allie + hunter | a spring mt. vernon engagement at brewer's art

On a beautiful Friday in Mt. Vernon, I met up with Allie + Hunter (+ Bruce, who was THE most well-behaved little pup!) for their spring engagement photos… it was so much fun because they have such a naturally adorable and sweet chemistry together — seriously these two could make a blank wall look amazing!

They started with a beer at Brewer’s Art and then we walked down to the Washington Monument to take advantage of the gorgeous magnolia blooms. We got so lucky with the weather and had a chance to stop in front of the Belvedere, an iconic spot in the Mt. Vernon neighborhood as well as timing it right to get that glowy setting sunlight streaming through the trees at the west side of the park in Mt. Vernon Place!

Allie + Hunter, you’re both such a joy to be around and deserve all the happiness life can bring! I can not wait to be a part of your wedding day at Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park on the water… you’ve been waiting so long for this day and it’s finally here!!!

xo,
Naomi

madeline + jacob | a colorado inspired engagement at patapsco state park

I met up with Madeline and Jacob in Patapsco State Park for their engagement photos on a cloudy day in late October and not only were the trees ON POINT, but these lovebirds were complete naturals at taking their shoes off (well, ok, maybe just Madeline… Jacob needed to make sure neither of us slipped on the wet rocks!) and being comfortable in the woods together!

We walked over a suspension bridge, climbed on rocks, sat on fallen trees and stood in beautiful riverbeds among smooth rocks… couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful backdrop for these photos! Thanks for being so up to explore with me, Madeline + Jacob; it was so worth it!!

You had the best vision for your nature inspired woodsy engagement session — I love how perfectly coordinated your outfit colors were to the Fall colors in Patapsco State Park!! It felt like we could have been in Colorado, if you ask me! ;)

Here’s to getting you married and continuing the adventures together for decades to come… I can’t wait to see your smiling faces again and all the fall vibes you’ve planned at the Intercontinental Wharf DC for your gorgeous wedding day!!!

xo,
Naomi

lee + dan | a sunset engagement at cold saturday farm with their dogs

Fancy and Barkley are the luckiest pups to have Lee and Dan as their paw-rents… just look at those happy faces basking in the golden sunlight streaming through the trees at Cold Saturday Farm!

To be honest, when Lee initially reached out about photographing their wedding, I had never heard of Cold Saturday Farm in Finksburg, MD. Established in 1765 by virtue of a grant from the King of England, Cold Saturday is a one-of-a-kind estate: a lovingly preserved and restored colonial farm encompassing 60 acres in western Maryland. It features rolling hills and pristine lawns, lakes and creeks, fieldstone mansions and log cabins… but what does that all mean for Lee and Dan?

It means there were SO MANY beautifully picturesque backdrops for portraits and all the space one could ever want to stroll in a peaceful and serene rural landscape with their dogs. Not only will their October wedding take place here, but we took advantage of the expansive, photogenic property to get to know each space for their Fall engagement photos as well!

I’m obsessed with their love story, their pups and the way these photos turned out… I can’t wait to be back at Cold Saturday Farm for their wedding day!

Lee + Dan, I can’t wait to see you two officially become husband and wife! You’re always so eager to give your time and energy to others, now it’s everyone else’s turn to celebrate you both and the amazing love you share!!

xo,
Naomi

joslyn + andrew | pizza, skeeball + patterson park pagoda engagement

When you live across the street from the best place to get pizza, beer AND play skeeball near Patterson Park, your engagement session essentially designs itself!

Joslyn and Andrew, are two of the most fun-loving, relaxed and kind humans… they also own Dexter, a lovable beagle who made a short and sweet appearance during their engagement photos but was a rockstar from every angle.

We had so much fun walking around the park and pagoda together! The trees were showing off with their early spring blooms, Joslyn’s floral heels added the perfect pop of color and pattern to their classic navy wardrobe and I simply loved watching how J+A interact; they were up for anything and overflowing with joy!

Joslyn + Andrew, if your engagement photos are any indication of how much fun your wedding day is going to be… your guests are in for quite a treat and I’m so honored and excited to document it all!

xo,
Naomi

lily + andy | a relaxed, candid engagement at rye street tavern

When I met up with Lily and Andy for their engagement photos at Rye Street Tavern, it was a chilly yet beautiful November evening in Baltimore; we danced, we walked, we jumped and we snuggled up with Nyla, their adorable #urbanrowpup who seemed like she’d modeled at 17 photoshoots before this one… she was a pro! ;)

I love how completely at ease and comfortable you both are - up for anything and so sweet and silly together, Lily and Andy, you compliment each other in every way! I also have to say how much I swooned over Lily’s vibrant blue floor-length dress that added so much motion and movement to their photos.

But you know what’s even better? The story of how they met:

“After studying abroad for a semester in Sydney, Andy was apartment hopping; catching up with the friends he hadn't seen for a semester. On his way home, he decided to stop in at one last spot and visit a friend who he had known since high school. That friend happened to be throwing a small party, and Lily was there! After learning that Lily was interested in travel and Game of Thrones, Andy was hooked.”

And then how Andy proposed at a Getaway House (LOVE that!):

“Andy booked a Getaway House by Shenandoah National Park for a weekend trip. We spent the weekend there hiking in the park and taking pictures at many of the amazing outlooks. Although Andy was hoping to propose at the top of hike with a beautiful view, heavy cloud cover forced an audible. Andy suggested taking photos looking out the huge window in the Getaway cabin. While Lily's back was turned, and the camera was rolling, he got down on one knee and proposed. Nyla, our pup, was very excited.”

Lily + Andy, I can’t wait for your wedding day and all the jumping (for joy!) photos that are going to take place!! ;) You two are just the cutest!

xo,
Naomi

britton + andrew | a cute, nature-filled engagement at jerusalem mill

These high school sweethearts have a once-in-a-lifetime love that began the summer after their junior year while at Young Life Camp in VA… the way they look at each other is everything. Britton and Andrew, you are an inspiration and so much fun to photograph!! Thank you for being you… totally and completely in love and not afraid to show it.

Britton grew up on a farm with a beautiful stone house and we tried to find a location that could recreate it for these photos. I love that it worked out so perfectly: we had the stone ruins all to ourselves and playing in a river has never been so much fun!

“When you have a camp crush, it’s tradition to give them a spoon at the dining hall to show that you like them. He gave me a spoon and I gave him a fork in return because I didn't want to upset the other Andrew and leave him in the dust. We didn't have phones at camp, but he had me write my number on his arm the last day as the busses were leaving. We started hanging out as friends and had planned to do so for a couple months, but that only lasted one month because we really started falling for each other :). The rest is history!”

Here’s how the proposal unfolded, in Andrew’s words:

”I wanted the proposal to be meaningful and not something that could apply to every other couple. I had been thinking about doing it in Hunt Valley shopping center for awhile since that was where we had our first date. Hunt Valley isn't the most scenic spot in the world, but I knew that at Christmas time there was a 50 ft tree that they put up right in the center.

I decided to fly her best friend up from South Carolina unbeknownst to her, to surprise her during the engagement. I asked her to go out to brunch with me after church on a Sunday morning that we were sitting at home and she started crying. After calming her down, we went to brunch and I had her completely convinced that nothing was going on because I was completely calm (meanwhile freaking out on the inside towards the end of the brunch, but I'm a good actor so she had no idea). We started walking back to the car and as we got to the tree her best friend popped out and surprised her. She started crying immediately and went to go hug her friend. Her friend pulled out an ornament from a bag (that mine and Britton’s mom had made together) that said “Will You Marry Me?” She turned around and I got down on one knee. I said a few prepared things and then asked her to marry me. I went to put the ring on her finger and found out that I had been holding the ring box upside down the entire time… Pretty ridiculous. But she still said yes!”

Britton + Andrew, you two have such a special connection and zest for life, I can’t even fully put it into words!! I feel so grateful you chose me to document this exciting time in your lives, I can not wait for your Wyndridge Farm wedding THIS WEEKEND!!!

xo,
Naomi

kristen + eric | a chic + fun fells point engagement on the water

These college sweethearts have a love story that spans years and multiple states and down-to-earth personalities that immediately make you feel like you’ve known them for years… you know what that adds up to?

…I didn’t want our time together to end and I felt like I could have hung out with these two ALL DAY LONG! Good thing their wedding is coming up because I don’t think I can wait any longer to see their moves on the dance floor!!

3 THINGS I LOVED ABOUT KRISTEN + ERIC’S OVERCAST FELLS POINT ENGAGEMENT SESSION:

1. The clouds in the sky didn’t get them down one bit - their laughter, playfulness and adorable loving glances made every photo better than the last!

2. Their outfits… Kristen’s jumpsuit is giving me all the heart eyes and Eric’s blazer gives off the perfect amount of waterfront date night vibes.

3. The bottle of champagne they enjoyed during the photos; their friends had made it for them with a photo of when they got engaged! So sweet!

Cheers, cuties! T-1 more week until you’re officially husband and wife!! I can not wait! Your wedding day at Belmont Manor is going to be simply beautiful and more importantly, the most fun… because you two are absolutely both of those things and more!

xo,
Naomi

kristen + leo | a breezy, romantic summer engagement in fells point

So many words come to mind when I think about Kristen + Leo and the time we spent together for their engagement photos in Fells Point on a perfectly breezy and calm summer evening on the water…

But all of those words are actually escaping me right now as I compile their photos into a cohesive story and can’t stop staring at the cozy, cuteness they exude! This engagement included the most adorable polka dot dress on Kristen with skinny straps and strappy heels, Leo looking dapper in a linen shirt, gentle embraces, dancing on piers and lots of kisses in the wind…

Here are some favorites!

I can not wait for your wedding day at the Mt. Washington Mill Dye House, Kristen + Leo!! You share a love that is so full of genuine respect, mutual admiration and a fun blend of both of your family’s traditions and cultures, making everyday a new adventure… it doesn’t get better than that!

xo,
Naomi

lauren + tony | a romantic kitchen engagement session in harbor east

Lauren and Tony are two of the most genuine, beautiful, down-to-earth, sweet and fun-loving humans that honestly made my job so easy and enjoyable!

By the end of our time together, we had chatted about charcuterie, dogs, city life, pandemic dating and what it’s really like to move in together (laundry woes, lol)… and I didn’t want to stop hanging out with them! I love that they wanted to honor and celebrate the way their relationship came to be: in the kitchen, with wine, charcuterie and lots of cozy conversations.

Enjoy these favorites from Lauren and Tony’s Harbor East waterfront engagement session in Baltimore!

5 OF MY FAVORITE MOMENTS FROM THEIR IN-HOME + WATERFRONT ENGAGEMENT SESSION:

1. The personalized red wine bottle their friend hand-lettered and they enjoyed sips of during their photos

2. The charcuterie platter Lauren assembled herself (it was so beautifully put together)!

3. Lauren’s custom denim Mrs. Assadi jacket adorned with pearls

4. The way Tony looks at her and makes her laugh

5. The gorgeous cotton candy sunset that created a perfect rainbow-colored reflection on the harbor buildings behind them!

You two are so perfect for each other and have such an incredible bond. I can not wait to see you again; thank you for allowing me the opportunity to continue to photograph your love story as you begin life as a married couple, Lauren and Tony!!

xo,
Naomi

13 of the best unique and intimate wedding venues in baltimore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Woodberry Kitchen; rustic industrial within Clipper Mill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

xo,
Naomi

rachel + jordan | baltimore clock tower engagement + colorful fun at nacho mama's

“Nachos are our love language.”

As soon as I learned this fact about Rachel and Jordan, it was a no-brainer that we’d have to recreate the start of their first date with a stop in front of Lee’s Pint and Shell, ending with an enormous plate of nachos at Nacho Mama’s in Canton! We even met up with their close friends, just like the night of their first date…

But first, we started at the Bromo Seltzer Clock Tower for some portraits of these lovebirds in formal attire with a modern, neutral and monochromatic look.

Everything about their engagement session date night was colorful, fun, unique, memorable and one of the best ways to celebrate their love of all the quirky charm that earns Baltimore it’s Charm City nickname. With that, I can’t wait to share some of my favorite photos from Rachel + Jordan’s fun and formal engagement session at the Bromo Seltzer Clock Tower and along the Canton square and waterfront!

I love their meet-cute story! Here it is in their words…

“One summer night in August of 2019 Rachel was playing dating app roulette with a friend when she came across Jordan's profile and messaged him to come meet them at the bar they were at in DC. Unfortunately, Jordan was out of town that night. They traded phone numbers and began trading messages, Rachel making sure he didn't go to THE Ohio State University and Jordan making sure Rachel could pass the "sloth astronaut" humor test [when they first connected, Jordan sent Rachel a picture of a sloth dressed as an American Astronaut. Rachel then sent the picture to their mutual friend Naomi (Rabbi Howard's wife) because she thought it was weird he sent that picture "no context". Naomi responded that it was a little weird but he's a really great guy and his parents are her favorite people. Rachel then responded to Jordan, is this what you send girls to see if they have a sense of humor? and Jordan responded "it's objectively funny". Jordan now shows sloth astronaut to everybody (he's Jordan's phone background) and everybody laughs and Jordan continues to prove to Rachel that she was wrong and everybody thinks it's funny].

Soon after, Jordan was at a birthday party for the child of a family friend who went to the University of Michigan. Remembering that Rachel went to Michigan, Jordan asked if they knew each other and as it turns out they were close friends from college.

Deciding this was a sign they should meet in person they arranged a date on a night that Rachel had dinner plans in Baltimore. After meeting each other for a pretty typical first date drink at Lee's Pint and Shell, Jordan walked Rachel across Canton Square to Nacho Mamas where she was meeting her friends for dinner. To both of their surprise, Rachel's friends invited Jordan to join. He agreed and the date continued as a double date kibbitzing over Nachos. After such a successful first date they decided to see where things would go and began seeing each other weekly sometimes in Baltimore and sometimes in DC. Then, in March 2020 the pandemic of a century arrived and Rachel, anxious about what was to come, announced that she would rather quarantine together than apart. Jordan agreed and showed up at her apartment with a month's worth of clothes, a jumbo pack of toilet paper and three pizzas and said everything was going to be ok.”

And the proposal story… (peek Rachel’s adorable ring dish below!)

“On a crisp fall evening, Jordan made dinner plans with another couple at an Argentinian Steak house they had been eager to try. Unbeknownst to Rachel, this was just a yummy diversion because as they were out to dinner, other friends were at Jordan's house decorating the rooftop deck.

After dinner, Jordan suggested that since they were having so much fun, the other couple should come back to his house for drinks on the roof. As they got home, Rachel climbed the spiral staircase ahead of the rest of the group and gasped as she saw the beautiful rooftop scene. As she took in the stunning decorations - red roses, rose petals and candles - Jordan got down on one knee. When Rachel turned around they held hands as he proposed. After Rachel said 'Absolutely!' cheers began from a neighboring rooftop. She looked over to see the friends who had secretly decorated climbing over from their hiding spot on a neighbor's roof to celebrate the engagement.

Prosecco was popped, calls were made and tequila shots were had. With COVID restrictions lifting, a local Karaoke bar, Waltz Inn - a favorite of both Jordan and Rachel that they had never been to together - had just reopened and the group continued the celebration with jello shots, and singing and dancing into the night.”

Cheers, cuties!! I can’t wait for your wedding at The Belvedere in just a few weeks… getting to know you both has been such a joy! Rachel, your impeccable sense of style, love of delicious food and travel and Jordan, your sense of humor and thoughtful kindness are just some of the ways your love story continues to inspire me… here’s to your best day yet, happening SO SOON!!!

xo,
Naomi

rose + ryan | an adorable sunset engagement in fells point

Ryan and Rose are honestly too cute for words. We had so much fun in Patterson Park and Fells Point as the sun set with a cotton candy colored sky behind the Domino Sugar sign shining brightly behind them… since one of their first dates was at Abbey Burger Bistro, we had to stop for some photos in front of it in Broadway Square (scroll down to see those)!

I love that their “how we met” story basically comes down to dogsitting:

“We met in passing through Rose's workplace where Ryan had previously been a law clerk while in law school. While we never worked together, Ryan came back to help out when the firm needed help during busy times and has always kept in touch with the owners of the firm. We were both dog-sitting for them while they were away one weekend so we had to keep in touch to hand off the dogs in the mornings. Ryan used this opportunity to ask Rose out to dinner.”

Their proposal story involved trash in Ryan’s pockets…!

“We were in Ocean City, MD for a relaxing weekend celebrating the recent engagement of our friends, Jamie and Jackson. The weekend before, we had planned and pulled off an elaborate surprise proposal and engagement party for them at our house. It was supposed to storm that day with Hurricane Laura on it's way so we wanted to get some beach time in; we went to the beach early even though it was cloudy and cold and almost no one was out there. I handle doing the laundry in the household and Ryan has a chronic case of putting trash in his pockets (wrappers, receipts, twigs, paper towels, napkins, leaves, etc.) and I am always having to clean them out before doing laundry and getting on his case about it.

Ryan said he was going into the water and started handing me trash from his pockets, which I could not understand since I had washed his swim trunks since the last time we went to the beach and then he handed me a folded up note that said "Will you marry me" and the ring. I had no idea, with my mind still on Jamie and Jackson's engagement. He only told Jamie and Jackson about 5 minutes beforehand too. All of our friends say, in true Jamie and Rose fashion, we would get engaged only a week apart and she will be getting married a month before! (we do everything together).”

I can’t wait for your wedding at Main Street Ballroom! It’s going to be the perfect blend of fun (hi skeeball!), romance (marrying your favorite person!), laughter and lots of love… and of course, delicious food, flowers and fun socks.

See you cuties, SOOOOON!

xo,
Naomi

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

lucie + chris | a sunset engagement at guinness brewery + baltimore waterfront

I will always say yes to taking engagement photos at a brewery… and for this adorable couple, it was extra meaningful since it was the site of Lucie + Chris’ first date! Read more about these cuties below!

Lucie + Chris met on the app, Coffee Meets Bagel, in November 2018. Here’s what happened after the initial match, in their words…

“We matched right before Thanksgiving and went on our first date to Guinness brewery. It was the Monday night before Thanksgiving and Lucie was supposed to be flying out to Portland, OR the next morning and still hadn't packed. We went and had one beer before we parted ways, both knowing that we had really enjoyed ourselves. Lucie told Chris that she might not text him a ton because she was going to be with family, but he knew she liked him because she ended up texting him a bunch… :)”

It’s pretty clear to me that Guinness should hire you two as models for their next ad campaign… just sayin’. :)

Proposal stories like this make me so happy…

“We had talked about getting a ring in general and Lucie did know the engagement was going to be happening most likely before the end of the year. It ended up happening on a Wednesday (12/9). Earlier that week, Chris had suggested that they go to National Harbor in DC to the ferris wheel. Lucie caught on and had assumed that he was going to proposal so she started getting super nervous all week. Chris picked up on this. We ended up taking a walk on Wednesday night, after a late work night for Lucie. Chris had intended for the walk to be around sunset but because Lucie had worked later that night, it was already dark for the walk. We still ended up going and walked to the harbor, right next to Baltimore Museum of Industry, which is a spot we often went. Then Chris said a bunch of nice things and proposed! Lucie had to get her phone flashlight out to check out the ring! LOL!”

After our time at Guinness, we chased the sun to West Covington Park to end along the water, where Lucie + Chris often take walks together. The weather was incredible, we got so lucky with the best night for an engagement session in Baltimore: it was breezy and the sky was definitely showing off!

Let’s get you married, Lucie + Chris!! I can’t wait for your intimate wedding at Cielo Verde on the rooftop of AVAM - it’s going to be the best day for so many reasons!

xo,
Naomi

meghan + justin | a lush, greenery filled engagement at rawlings conservatory

On a bright and beautiful sunny Fall day, I explored the lush Rawlings Conservatory with Meghan and Justin — they are absolutely radiant and perfect together.

Their love story started simply with a friendship and being in the right time and place. A mutual friend’s wedding was involved in taking it to the next level and the rest you can read below… ;)

What are their favorite things about each other…? Their answers left me speechless.

“Justin is incredibly thoughtful. Not just in the ways that selfishly I benefit, but in the way he loves his family and treats others, the way he is so intentional in making decisions to support the life he wants to live. He makes things happen, but is never reckless. Did I mention he still opens car doors for me and is the best chef/baker?”

“Meghan is a third-level thinker, something beyond intelligent. I can spend hours considering a dilemma and come up with a course of action.. but it wasn't long before I learned that running it by her will almost always lead to a more complete solution. She knows which subtle details are the critical points, and she explains them in an ego-less way that helps and encourages. I know it, her peers and colleagues know it, and it's why people (and I) place unparalleled value in her friendship (and future wife-ship).”

How they met in Justin’s words:

“We originally met through friends just being in the same place at the same time. We saw each other infrequently for many years and didn't really share much time together. Some would say we barely tolerated each other. Five or so years later, some of those mutual friends had a wedding. I (Justin) was an usher and spotted Meghan walking towards the seating. I had two thoughts -- 1. we should be cooler with each other and 2. damn she looks good in that dress and with that hair (it was in this order, I swear). I skipped the line of ushers to be the guy to walk her to seat, said "hi" etc., and returned to my usher duties for about 5 minutes before coming back to sit with Meghan and talk. We slow danced once at the wedding. We talked a little more, walked to her car when she left, and that capped off what I felt was a good potential start. That start led to texting, a couple movies ... moving in together, and choosing 9/30/21 as a very important date.”

And the proposal (that brought tears to my eyes!) in Meghan’s words:

“It was a Tuesday and I had just gotten home from work. Justin let me know there was something in the mail for me and went upstairs to change into his gym clothes, totally normal. The envelope was so strange, addressed to me and my mother with a CT return address. Inside the mailing envelope, another blue envelope. Inside the blue envelope, a letter in Justin's handwriting to my mom. I froze. I wasn't sure if I was supposed to read this, or it had somehow gotten lost and mailed back to me instead of Justin? I finally went half-way upstairs and asked Justin if I was supposed to read this letter. I sure was, and it was the sweetest letter to my mom asking for her blessing to propose. I stood in the kitchen re-reading the letter, so surprised and in awe that it took me a good ten minutes to finally come upstairs where Justin was waiting. He got on one knee, said all the sweet things again, and I said yes.”

Cheers, cuties! Your gentle, sweet and genuine love is an inspiration… I can’t wait to celebrate alongside you at the Mt. Washington Mill Dye House SO SOON!!

xo,
Naomi

lizzie + jon | an urban industrial engagement session at clipper mill

Lizzie and Jon are one of the most laid-back, down to earth, and kind couples you could ever hope to meet. Lizzie’s smile lights up a room and Jon’s sense of humor is the perfect compliment.

These cuties are parents to the sweetest #urbanrowpup Molly, who of course had to be included in their engagement photos and will be at the wedding too (SO EXCITED)! I’m so glad Covid had other plans in mind for their original date since it meant I will be able to document all of the gorgeous elements they have planned: mixed metals, muted neutrals, plenty of textures and organic / natural flowers to play off the natural beauty of the industrial venue... 100% MY. KIND. OF. PEOPLE!

Cheers to celebrating your love story with all of your favorite people, FINALLY! I had so much fun with you both (+ Molly!) during our time together and can. not. wait for your wedding!!!

xo,
Naomi

catherine + joey | a fun, historic main street engagement in Westminster

When your favorite thing about each other is basically the same quality/feature, you know you’re soulmates… when I asked Catherine and Joey to share their favorite thing about their fiance, they both said this:

Catherine about Joey: “His laugh - it never fails to cheer me up. I actively try to make him laugh as much as I can because it feels me with pure joy.”

Joey about Catherine: “Her smile - because it lights up the room.”

I love the love these two share! They chose to take their engagement photos in Westminster, MD (where they currently live) because the town holds lots of history and meaning for Joey and his family - bonus that it also has the sweetest classic Americana vibes, adorable tree-lined streets, quaint architecture and beautiful pocket parks!

I love the way their love story began over margaritas and burritos and business school…

“We were classmates in business school at Georgetown when we first met. Neither of us recall actually meeting for the first time - but we spent our entire first semester of school sitting across from one another (in a semicircle shaped lecture room). Our first date was on a Sunday evening - we went to a local taco shop and there was some confusion on whether we were just getting drinks or eating dinner... so Catherine ate beforehand and drank a margarita while Joey housed a burrito. That's how it started.”

Catherine and Joey are so full of joy and smiles that light up a room — it’s easy to see their chemistry and the love they have for each other, their families and Mosey, their adorable #urbanrowpup!

And how sweet was Joey’s surprise proposal?!

“We had really nice dinner at a lovely restaurant/hotel in Taneytown, MD called the Antrim. When we returned home, Joey sent me on a (short) scavenger hunt that involved finding some sparklers, putting together a mini puzzle of our dog and ending on our back porch - where flowers, champagne and balloons spelling "CFG MARRY ME?” were strung up. It was just us, at home (with our dog) and it was perfect.”

Talk about perfect… I’m OBSESSED with Catherine’s unique engagement ring!

Exploring downtown Westminster with you two was so much fun (I could have spent an entire day there!) and I can’t wait for your gorgeous wedding!! You’ve planned and designed such a beautiful day with Lauren Corrigan Events, I’m honored to be a part of it and can’t wait to celebrate you both!

Cheers, lovebirds!

xo,
Naomi

elizabeth + steven | a golden hour garden engagement at Cylburn Arboretum

Cylburn Arboretum’s gardens are in my opinion, the most photogenic natural setting in Baltimore! Whether spring, summer or fall, the grounds are full of color, texture, greenery and a historic mansion that provides elegance, romance and intrigue. It doesn’t get better than this if you want your engagement photos to be timeless, gorgeous and full of variety.

So while brainstorming locations with Elizabeth and Steve, I was extra excited when we landed on Cylburn since Elizabeth told me that Steve is a huge fan of The Wire and they filmed this scene there, so we might have to recreate it together…! ;) Scroll down to see how they did!

I love that they met while playing kickball in Federal Hill almost 10 years ago now and have such a sweet and playful relationship. Their photos just make me smile so much - they’re so comfortable around each other and have such a loving way of being together.

More about their love story, in Elizabeth’s words:

“We met in Fall of 2012. Steve and I were both living in Federal Hill (actually on the same block but didn't know it!). Separately we decided with some friends to join a kickball league and were placed on the same team where we met. Our groups merged fast and we regularly hung out as friends. We were close friends for 2 years before we started dating in 2014.

In June when some of the COVID restrictions were lifted, I was excited to eat outside at a restaurant (and not out of a takeout container). I made a reservation at Limoncello in our neighborhood which ultimately got pushed back a week due to weather. The plan was to walk down to dinner so Steve suggested we take drinks and walk down to Tide Point (a very regular spot for us). When we got there, we sat along the water for a bit before getting ready to head on to dinner. When we stood back up to keep walking Steve took my drink out of my hand, got down on one knee and proposed! Our best friends were hiding behind one of the buildings taking pictures and popped out with champagne to toast. Steve had also secretly changed the reservation so they joined us for dinner to continue the celebrations! My childhood friend is a jewelry designer and Steve worked with her (Sasha Walsh Designs) to make my ring, making everything even more special!”

Elizabeth and Steve, we can’t wait for your wedding at The Winslow this weekend!! I love that we’ll be able to celebrate with photos at Tide Point too, where you got engaged and with such incredible views of Baltimore, a city with so much personality to show off!

xo,
Naomi

rachael + guido | a lake roland dog engagement session

It was warm enough to wear short sleeves while also being cool enough to wear a blazer during Rachael + Guido’s Fall engagement photos at Lake Roland. These 3 (hi Ode!) were laughing from the second we started, showcasing their playful, “natural weirdness” and I couldn’t get enough of them!

4 REASONS THIS LAKE ROLAND ENGAGEMENT SESSION WAS SO PICTURESQUE:

1. Because it included Ode, of course. ;) But in all seriousness, R+G’s mini Aussie was so adorable and well-behaved; he stole the show! Rachael’s mom came to help as the dog-wrangler and it was perfect.

2. We waited until late October (the 29th) to be sure the leaves had color and man, did we get lucky!!

3. Rachael wore a black floral dress that had just the right amount of pattern to really pop against the trees and golden light.

4. They didn’t take themselves too seriously and are completely head over heels in love together! Knowing how to completely relax and show your genuine emotion will pay off in beautiful candids…

I can’t wait to FINALLY celebrate your wedding day with you (and Ode)! It’s been such a long time coming and you’ve gone through so many changes from your original plan… but you know what that means, right? This one will be perfect for you!

xo,
Naomi

ilana + ben | spring engagement at Rawlings Conservatory

Ilana and Ben chose to celebrate their relationship and newly engaged status in the place where it all officially started, Druid Hill Park! I couldn’t have been more excited for our time together since Ilana actually proposed to Ben here… more on that below…

These two share such a thoughtful, sweet, caring and intellectual chemistry together and inspire me with the way they strive for social justice in so many aspects of their lives.

We had the most lovely weather in Druid Hill Park for their engagement photos and with a ton of spots on our list to explore together, I’m so excited to share these vibrant yet relaxed and effortless, fun, candid moments with you!

Here’s more about the start of their meet-cute:

“We met at a rotating egalitarian, vegetarian, potluck Shabbat dinner in early 2018. The group is called Harbor Minyan and friends from that group are among our closest in Baltimore today! We talked about studying economics and travels to India over Ben's classic bean salad and Ilana's dish-of-the-month (always something different!) Ben made an impression by sharing a video of his Indian dance moves the that first night, and later invited Ilana to a small dinner party he was hosting.”

And the proposal:

“Ben lives for puzzles, so Ilana planned a scavenger hunt for Ben throughout Baltimore, leading to her in Druid Hill Park. She popped the question on a picnic blanket, they popped open champagne provided by a friend, and moments after they finished their glasses, the sky opened up with a major late August rainstorm! They celebrated and shared the news with family and friends during their lake getaway the following week.

Earlier this month, Ben surprised Ilana with a full-on at-home date night for Valentine's Day, with candles, music, dressing up, and take-out from one of our favorite restaurants. Ben suggested Ilana put a record on while Ben poured drinks, and she found a box of chocolates in the record player! Along with the chocolates she found an even more sparkly surprise - a ring!”

5 spots in Druid Hill Park we took Ilana + Ben’s engagement photos

1. their proposal spot, big trees and an intimate feel with a picnic blanket, a surprise chess set for Ben and margaritas

2. Taylor’s Grove (one of my favorite spots!)

3. Alllll the cherry blossoms near the Reservoir

4. Rawlings Conservatory gardens

5. Not location related, but I have to give a huge shoutout to Ilana’s outfits! I loved how romantic, relaxed and stylishly perfect the dress and tulle skirt paired with an off the shoulder lace top were for a garden, park engagement… and her curly hair still leaves me speechless!!!

I can not wait to celebrate with you and your families at Tusculum Farm! It’s going to be an absolutely beautiful June day in such a lush and relaxed garden setting… see you soon, cuties!

xo,
Naomi