“What to wear, oh what to wear?” It’s a question we all ask (at least the ladies) when we receive a wedding invite. Well, I am pretty sure Melissa and Alex’s wedding guests put “dancing shoes” at the top of the list. Two pairs of wedding day sneakers for the newlyweds made this couple’s list, which pretty much set the tone for how the party was going to go : ) Alex and Melissa prepped for their wedding at the Royal Sonesta in downtown Baltimore. After the final touches were complete, they met by the waterfront for a first look. After photos around the harbor, we headed for their venue, the Elkridge Furnace Inn. Check out the rest of their story following the photos.

Wedding Rings on mapWedding day sneakers with wedding dateGroom getting readybride pouring champagne Fall Wedding Flower Bouquet Ideasunique wedding day detailsbride putting on wedding day earrings bride getting ready for weddingBride helping maid of honor getting ready for weddingGroom at the Baltimore HarborFirst LookBride with Her BridesmaidsGroom with his GroomsmenBride and Groom portraits around the Baltimore HarborBaltimore Bride and Groom Perfect Tea Length Wedding Dress. Bride and Groom Portraits Elkridge Furnace Inn WeddingElkridge Furnace Inn Bridal SuiteElkridge Furnace Inn Dining RoomsKetubah Blessing at Elkridge Furnace Inn WeddingKetubah Signing at Elkridge Furnace InnFamily Blessing at Weddingfamily gathering for prayer at weddingcouple receiving blessing from wedding partyfamily enjoying wedding ceremony at Eldridge Furnace InnIndoor ceremony Elkridge Furnace InnElkridge Furnace Inn Reception RoomElkridge Furnace Inn TentWedding ProgramsElkridge Furnace Inn Hors d’oeuvresElkridge Furnace Inn ReceptionFirst DanceFirst Dance at EFItented receptionMOH toastBest Man ToastFather Daughter DanceMother son danceDance party at the EFIGrandma on the dance floorwedding piessorority sisters posing on wedding dayGrandma on the dance floordancing shoesHoraGetting down with wedding day sneakers dance party at the elk ridge furnace inngroup dance dancing shoesElkridge Furnace Inn Manor House Staircase

Melissa’s Tea length wedding dress was the perfect balance of flirty and sophisticated. Alex rocked a very polished look with a striking red tie which matched Melissa’s flowers. The couple gathered with their close family and friends for the Ketubah signing and marriage rite in the Jewish faith. After the Ketubah signing the couple had a completely unplugged wedding ceremony. The ceremony took place after sunset and in the darkness, the Rabbi lit a ceremony candle and spoke about the journey of marriage. To this day, it is one of the strongest “mental pictures” I have from a wedding day. I mention this because there is something to be said for an unplugged wedding. Unplugged lets us be more present and free from technological distractions. When we are free from distractions and can emotionally connect with the present, we have a more detailed memory of those moments. Rarely as the photographer am I also asked to go unplugged for the ceremony, but from time to time, it is requested and I am happy to oblige. I mention this because if you are getting married, please, please, take a moment to stop what you are doing, take a couple deep breaths and take it all in. Take in the sights, the smells, and the sounds. I’m sure you will have incredible photos and maybe video too, but only you can see and feel as you do. That “metal picture” is your special story that will live in your heart and bring you joy always.

If you a haven’t picked up on it yet, let me just say it plain and simple. Alex and Melissa are a very inspiring couple. They had a way about them that was 100% unique to them. This is what made their wedding so great. From attire, to traditions, to their presence, and the people that surrounded them. Their wedding was a joy to witness, and I will remember it always in my mind’s eye.

dress shop and design- BHLDN 
grooms attire suits- J Hilburn
hair- M Salon
makeup- Blush makeup
transportation- American Limousine
rings- Melissa’s rings – Leo Bachrach and Son Jewelers,  Alex’s ring was his granfathers
accessories- earrings from bloomingdales (borrowed from a friend), bracelet from Tiffany’s (belonged to my grandmother)
Elkridge Furnace Inn Wedding