Kate and Allan wanted their wedding day to feel incredibly relaxed and laid-back, just like a Cocktail Hour where their guests could mingle and talk to whoever they wanted, eat and drink whatever they wanted, and have the overall feel of a bar/restaurant party rather than a structured wedding reception. I was completely in love with the idea when they were describing their vision to me because I’m all about a down-to-earth and easy-going vibe, especially at a wedding! :)
Combined with the non-traditional factors of their reception were more classic and timeless elements like Kate’s jewelry. Her dress was from BHLDN and was absolutely perfect for her, especially with that bold red lip! Kristen Floyd did her makeup and was so incredibly talented. She also attended the reception and was there for touch-ups whenever Kate needed them!
Kate is part of a group of 5 special girlfriends who have all been close for years. I’ve photographed 2 of their weddings (Danielle and Ed’s & Katie and Kory’s!), now 3 which is special for me! They are all gorgeous, sweet, giving, and so supportive of each other and it’s so cool to witness. They call their little group “the gals” and had tanks made up with the show “Friends” font that said “Gals”, which were so cute.
So I arrived to the Hotel Monaco in Baltimore as the girls were getting ready… It was so fun to walk in and hug everyone - I felt like it was a little reunion! :)
Kate and Allan wrote letters to each other, so after she was in her dress, Kate opened hers…
Allan was a few doors down getting ready with his son Aiden, who is so adorable and mature for his age. He was excited to be part of the day and help his dad get ready to see Kate, who also had written a letter to Aiden.
Allan really wanted to have their First Look on the beautiful white marble steps in the foyer. There was another wedding going on who were using the stairs for some portraits, but just before it was time for Allan to see Kate, it looked like the stairs cleared up so we took advantage of the wide open opportunity! I’m so glad we did because I love these images… I had Danielle with my second camera over on the adjacent staircase to capture Kate as she walked down to see her groom. Danielle killed it!
We took a few portraits around the hotel before it was time to head to Mt. Washington Tavern for the ceremony!
I love the Mt. Washington Tavern. Their food is so good, it’s in such a cool part of the Baltimore area, and had the perfect vibe they were going for.
Their ceremony was beautiful. I loved the Pimlico Room where it was held, with all of the greenery, cream colored walls, gold accents, and neutral tones. Kate and Allan wrote their own vows which made everyone tear up… it was such a beautiful moment!
Then it was party time! We popped outside for some portraits but their guests headed to the bar, and to all of the various food stations including a taco bar, burger bar, and a mac & cheese bar!
We had so much fun outside walking around the streets surrounding the Tavern. Kate got #thejustmarriedjacket from Copper Stone Co. for a few photos! It’s when you borrow the jacket for wedding day pics in exchange for a bottle of wine! Such a fun concept that’s now here in Baltimore!
They’re so sweet and fun, I can hardly stand it! We headed inside to enjoy the rest of the reception… I loved watching everyone have fun and enjoy just hanging out! The one traditional part of their ceremony was the cake cutting - adorable of course!
I love to try and always get a group shot with my couples. :) What an awesome day this was… I was so happy to be part of it! Best wishes to Kate and Allan, lots of love to the two of you and thank you so much for giving me the privilege of documenting these memories for you both!
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Hotel: Hotel Kipton Monaco, Baltimore
Venue, Flowers, Cake, Food: Mt. Washington Tavern
Makeup: Kristen Floyd Makeup
Hair: Tranquille Hair & Body
Dress: BHLDN