Joanna + Sean met at a softball game. She says she knew within moments of spotting him that they would marry — even though just being able to date required several moves and some complicated life changes and eventually a conversion to Judaism. When you work that hard to be together, getting to actually exchange vows and I do’s becomes that much sweeter, I think. Joanna + Sean barely stopped smiling and laughing together all day long. (When I first met with them, they told me they were interested in some whimsical photos that were “not so serious.” I can’t even imagine how these two would have attempted serious photos!) Their Royal Sonesta Harbor Court wedding was something of a celebration of not only their love for each other but also their obvious affection for Baltimore, the groom’s hometown and the city in which they really fell in love. They named tables for some of their favorite spots around town. Cute little Maryland crabs adorned their placecards. The predominant wedding color bore a striking resemblance to the uniforms of the town’s favorite football team. And they celebrated with Dangerously Delicious Pies, a local favorite, in lieu of cake. It was also obvious how crazy this couple’s friends and family members are about them. A series of toasts from the couple’s siblings and fathers had guests in stitches. That is, until the bride’s father quieted the room by sharing that of all the changes in his daughter’s life — moves away from home and job changes — that the most difficult for him was her conversion. He paused for a long moment before adding, “To a Ravens fan.” Cue the applause from the locals and the boos from the Ohioans. Here are some of my favorite photos from Joanna + Sean’s magnificent day:
Joanna + Sean chose to see each other before their ceremony for photos so that they wouldn’t miss their entire cocktail hour.
After some fun family photos on the rooftop garden of the Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Hotel, the wedding party dashed across the street for a few photos by the harbor.
Joanna + Sean were so much fun to photograph together!
And then we were off to the pre-ceremony ceremony in which they signed their ketubah, the Jewish marriage contract.
I was lucky to have my friend and occasional photography assistant, Renee, with me at this wedding and she shot this beautiful next image of Joanna.
Married!
The bride, looking absolutely gorgeous.
And a few quick portraits of the newlyweds inside the hotel.
A few reception details.
The couple wowed their guests with an elaborately choreographed first dance.
And then came the magnificent toasts.
A pair of parent dances.
And lots and lots of merriment and fun. Many, many congratulations, Joanna + Sean! We could not have had more fun with you on your big day.
Credits:
Photography: Jennifer McMenamin Photography, LLC
Ceremony & Reception: Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Hotel
Officiant: Rabbi Elissa Sachs-Kohen
Ceremony musicians: Harpist Laura Stokes
Bridal attire: Niko Bridal
Hair: Padma Salon
Bridesmaids’ attire: David’s Bridal
Florist: DIY by the bride
Dessert: Dangerously Delicious Pies
Band: E3
Chuppah: Charm City Chuppahs
Invitations: Minted
Congratulations to a beautiful couple.wishing you the best!!!!