I parked underneath the Canopy hotel overlooking the Baltimore Harbor, and with my raincoat hood up, made my way through the drizzling rain and into the dry front lobby. Tori was photographing with me that day, and it was also Morgan’s second wedding as my assistant. We had all photographed another wedding together the day before, so we were going into this day with such a bonded team mentality that made me feel so supported, inspired, and excited.
We headed up to Eliza’s room where she was finishing up hair and makeup along with her bridesmaids, sister Alex, and grandmother. Meanwhile, Devyn was enjoying a nice glass of Scotch with the guys, sharing in a few laughs before it was time to finish getting ready…
Before it was time to leave for the Baltimore Museum of Art, Eliza had two very important men waiting to see her. Her father Michael, and of course, her Devyn. Sweet Alex was present when Eliza came around the corner to see their dad - needless to say, it was a tender, special moment that had us all misty.
Though the hotel lobby was busy with people taking shelter from the rain, we found a private little spot for Devyn to await his bride. :) And after grabbing a cocktail at the bar, it was time to head to the BMA!
Once we arrived and settled in, we took some pictures out front on the steps before it was time for Eliza and Devyn to sign their Ketubah as guests began to arrive and get seated. Their ceremony was sacred and endearing, as well as visually striking, held underneath the wonderous light structure entitled “Moon Dust” by Spencer Finch. Read More
I’ll add that though the weather was dreary, I felt like it created an epic aura to the day in a way. They’d initially planned to get married outside at the museum, and though those plans were changed, the rain didn’t take away from any special moment or photograph opportunity, it only became part of the incredible, unforgettable memory that was Eliza + Devyn’s wedding day…
I had been dreaming of this Cocktail Hour ever since the moment they described it to me. Each element was in honor of their story - lobster rolls and clam chowder celebrated their childhood memories of New England, and other passed hors d’oeuvres paid tribute to their heritage. A three-piece band kept us all company while mingling in the mosaic-lined courtyard square within the museum, where guests sipped their champagne, cocktails, and wine and enjoyed delicious morsels while appreciating the artistic masterpieces on display before them - including The Thinker!
Back in the ballroom, the tables were being set for dinner. Candles were lit in romantic groupings of glass vases and some of the very first florals of spring were dancing down the table settings like little ballerinas. Each guest’s table number stood on a little art easel, a nod to the museum.
But it wasn’t yet time to eat! The band started right up and everybody came out onto the dance floor for the Hora - it was incredible energy and such a fun way to start off a night of celebration!
Then it was time for guests to settle and begin their meals, starting with a soup and salad course, followed by a delectable dinner entrée. There were a couple speeches and lots of mingling and conversation, all by romantic candlelight and of course, moon dust…
After cutting into their whoopie pie, we went on a little excursion around the gallery and had a little fun while the security stepped into the next room… :) and headed back outside into the light drizzle for a few dramatic portraits out front.
I just didn’t want the night to end.
There aren’t enough words to describe how much I’ve enjoyed my experience with Eliza and Devyn. They are just so fun and kind and full of warmth and grace and love, and just all of the things that make the heart feel full in the best way. They’re the kind of couple you wish were your neighbors so you could have dinner parties and lovely conversations over the fence. Not only are they delightful people, but they seem to really have their values in a beautiful perspective. I so deeply appreciated how much they seemed so really, truly present in every way, taking in each and every moment without rushing or stressing. They just simply loved and enjoyed.
This was a day, and a couple, that I will never ever forget. Therefore, I hereby announce that May 7th is officially Eliza + Devyn Day!
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A bit from behind the scenes…
We worked alongside Josh Turner Films and they were so chill! Here they are with Morgan, coming in clutch for the dress shot, and making her way down the steps to cover me with the umbrella, and Tori ensuring the BP looks balanced and spaced out nicely for their group shot. :)
Last but not least, I have to thank Sarah + Alli of SD Events, who worked so hard to make this day come to life… They are two rays of sunshine, who know how to get things done, and I just LOVE working with them. They fought against the weather, and pulled all of the changes together last minute to curate a seamless timeline and gorgeous aesthetic.
What a day. Thank you all!
And cheers to Eliza + Devyn - may your life together be full of abundant blessing and meaningful richness forever and ever.
xo