Perfect Stay
Frederick, Maryland marriott.com/wasfd Frederick, Maryland marriott.com/wasfr
DESIGNER & EDITOR
Samantha Bangh
The Frederick News-Post
COVER PHOTOGRAPHER
A Natural Portrayal Photography
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Brodie Ledford
Brodie Ledford Studios
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
A Natural Portrayal Photography
Brodie Ledford Studios
Jessi Vaughn Photography
Mary Kate McKenna Photography
Peyton Olivia Studios
The Uncorporate Headshot
Frederick Weddings is published by
The Frederick News-Post
351 Ballenger Center Drive Frederick, MD 21703
elcome to the newest edition of Frederick Weddings magazine, your pocket guide to all things weddings in Frederick County. Whether you are planning a huge event or a small one, Frederick Weddings will help you find the area's best venues, photographers, florists, caterers, entertainment services, and more to help make your special day a reality.
Are you looking for an amazing photographer to capture your big day? Before you do, learn tips from a local professional that could help guide you in deciding who is the right one for your wedding.
Get inspiration for your own day from five couples who’ve gotten married in and around Frederick.
Plus, check out all the special ways you can include your "pet" family member into your big day.
We look forward to the upcoming wedding season and wishing all engaged couples a bright, healthy, and prosperous future!
Valerie Michelle Photography FOLLOW
301-662-1163
FrederickWeddings.com
Every week, make sure to check out the Frederick Weddings print directory inside The Frederick News-Post on Saturdays and stay connected to area wedding professionals throughout the year.
Geordie Wilson Publisher
Connie Hastings Revenue Director
Brittney Hamilton Advertising Director
Twitter: twitter.com/FNPWedding
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PHOTO BY JESSI VAUGHN PHOTOGRAPHY
WHY CHOOSING A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER IS CRUCIAL FOR YOUR
wedding
brodie ledford owner of brodie ledford studios
Your wedding day is one of the most significant moments in your life — a day filled with love, joy, and memories that you'll cherish forever. Capturing these moments requires more than just a camera; it demands the expertise and artistry of a professional photographer. Here's why investing in a true professional photographer rather than a “picture taker” is essential for your wedding.
Photography
Multiple photographers will be able to capture different angles , moments , and reactions at the same time. This ensures that no part of your wedding day is missed. “
EXPERIENCE MATTERS
While many people own cameras and like to call themselves photographers, not everyone possesses the skill set needed for professional wedding photography. Weddings are dynamic events with many unpredictable moments, challenging lighting conditions, and tight timelines. A professional photographer has the experience to adapt to these variables seamlessly and get the job done.
It is a good idea to ask potential photographers how many years of professional wedding photography experience as a primary photographer they have. Five-plus years is a great starting point!
MASTERY OF LIGHTING TECHNIQUES
Natural light can be beautiful, but relying solely on it is extremely risky. Weather can be unpredictable, and indoor venues often have poor lighting. Professional photographers should be skilled in using off-camera lighting, ensuring your photos look stunning regardless of the setting or weather conditions.
Unfortunately many offering themselves as wedding photographers are not skilled at using the lighting needed to create the images you deserve. Be sure to ask how proficient and experienced a photographer is with off-camera lighting – it matters.
DEDICATED FOCUS ON YOUR BIG DAY
Hiring a photographer who runs a fulltime business means they are entirely committed to your wedding experience. As a full time business owner their livelihood and reputation depends on delivering exceptional service, so you can trust that they'll prioritize your needs and expectations.
THE POWER OF A TEAM
Weddings are complex events that absolutely require more than one photographer. Multiple photographers will be able to capture different angles, moments, and reactions simultaneously. This ensures that no part of your wedding day is missed.
Relying on a single photographer only guarantees one thing … 50% of your wedding day including key moments will be missed and they can not be
recreated! Plus, because they go hand in hand, it is also a great idea to hire a team that specializes in not only photography, but videography too.
AVOIDING ONE-STOP SHOPS
It is recommended by most professionals to avoid anyone marketing themselves as all-in-one wedding service provider. It may seem convenient and affordable, but they almost always lack specialization and do not offer the experience you may want for such an important life event. These companies often subcontract inexperienced photographers, risking the quality of your photos and negatively impacting your wedding day experience. There are numerous stories of these companies delivering subpar work or failing to show up on wedding day.
Simply because someone says they can provide a service doesn’t mean they have the experience or ability to do so properly. Let the venue provide a beautiful setting, the DJs get the party started by playing music, and choose the photography company that will create the amazing images you want and deserve.
CONSISTENCY AND RELIABILITY
Many photographers don’t have a staff or team. They often simply subcontract second shooters they find on social media platforms or other avenues without fully ensuring their qualifications or compatibility. This unfortunately can lead to inconsistency in your wedding photos or, worse, a no-show on your big day. Working with a professional team
Weddings are dynamic events with many unpredictable moments, challenging lighting conditions, and tight timelines.
that has collaborated for years provides peace of mind and a cohesive photographic style.
HIGH-QUALITY EQUIPMENT
There's a significant difference between consumer-grade and professional-grade photography equipment. Professional photographers invest in high-end cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment. They also carry backup gear to handle any technical issues, ensuring your wedding is captured without a hitch. Things happen! Be sure that your wedding photographer has redundant professional quality backup equipment options.
CLEAR AND CONCISE CONTRACTS
A professional photographer provides a detailed contract outlining services, payment terms, timelines, and contingency plans. This helps protect both parties and sets clear expectations. This should cover aspects like rescheduling policies and deliverables, giving you confidence in what you'll receive. Many professionals recommend
avoiding anyone not offering to provide a contract or anyone requiring payment in cash or only via a nonrefundable payment system such as cashapp or Venmo.
EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE
Beyond taking photos, professional photographers often offer services that enhance your wedding experience. For example, Brodie Ledford Studios provides dedicated wedding experts who help keep your day running smoothly, manage timelines, and assist the wedding party in staying focused and on schedule. They also provide great communication and accessibility that will be available to you throughout your entire planning process and post wedding day.
TIMELY DELIVERY OF PHOTOS
Knowing when you' will receive your wedding photos is very important. Professionals should provide definitive timelines within their contracts, so you're not left in the dark. This allows you to relive your special day without
unnecessary delays. Depending on the time of year a professional studio will typically deliver your final edited wedding photos within 4-12 weeks. And, many will also offer a preview or sneak peek within a week or two.
THE INVESTMENT
Quality wedding photography is definitely an investment. It is what you are left with when your wedding day is done. While prices vary, extremely low rates should be a red flag. In regions like Baltimore and Washington D.C., the average cost for a professional wedding photographer ranges from approximately $3,500 to $7,000 or more, depending on your needs.
Remember, you often get what you pay for; investing in a professional ensures lasting memories that you will be proud of. If your photographer also offers videography service, plan for an additional $4,000-$6,000+ depending on what is included.
Remember that there is a ton of work that happens after your wedding day to guarantee your wedding photos look the best they can.
BRODIE LEDFORD STUDIOS
For more information on professional wedding photography and videography and to ensure your wedding day is captured flawlessly – consider reaching out to professional wedding experts such as Brodie Ledford Studios who prioritize quality, customer satisfaction, and your entire wedding experience.
Hagerstown, Maryland marriott.com/hgrht
Hagerstown, Maryland marriott.com/hgrsh
Real WEDDINGS
Get ideas for your wedding from five couples who got married in Frederick County.
BY
PHOTO
VALERIE MICHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY
THE PROPOSAL
Erin and Marty met at the University of Tampa at a party and realized they were both conveniently from Maryland. Erin asked Marty out on the first date, which ended up being Marty’s first date ever. Marty pulled off the ultimate surprise engagement. They went for a hike at Harper’s Ferry (one of their favorite spots), and Marty popped the question at a quiet and private lookout point. “The best part is that he had a surprise engagement party waiting for us at our house in Baltimore when we returned from our hike with all of their friends and family!”
THE WEDDING
One hundred fifteen guests, along with a 10-person bridal party, helped the couple celebrate their May wedding at Caboose Farm. “Our main requirement when choosing our venue was having the option for all of our family and friends to stay together for an entire weekend experience. Caboose Farm has several big farmhouses on the property that we were able to rent out, which made it convenient for all of our guests. We also wanted something “outdoorsy” with lots of natural greenery.
Their ceremony was held at "The Glade" which is sort of hidden in the woods and right in front of a natural stream. “We had a lot of rain leading up to the wedding as well as on the morning of our wedding day. We didn't think that we would be able to get married at this spot because it was fairly muddy.” They decided to go for it, and although a lot of shoes and Erin's dress got muddied up, it was perfect. “It was quiet and serene and felt like the most special place to be.”
The couple went with neutral colors to not take away from the natural beauty of the venue. Marty and Erin chose to write their own vows, which got the waterworks going all around.
The entire weekend was so "Marty and Erin" – having all of their people nearby for the whole weekend, spending quality time together, having pizza for the wedding dinner, and a classic house party for the after party. “It was everything we could have ever wanted and more.”
FIRST DANCE: “Grow Old with You,” by Adam Sandler in “The Wedding Singer”— we had a very talented friend play and sing an acoustic version as a surprise for our guests!
“ Don’t
worry about pleasing everyone
—
it is physically impossible to meet everyone's request. This is your day to celebrate you two as a couple,"
the
bride shares some advice for other couples planning a wedding.
VENUE
Caboose Farm
PHOTOGRAPHER
Jessi Vaughn
Photography
CATERER
Fireside Pizza
DRESS
Amanda Ritchey
Bridal Loft
SUITS
The Black Tux
HAIR & MAKEUP
Th e Beauty Company
ENTERTAINMENT
The Dapper DJs
& AARON Michael
THE PROPOSAL
Michael and Aaron met, like many do these days, through an online dating app. After a year of dating, Aaron's proposal was simple and straightforward. He asked, "Do you want to?" and Michael replied, "Sure." They were married at the DC Courthouse on September 20, 2013. “When we suggested they renew their vows on Carroll Creek during the 2024 Frederick Pride Festival, their answer was another resounding "Yes,” recalls Nevermore Weddings and Events.
THE WEDDING
In front of a few close friends, hundreds of vendors, and strangers, the couple renewed their vows in June, reaffirming their love in a truly memorable setting.
For the event, the bridge was closed to traffic, creating a unique and intimate setting. Michael and Aaron wanted to keep the theme simple, reflecting the spirit of the festival below. They wore brightly colored, matching Tommy Bahama shirts, perfectly in tune with the vibrant atmosphere. Every vendor involved generously donated their time and services to make the day special. Joanna Miller from Married by Miller officiated the ceremony, while Ory Florals provided a stunning floral arrangement. Alex Sincevich from The Dapper DJs set the mood with music, and Mary Kate McKenna Photography, along with Peyton Olivia Photography, beautifully captured the event through photos and video. Monica’s Sugar Studio created the perfect cake with rainbow layers, and two of Frederick's favorites, Mike and Audi Nagy from Frederick Social, graciously hosted the cakecutting and celebration after the ceremony. The couple recalls one of their favorite parts of the day was “celebrating with friends on the Suspension Bridge over Carroll Creek, on a day that embodies love in so many beautiful ways." And let’s not forget the moment during the ring exchange when "Wing" slipped out instead of "Ring" – a perfect touch of humor on an unforgettable day.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER COUPLES WHO ARE PLANNING A WEDDING?
Our ceremony on the suspension bridge during Frederick Pride was truly a first. Many LGBTQA+ couples face challenges in planning their weddings, often due to vendors who don't fully support their union. Even those who do may not openly promote it. As an LGBTQA+ business, Nevermore Weddings and Events places inclusion and acceptance at their core. We hope they can help other couples celebrate their love in a way that is both meaningful and authentic.
“
Celebrating with friends on the Suspension Bridge over Carroll Creek, on a day that embodies love in so many beautiful ways,” the couple recalls as one of their favorite parts of the day.
CEREMONY
Suspension Bridge over Carroll Creek
THE "AMBIANCE" & OUR CELEBRATION HEADQUARTERS: Frederick Social
COORDINATION & PLANNING
Nevermore
Weddings & Events
PHOTOGRAPHER
Mary Kate McKenna
Photography and The Uncorporate Headshot
PHOTO & VIDEO
Peyton Olivia Studios
CAKE
Monica's Sugar Studio
FLORIST
Ory Custom Florals
OFFICIANT
Get Married by Miller
ENTERTAINMENT
The Dapper DJs
Brigitta
& COLIN
THE PROPOSAL
Brigitta and Colin met online in the summer of 2018. “I grew up in Maryland, but I was still in graduate school at University of Connecticut (UConn), not far from where Colin grew up in West Hartford, Connecticut. We had our first date about a week after meeting at a taco restaurant, and it didn't take long for him to realize he wanted to move back to Maryland with me where I planned to start my career. ”
Colin and Brigitta knew they wanted to get married early on in their relationship. They openly discussed their future plans throughout the time they were dating. “My mother moved to Frederick County when I was in college, and thought it might be a beautiful setting for a wedding. Frederick is a unique town with plenty of nearby attractions for guests to enjoy a weekend away."
The couple wanted to have their wedding ceremony formally in a church, but liked the idea of the wedding reception on a winery, and naturally Springfield Manor came up in their search. "The venue stood out immediately with its gorgeous property backing up to the mountains, and the pristine ballroom setting that fit our vision.
Knowing that Brigitta loved Springfield Manor as a possible reception venue, Colin planned a trip over to the property to see the grounds during peak fall foliage. While exploring their outdoor ceremony space, before Brigitta knew it, Colin was down on one knee at the altar. "It was a total surprise! He even arranged to have our families sneak onto the property in time for the proposal and to celebrate with us.”
THE WEDDING
The ceremony was held at their church, Calvary United Methodist Church, in downtown Frederick. “The lead pastor of the church officiated our wedding ceremony alongside my cousin, who is also a pastor. It was an extra special touch involving my family in the officiation of our wedding.”
The couple loved their cookie table – a tradition in Colin's family. Both of their families and friends bake cookies from scratch and place them on a table at the reception for all guests to enjoy. These made for great late-night bites.
"Colin and I set up private moments with each other throughout the day to form special memories, and these were probably our favorites." Instead of a first look, they had a first "moment" unseen just before the ceremony. They also shared private vows after the ceremony, which felt very intimate and personal. And, while the guests were outside lining up for their send off, Brigitta and Colin shared one last private dance to themselves. "It was a great way to wrap up the evening with each other.”
“Our day would have not run so smoothly without our incredible team of wedding vendors. They took away a lot of the stress so we were able to enjoy our wedding day and see our vision brought to life," the bride shared.
CEREMONY
Calvary United
Methodist Church
RECEPTION
Springfield Manor
Winery Distillery Brewery
COORDINATION
Sleeping Bee Designs
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Brodie Ledford Studios
CATERING
Great American Caterers
BAKERY
The Fat Cat Cake Boutique
BAR
Gateway Liquors
GOWN
Bridals by Elena
HAIR & MAKEUP
PriscillaM Beauty
FLOWERS
Ory Custom Florals
ENTERTAINMENT
Baltimore's Premier Event Solutions
TRANSPORTATION On the Town Limousines LLC
Diane & CHARLES
THE PROPOSAL
Diane and Charles met in the summer of 2017. "I went out in downtown Annapolis with one of my best friends Kat and later that night, she invited her friend Courtney to join." It turned out that Charles was living with Courtney and her now husband, Thomas at the time. Fast forward a few months, Diane went out with a group of friends to a concert in Washington, D.C. Courtney and Thomas were going and invited Charles, who almost bailed. "Thankfully he didn't because this was the first time we met! We ended up running into each other the following night at another concert and it felt like it was meant to be."
Charles and Diane knew they wanted to get married, but really wanted to buy a house first. "I never wanted a flashy proposal and imagined something more intimate." After Diane got home from a bridal shower, she opened the door and there were lots of candles and flowers everywhere, music in the
background, framed photos of them throughout their relationship, and a charcuterie spread. There was a trail of flower petals leading to the back door. "When I opened the door, the back patio table had big white letters that said 'marry me,' and Charles was waiting on one knee. It was absolutely perfect."
THE WEDDING
Diane and Charles were married on their sixyear anniversary in March at Ostertag Vistas in Myersville. "We chose Ostertag Vistas because it had multiple locations onsite for an outside ceremony and we thought the barn was charming and had a lot of character." It was cloudy and chilly during the ceremony, so the couple provided blankets on each of the guest’s chairs. Charlie’s dad, David, was their officiant and the couple thought it would be funny to have the bride's brother-in-law and nephew walk down as the “flower girls”. The couple wanted to make sure the ceremony was kept short, sweet and simple. One memorable moment from the ceremony was when Diane actually jumped the gun and kissed Charlie before the official “wedding kiss”. "I guess I couldn’t help it, I was just too excited! It’s something that we still bring up and laugh about today."
Diane's favorite color is green and her birthstone is emerald, which is the center stone of her engagement ring, so the bride knew she wanted to incorporate a lot of green and greenery, along with white and gold into their wedding. "Our absolute favorite part of the day was being surrounded by all of our friends and families. The love shown for us was truly palpable. Our wedding was the first time in six or so years that me and three of my closest girlfriends were finally together. Charlie also met his online gaming friend for the first time. He traveled all the way from Ireland to be at the wedding."
FIRST DANCE: “Coming Home,” by
Leon Bridges
“ I’m really glad we did a first look because I feel like it took some pressure off of us and it was really nice to have an intimate moment together before the wedding," the bride shared.
VENUE
Ostertag Vistas
PHOTOGRAPHER
A Natural Portrayal
Photography
COORDINATORS
Bride's sister – Natalie
Groom's sister – Molly
CATERER
CarterQue BBQ
DESSERT
Piece O’ Cake
DRESS
Lulus
HAIR & MAKEUP
Wedding Day
Ready Glam
ENTERTAINMENT
DJ Swilliibeats
FLORALS
Scentsational Florals
Victoria
JAKE &
THE PROPOSAL
Victoria and Jake initially met in high school when Tory was actually dating a friend of Jake’s. “We would hang out as a group along with many other friends in our circle, so we became acquaintances.” Everyone went their separate ways after high school and many years later, during the summer of 2016, both Tory and Jake were in the same place at the same time, Seacrets in Ocean City. “We were both lost and looking for our friends, but decided to stop looking for our friends and instead spent the rest of the day catching up and dancing. We have been inseparable since.”
The couple got engaged in June 2022 just days before Tory's 30th birthday in Baltimore in front of the water with all of their family and close friends present (they were hidden at the time). Jake had a portion of Barcocina rented out for everyone to celebrate after the proposal. “It was the perfect day/night celebrating with everyone.”
THE WEDDING
One hundred people, along with a 12-person wedding party, helped the couple celebrate their October wedding at Ceresville Mansion. “We chose Ceresville Mansion, not only because of the extremely convenient location for ourselves, but a lot of our friends and family who were still local to the area. We loved how quaint, but elegant it felt. We liked the decor and the vintage, old mansion style it had, and felt it matched with the minimalist theme we were going for.”
The couple’s best friend from college officiated the wedding. “He told first hand stories as well as some from our families. We have been together a long time so there was a lot of material to get through.”
The couple decided to brighten things up with the bridesmaid dresses and flowers. There was no "real" color scheme, but it was a lot of different shades of purples, reds, pinks, and then some white and yellows.
The bride expressed some of her favorite parts of the wedding was being able to read their vows in private and spending some quality time together before the real party started. “Then, finally, the reception. The dance floor was completely full from start to finish and being able to look around and see all of our favorite people having a great time, smiling, laughing, and dancing was truly unforgettable.”
FIRST DANCE: “True” by Tilian Pearson
“
Some of my favorite parts of the wedding was being able to read our vows in private and spending some quality time together before the real party started," the bride expressed.
CEREMONY
Ceresville Mansion
PHOTOGRAPHER
Valerie Michelle
Photography
PHOTO BOOTH
Wizer Productions
HAIR & MAKEUP
Bridal Glow
FLORALS
The Lemon Decor
BAKERY
Rose's Bake Shop
GOWN BHLDN by Anthropologie
SPRAY TAN
Superior Spray Tans by Stephanie
ENTERTAINMENT
Wizer Productions
INVOLVE YOUR FURRY FRIEND IN YOUR BIG DAY
Attention parents of fur babies: If you and your partner have a pet, then you know how important of a family member they are. We've compiled some of the most adorable pet wedding ideas so you can incorporate them into the wedding celebrations. Whether you own a cat, dog, horse, rabbit, or even a reptile, there are plenty of ways to have your animal play a special role in the big day.
FURRY FRIENDS
WEDDING DAY
When considering the following pet wedding ideas, first take into account your pet's personality and whether your venue allows pets on the premises.
But don't fret – there are still some amazingly creative and adorable ways you can include your pet in your wedding, whether they are present or not. Here are just a few:
Pet Cake Toppers
Illustrated Pet Signage
Make your Pet a Wedding Favor
Family Picture Guest Book Alternative
Pose with Your Pet in Wedding Photos
Dress your Pet up for the Occasion
Walk or Carry your Pet Down the Aisle
Make a Grand Entrance Cow-Boy Style
Have a Non-Traditional Ring Bearer
Have Company at the Altar
Dance with your Pet
Incorporate Photo Booth Props of your Pet for your Guests
PET TIP:
Prepare a grab bag for your pet with their treats, toys, and anything else you think they might need. It’s also a good idea to designate someone to take care of them during the day’s events.
WEDDING FAVORS Eco-friendly
SEED PACKETS
Give your guests packets of seeds they can plant and watch grow. Whether it’s wildflowers, herbs or tree seeds, these favors symbolize the growth of your love while contributing to a greener world.
FAIRTRADE COFFEE OR TEA
Show your support for sustainable farming practices and fair wages with this ethical choice. You can feel good that your favors will have a positive impact beyond your wedding day.
LOCALLY MADE CHOCOLATE
Locally sourced and ethically produced chocolates make ideal wedding favors. Supporting local artisans reduces your carbon footprint, and your guests will appreciate the delicious treat.
WOOD OR CORK COASTERS
Wooden or cork coasters, engraved with your names and wedding date, make for both a practical and eco-friendly keepsake.
HANDMADE SOAP
Luxurious and eco-friendly handcrafted soaps made from natural, biodegradable ingredients come in a variety of scents and can be customized to match your wedding theme or colors.
Just 25 miles from our nation’s capital, Loudoun County, Virginia is DC’s Wine Country ® and an exquisite weddings destination. At no charge, Visit Loudoun is a one-stop shop where you can get assistance in finding just the right wedding professionals to help make your dream wedding a reality.
Complimentary Planning Services
Accommodations, Wedding/Reception Venues, Rehearsal Dinner Venues, Entertainment, Florists, Photographers/ Videographers, Photo Booths, Planners, Caterers, Celebrants/ Officiants, Transportation, Decor, Hair/Makeup, Tents, Rentals, Bakeries, Invitations, Vintage & Mobile Bars, Honeymoon Planning, Pre-Marital Counseling and Wedding Attire
Venues
From romantic B&Bs, gorgeous wineries and rustic barns, to magnificent resorts, historic estates and country clubs, Loudoun is home to the perfect venue for your shower, rehearsal dinner or wedding day.
Destination Highlights
50+ Wineries, 30+ Breweries, 5+ Cideries/Distilleries, Farm-to-Table Dining, Premium Outlet Shopping, Historic Sites, Exciting Nightlife, Family-Friendly Attractions
Dana Henry, CTA | Social Market Sales & Client Services Manager
112-G South Street, SE, Leesburg, VA 20175
Phone: 703-669-2007
Email: Henry@VisitLoudoun.org
VisitLoudoun.org/weddings | #LoveLoudoun
Megan Rei Photography
Ruby Sky Photography
Lydia Teaque Photography
Frederick,
Say yes TO POSSIBILITY
Say “I do” among rolling hills, breathtaking mountain views, or historic city streets. Whether you are looking for an expansive outdoor backdrop or a rustic setting, unique venues coupled with stunning scenery make Frederick County the ideal destination for guests arriving from near and far.
Before you tie the knot, connect with all of the possibilities that Visit Frederick can bring to your special day.
Visit Frederick provides complimentary assistance on the following:
Room block proposals for area hotels
Venue options for rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, and receptions
Visitor Guides and information on local attractions and activities for your guests