Sunshine, Laughter, and Lots of Treats: A Chesapeake Bay Wedding
I feel so lucky to have traveled from Pennsylvania to photograph this beautiful wedding at Herrington on the Bay in Maryland. From the moment I arrived, I could tell this day was going to be special. The sun was shining, the sky was perfectly clear, and the Chesapeake Bay provided a breathtaking backdrop that made every moment feel magical.
Before the ceremony, we captured their first look, a quiet, intimate moment full of emotion. Hugh was right there with Nick and couldn’t wait to turn around, tail wagging and a big smile on his face, eager for a glance at the beautiful bride, Melissa! It was such a sweet, personal moment that perfectly captured the love and joy between them — and the bond they share as a little family.
The ceremony itself was set right on the water, with lush greenery all around and the soft sound of waves in the distance. Their Rochester pastor delivered one of the most memorable messages I’ve ever heard, comparing marriage to music. She spoke of rhythm, balance, and the way love has its own metronome — sometimes you need your own “practice room,” and other times you lean on each other to create harmony. It was such a beautiful and meaningful perspective, and it fit this couple perfectly.
The ceremony was also full of laughter and heart. The best man accidentally handed the groom a paper with her vows — and then did it again! Everyone erupted in laughter, and it was one of those perfectly human, joyful moments that you remember forever. Their vows were full of personality, reflecting their love for sports, adventures, and their pup Hugh. Every word was genuine and heartfelt, showing the deep connection they share. Photographing these moments made me feel like I was capturing more than just a wedding — I was capturing their story.
This couple thought of everything to make their day both fun and personal. Guests enjoyed a mashed potato bar during cocktail hour, ice cream instead of a traditional cake, and a late-night tater tot bar that kept everyone smiling long after the dance floor opened. These creative touches added so much personality to the day, and I loved capturing the joy on every guest’s face.
This wedding was especially meaningful for me. The bride and I went to college together, so being there to photograph her wedding felt like such a full-circle moment. Even more special — I’ve photographed two of her bridesmaids’ weddings as well. Being able to catch up with old friends I care about and celebrating life’s biggest moments together made the day even more memorable.
Herrington on the Bay is truly a magical venue. With its waterfront views, beautiful gardens, and serene atmosphere, it’s a dream to photograph. Every corner offers something unique — from golden sunsets over the Chesapeake to intimate garden nooks perfect for portraits. It’s a venue that effortlessly lets couples’ personalities shine through.
From start to finish, this wedding was full of sunshine, laughter, and moments that made my heart happy. Being able to capture this day — the sweet first look with Hugh, the heartfelt vows, the laughter-filled ceremony, and even all the fun treats — was an absolute honor. Watching Nick and Melissa start their life together surrounded by friends, family, and so much love reminded me exactly why I love what I do.
Vendors that made this day possible:
Venue: Herrington on the Bay
Wedding Planner: Amber & Lexi with Herrington on the Bay
DJ/Band/Entertainment: Angelo Battle
Florist: Something Borrowed Blooms
Hair Stylist: Greene House Salon
Makeup Artist: Eris Miscannon
Bridal Dress: Serendipity Bridal, La Plata
Cake: Annie Gorenflo
Catering & Bartending: Herrington on the Bay
