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Jennifer & Nick — Pier V Hotel — Baltimore wedding photography

Jen & Nick were married on the kind of gorgeous day that makes May such a popular month for weddings in the DC-Baltimore area. It was warm, not-too-humid and sunny with a light breeze — in other words, just perfect for an outdoor ceremony on the water at the Pier V Hotel. We also were graced with a perfect schedule — one that left plenty of wiggle room in case preparations ran a bit late (they did!) or something unexpected cropped up (like the groom having to re-shave before pictures while fully dressed in his tuxedo!). Jen and Nick also were completely open to suggestions on where to shoot their photos, so we allowed the light and the lighthouse to dictate most of our locations. The result was some really beautiful and really fun images! Without further ado, here are some of my favorites from their day:

Since I started working with my current assistant, Lucas, a graphic design student who peppers me with all kinds of interesting facts about fonts and printing techniques, I have become much more appreciative of a lovely, well-done wedding invitation. I was super excited for him to see Jen & Nick’s. He was duly impressed!

Jen, getting ready. Her matron of honor was one of my former clients, Chrissie. It’s always so much fun to see couples I know at weddings!

Jen’s friend Christen playfully ties the bride into her corseted wedding gown.

I was so thrilled with the light coming in the window here and the deep plum-colored wall behind Jen. It made for some lovely images.

Jen, whose last name is Zilli, kept cracking jokes about being a ‘bride-zilli.’ Here, Bride-Zilli enjoys a toast with her girls.

The bride, looking gorgeous.

Upon seeing each other for the first time, Jen and Nick melted off into their own little world for a few minutes. I loved how she twirled for him to see her entire gown — and how he smiled in response.

This was a first for me on a wedding day — a groom shaving a second time (and in a public bathroom, no less, with a razor and shaving cream borrowed from the hotel front desk!) while fully dressed and ready for the ceremony. It turns out that Nick forgot his razor that day. So he borrowed an electric one from a friend. But it didn’t do such a great job. So after seeing Jen, who pointed out the spots he missed when shaving the first time around, Nick headed back into the hotel for a re-do. These are some of my most-favorite groom-getting-ready photos ever.

Back outside, Jen and her girls. She picked out darling clutch purses for them as gifts — and picked up a matching white one for herself. So lovely!

The 156-year-old Seven-Foot Knoll Lighthouse always provides a magnificent backdrop for wedding party photos.

Finally, it was time to get married!

This overhead shot was taken by Lucas.

Married!

I love the expressions on the newlyweds here.

Jen and Nick wanted a big group photo with everyone from their wedding present.

Lucas shot this next image during the recessional. I love his low-to-the-grass-and-petals perspective.

Even though we had taken most of the couple’s family and wedding party photos before the ceremony, we dashed off after their vows for a few images of just them. Even when my clients see each other beforehand for photos, I usually recommend making time for just a few more after the ceremony. The vibe is typically much more relaxed after the pre-wedding nerves have settled down and the light is always different, too. I love this next one of Jen.

A few reception details. These colors — hot pink and navy, and with light-hearted little crabs — looked so stylish together.

One of the most celebratory, enthusiastic wedding introductions I’ve ever witnessed.

A beautiful first dance.

A few special toasts.

A super fun photo booth.

A father-daughter dance.

And a custom cake topper, styled to match Jen, Nick and their four-legged friend.

What a marvelous wedding!

Jen and Nick, it was an absolute pleasure working with you both and your families! Many, many congratulations and best wishes for a lifetime of happiness together!

Credits:

Photography: Jennifer McMenamin Photography

Ceremony, reception and catering: Pier V Hotel

Officiant: Rev. Bill Teyssier

Ceremony musicians: Bay Strings

Bridal attire: Maggie Sottero from Bridal by Elena

Hair & Make-up: Belle Soeur

Groom’s attire: Jos. A Bank

Florist: Floral Impressions

Cake: SugarBakers

Invitations: Kindly R.S.V.P. Designs