madeline + jacob | intercontinental wharf wedding in dc with fall colorado vibes

On a breezy and bright blue-skied early October Saturday, Madeline and Jacob became husband and wife in front of not only their closest friends and family, but the cutest retro s’mores camping trailer and the glistening waterfront of the DC Wharf…

The inspiration for their elegant and cozy Fall wedding celebration was all thanks to the start of their relationship taking place in Colorado; M+J’s first date involved leaf peeping, so incorporating all the Fall vibes into their wedding day was Event Planning DC’s task and they crushed it, as usual!

I couldn’t be happier to share these favorites from their wedding —it was such a memorable day for such sweet families coming together!

5 MEMORABLE MOMENTS AND DETAILS FROM M+J’S WEDDING AT THE INTERCONTINENTAL WHARF DC

1. Jacob was so emotional during the ceremony… which is proof that by doing a first look, it doesn’t mean your partner won’t be emotional when they see you walk down the aisle!!

2. Madeline’s grandma was their flower girl and had a smile on her face from start to finish down the aisle!

3. Their favorite local musician, Cris Jacobs, played at the ceremony and cocktail hour.

4. The florals + greenery were so lush and full of Fall colors and textures; the chuppah was made up of white birch posts topped with flowers in shades of dark orange, gold, mustard, ivory and soft dried grasses.

5. The reception ballroom was incredibly cozy, romantic and elegant! With tables full of colored amber and green glassware, gold placesettings and garlands of greenery on the table as well as hanging above the head table with hanging candles, I couldn’t get enough!

Congrats again, Madeline + Jacob! It was such an honor to document your wedding day and be a part of the official start to your MD adventures as husband and wife!

I hope you both continue to enjoy making each other laugh and dancing with Laila, for decades to come!!

xo,
Naomi

kudos to this stellar vendor team:

Wedding Planning & Design: Event Planning DC
Venue: Intercontinental Wharf DC
Floral and Rentals: Edge Floral Event Designers
Photography: Urban Row Photography
Rentals: DC Event Rentals and Select Event Group
Bride’s Hair: Amanda Moran Artistry
BM Hair: Mariani
Makeup: BTV Beauty
Ceremony & Cocktail Music: Cris Jacobs
Reception Music: Free Spirit Band, Entertainment Exchange
Cake: Sugarbakers Cakes
Invitation: MLC Designs
Escort Wall Design: Event Planning DC, Production: Edge Floral Event Designers, Leaves: Meaningful Frames
Alternative Guest Book: Meaningful Frames
Wedding Dress: Posh Bridal MD
Groom’s Attire: Paul Stewart
Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse

the butterfly room at sandtown furniture | industrial baltimore wedding venue

It’s no secret that Baltimore is a city that prides itself on its charm, history and industrial roots. When Sandtown Furniture Co. discovered this incredible brick warehouse in 2021, they had a vision for the space that is unmatched in its attention to design detail while also preserving its rich history dating back to 1885.

As mentioned on The Butterfly Room's website, “only Baltimore would have a wedding venue in a woodshop” …that right there is just one of the many reasons I love Baltimore!! I could list all the reasons why I think The Butterfly Room is an incredible wedding and event venue, but I thought a few (hundred) photos might do a better job than I ever could… ;)

Included below are some FAQs and quick facts about capacity, logistics and what makes The Butterfly Room at Sandtown Furniture Co. such a unique industrial Baltimore wedding venue; hope you find it to be a helpful resource!

Please let me know if you’re planning your wedding here — I’d love to be a part of it!

There are so many ways to celebrate here, the possibilities are truly endless with this 7,000 sf blank canvas to make your own…

Between the exposed, intricately textured brick walls, the larger-than-life floor to ceiling glass wall that divides the event space from the woodworking space for furniture design and production, to the arched windows letting in tons of natural light from above (at certain times of day it feels heavenly as the sun shines in…) and the 6 foot long hand-carved white oak door pull, you will be in awe as soon as you walk in, promise.

The inspiration for this shoot came from taking a raw industrial, historic warehouse and transforming it to have a warm, romantic, soft and modern elegant look...

The color palette incorporated warm orange-y + mustard yellow tones, honey, rust, amber and beige neutral tones with black accents for a modern, minimal wedding aesthetic. The matte black chairs paired perfectly with this custom Sandtown Furniture Co. walnut wood table and meadow-inspired floral ground arch installation for the ceremony.

Wanton Poppies BLEW ME AWAY with their talent and vision for all of the florals and greenery; a hanging install, a ground arch, 2 different tablescapes (fruit in one, greenery in the other!), a stunning bouquet + boutonniere… you name it, they CRUSHED IT!

---

HUGE THANKS TO THIS ROCKSTAR VENDOR TEAM:

Venue: The Butterfly Room
Photography, Design + Planning: Urban Row Photography
Beauty: No Filter Glam
Florals, Candles + Candleholders, Cake Display: Wanton Poppies
Acrylic Table Number, Chargers, Lanterns, Ring Dish: The Otherside Rentals
Cake: Taste This Cake
Gown: Raw Golden Rentals
Tie: Dazi
Suit: Groom’s own
Shoes + Jewelry: Bride’s own
Menus + Place Cards: mlc designs
Custom wood table + bench, leather sling chair: Sandtown Furniture Co.
Models: Meghan + Justin Collazo (one of our 2021 #urpcouples!)

ABOUT THE BUTTERFLY ROOM AT SANDTOWN FURNITURE CO.:

What makes The Butterfly Room unique as an industrial wedding venue in Baltimore?
 
Have you ever been to a wedding in a woodshop? We make handcrafted wood furniture, and we think our event space has one of the coolest views – our woodshop. Additionally, the 30’ high ceilings, the texture + color of the original brick walls, and the 75 arched windows make this space a sight to behold. And with the glass wall, you see all that from every corner of the space.

This space is so full of character, texture and beautiful craftsmanship in the building details and the wood furniture they design. I don’t know of another wedding venue in Baltimore that has this sense of scale to it and is accessibly laid out all on one level.

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

What was this space used for in its previous life?
This old building was built in 1885 by The Chesapeake Gas Company of Baltimore to be a gas processing plant. It has served Baltimore in many forms over the years; stoves were made here; canning & bottling was done here; but it had been vacant for many years by the time we found it.

Are there any design inspiration or elements that you're particularly proud of and/or excited to see in use?

The glass wall, for sure.  This is the only thing that separates the gallery/event space from the woodshop. That transparency was key for us. When guests are in the gallery, we want them to feel like they’re in the heart of a woodshop.  And we wanted our craftsman to be able do their work in a beautiful space where they love to be. The full-height, full-width glass wall creates that feel.

The arched windows & intricate brick-work are vestiges from another era, and we went to great lengths to preserve all of that. Generally, we’re really proud of how much of the original building remains exactly as it was when we found it. 

Those are some of the big moments, but honestly, we obsessed over every little detail just as much. The joinery details on the handmade bathroom vanities + mirrors…the solid concrete light fixtures in the bridal suites….the 6 foot long hand carved white oak door pull…we put so much thought & love into EVERY detail.

How many guests can be accommodated for a seated dinner and dancing? 
200 guests

Where do guests park? 
Valet parking is required & there is a valet partner who will handle it all.

How many events are hosted per day? 
Just yours!

Do couples have access to the entire facility on their wedding day? 
The venue has a unique set up; couples and guests have exclusive use of the event spaces and bathrooms on the day of their event. Spaces that are specific to furniture building are not available to guests or vendors.

How early do couples have access to the space on their wedding day?
3 hours prior to the start of the event. 

Are there spaces for the wedding party to get ready on site? 
Yes, we have 2 really beautiful separate spaces that are included with the rental.

Are outside caterers permitted? 
We have a carefully selected group of caterers on our exclusive list. Please contact us for more information. 

Is a representative from the venue going to be on-site for the duration of the event? 
Yes! A representative will be on-site to ensure the venue is operating as expected. We do require that weddings have a professional wedding planner to execute the vision of your day.

What does it cost to host a wedding at The Butterfly Room? 
As we launch the venue, we are offering a limited number of slots at a promotional rate. Please contact us for current rates and availability.

What is included with our rental of the space?
7,000 square feet in the main space, plus 2 suites (getting ready rooms), bathrooms and the catering area.

Is the venue accessible? 
Yes, nearly the entire venue is accessible. One of the getting ready rooms is up a small flight of stairs.

Is the venue climate controlled? 
All of the event space is fully climate controlled, and the main shop space has heat. 

CONTACT + DIRECTIONS:

Website: The Butterfly Room Baltimore
Address: 1226 Wicomico Street Baltimore, MD 21230
Email: events@sandtown.com

kim + ryan | patterson park + gunther & co engagement with their adorable dog

To say I’m looking forward to Kim and Ryan’s wedding at the Belvedere would be an understatement!! These lovebirds are two of the most beautiful souls, inside and out… the foundation of their love story was built on kindness, respect, a love of good food and drink and being the best parents to Millie, their super sweet and adorable #urbanrowpup who will be with us for portraits on their wedding day — I CAN NOT WAIT!!

But first, let’s relive this beautiful Fall evening at Gunther & Co and in Patterson Park for their engagement photos. It was golden, glowing, and full of gorgeousness!

Their meet-cute is literally the cutest story I’ve ever heard… here’s how Kim tells it:

“I was out in Federal Hill with my girlfriends when one of them (Casey) introduced me to her cousin (Ryan) who had just moved home from New York. Over the next few months we kept running into each other, since Ryan and Casey have a very close relationship! We became very good friends. One day I was at Nordstrom Rack with another girlfriend of mine, Jenny, and I had asked her if she thought it was weird if I was starting to have feelings for Ryan. She replied, "Omg no, not weird at all! He's so cute!" A few more weeks pass, and Ry and my friendship grows stronger. Then, FINALLY, we are out to brunch with a group of our friends, and this older man starts to hit on me and make me really uncomfortable. Ryan could see that I was getting very grossed out and quickly comes over. He says to the creepy man, "I see you met my wife! Isn't she beautiful? We're leaving for our honeymoon in just a few days." (I'm basically on the floor at this point in awe...) And then BOOM he plants a big smooch on my lips. The rest is history…” :)

And the proposal… I love that we got to take their photos in Patterson Park near where they actually got engaged!

“One of our favorite things to do is go on long walks around Canton. By far our favorite location is Patterson Park! One Saturday in December, Ryan wanted to go on a long walk to Harbor East for dinner, and stop off at Patterson Park since it was on the way. Halfway through our walk at the park, Ryan guided us to a pebble stone path, dropped down on one knee, and popped the question! I said yes, of course! Afterwards, we walked back to our apartment where Ryan had organized a surprise engagement party with both of our families. He did great!” :)

Cheers to celebrating your love with all of your family and friends in one room, finally, Kim + Ryan! I can’t wait to see all the dance moves you’ve been practicing!! ;)

xoxo,
Naomi

alicia + jarett | navy blue and terracotta fall wedding at the winslow

“Jarett has legitimately the best smile and laugh on the planet, he can make the worst days better with just one smile…”

Alicia and Jarett’s wedding day was full of all the best things on the planet: excitement, passion, emotion, laughter, fun (I’ve never seen so many people dancing down the aisle!), wine, happy tears, dancing and a love story 10 years in the making.

I can’t wait to show you these early favorites from the most gorgeous Fall day, when Alicia and Jarett became husband and wife!!

5 MEANINGFUL MOMENTS AND DETAILS FROM A+J’S OCTOBER WEDDING AT THE WINSLOW

1. To honor Jarett's late mother who passed away from 9/11 related cancer in 2020, she wore her shoes and tennis bracelet as well as carrying a picture of her on a charm tied around her bouquet

2. The radiant joy on Jarett’s face as Alicia walked up the aisle to meet him… not to mention the excitement of all of the wedding party as they made their way up the aisle! The clapping, the enormous smiles, the flower man’s dance moves — it was all so heartwarming!

3. When Alicia + Jarett saw the reception space before their guests; the look on their faces at the reveal was just priceless!

4. The color palette for their warm October wedding was full of terracotta, rust, burnt orange, cream, crimson red and navy; the groom wore a floral tie with a checkered navy suit.

5. Their rooftop portraits as the sunset… a wedding at the Winslow wouldn’t be complete without these views! A+J went up to the roof right after ceremony once she was bustled and got to enjoy a few minutes to themselves before the party kicked off with their favorite people…
   10/10 recommend!

Congratulations, Mr. + Mrs. Henderson!!! It’s been such an honor to get to know you both and celebrate your love story… one that’s been so many years in the making! I hope you never stop dancing and secret handshaking through life!

xoxo,
Naomi

VENDOR TEAM:

venue: The Winslow
planning: Tira Lynn Events
photography: Urban Row Photography
florals: West Virjeni
catering: Copper Kitchen
DJ: My Deejay
dress: Elysee Bridal
boutique: Alexandra's Boutique
bridesmaid dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Baltimore
groom + groomsmen attire: Men’s Warehouse
beauty: Vintage Veils
lighting: Event Dynamics
photo booth: Prop Stop Photo Booth
transportation: American Limousines
invitations: Zazzle
stationery: Devine Designs by Diesha

katherine + ben | cozy fall cromwell valley park engagement

Katherine commented on Ben's bowtie and that started their first conversation — fast forward a few years to their fast approaching wedding day where Ben will be wearing another bowtie and looking as dapper as ever…

These lovebirds are continually laughing and sharing friendly competition with their favorite pro sports teams AND working out at the gym; “I've never laughed so genuinely in my life and love Ben's jokes (the good ones and the dumb ones). I love the times that Ben and I can spend working out as well as cooking/baking together - he makes life so fun. And - we both love that we often unintentionally end up wearing matching outfits!”

How’d the proposal happen?

“After attending 5+ weddings for friends and family in 2021, we decided we wanted some time away just to ourselves. We booked a trip to Savannah and arrived on a Thursday night. We woke up Friday, grabbed coffee, and walked around the streets of Savannah all morning. After a day of touring, we grabbed drinks at the hotel in the early evening and Ben proposed right on the riverfront.”

Cheers to you, Katherine and Ben! I can’t wait for you to host all of your friends and family for a fun, uniquely Baltimore wedding at the AVAM! And I love how Katherine is excited to “be spun around the dance floor by Ben (even though I'm awful at dancing) because I know we'll be laughing and beaming with smiles the whole time…”

xo,
Naomi

sarah + dan | a classic spring engagement in mt. vernon baltimore

While planning their engagement photos, I knew there were 3 things that were important to Sarah and Dan:

1. catching the magnolia trees in bloom in Baltimore (they’re Sarah’s favorite!)

2. including Maple, their adorable poodle and #urbanrowpup, for a few photos

3. having fun and being themselves (scroll down to see how they celebrated at the end of the shoot with some bubbly to ensure fun was had! ;))

You two have been such a pleasure to get to know, your genuine love for each other shines through every moment! Your sense of style and attention to detail has been SO MUCH FUN to see come together during the wedding planning throughout all of our conversations…

I can’t wait for your gorgeously chic, industrial Fall wedding at the Mt. Washington Mill Dye House but in the meantime, am so excited to share some of these favorites from your spring engagement session in Mt. Vernon! Every urban engagement session should end with riding downhill on a scooter… :)

Read their proposal story:

Some of Dan's friends were planning a trip to a beach house in Massachusetts and Dan decided that would be where he pulled the trigger (he had already had the ring for a few months and he was getting dangerously close to spilling the beans). Sarah almost figured it out when Dan suggested they buy new outfits for the trip and insisted on getting up for sunrise at a nearby lighthouse. One of Sarah's friends, Katherine, was key in shaking Sarah off the trail; "Dan likes clothes and hasn't bought any since he started working from home, and you like cheesy pictures."

They drove up to Mass on Saturday, when Sarah realized that she chipped her new nail polish, Dan deadpan looked at her and said, "Well its not like anybody is going to be looking at your hands," and the conversation ended.

The next morning, they woke up at 4:30 to get ready for pictures - the sun rose about 30 minutes sooner in Mass than it did in Baltimore. After taking a bunch of snaps, Dan went to get the ring from his back pocket, but the ring box got stuck. Sarah looked on like he was a crazy person as he jumped up and down trying to find an angle where his pants would allow the box to escape. "My wallet is twisted in my pocket and it feels super annoying!" and she bought the excuse! He freed the ring, got down on one knee, where she quickly joined him and said, "yes."

Sarah + Dan, your wedding is finally only DAYS away!!! You’re going to be married and it’s only going to get better from here! I can’t wait to celebrate alongside you both, you make such a great team and parents to Maple… here’s to lots more love, laughter, beautiful blooms and dancing at the Dye House!

xoxo,
Naomi

lee + dan | a heartfelt rustic fall wedding at cold saturday farm

Planning their October wedding at Cold Saturday Farm for 2 years, Lee and Dan FINALLY got to celebrate with all their favorite people on a beautifully romantic Saturday afternoon with cloudy skies and a lush garden backdrop at this historic and serene property…

It was truly incredible; the rain came down heavily in the morning but paused midday for us to take advantage of portraits of these lovebirds (and their families and wedding party!) with the rolling hills and tranquil farm as the perfect backdrop.

5 MEMORABLE MOMENTS AND ELEMENTS AT LEE AND DAN’S WEDDING:

1. The excitement on their faces as they saw each other for their first look and were pronounced husband and wife… Lee, your expressions were priceless and adorable!

2. With misty rain in the forecast, the ceremony moved to the renovated white barn (it previously housed horse stables!) with industrial glass garage doors that let in tons of natural light… it was so elegantly simple and intimate with everyone gathered under the exposed white roof structure and glowing chandeliers.

3. The way Lee and Dan entered their reception tent set the tone for the rest of the evening… the DJ immediately opened the dance floor so everyone could get up and join them at the start; the energy level was incredible! They prioritized nonstop dancing fun and designed their reception to encourage that!

4. The food everyone really wants to enjoy at all times: a nacho bar + an Asian fusion taco truck, apple fritters + ice cream sammies for dessert (FYI: you don’t need to do a cake if you’re not cake people! I love how Lee and Dan prioritized the food they love and local businesses were at the forefront of that!) with signature drinks named for their pups, Fancy + Barkley.

5. Lee and her Dad had THE best father daughter dance with personalized Orioles jerseys and lots of O’s magic vibes!

Congrats again, cuties! #HappHealyEverAfter couldn’t be more true!! You both are the epitome of fun, thoughtfulness, compassion, kindness, love and boundless passion for all of the incredible causes you support with your time and energy. It was an honor to photograph your wedding day and I can’t wait to continue to witness all the big and small things you do together!

xoxo,
Naomi

VENDOR TEAM:

planning + coordination: The Wedding Ninja
venue: Cold Saturday Farm
photography: Urban Row Photography
flowers: Hutchinson Florist
food: Taco Bar Food Truck
fritters + cider: Baugher’s Orchard
ice cream: Hoffman’s Ice Cream
DJ: DJ Sal
dress: Morilee
boutique: The Bridal Boutique Columbia
bridesmaids dresses: Betsy Robinson’s Bridal
groom: Tuxedo House
beauty: Azure Salon
bar service: Market Tavern
tent: Elite Tents & Events
rings: Pomeroy Jewelers + Radcliffe Jewelers
officiant: Drew Wagner
string ensemble: Meridian Ensemble

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

abbie + kyle | a wildflower lookout sunset engagement with their pups

Abbie and Kyle, you two are the definition of absolute sweethearts, soulmates and the best pup parents to Nala and Clover! The vision you had for your spring engagement photos in a wildflower field with your pups? EPIC and all-time favorite…!!!

I’m still so in awe at how it all worked out… we considered multiple locations, had to reschedule (thanks to Covid) and still managed to have the most picturesque pastel sky sunset among PA’s Wildflower Lookout with Nala and Clover were THE BEST pup models! You can’t even tell how humid it was! ;)

I CAN NOT WAIT to get you two married this weekend!!! I already know it’s going to be unforgettable and so much fun — you’ve worked so hard to get to this day and are just the sweetest soulmates who deserve all the happiness in the world!

xoxo,
Naomi

joslyn + andrew | a jewel-toned wedding at the assembly room

On the last Saturday in September, Joslyn and Andrew said ‘I Do’ while their closest family and friends cheered them on and partied all night under the most beautiful twinkle lights and with the best dance moves as the Onyx Band (my favorite!) performed at the Assembly Room in downtown Baltimore…

But what really stole the show were 2 moments for me: the first being the moment Andrew saw Joslyn at their first look on the promenade… his speechlessness said it all! And the second being the way they look at each other and are filled with so much love, joy, kindness and humor, it simply radiates from them (just look at this first photo!).

Here is a little bit from what their wedding day looked like!

Congratulations, Mr. + Mrs. Bredholt!! We are so happy for you and know that this is just the start of amazing adventures together… you guys sure know how to throw an incredible party for all your favorite people! I hope Dexter’s not too sad he missed it when you show him the photos… ;)

xo,
Naomi

VENDOR TEAM:

planning + design: The Otherside Creatives
photography: Urban Row Photography
venue: The Assembly Room at Ikonic Live
catering: Zeffert and Gold
florals: Carried Away Florals
beauty: Brushed Beauty
band: The Onyx Band
rentals: Pretty Little Wedding Co, Honeywood Rentals
lighting: 27 Studios
boutique: K&B Bridals
bridesmaids dresses: Azazie
earrings: Olive & Piper pearl pave studs
groom + groomsmen formal attire: Generation Tux
groom’s tie: Knotty Tie
cake: Meringue Cake Studio
dessert: Cream Cruiser
invitation: Zola
transportation: American Limo

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

lily + andy | a joyful + modern haven street ballroom wedding

Lily and Andy are the real deal, jumping for joy so high while in their wedding attire, multiple times indoors and outdoors… they have a tradition of jumping photos at all major milestones (and if you’re wondering if they did some at their esesh, the answer is of course!) and I couldn’t love them more if I tried!

Disclaimer: no humans were photoshopped while jumping — all of the jumping photos we took throughout the day are true in height and leg stance!!

Not only are they incredible partners who share a love of travel and adventure (they’ve both gone to and lived in so many places, the list is amazing!), their dog Nyla, good food and of course, the love of family and friends. It was so memorable to witness the incredibly strong support they received on this day!

Enjoy these early favorite moments from Lily + Andy’s windy, warm and whimsical September wedding…

6 MEMORABLE MOMENTS AND DETAILS FROM THEIR HAVEN STREET BALLROOM WEDDING:

1. A surprise temporary tattoo reveal of their #urbanrowpup Nyla, on their close friends’ arms and legs

2. A bubble jump sendoff at their reception

3. A bet as to how many times that day, Lily’s dad would cry happy tears 🥹

4. Matching socks that L+A both wore with Nyla’s smiling face on them!

5. When Andy and his groomsmen (and both dads!) decided to have fun in the hotel room and jump on the bed for some super casual and candid getting ready photos with their personalized beer steins! :)

6. Lily’s bridal hairstyle was so unique and pretty! She had a braid on both sides that led to a ponytail with pearls woven into the braid.

Congratulations again, Lily + Andy! You two are destined for big things and so many incredible adventures together, the best is truly yet to come!! Thank you for giving us the honor of documenting such a fun and memorable day with you and your families… I hope you continue the jumping photo tradition for decades to come (every jump left me speechless)!

VENDOR LOVE

venue: Haven Street Ballroom
planning: Event Planning DC
photography: Urban Row Photography
catering: Zeffert and Gold
florals: Wander and Whimsy Floral
officiant: Ceremony by Rachael
beauty: BTV Beauty
DJ: DJ Steve of DJ Jimmy T
dress: Wonder Dress from Vow’d Weddings
groom’s attire: Indochino

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

britton + andrew | a sweet, sentimental september wyndridge farm wedding

Getting to know Britton and Andrew has been an incredibly rewarding, fun and memorable experience… these lovebirds genuinely know what’s important in life and love and work tirelessly to better their relationship and the lives of those around them.

From the first time we met, their kind, compassionate, bubbly and passionate personalities have shown through every interaction. They are soulmates who share a deep love of faith, family and adventure — and their wedding at Wyndridge Farm was the perfect blend of all of those.

Here are some favorites for you to enjoy from their beautiful early September wedding!

8 MEMORABLE ELEMENTS AND DETAILS THAT MADE UP BRITTON + ANDREW’S ELEGANT FALL WEDDING:

1. Britton illustrated the chapel from their venue to be incorporated into the design of their letterpress invitation suite as well as including copper wax seals with their monogram. She also hand-designed all of the signage and table numbers!

2. Andrew designed and built a custom wooden display wall for their creme brulee desserts with ‘creme de la creme’ at the top in white script.

3. They cut their specialty Italian bakery cake with Andrew’s Marine Corps sword!

4. The color palette of the bridesmaids dresses, all of the florals and the reception tablescapes; warm, textured, rich and full of cozy Fall vibes with peach, mustard, rust, copper, ivory, gold, lush greenery… twinkle lights hung from the ceiling structure and candles at each table created such a romantic vibe!

5. Britton had a lace heart sewn into her dress that was taken from her mother’s wedding dress material. She also had her own wedding dress custom designed to have pearls lining the back of the dress!

6. Britton had a first look with her dad and twin brother and then not only shared a handwritten note with them, but welcomed their pastor in for prayer.

7. Andrew wrote and performed a song for Britton on his guitar (just as he had done early on in their relationship), that he sung to her privately after the ceremony in the Inn at Wyndridge before their reception begun.

8. They exited their ceremony with a confetti recessional and a passionate first kiss dip before leaving the chapel and at the end of the aisle!

Congratulations, Britton + Andrew!! You two are simply fabulous humans individually… and together as a married couple: watch out world! You’re destined for amazing adventures and I can’t wait to see what’s next for you both… thank you for allowing us to document all the love and joy that was present at your wedding, it was truly the best day!

xo,
Naomi

VENDOR TEAM:

venue: Wyndridge Farm
photography: Urban Row Photography
videography: Shawn Fisher Productions
beauty: Salon Blu in York
florist: Custom Florals
DJ: 3 West Productions
gown: Olia Zavozina
dessert: Vaccaro’s Pastry Shop
invitation: Amanda Childs Paperie
bridesmaid’s dresses: Show Me Your Mumu
groomsmen attire: The Black Tux
confetti: The Whole Bride

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

whitney + ryan | a maryland zoo + rawlings conservatory elopement

The only thing that could have made Whitney + Ryan’s elopement better would have been if their 4 cats could have joined in the fun… yes, 4 (all named for mushrooms: Shiitake, Porcini, Enoki and Crimini)!

So, naturally the next best thing was to include a penguin and get married in an intimate elopement ceremony at the Maryland Zoo. Taylor of Taylored Vows, officiated and inspired not only smiles and loving glances, but memorable laughter throughout their vows on the steps of the Mansion House.

I couldn’t be more excited to share what their day looked like… CONGRATULATIONS, W+R!!

WHITNEY + RYAN’S MARYLAND ZOO + RAWLINGS CONSERVATORY ELOPEMENT WAS FULL OF FUN, CANDID JOY AND A PENGUIN!

It was just the 2 of them, myself, their officiant, and their own personal chauffeur (from the zoo) to take us around for photos, after getting close and cozy with Lilly, the penguin! A true elopement that was so much fun and exactly what Whitney and Ryan wanted for their wedding…

It didn’t rain at all, despite the threatening skies (but I wore boots and had umbrellas just in case! The sun showed up during their vows and then went back to hiding behind clouds for their portraits… this was actually a great thing since it meant less squinty eyes!

We ended outside among the lush gardens at Rawlings Conservatory and took some of my FAVE PHOTOS EVER because they’re so stinkin’ cute together and we had the place to ourselves (another reason Tuesday weddings are worth it!!)

Whitney and Ryan, you two compliment each other so perfectly and share such a special connection, I can’t thank you enough for the opportunity to document your elopement! I hope this day was full of more happiness and love than you could have imagined… and it only gets better from here!

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

brandyce + tanesha | a colorful + fun rainbow baltimore elopement

Their wedding day was colorful, but their love story is vibrant!!

Full of excitement, Brandyce and Tanesha were married at the Towson Courthouse on a bright and sunny Friday in September. After the elopement ceremony, we went down to the water in South Baltimore for a fun celebration with tons of color and lots of love present among all of their guests!

Just because you’re getting married at a courthouse building, doesn’t mean your elopement can’t be full of color… Brandyce and Tanesha incorporated color in all of these ways:

• Wearing rainbow converse shoes

• Carrying rainbow floral bouquets

• All of their 11 guests wore rainbow colored attire and posed with rainbow umbrellas

• Ending with a rainbow colored smoke bomb send-off

But my favorite part of their love story is how they connected through a mutual friend and initially felt something about the other, but didn’t act on it right away and even managed to continue to get to know each other while living across the country.

“I love her smile and the way she grabs my hand to hold. I love the person I am when I am with her. She challenges me and makes me better. She is my happy place.”

Congratulations, ladies!! It has been such a pleasure getting to know you and having the honor of photographing your wedding; thank you for the opportunity to be a part of these memories. Your love story is an inspiration and I hope you never forget all the joy that was experienced on this day!

xoxo,
Naomi

kristen + eric | a vibrant summer wedding at belmont manor

Kristen and Eric were married at Belmont Manor & Historic Park on a sunny and warm, late summer Saturday.

Living in Connecticut for Kristen’s residency, these lovebirds both grew up in Maryland but had never been to their venue in person prior to the wedding day… for some people this would seem stressful, but Kristen + Eric’s easygoing nature and contagious joy, meant they were able to truly kick back and enjoy the day! It might have been super humid, but you’d never know — the dance floor never stopped!!

The entrance drive into the Manor immediately set the stage for a relaxed, joyful and beautiful celebration of love, friendship, dancing, sweet treats and fireball.

Here are some sneak peeks from their beautiful summer wedding day at Belmont Manor!

THE 5 MEMORABLE MOMENTS AND DETAILS THAT MADE K+E’S BELMONT MANOR WEDDING THE BEST DAY EVER:

1. an outdoor ceremony, cocktail hour and tented reception full of lush greenery + blooms

2. vibrant, juicy colored florals that popped against the bridesmaids’ taupe dresses

3. a dance floor full of 90s hits that didn’t stop all night

4. 🔥ball shots during the best man’s speech

5. constant laughter and very happy humans (despite the humidity and constant “glistening”)!!

Kristen + Eric, your Belmont Manor wedding was beyond beautiful but seeing your joy as you were pronounced husband + wife after 9 years of being together, was truly my favorite part!!

Congratulations again, Kristen + Eric, your wedding was an absolute joy to be a part of. Your excitement and energy are contagious; I hope you continue dancing all night long for decades to come!!

Can’t wait to welcome you both back to Maryland in the future!

xo,
Naomi

VENDOR TEAM:

venue: Belmont Manor House
planning + design: Moore & Co. Events
photography: Urban Row Photography
florals: Blush Floral Design Studio
catering: Rouge Catering
DJ: Friendly Entertainment
beauty: Fleurt Beauty Company
bridal boutique: Julie Allen Bridals
bridesmaid dresses: Azazie
groom’s attire: Men’s Wearhouse
earrings: Tiffany’s
shoes: Badgley Mischka
wedding rings: D'Errico Jewelry
decor: Pretty Little Wedding Co.
cake: Sugarbakers
transportation: American Limousine

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