Laura and Phil have become one of those couples where I’m just a little bummed their wedding is over- only because I don’t have an excuse to see them anymore. However the beauty and joy of their day was just overwhelming.
The theme of their day seemed to be calm. When I arrived, Laura and her bridesmaids, both named Amanda, were just settling into the bridesmaid suite. When Phil and his brothers arrived, equally calm and organized. The guys were laughing and talking as we finished their portraits. We picked out their first look spot and I returned to Laura for her bridal portraits.
If I could have hand selected a dress for Laura- it was the one she had. A classic silhouette with cap sleeves with lace detail. Classic, refined, timeless but with a feminine softness. The kind of dress that will look just as beautiful 50 years from now. As we walked to meet Phil in the gardens, there was only the nervousness that comes from excitement. They were both so ready to see each other. Surrounded by black-eyed-susans (Maryland’s state flower), Phil turned to look at his bride.
Awe. Endless smiles. Lots of “Oh wow.” and “Look how beautiful you are”. He asked her to turn to take it all in. She also showed him her bouquet- complete with a King Protea flower the state flower of South Africa. It was like their love story was playing thematically in flowers. You see- they currently live in Seattle, having lived in South Africa not so long ago. But they are from Maryland, and were returning for this special day.
After their first look we did some portraits with just the two of them, and their bridal party and yet somehow we were still 30 minutes ahead of schedule. That gave them a little more time to relax together before the long walk down the aisle. Under a triangle arch, again decorated with the King Protea flower, they said their vows- with Uncle Greg officiating. Only happy tears and a very firm “Yes!” from them both when asked if the promised to love each other forever.
After the ceremony the three of us went to celebrate in the field- somehow once again 30 minutes ahead of schedule. Despite the cloudy weather, no rain dared interpret their day. They ran through wispy golden fields and whispered their hopes to each other for their first year of marriage. Because we were running so early, we were able to get back to the reception before it opened for guests. Shoutout to Great Scott Productions for quickly pulling up their first dance so they could have a private dance in their venue.
Do I need to tell you the rest? Surrounded by their loved ones, they ate, drank, danced and were married (and merry!)
Credits
Photography | Silver Orchard Creative
Venue | Howard County Conservatory
Wedding Planner | Amanda McGee (family friend)
Hair Artist | Ooh La Lal Hair Salon
Florist | Flowers By Judy
Officiant | Uncle Greg
DJ | Great Scott Productions
Caterer | Putting on The Ritz
Chair Rentals | Putting on The Ritz
Centerpieces & Ceremony Decorations | Janet Murray (mother) and Stephanie Saunders (sister)
Stationery | Minted Weddings
Bridal Dress | BHLDN
Bridesmaids Dresses | Amazon
Groom and Groomsmen Suit | Men’s Warehouse
Wedding Favors | Plain Jane
