Author

Frederick News-Post

Wedding Venues

Linganore Winecellars

WEBSITE: http://www.linganorewines.com

PHONE: (301) 831-5889

EMAIL: marybeth@linganorewines.com

SERVING: Mt. Airy, Maryland

YEARS IN BUSINESS: 40

Majestically built into a lush hillside on a 230 acre estate with 70 acres of vineyards, Linganore Winecellars features rustic yet sophisticated indoor event facilities as well as scenic outdoor event facilities that will suit anyone’s style. The secluded setting, surrounded by beautiful vistas, rolling hills and a serene pond, lends itself to romantic weddings year-round.

Linganore Winecellars’ seasoned event staff is poised to assist you in creating your own signature event. Each event is carefully crafted from the initial consultation through to the final good-bye. This idyllic setting awaits only your personal touch for a truly unique and memorable event. Let your “happily ever after” begin at Linganore Winecellars!

Wedding Venues

Maryland National Golf Club

WEBSITE: http://www.marylandnational.com

PHONE: (301) 371-0000

EMAIL: AlyssaE@marylandnational.com

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/MDNational/

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/marylandnational/

SERVING: Frederick, Middletown, Hagerstown, and so much more!

YEARS IN BUSINESS: 15

Maryland National Golf Club is a beautiful location for your upcoming event! We specialize in wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, bachelor parties, engagement parties, and so much more! Here at Maryland National, we pride ourselves on our quality product, personal service, and stunning views of the course and surrounding mountains, and we’d love the opportunity to share each with you and your guests.

Because we cater to so many different types of events and sizes of groups, events at Maryland National are each truly customized to each group. With customizable menus, individualized floor plans, and personal interactions with our events coordinator, Alyssa, from start to finish, we’re confident that we can provide you with a memorable experience from start to finish. We hope for the opportunity to work with you and make your visions for this big day into a reality!

Guest Accommodations Wedding Venues

Wyndham Gettysburg

WEBSITE: http://www.wyndhamgettysburg.com

PHONE: (717) 339-0020

EMAIL: wanda.gemmell@interstatehotels.com

FACEBOOK: facebook.com/gatewaygetty

SERVING: Gettysburg, Hanover, Frederick, Westminster

YEARS IN BUSINESS: 10

As the premiere wedding reception destination, the Wyndham Gettysburg features the stately Presidential Ballroom capable of accommodating up to 600 guests. From the most intimate to the most elaborate affair, you and your guests will be treated to white glove service throughout your wedding day so that you may relax and enjoy a most unforgettable celebration. Our Executive Chef, Andrew Ernst, has fashioned creative and festive wedding packages to meet every taste. For more information if your schedule allows, please give our wedding specialist a call so that we can arrange a visit for you to see first hand how we can make your wedding an “Affair to Remember.”

Guest Accommodations Wedding Venues

Springfield Manor Winery & Distillery

WEBSITE: http://www.SpringfieldManor.com

PHONE: (301) 271-0099

EMAIL: Brian@manorsoffrederick.com

SERVING: Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/springfieldmanor/?fref=ts

YEARS IN BUSINESS: 8

Conveniently located along Route 15, against the Catoctin Mountain backdrop, Springfield Manor boasts an unforgettable 140-acre historic setting. The historic manor features a serpentine sunporch, which leads to a gracious ballroom which accommodates 300 seated guests. Large terraces offer a magnificent backdrop of unsurpassed mountain views. The manor itself offers 8 private suites for luxurious scenic accommodations. The estate’s restored barn houses the winery and the distillery. Wine tastings, food, live music and events make the winery a great place to spend a romantic evening or a beautiful weekend afternoon. The barn’s chic rustic style with original beams and beautiful farm tables make it an ideal venue for proposals, engagement celebrations, weddings, showers, rehearsal dinners & corporate functions as well. Opening glass panel doors, covered porch & balconies expand the view and allow barn events to flow onto the adjoining patios. The climate controlled upstairs of the barn accommodates 150 seated guests. Springfield Manor Winery & Distillery is the ideal setting for your special celebration.

Wedding Venues

Ceresville Mansion

WEBSITE: http://www.ceresville.com

PHONE: (301) 694-5111

EMAIL: info@ceresville.com

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/ceresville/?fref=ts

SERVING: Baltimore/Washington Metropolitan Area

YEARS IN BUSINESS: 30

Your love story is different from any other. So of course you want your wedding to be a reflection of everything that defines you—individually, and as a couple.
At Ceresville, we’ll help you create a day full of extraordinary moments as unique and special as you are.

Dreaming of a sumptuous spring garden party wedding? Perhaps you’ll prefer a colorful and abundant summer soiree? Is a rustic, earth-toned autumn wedding more your style? What about a classic winter feast, aglow with firelight and shimmering candles? Whatever your season, whatever your style, Ceresville Mansion has everything you need to create a one-of-a-kind wedding that will not only be memorable…it will be unforgettable

Guest Accommodations Wedding Venues

Stone Manor Country Club

WEBSITE: http://www.StoneManorCountryClub.com

PHONE: (301) 371-0099

EMAIL: Brian@manorsoffrederick.com

SERVING: Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, West Virginia

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Stone-Manor-Country-Club-150190946703/?fref=ts

YEARS IN BUSINESS: 8

Situated on a 114-acre estate – Stone Manor is approximately 50 minutes from Washington, DC, Baltimore & Northern Virginia. The 18th century manor, terrace, & large garden provide an elegant atmosphere & can graciously accommodate both small intimate groups and large formal functions for up to 300 seated guests. Events are hosted throughout the year and are highlighted by the changing season – the blossoms of spring, long evenings of summer, colored foliage of fall and the romance of winter weddings. The Inn at Stone Manor features six luxurious suites and offers guests sumptuous onsite accommodations. The magnificent grounds and beautiful setting have allowed Stone Manor to be frequently featured in many top publications including Southern Living, Washingtonian, Bride & Groom etc.

Wedding Venues

Mountain Memories at Thorpewood

WEBSITE: http://www.MountainMemoriesTW.com

PHONE: 301-271-2823

EMAIL: info@thorpewood.org

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/pages/ThorpeWood/232216523522772?ref=hl

SERVING: Maryland, PA, DC, Virginia

YEARS IN BUSINESS: 20

Discover Mountain Memories at ThorpeWood, a unique mountain destination where individuals and groups can have an exquisite event in a pristine natural setting. ThorpeWood’s lovely timber frame lodge emerges as you approach the winding lane through a 100-year old stand of oak, hickory, and tulip poplar trees. Bordering a pristine, rock-strewn trout stream 1,500 feet up in the Catoctin Mountains, ThorpeWood’s richly endowed 155 acres are nestled within more than 18,000 acres of public parks and private preserves.

For wedding ceremonies both inside the Lodge and outdoors on the property, ThorpeWood offers a stunning natural setting. The backdrop for wedding ceremonies inside the Lodge is a 30-foot stone fireplace or you could choose to have your ceremony outdoors in a natural setting. Receptions in our Lodge are joyous occasions with many wonderful areas for guests to celebrate and interact with the outdoor surroundings.

Real Frederick Engagements

Sugarloaf Mountain Engagement Photo Session :: Jennifer and Russ

Something a little different today- we are sharing a Frederick, Maryland engagement photo session! Our newest FrederickWeddings.com member, Ashley Jayde Photography, shared this sweet photo session with us and we couldn’t resist. And the story behind it is adorable, too!

From Ashley:

Remember at the end of September/early October when it rained? I’m not talking about normal Maryland rain—I am talking about constant downpour that lasted for a week. The rain caused some flooding in areas of Maryland. We played around with different location ideas leading up to the scheduled session. A muddy and messy day seemed inevitable. The couple chose Sugarloaf Mountain in Dickerson, MD with mobility in mind and I could not have been more pleased with the location. The sun came out only hours before the shoot and the evening sunset? AHH-MAZING! The couple was so great to work with and I am looking forward to their Frederick wedding.

See? Told you it was a good story! Check out the adorable photos from their Sugarloaf Mountain engagement session below!

Real Frederick Weddings

Harwood Farm Wedding :: a Simple and Sweet Day | Real Frederick Wedding | Amanda & BJ

BJ and Amanda’s beautiful wedding was straight out of a rustic fairy-tale, with a sweet color palette filled with pinks and corals and lots of white. She arrived in a horse-drawn carriage and they were married in front of their family and friends. Even their ceremony exit was filled with dreamy bubbles! Amanda and BJ were looking for a simple and sweet day and they got it. Thanks to Lauren R. Swann Photography

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Inspiration

FrederickWeddings.com Wedding Expo 2016

WOW WOW WOW.

What a Sunday afternoon we had! We want to thank all 70+ of our incredible vendors and the HUNDREDS of couples who came through the doors of our Frederick Wedding Expo #FNPwedding yesterday. It was so much fun!

We hope you left with a few more things checked off your Frederick wedding to do list and a belly full of yummy food.

If you were there today, please let us know your favorite thing about the expo. We’d love to hear from you!

Here’s the link to the article in today’s Frederick News Post: http://www.fredericknewspost.com/news/brides-and-grooms-ponder-event-options-at-frederick-weddings-expo/article_08e637fb-76b5-586f-bb8c-e17d19c7d2d3.html

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Thanks to our vendors:

A Personal Touch Photography
A Touch of Class Limousines
Abloom Ltd.
Aesthetic Life Studio, LLC
Angela Laurienzo Photography
Big Cork Vineyards
Blossom and Basket Boutique
Canapés Catering
Candlelight Floral Designs
Carrabba’s
Caryn Dayhoff Personal Trainer
Ceresville Mansion
Circle D Farm
Colonial Jewelers
Coral Dove
Cruise Holidays of Frederick
Cruise Planners
Daysy Film & Photo
Design Diva
Do it Now Travel
Double-E Entertainment
Exceptional-Event
Flying Dog Brewery
Gateau Monique
Gateway Liquors + Candy
Grand Rental Events-Frederick & Odenton
Happy Little Life Photography
Heavy Metal Playground
Holly Hills Country Club
Karen Rodkey Cakes
Liberty Mountain Resort
Linganore Winecellars
M. Stein & Company Tuxedos
MADE Makeup
Magnolia Street Photography
Maryland National Golf Club
McCutcheon’s Apple Products
Morningside Inn
Mountain Memories at ThorpeWood
Ory Custom Florals
Palm Beach Tan
Phantom Shadow Entertainment Services
Plamondon Hospitality Partners
Premiere Dental Arts
Quartermasters Cigars
Shannon Karmel Photography
Shew-sical Entertainment Services
Spence Photographics LLC
Spin The Bottle Wine Company
Stone House Bakery
Strathmore
STUDIO C Photography
Taste Frederick Food Tours
Crystal Lenz Photography
The Dapper DJs
The Gettysburg Hotel, Est. 1797
Jazz Connection
The Lodges at Gettysburg
The Organized Bride
TLC Bridal Boutique
Turner Photography
Visit Frederick – Maryland
Waldin Jewelry
Whitetail Ski Resort
WoW Event Lighting
Wyndham Gettysburg Hotel

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Real Frederick Weddings

Musket Ridge Romantic Wedding | Real Frederick Wedding | Amanda + Jared

Amanda and Jared first met on an important phone call. Amanda, who works in human relations, was offering Jared a job at their mutual workplace. Exactly one year after that first phone call, they went on their first date! A few years later, Jared had special plans to celebrate Amanda’s 30th birthday. He arranged for her beloved sisters to fly in from Texas and California, hired a limo to carry her and her friends to a special wine-tasting dinner, and then, just before leading the crowd in a rendition of the “Happy Birthday” song, Jared got down on one knee and asked Amanda to be his wife. She was stunned, but managed to say “yes.” Amanda and Jared said their vows in Middletown’s Zion Lutheran Church and celebrated with family and friends at Catoctin Hall at Musket Ridge in Myersville. All the lovely moments were captured by Spence Photographics.

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Real Frederick Weddings

Casual Gambrill State Park Wedding | Real Frederick Weddings | Mary + Geoff

Mary and Geoff were married at the beautiful Gambrill State Park, just outside Frederick. This wasn’t your typical traditional wedding. Mary wore a short green dress. Geoff changed into a Flying Dog T-shirt minutes after the ceremony. They cooked their own crabs. (Basically, it was super awesome.) Mary and Geoff live Downtown Frederick and wanted to incorporate their love of nature into their day. They invited only their closest friends and family to keep the day intimate. After a sweet ceremony officiated by their friend, they headed to Gambrill’s Tea Room for a crab feast and dancing on the outside deck. Our own editor, MK of Mary Kate McKenna Photography, captured this perfect summer wedding… enjoy!

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Inspiration

Cara + Ben’s Real Frederick Engagement

From the photographer:

Cara and Ben met in 2008 at George Mason University and have been together ever since. After school they both remained in the area, living in Northern Virginia. In 2013, Ben proposed to Cara on vacation in Captiva, Florida, asking her if she would continue “playing house” with him. Cara and Ben love the water so the couple will be married this fall at the Annapolis Maritime Museum overlooking Back Creek and the Severn River.

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Photographer: Eastport Photography

Real Frederick Weddings

Glen Ellen Farm Wedding :: Colleen + Tim :: Real Frederick Wedding

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Hoo Boy. Colleen + Tim’s story is a doozy! But it ends in the best way possible when Glen Ellen Farms steps in. A big thank you to Emily Gude for sharing this wonderful wedding and story with us.

I’ll let Colleen, the beautiful bride, share some info first…

“After spending years giggling with my girlfriends about my “dream wedding” I was finally getting the chance. 5 days before my wedding, everything was set. RSVPs were in, my timeline was finally on its final draft, I was getting ready to have all my family and friends in town. There was not a thing that could bring my amazing mood down….well except for a newspaper article. Saturday night before my Friday wedding, my then fiancee comes bursting through our door after work , “Go check out the Frederick News Post!! Has anyone from Shade Trees called you? I don’t think we can have our wedding there!”

Real Frederick Weddings

Caboose Farm Fall Wedding :: Keira and Ruth

K + R’s Caboose Farm Wedding is such a treat! Wait till you see all the fall-themed decor! A big thank you to FrederickWeddings.com members Spence Photographics for sharing this awesome wedding with us!

Keira and Ruth had mutual friends in college, but didn’t start dating each other until after graduation. After 10 years together, living in different states and countries, they became each other’s family. One fall day, Ruth set up a bicycle scavenger hunt around the memorials and monuments in Washington, D.C., for Keira. Her task was to find certain words important to their relationship in the quotes at every stop. Keira’s prize for completing the hunt was a camping trip to Assateague Island. Since their dating anniversary falls on Halloween, they love pumpkins and everything about fall. So, Ruth carved “Will You Marry Me?” into two pumpkins then lit them up on the beach at sunset. They made it official in November 2015 at Caboose Farm in Sabillasville, surrounded by family and friends.

Wedding Location :: Caboose Farm, http://caboosefarm.net/
Officiants :: Greg and Kyla Dixon, friends of the couple
Caterer :: Monica Kelso, http://www.monicakelso.com
DJ :: Bruce Pike Productions, http://www.brucepikeproductions.com *FrederickWeddings.com member
Florist :: Potomac Floral, http://www.flowerwholesale.com
Cake :: Cheese provided by Righteous Cheese, http://www.righteouscheese.com; “cake” created by Monica Kelso Catering
Photographer :: Spence Photographics, www.spencephoto.com *FrederickWeddings.com member
Photo booth :: Silly Station by Spence Photographics, www.sillystation.com *FrederickWeddings.com member

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Real Frederick Weddings

Yellow-Infused Morningside Inn Country Wedding | Real Frederick Wedding :: Haley + Jeremiah

When Robin Shotola send us this bright, beautiful summer wedding, we couldn’t stop dreaming of warm summer days in Frederick County. From the colorful flowers and Vera Wang dress, to the dramatic portraits and delicious cupcakes, Haley and Jeremiah planned a Real Frederick Wedding that we adore. Here’s more from Haley:

Jeremiah and I met when where 13 years old, in middle school. We were good friends throughout high school and began dating our senior year. Three years later, we went to New York City for my 20th birthday, where he proposed on a carriage ride through Central Park! It was like a fairytale. Jeremiah is my best friend. When it came to picking our venue, we remembered having a high school banquet at Morningside Inn and how beautiful it was. It was the first and only venue we checked out! Morningside Inn was the perfect location for a rustic feel, and had everything we wanted. We hardly had to lift a finger, which made the whole process a lot smoother… perfect for our day!

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Real Frederick Weddings

Classic Ceresville Mansion | Real Frederick Wedding | Magalys + Brian

Stephanie Kopf Photography shared Magalys and Brians Real Wedding story with us:

“I have some great news for youuuuu” the planner sang to Maggie as she popped her head into the bridal suite. We had all been listening to the wind and rain batter the fogged window panes for a while, and when the planner exclaimed that the forecast had shifted and the storm was on its way out for the rest of the day, we all exhaled a collective sigh of relief.

Maggie and Brian vowed to spend the rest of their lives together at Ceresville Mansion, just outside Frederick. The ivy-woven altar, the lush greenery and classic architecture of the mansion surrounding it, and even the clouds that danced above us after the storm… it was all enough to set a tone of excitement and romance as Maggie slipped into her fairytale gown. While Maggie enjoyed the company of her adoring bridesmaids and family, Brian and his groomsmen put the finishing touches on their swanky getups in the room across the hall. After the storm kindly made its way elsewhere, Maggie and Brian were ready for their intimate first look. Brian had a chance to marvel at his stunning bride, and they shared a few quiet moments alone before everything got started. From then on, the day was a whirlwind of happy tears, joyous embraces from loved ones, and a heck of a dance party.

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Real Frederick Weddings

Fountainhead Country Country Club Wedding :: Tyler and Jaaziel’s Sweet Pastel Wedding

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VENDORS
venue :: Fountain Head Country Club– FrederickWeddings.com member
ceremony :: St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church
photography :: Hypnotic Imagery LLC
DJ :: Shew-sical Entertainment– FrederickWeddings.com member
lighting :: Wow Event Lighting– FrederickWeddings.com member
cake :: Karen Rodkey Cakes
floral :: Forever Blossoms Floral Designs
dress :: Potomac Bridals
stationery :: Invitations From The Heart
chair sashes :: Maryland Event Rentals
hair :: Belleza Hair & Nail Studio
suits :: Men’s Warehouse
guestbook :: Peachwik
getting ready :: Homewood Suites
rehearsal dinner :: Cacique Restaurant

Real Frederick Weddings

Romantic Ceresville Mansion Wedding :: Xin + Xiaoyu’s Real Frederick Wedding

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Xin and Xiaoyu’s wedding was super romantic and dreamy! Both the bride and groom got ready at Ceresville Mansion. They decided to do a “first look” before the ceremony. (We love first looks!)

The ceremony was intimate and was held indoors with beautiful florals throughout. The bride was brought down the aisle by her father and given away to her groom. Once the officiant shared some beautiful insights on the importance of marriage the bride and groom then partook in a sand mixing ceremony to symbolically express their love and the act of two becoming one in marriage. Xin and Xiaoyu then shared heartfelt vows and exchanged rings.

After bridal portraits were taken everyone made their way into the reception space which was decorated with splashes of white and red and had uplighting all around. When Xin and Xiaoyu were announced into their reception they were toasted by their parents, family and friends. The couple then cut their wedding cake and shared dinner with their guests. Once the couple shared their first dance, the guests joined in to dance the evening away. To end the night, Xin and Xiaoyu exited Ceresville through a sea of bubbles and then they were off to their honeymoon!

from the bride:

We both think we can be our true selves when we are with each other, so getting married was a natural decision for us. Although the wedding planning process can be stressful at times, we enjoyed every bit of it as we got to spend many intimate times together, getting to know each other better and collaborating towards the biggest event of our lives so far. Time seemed to just fly by and before we knew it, our big day had finally come. From the early morning all the way to our walk down the aisle, the whole day seemed so magical that I wished that it would never end. Our favorite part of the day was definitely the first look. We’d like to thank our photographer who arranged the first look with my husband and with my dad at the best place in the venue. I can’t forget my husband’s look when he turned around to see me!
We visited 4 venues and all of them are in Frederick area. We love Frederick area as it mixes history and romance. We chose Ceresville mansion as we love their environment. More importantly, we love their services! To other couples: wedding planning could be a stressful thing, but as long as communicate well with your future husband/wife to be, the process could be a memorable time and help kick start your journey into life together!

Vendors:
Photographer :: Rodney from Aesthetic Life Studio (Frederick Weddings Member)

Venue :: Ceresville Mansion

DJ :: Shew-sical Entertainment Services (Frederick Weddings Member)

Up Lighting :: WOW Event Lighting (Frederick Weddings Member)

Hair & Make Up :: Poetically Brushed Hair & Makeup

Real Frederick Weddings

Rustic Coral and Mint Stone Manor Country Club Wedding :: Alissa and Kevin’s Real Frederick Wedding

Alissa and Kevin’s Stone Manor Country Club Wedding featured a coral, tan and mint color palette and perfectly coordinated rustic details.

Alicia and Frank of Happy Little Life photography describe the couple like this:

“As a couple, Alissa and Kevin are incredibly fun and genuine – it is hard to find a time when they aren’t laughing or smiling! Their wedding day was truly a reflection of who they are as a couple. From beginning to end, the day was filled with so much joy and happiness.”

And we agree! Every little detail is personalized and oh-so-sweet. We adore everything about this darling wedding, including the sweet father-daughter first sight!

In Alissa’s words:
As I woke up on my wedding day, after staying with my bridesmaids, we were all excited and ready to go! No sooner after I woke up we were at Stone Manor Country Club and starting to get ready! I felt like a little kid on Christmas as I walked around and saw Katie from Rose Gold Events & Styling setting up all of the decorations I had worked so hard to create (and find) over the last 8 months. There is nothing like FINALLY seeing your vision come together! My wedding day was picture-perfect, from the guidance and set up from Rose Gold Events & Styling; to hair and make-up from JKW Beauty; to guidance, timelines, support and beautiful pictures from Happy Little Life Photography; to an easy going fun ceremony from Joyce Hilbery; to lastly fun, entertaining, and memorable music from The Dynasty Dj’s Carroll and Zach Higgins! And how could I forget the beautiful venue of Stone Manor Country Club and the delicious food from the Carriage House Catering. Everything happened exactly as it was planned to happen with the help of the exceptional wedding team. It didn’t actually hit me that I was about to get married until we are all lined up at the door about to start walking out for the wedding and one of my bridesmaids said, “Alissa don’t cry or get mad, it might be raining just a little bit.” At the moment, I couldn’t feel mad or cry – I was too excited! Supposedly the ceremony was 25-30 minutes but I am not even sure because from the moment I walked down the aisle to the end of the night, time flew by as we had the perfect wedding celebration. My goal for the wedding was to have fun and have a wedding that would be talked about for a long time. Well almost 4 months later, we are still having friends and family come up to us and talk about how beautiful and fun our wedding was!

Planner :: Katie MacGregor of Rose Gold Styling & Events
Venue :: Stone Manor Country Club
Caterer :: Carriage House Inn
Entertainment :: Carroll Higgins of Dynasty DJ
Florist :: Lora Arrington
Photographer :: Alicia & Frank of Happy Little Life Photography
Transportation :: On the Town Limo
Hair & Makeup :: JKW Beauty
Dress :: TLC Boutique
Officiant :: Joyce Hilbery
Sweets :: Kat Cutta
Alcohol :: Gateway Liquors

Inspiration

Big Cork Vineyards :: Vineyard Wedding Venue

Two words: Vineyard Wedding.

Big Cork Vineyards

A new, delightful wedding venue that’s oh-so-close to Frederick County is here- hello, Big Cork Vineyards!

Big Cork Vineyards first vines were planted in May of 2011. There’s a reason Big Cork Vineyards is called Big Cork- BCV is 100 acres. The building itself is 10,000 square feet, which includes a tasting room and a production area. There are 14 (soon to be 16!) stainless steel tanks. They have 4,000 cases (!) of wine.

Weddings and Events at Big Cork Vineyards

+ Big Cork offers tours daily at 12:00 and 1:00-. (doesn’t that sound great for the beginning of a local bachelorette party?!)

+ Big Cork hosts all kind of events- corporate events, bridal showers, anniversaries, and of course our favorite- weddings!

+ There is a wide range of beautiful celebration-ready locations across our property (we’re smitten with the vineyard as the backdrop option!) and the highest level of customer service for you and your guests, Big Cork Vineyards is the perfect place to exchange your “I Do’s.”

+ From our panoramic views of the vineyards and mountains to our intimate production room lined with wine barrels, there is something for everyone at Big Cork. They will help you plan the vineyard wedding of your dreams—no matter how BIG or small.

+ The space is flexible, which for the creative couple, can mean many different options.

+ Outside, Big Cork can accommodate 500+ guests with tenting options. Their typical wedding is between 125 – 175 guests.

+ The beauty of the space is that it’s flexible. It’s a blank canvas that can be turned into whatever the couple wants it to be. Casual, formal – the space lends itself to creative couples!

Get In Contact
Big Cork Vineyards
4236 Main Street
Rohrersville, MD 21779

call 301 302 8032

email info@bigcorkvineyards.com

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Inspiration Real Frederick Engagements

Samantha + Luke’s Real Frederick Engagement

From the Photographer:

Luke and Samantha are high school sweethearts, although their high school years are fading, their love is not. Their love is vibrant, sweet and real. We met at a local green house for their session, the light was perfect, their love is perfect and the photos hardly do it justice!

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Photographer: Katy Murray Photography

Real Frederick Weddings Real Weddings

Brittany + Martin’s Spring Celebration | Real Frederick Wedding

Hey, Heart fans! This is Molly, and I am so excited to share my first blog post with you. Even though Punxsutawney Phil said we have at least six more weeks of winter to get through, my thoughts are drifting toward springtime. And that’s why I’ve chosen to share this lovely springtime Real Frederick Wedding with you today, from Spence Photographics, the studio I co-own with my husband, David.

Brittany and Martin met as high school students and started dating when she was 16 and he was 18! Years later, they welcomed daughter Olivia and became a family. But Martin wanted to make things official, so one Christmas Eve, he asked Brittany to sit down and watch a special DVD. Brittany smiled as she saw all the photos of their relationship flicker by on a slide show that Martin had made. The final picture was of Brittany, Martin, and Olivia all together, with the words “Let’s be a family forever” written at the bottom of the screen. When she turned around, Brittany saw Martin on one knee, holding her engagement ring! Their wedding and reception was held in the beautiful Middletown Valley at Stone Manor Country Club. Gray skies and sprinkles greeted them on the cool May morning, but the rain held off long enough to get some wonderful photos on the grounds. A great team of Frederick-based vendors helped the newlyweds celebrate in style….

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Photographer: David S. Spence, Spence Photographics

Photo booth: Silly Station by Spence Photographics

Venue: Stone Manor Country Club

Caterer: Canapés Catering

DJ: Shew-sical Entertainment Services

Videographer: Jon Key Photography

Hair/Make-up: Brenda Dalton, Rose Brooke Studio

Florist: To the 9s Floral and Event Design

Cake: Angelcakes

Real Frederick Weddings

Summer Wedding at VOLT | Real Frederick Wedding | Valthea + David

Some people say that Volt restaurant helped put Frederick on the map. Its executive chef, Bryan Voltaggio, lent his name and his culinary prowess to the iconic restaurant, and many flock to the North Market Street hotspot for a special dinner. The historic Downtown Frederick restaurant played the perfect host for the August wedding of Thea and David. From the bride and groom:

Volt’s food and service are without equal and their events coordinator, Julie Rudzin South, went above and beyond our expectations. Surrounded with joy and love by our friends and family, some of the most memorable moments of our lives were artfully captured by our photographer. We are eternally thankful and we could not have wished for a more beautiful day!

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Real Frederick Engagements

Downtown Frederick Engagement Session| Kim-Ngan & John

Daysy Photography sent us this lovely Downtown Frederick engagement session of John and Kim, with makeup by Dana Ratliff Howson. John’s mother played cupid and introduced her son to Kim. Here’s how John describes the first time they met …

It all started with an e-mail to a girl who I had never met in person before. My mom had given me an email address and told me I should write first and say ‘hello.’ All I knew was that her name was Kim. First there were e-mail exchanges, then telephone calls and eventually our face-to-face meeting at her place in North Carolina. When I first saw Kim, she was wearing the prettiest white dress when she opened the door. She later confessed to me that it took her hours to prepare for our first date and that she was very nervous. I was definitely nervous, too. Every new memory we shared with each other has been special, from our first time having sushi together to eventually planning our wedding. Our paths were set so that we would one day meet each other and no matter how we got to this point, we ended up in each other’s lives as husband and wife.

Isn’t that just so sweet? We love their casual stroll downtown and how Daysy documented their love of Downtown Frederick. Thanks for sharing and congrats to Kim-Ngan and John!

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Ask the Experts

Do I Need Two Photographers for My Wedding? | Ask the Experts

Do I really need Two Photographers at my Wedding?

by Mary Kate Battles of Mary Kate McKenna Photography

As a wedding photographer, one of the most popular questions I’m asked is, “Do I need a second photographer?” The answer is: it depends. Check out the tips below:

Reasons to skip a second photographer:

* You’re having a small wedding

When you’ve got 50 guests or less, having two photographers can be a lot. When you have a small group, one photographer is less obtrusive.

*You’re on a tight budget

If you splurged on your dress and flowers and your budget is at its max, skip the second photographer. Your primary photog is more than capable of documenting your day on his/her own.

Reason to consider a second photographer:
*You’re having a big wedding

No matter how ninja-like your photographer is, capturing images of 250+ guests can be tough. If getting photos of most guests is important to you, having another photographer is something to consider.

*You have several locations for your wedding (hotel, church, etc)

If you’re getting ready in one place, having your ceremony at another, and the reception in still another location, it’s a great idea to have a second photographer. That way there can be a photographer with each person getting ready. It’s nice to have each photographer travel separately in case of a flat tire or other problem as well. You just never know. That way, no matter what, there will always be a photographer ready to go. When photographing a church wedding, many times I have my second shooter take off right after the ceremony to head to the reception site. I do this for a few reasons: to scope it out, to capture the detail shots before guests get there, and to capture some of the cocktail hour while I’m doing formals.

*You’re getting married in a church where you can’t move around

Many churches in Frederick have strict photography rules. Several churches make us photographers stay put in one place. So, if there are two of us, we at least can get two different angles.

*You want to see your wedding from many different angles

Each photographer comes to your wedding with a different perspective and unique eye. What one of us sees, another might not. This is an advantage when it comes to having multiple photographers. I love photos of couples with their family just before they walk down the aisle, but I can’t ever capture that because I’m at the front of the ceremony prepping to capture bridesmaids and groomsmen walking down. That’s when having a second shooter is so great. They can hang back and document those sweet moments, then slide in as the ceremony is going on.

Below are a few of my favorite examples of two shooters/two different perspectives.

workit_0055 Ah! Love this one! The bride reading her vows and then a close up of the groom. How sweet!

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Which shot do you like better? The couple’s silhouette leaving the church, or the couple surrounded by their bridal party? Both share fun parts of the day from different perspectives.

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This couple was staying at the same hotel, but on different floors that were far away from one another. It was great to tag team the getting ready so we weren’t running around wasting valuable time.

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This church didn’t have a place for the bride to wait before the wedding, so they stayed in the party bus. I love the groom nervously looking out the church window, but I also love the bridesmaids on the bus waiting for their big moment.

secondshooter_0005 This ceremony was quickly moved indoors when it started to rain. The aisle was tight as the venue had to pack all the guests into a small space. My second shooter actually stayed outside and hunkered down behind the celebrant to snap some great photos where you can see the couple’s faces.

Ask the Experts

5 Approaches for a Classy Frederick Cocktail Hour| Ask the Experts | MyDeejay

Photos by Douglas Via

Five Approaches to Welcoming Your Guests With Music

Words by Jennifer Reitmeyer, president of MyDeejay

The cocktail hour at your wedding reception serves to welcome guests to celebrate with you, and the right soundtrack is key to setting the mood for the kind of party you intend to have. Years ago, cocktail hour music was kind of a throwaway, with couples directing their DJ or band to just play “background” music. (Conducive to conversation, perhaps, but also utterly unmemorable and with no personal style whatsoever.) I always advise our clients to work with their DJ to craft a cocktail hour that really reflects their tastes and allows guests to mix and mingle in a fun, upbeat way.

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Cocktail hour music can be approached in all kinds of ways. Here are five styles you may want to consider for your guests’ first musical impression at your reception:

Timeless Classics: As everyone probably knows, jazz and vocals are among the most traditional music choices for cocktail hour. Of course your grandparents will love you for kicking off your party with songs they recognize, but everyone else will appreciate the romanticism, too. After all, these songs have stuck around for a reason! Consider artists such as Miles Davis, Sarah Vaughan, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, Nina Simone and Nat King Cole.

Same Old Song (Now with a New Sound): For a playlist that appeals to guests of all ages, why not consider contemporary covers of classic love songs? Older guests will know the words and melody, while younger guests will appreciate the fresh take and modern production value. Some fun covers include Jamie Cullum’s “I Get a Kick Out of You,” Cat Power’s “Sea of Love,” Norah Jones’ “Love Me Tender,” Ellie Goulding’s “Your Song,” Madeleine Peyroux’s “Dance Me to the End of Love,” and Ingrid Michaelson’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love With You.”

No Ordinary Oldies: Motown songs and other oldies are great for kicking off the dancing portion of the reception, but they can also create a fun, upbeat atmosphere for your cocktail hour. Who wouldn’t smile at hearing songs such as Sam Cooke’s “Cupid,” Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” Stevie Wonder’s “I Was Made to Love Her,” Otis Redding’s “That’s How Strong My Love Is,” and Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons’ “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You”?

Modern Love: Most couples want to incorporate music into their wedding that is personally significant. However, unless the songs have a fast tempo and are recognizable to the majority of the guests, they won’t be hits on the dance floor, which is what makes the cocktail hour the perfect time to get creative. Some contemporary songs to consider for this romantic hour are John Legend’s “All of Me,” Cake’s “Love You Madly,” Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud,” The Postal Service’s “Such Great Heights,” The Cure’s “Just Like Heaven,” and any of the fun, whimsical tracks from the Nouvelle Vague collective, such as their cover of Depeche Mode’s “Just Can’t Get Enough.”

Notes on a Theme: If your wedding is centered on a fun theme, the cocktail hour can be a great opportunity to further express it. Classic and glamorous weddings may choose to incorporate Rat Pack artists such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. Meanwhile, outdoor summer weddings might choose to include Dave Matthews Band, Bob Marley and Jimmy Buffett.

Whatever cocktail music you select, make sure it reflects your individuality and includes songs you love (almost) as much as you love each other!

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Inspiration

Shepherdstown Engagement Session | Shawna + Michael

Shawna and Michael started out as friends, and eventually started dating. After several years together, Michael planned a special weekend getaway, and didn’t give Shawna any hints (except that she should pack a nice outfit, and another set of clothes for hiking). They ended up in historic Shepherdstown, West Virginia, staying at the Thomas Shepherd Inn, for a romantic weekend, and a proposal! Shawna and Michael chose that same spot for their engagement session with Spence Photographics. They’ll be married this summer at Shade Trees and Evergreens Event Grounds in Frederick.

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Real Frederick Engagements

Ellicott City Engagement Session | Jennifer + Henry

Henry is an architect, so when he decided to propose to Jennifer, he had some high in the sky aspirations of how he would do it – and he made it happen! First, he handmade five large puzzle pieces and sent Jennifer on a scavenger hunt to find all of them. This took her on flights up and down the East Coast, seeing loved ones and meaningful places along the way. Once she had gathered the first four pieces, she only had one left – the one that Henry had carved into a puzzle piece/ring box combo. Once she retrieved the final puzzle piece, Henry proposed… and how could she say anything but yes! Marcella Treybig Photography shared their Ellicott City-based engagement session with us.

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Inspiration

Springfield Manor Winery & Distillery | Heart of Frederick Spotlight

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Photos by Jenna Shriver Photography

Driving along U.S. Route 15 near Thurmont, your eye is drawn to a beautiful property up on a hill, with lovely grounds and a stunning manor house. This is Springfield Manor Winery and Distillery, one of Frederick County’s newest wedding venues, opening officially in Spring 2014. Springfield Manor is the sister site to Stone Manor Country Club in Middletown, and both are known together as The Manors of Frederick.

Springfield Manor is a beautifully renovated estate, with all of the charm of a Southern mansion and all of the amenities and sophistication of a modern wedding venue. Contributor Jenna Shriver took a tour of Springfield Manor last summer, to give us an inside look at all this wonderful venue has to offer.

Jenna Shriver Photography_Maryland Photographer_Springfield Manor Winery and Distillery_web ready-66_upload Springfield Manor allows for two different reception options. The renovated bank barn can accommodate up to 150 guests. Rustic beams and beautiful farm tables create a lovely setting. Glass panel garage doors expand the view, and open to allow the event to flow directly on to the adjoining patio. The elegantly constructed ballroom is perfect for events of up to 299 guests. A serpentine sun porch and terrace allow for a unique cocktail hour setting.

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Much of the interior of the manor home is available to the wedding party for getting ready, including a groom’s suite and areas outside designated for a whiskey and cigar celebration.

Jenna Shriver Photography_Maryland Photographer_Springfield Manor Winery and Distillery_web ready-37_upload The beautiful Catoctin Mountains provide a stunning view for ceremonies performed at the permanent pergola.

Jenna Shriver Photography_Maryland Photographer_Springfield Manor Winery and Distillery_web ready-50_upload With amazing grounds and beautiful interiors, Springfield Manor is a wonderful venue for couples looking for a stylish, yet comfortable place to host their wedding ceremony and reception.

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