Melissa and Spencer met in 2014 when Spencer was a customer at a pet store where Melissa worked. “He ended up working there, too. We did a phenomenal job of separating work and personal life, something we probably couldn’t do now. I was in and out of that location because I was in college an hour away. Spencer drove up on his days off to spend time with me; he knew and respected the fact that my education was important to me.”
The couple began dating in 2016, and knew from the beginning marriage was in their future. “We got engaged on Christmas Eve in 2019. I was working at the pet store and Spencer proposed to me in the cat section- I was so surprised I almost fell over. I know some might not think that is romantic, but it was perfect for us.”
85 guests, including a twelve-person wedding party, helped the two celebrate their outdoor April nuptials at Cortland Mansion. “My favorite part of our wedding day was seeing Spencer’s face as I walked down the aisle. I was so emotional, I had dreamed of this moment my whole life. We had a love lock ceremony and every year on our anniversary, we will buy a new lock to symbolize our commitment to each other.”
Melissa chose wood flowers instead of live flowers for her decor. “I loved the idea that they would never die. I did not realize the time commitment involved in hand dyeing 800 flowers. One of my bridesmaids was there for me, helping and encouraging me to push on throughout the process. They turned out exactly how I wanted them, I couldn’t have been happier. What started out being my most dreaded task ended up being my favorite memory.”
Melissa is the director of operations at a dog training facility and Spencer is a general manager at a dog boarding and daycare center. They currently reside in Germantown, Maryland.
First dance: Ed Sheeran, Perfect Duet
Honeymoon: Key West
Vendors
Venue: Cortland Mansion**
Photography: B.B. Jaxson
Attire: Couture Bridal of Maryland
Hair & Makeup: Green Streak Salon
Officiant: Ronald Reaves
**FrederickWeddings.com member
