Alexis & Jason - George Peabody Library - Baltimore wedding photography - Jennifer McMenamin Photography

Alexis & Jason — George Peabody Library — Baltimore wedding photography

One of my most favorite aspects of my job is getting to work primarily with people who are supremely happy. I am routinely honored and humbled that my clients trust me with documenting that happiness for them. Alexis and Jason fit squarely into this category. It took only a few minutes of photographing them together when they first saw each other on their wedding day to realize that. Some couples hug and kiss excitedly when they first see each other and then quickly turn to me to find out what’s next. Alexis and Jason were in their own little world. It made for some beautiful photos: Jason twirling Alexis around as she laughed. Alexis checking out Jason’s tie and pocket square. Jason holding her hand lightly. It was really lovely to witness. Their day continued just like that — with one of the most touching ketubah signing ceremonies I have ever seen; with lots of time to make some fun portraits around Mount Vernon Place; and with a gorgeous ceremony and reception at the George Peabody Library. I will always have great affection for the towering Stacks Room, a beautiful space surrounded by six floors of books rising up to a glass ceiling that often turns the most enchanting shade of blue at dusk. It’s always a special pleasure to work there! Here are some of my favorites from Alexis and Jason’s fantastic day:

We started with Alexis as she finished up getting ready.

She has a great laugh that lights up her whole face.

The bride, looking gorgeous.

I love this series of photos from Alexis and Jason seeing each other for the first time on their wedding day.

Their schedule included plenty of time for photos before the ceremony. It gave us a chance to hit a bunch of different spots for some fun, casual portraits and it was really nice to not have to rush.

I love this little series of photos, too. Alexis was so expressive — she was a real joy to photograph!

With the signing of the ketubah — the Jewish marriage contract — a couple is officially wed. The ceremony can be very brief or more involved. It is attended by only the couple’s closest relatives and their chosen witnesses. Alexis and Jason’s was beautiful, from the rabbi’s descriptions of the customs to the inclusion of a prayer book that was published in Vienna in the mid-1800s and that has been in Alexis’ family for generations.

And then, it was time for the wedding ceremony.

I loved the glances caught between the two of them as they exchanged vows and then rings.

My assistant Lucas shot the next image on the right.

The Kiss. (Lucas shot the image on the right. I really like his low-to-the-ground alternate perspective!)

Alexis took a moment, just before being announced into the reception, to put her feet up. I love that she had this quick, quiet moment to herself with Jason. I shot this image literally as the wedding coordinators were closing the doors to the Stacks Room before the introductions.