When I first met Carly & John, it was at her Father’s beautiful waterfront farm across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge for their engagement session. Carly and John had originally planned to exchange their vows on his property, but the universe had another plan in store. When they needed to switch up their venue, the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club gave them a perfect place to still see the water, and enjoy their celebration with all the amenities this landmark venue offers. With a bright and considerably warm day for the second weekend in November – all the trees were showing off in their autumn best. When I say that a masterfully made Hollywood set couldn’t have looked better, I mean it.

So much anticipation built up to this day, and you could feel the overflowing joy in the air. Carly’s getting ready room was filled with her adoring family and friends, all whom shed a tear to finally see this stunning bride in her gown. Meanwhile, the groomsmen all toasted John off in their own special way, before he went to see his bride. Which brings me to my favorite moment of the day: seeing John’s expression once he turned around to see his soon-to-be wife for the first time. Nothing could’ve been purer – except maybe the moment when she walked down the aisle. With John’s father officiating, their ceremony struck all the heartstrings and there wasn’t a dry eye in crowd.

The night only continued to leave me speechless, with a stunning ballroom setup – and two heartfelt speeches from the best man and matrons of honor. What would it be though, without a crowded dance floor to cap it all off? You can bet these southern sweethearts were in the middle of the group until the bar said last call – and that’s my favorite kind of party.

Cheers to happily ever forever for these newlyweds, and to the vendor team behind it all:

Venue: Chesapeake Bay Beach Club | Photo: Molly McManus | Florist: Floret & Vine | Hair: Leah Burch | Makeup: Shenoa Nicole | Tux: Capitol Customs | Gown: Bridals By Elena | DJ: Mixing Maryland | Transportation: Chesapeake Charter