One of the best things about working with clients on a wedding is not only getting to know them better but also getting to know their family and friends. I had such a wonderful time working on a recent wedding in Chevy Chase, Maryland, in large part due to the fabulous wedding party, family, and guests. Both from the South, the Bride and Groom and their families were such a delight and from start to finish their energy, kindness, and joviality were contagious.
The evening wedding was held at The Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament Church in Chevy Chase with a reception for 280 guests following at the Chevy Chase Club.
The Bride and Groom arranged to see each other prior to the ceremony. Their “first look” was captured by Pablo Sartor of Freed Photography. Photos of the Bride and Groom were taken on the grounds of the Club.
The Bride & Groom's first look
A kiss on the lawn of the Chevy Chase Club
A very smart looking couple
A single gardenia graces the Bride's hair
The groom had ten groomsmen and several ushers; prior to the ceremony they relaxed and watched some golf in the Club’s Tap Room.
Groomsmen enjoy watching golf on TV at the Club before the ceremony
The bride’s two sisters were her maids of honor and her brother and sister-in-law were also in the wedding party.
The Bride with her two sisters, her brother, and her sister-in-law
The large wedding party included two flower girls and a ring bearer.
The Wedding Party
The Bridal Party
Laura was absolutely stunning in a dress from Hitched, makeup by Kari from Erwin Gomez Salon, and hair by Chris from Ipsa.
A stunning bride
As guests arrived, they passed the gorgeous bridal portrait and wedding cake, and were invited to sign “His and Hers” adirondack chairs in lieu of a guest book. The Chevy Chase Club is known for its white adirondack chairs dotting the back lawn of the Club so these special chairs will serve as a reminder to the Bride and Groom not only of all of the guests that celebrated with them that day but also of the unique location of the reception.
The Bride
His and Hers adirondacks
His and Hers adirondacks
The Club did an amazing job on this four-tiered wedding cake, with each tier separated by clusters of hydrangea. But the cake was special for more than just its appearance. The mother-of-the-bride, an exceptional baker, provided her own special recipe for the Club to make and they did so perfectly. The cake was delicious!
A special wedding cake
The Bride and Groom do the honors
A delicious dessert
The Southern tradition of a groom’s cake was met with a new twist at Laura and John’s wedding. Instead of a cake, the groom chose an assortment of pies which guests sampled throughout the evening.
Peach pie
Key Lime pie
Chocolate mousse pie
A mixture of tall and low arrangements of white roses and hydrangea filled the room, thanks to the talented Sue Morriss.
Sue Morriss' beautiful floral designs graced the ballroom
Later in the evening, the Bride and Groom treated guests to flip flops, white workout headbands that read “Dancing Machine” in gold, and single floral blooms for the women to wear in their hair. They also partook of the bouquet tossing and garter traditions.
The garter tradition
The dance floor was full all evening, thanks to the fabulous sounds of the 12-piece band, Highway Star.
Guests enjoy the festivities late into the night
After all the guests cleared the ballroom to get ready for the Bride and Groom’s send-off, the Bride and Groom danced one last song alone.
The very last dance of the night
Sending off the Bride & Groom
Congratulations, Laura and John! Wishing you countless blessings!
Photography: Pablo Sartor, Freed Photography
Flowers: Sue Morriss
Caterer: Chevy Chase Club
Band: Highway Star
