, snuggling together to stay warm and clear umbrellas, it means we get to be more creative and you get the best luck… you know, because rain on your wedding day is good luck (coming from this husband and wife photography team that got married at a vineyard during a hurricane and still look back on it and laugh 10 years later)! ;)

Congratulations again, lovebirds! ps: Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want for Christmas’ has always been one of my favorites to listen to this time of year and now memories of confetti swirling around as I hear it will always bring me back to your day!

xo,
Naomi

huge thanks to this talented team!

planning: Brian Scott
venue + catering: Baltimore Country Club
ceremony: The Church of the Redeemer, Baltimore
getting ready: Baltimore Marriott Waterfront
hair/makeup: Ariel Lewis
invitation + paper goods: mlc designs, llc
florist: Rutland Beard Florist
band: Bachelor Boys Band
shoes: Badgley Mischka
videographer: Black Tie Video
dress: Romona Keveza
boutique: Garnish Boutique
bridesmaid dresses: Lula Kate
bridesmaid dress boutique: Bella Bridesmaids
groomsmen attire: Tom James Company
transportation: Superior Tours and American Limousines, Inc.

alexis + logan | lavender and navy country club of maryland wedding

When Logan told me how the proposal story happened, I almost cried happy tears right then and there… “I realized that all I wanted to do was be with her as I stared out the window. I remember saying to myself "Well, that seems to be that...it's time to make sure I can always come home to her".

Logan, you can now officially always come home to Alexis - YAY! Your wedding day was one for the record books… I know your home will always be filled with so much humor, movie/Office quote references and plenty of fajita making nights. :)

A touch of classic detailing in the ringbearer’s seersucker light blue suit and lavender/navy bowtie - loved how Cohen’s Clothiers outfitted this little heartbreaker!!!

Alexis’ wedding dress by Morilee had POCKETS and the best train EVER!!

Pops of blue against the walls and lawns of green were such an elegant look for this spring country club wedding with the sweetest flower girls!!

So many expressions to love when bridal parties line up and CRUSH it like this! Loving the groom’s GQ face and also the ringbearer at the end, living his best wedding life!!

That moment when the fire department walks into your ceremony after the alarms were going off falsely multiple times… yup, that happened!

A cake topped with firemen legos because… see above!… an epic Pittsburgh cookie table and floss moves meant smiles all around! Seriously, we couldn’t love Alexis and Logan more if we tried - this couple had SO much fun at their Memorial Day weekend wedding even with clouds that threatened rain the entire time.

Cheers to you both and all the fun, lighthearted outlook you brought to the day… can we do it all over again next May? Minus the firemen, maybe. ;) It was an absolute dream to be part of your wedding!!!

xo,
Naomi

venue + caterer: Country Club of Maryland
florist: Maryland Bay Blossoms
DJ: Music Masters
wedding dress: Morilee
bridesmaids dresses: Hayley Paige Occasions
veil: bride’s mom!
shoes: Kelly + Katie
groomsmen attire: Jos A. Bank
ringbearer’s suit and tie: Cohen’s Clothiers
hair and makeup: 100 West Salon, Timonium
cake: Grauls
invitation: White Lace
transportation: Z Best Limo