Jen & Justin began dating a decade ago at the University of Maryland at College Park. They now own a home together — with their boxer puppy Sophie — in Baltimore’s Federal Hill neighborhood.
So when they started planning their wedding, they decided to incorporate all of those elements into their celebration: They were married in the campus chapel at the university where they fell in love. We took pictures in Federal Hill Park — including some with their exuberant pup. They joined their family and friends for a wonderful reception at a waterfront restaurant with a fabulous view of Charm City’s Inner Harbor. And when the luncheon was over, Jen & Justin hopped in a water taxi alongside some very curious and congratulatory tourists to be ferried off to the hotel where they spent the first night of their marriage.
I have never seen a bride as visibly excited as Jen was. She was literally jumping up and down and bouncing with anticipation before, during and after the ceremony. Here are some of my favorite images from their day.
With all those lights on and no window that could be opened, it got a little warm in the room where the girls were getting ready. But no worries — Jen’s bridesmaids fanned her with paper plates.
It’s always fun to watch the groom and his friends struggle with such wedding-day accessories as cuff links and pocket squares and boutonnieres.
And finally, it was time to get married.
Could she be any more excited?
Jen & Justin had a ‘ring-warming ceremony’ during their wedding. The ring bearers handed off the couple’s wedding bands to the guests in the front row of the church and each guest was asked to hold them for a moment, make a wish for the couple and then pass them along. It was really lovely.
The vows.
The exchange of those warmed-and-wished-over rings.
And they’re married!
A few images of the bride and her girlfriends looking gorgeous.
And then the new Mr. and Mrs.
Don’t worry — it’s just sparkling cider…
I love this next one — how it captures the feel of the College Park campus (also *my* alma mater!) and the obvious happiness that Jen & Justin felt together.
Then, we were off to Federal Hill Park, where Justin dropped to one knee last year and surprised Jen with an engagement ring and a proposal.
We were joined by the famous Sophie, who was very glad to see them.
Even by the time the couple entered the restaurant for their reception, Jen’s excitement had not faded.
The sweet little flower girl was very interested in the sweet tower of cakes…
Before heading off to the water taxi, Jen decided to open a set of presents from one of her bridesmaids. And wow, was she thrilled by what those boxes contained…
Matching monogrammed robes. How cute are they?
Congratulations, Jen & Justin. It was a blast to be with you on your wedding day. And I’m oh so glad the rain held off until you were just boarding the water taxi… : )
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These are so clean and contain so much emotion – I’m sure they loved them! That L-O-V-E sign is perfect.