Jo Ann and Josh’s wedding day was so incredibly special for so many reasons. I was so incredibly inspired by every single element from the eccentric vibe of the Revival Hotel, to the lush greenery at Cylburn, to the impeccably delectable cuisine at Pen + Quill Restaurant, and everything in between.
They each put such detail-oriented planning, hard work, and tireless efforts into the design and style, colors, textures, and overall feel of the day. Every ounce of creative energy these two put into their wedding day was executed perfectly and I look back on it all with a warm smile and overflowing heart!
Jo Ann is a flower designer and artist, and Josh is in video production. So naturally, they knew exactly what to prepare for and implement so that their day was nothing short of amazing, and it really truly was…
We began at the Revival Hotel in Mt. Vernon - such a cool place with a cafe and lounge that overlooks the city with breathtaking views and delicious smells of coffee and brunch… I fell in love with the vibe, colors, unique pieces of art, and layout of the hotel and can’t wait to go back someday soon!
They decided not to see each other prior to the ceremony, but got ready only a few rooms apart. Jo Ann’s dress was custom-designed and handmade by a dear friend, who came to make sure it was steamed well and fit to perfection. I loved how Jo’s sisters, mother, and friends were all hustling and bustling around her as they all got ready in sweet anticipation for the day’s events…
Josh and his guys were watching the Raven’s game and hanging out just down the hall. His suit coat had such a perfect texture and color, lending to the look and feel of the overall style of their day so well.
Josh’s surprise for Jo was her getaway car… which also happens to be my dream vehicle ever since I was little! A 1991 Spinnaker Blue Grand Wagoneer… It was her “Something Blue” and it was awesome… Complete with the hula dancer and all… Jo was so surprised when she came out to see it, as it awaited to take her to the ceremony…
I always loved the wood grain and black ones and remember my friend’s mom driving one and thinking, I would love to drive one of these when I’m older! Now I have a Jeep Grand Cherokee which works just fine. :)
Before their ceremony, they wanted to have a Champagne Hour for their guests. Jo wasn’t present for this, but Josh was there to greet their guests as they spent time mingling beforehand. It was fun to see everyone so relaxed and enjoying themselves, anxiously awaiting what was to come.
These two designed and created every detail of their ceremony space! I loved their arch of branches and blooms, the wooden candlesticks were so elegant and stunning, and their precious memory table honored Josh’s father and brother.
Their ceremony was intimate and oh so personal. Their good friend (and lead vocalist for Jah Works, Scott Paynter!) performed their ceremony in such a dear and special way. They wrote their own vows, deeply holding each other in their eyes as they spoke. Josh went first, and then Jo Ann.
Can we just take a minute to note how precious her flower girl is in her sweet little outfit?? I want that in my size! Those tights and shoes - so cute!
She ended by saying, “Josh, you’ve taught me that life should always have a soundtrack…” Within seconds, several guests stood up from their seats and immediately went into a cappella singing, with beatboxing, “You’re All I Need to Get By” by Marvin Gaye… and it was incredible! It was like nothing any of us had seen before and it was the coolest addition to the ceremony! Josh was amazed! Everyone enjoyed seeing his expressions as he watched and appreciated what Jo had put together… It was beyond impressive!
They ended their ceremony with a special tree-potting, exchanging of their rings, and of course - a kiss!
One of the things that was important to them was to get a group photo of all of their friends and family in attendance… I love this shot!
Jo made her own bouquet… and my breath was literally taken from me when I saw it. It was rustically autumn with a beautiful touch of whimsy.
I’m in love with their family photos… Everyone dressed so perfectly, where the colors and styles of their outfits flowed together and highlighted one another.
It was time to head to Pen + Quill, the perfect place for their reception! A good friend of theirs is the owner, and was so proud and happy to host this special occasion. They had a corner of the space open for dancing and while guests were enjoying their cocktails and gorgeous crudite spread, music accompanied them from Dave Matthews Band, Beastie Boys, and other classic faves from the late ‘90s and early 2000’s… I was in my glory with some of the throw-backs we heard!
Have I mentioned how obsessed I am with their taste and style? Even down to the music… Sigh… :)
Dinner consisted of the most delicious spread with cozy autumn squash soup, shrimp and grits, brussels sprouts, and so much more… followed later on by an abundance of gourmet donuts!
These two LOVE to dance… After a few speeches and the cutting of their EXQUISITE cake, topped with dried oranges, star anise, and dried florals, the dance floor opened up and the energy shifted from eloquent and chic dinner party to a HOPPIN’ “show ‘em what ya got!” vibe and it was sooo much fun… I always love when people let loose and just dance!
Words can not express how dearly I loved being part of this wedding day! Jo Ann and Josh, you are both such a treasure and I will never forget this incredibly special day… Lots of love and thanks to you both!
Hotel: Hotel Revival, Baltimore
Car/Transport: Spinnaker Blue
Hair: Harmony Zattau / Form Salon
Woodwork: Stage 6 Designs
Floral/Event Design: Jo Ann :)
Ceremony: Cylburn Arboretum
Reception: Pen + Quill