Sunday, February 25th, 2024 - 1 to 4 pm Kent Island Resort
500 Kent Manor Drive, Stevensville, MD
Under the Veil is a Chesapeake Bay Wedding event highlighting 2024 trends in a new way. Held in the elegantly rustic Farmstead at Kent Island Resort, attendees will be able to connect with vendors across the entire Chesapeake Bay region to craft a wedding day of their dreams. This edition of our magazine will highlight the emerging trends, the event will further elaborate what’s in. Be part of our exclusive faux wedding set ups, showing off design ideas in an immersive and realistic way.
Weddings are so glamorous. With the progression of social media, television, cameras and other technology, it seems like they continue to get more and more robust. However, many of us may know the other side. I certainly do.
I’ve written in previous editions a few times about my upbringing with weddings, but if you need a refresher, I’ll remind you I grew up the son of a pastor and then as a teenager got into the audio and visual space for a church. I was routinely involved with weddings, but there is something I have not told you yet… My biggest experience with weddings was cleaning the space after the wedding.
On several occasions, I would be at the back of the church in the soundbooth, manning the video camera and making sure the preacher’s mic was on. It was all fun and games until the flower girl unleashed a flurry of petals all over the floor or the couple was doused in rice by jovial attendees. I would be laughing along, of course, but weeping on the inside.
It’s all fun memories, though, as you reflect on what the big occasion was: love. Being a part of so many ceremonies and celebrations was very rewarding for me. Besides, who knew that going into journalism and being a huge sports fan would lead me to this awesome career?
I do consider myself fortunate to bring you the very best from around the Chesapeake region, and it is all thanks to the awesome team here at APG Media, our vendor partners and you, the readers. On behalf of the entire team, we hope you enjoy this edition and maybe even find the inspiration to make your dreams come true.
PRESIDENT
Jim Normandin
jim.normandin@adamspg.com
PUBLISHER
Betsy Griffin bgriffin@chespub.com
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Eli Wohlenhaus ewohlenhaus@chespub.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Jennifer Quinn jquinn@chespub.com
ADVERTISING
Brook Ash bash@chespub.com
Tyler Edwards tedwards@chespub.com
CIRCULATION
Chad Campbell ccampbell@chespub.com
CONTRIBUTING CONTENT CREATORS
Audrey Wozny, Jenn Quinn, Eleanor Pratt, Annie Hasselgren, Katie Melynn, Kristi English, Cecilia Shilling, Willis Aybar, Elizabeth Polo
DISTRIBUTION:
Chesapeake Bay Wedding will help couples plan their special destination wedding around the Bay.
Have ideas for what you want to see in Chesapeake Bay Wedding magazine? Email me at ewohlenhaus@chespub.com.
Anne Arundel
Prince George’s
Cecil
Kent
Queen Anne’s Talbot
Caroline Dorchester
Newark Baltimore Charles
St. Mary’s Calvert
10,000
Target dropped in high traffic locations.
Full list can be viewed at chesapeakebaywedding.com
52,000 emails sent to couples and bride’s mothers residing in the Washington DC and Baltimore area who have asked for information on Chesapeake Bay weddings
ocate on t e woo e ar lan orizon, e Barn & o ge is a c arming location to ost your big da . e assortment of reclaime wood ta les, w ite-was ed wood paneling, and glittering c andeliers leave a little somet ing for ever one.
e are able to host ever y event leading up to your big day e have ideal rooms for the more intimate celebrations, like the bridal shower and the rehearsal dinner e Barn & Lodge has no shortage of spaces for your ceremony Our private outdoor garden is the perfect intimate space for a ceremony any time of year, located steps away from the venue Or, host your ceremony in the Barn itself for an easy transition into cocktail hour
e offer the most attentive ser vice, locally har vested farm-to-table meals, and ar yland’s most beautiful décor To compliment any meal, we have an exceptional beverage program complete with creative cocktails, an extensive wine list, and a broad draft beer selection
iew our online wedding booklet for additional information
329 Gambrills Rd, Gambrills, MD 21054 410-317-2276
barnandlodge.com
STYLED SHOOT
STORY BY ELEANOR PRATT
LOCATIONS
Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort
4160 Mears Ave, Chesapeake Beach, MD
Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum
4155 Mears Ave. Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732
PHOTOGRAPHERS
River Lane Photography riverlanephotography.com
JennQuinn Creative jennquinncreative.com
HAIR & MAKEUP
KC Artistry kcartistrymakeupartist.com
DRESS & SUIT: Champagne Taste Bridal champagnetastebridal.com
FLORALS
Wildly Native Flower Farm wildlynativeflowerfarm.com
STATIONARY DESIGN
JennQuinn Creative jennquinncreative.com
RENTALS
Pretty Little Wedding prettylittleweddingco.com
JEWELRY
Joson Fine Jewelry and Home Boutique josonjewelryhome.com
After a recent fairytale engagement in the Chianti region of Italy, Josh Joson and Julie Delcambre are looking forward to their upcoming wedding. As models for this shoot at the scenic Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort in historic Chesapeake Beach, the couple got a taste of what their big day might be like.
According to the town’s website, Chesapeake Beach was founded in the early twentieth century as a resort town. Hotels, casinos, carousels, a mile-long pier, a giant roller coaster and more populated the waterfront, attracting thousands of amusement seekers by train and boat. Black and white photos of the town and these attractions populate the walls of the Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort, allowing visitors to get a glimpse of the history of the place the resort calls home.
The Rod ‘N’ Reel itself has a long history as well. Family-owned and operated since 1946, the resort is a staple of the Chesapeake Beach community and continues to attract visitors to the small town. CEO and Chesapeake Beach native Mary Lanham could not be more proud of how the resort has grown and changed over the four generations her family has owned it. But the familial feeling extends beyond just her relatives.
“We have employees right now who have been with us for over 40 years, which I think says a lot about the family dynamic,” Lanham said.
In addition to hosting annual “Rock the Dock” concerts in the summer, friendly fishing tournaments, family reunions and other events, the resort’s unobstructed views of the Chesapeake Bay make it an ideal venue for a wedding. It’s not all about the one big day either. Rod ‘N’ Reel boasts a spa and a barbershop for some pre-wedding pampering, as well as pontoon, kayak and boat rentals for wedding parties who want to make use of the resort’s waterfront.
Photographer Audrey Wozny and creative director Jennifer Quinn definitely took advantage of the resort’s scenic locale for the shoot. Josh and Julie made a striking couple, with Julie styled to perfection by KC Artistry’s hairstylist Biki Rodriguez and makeup artist Ali Duca. Sarah McGuinn of Champagne Taste Bridal Boutique outfitted the couple in timeless styles.
McGuinn described her boutique as “small but mighty.” Located in Huntingtown, Champagne Taste offers a unique and personal bridal experience. Not only can brides find affordable and peak-condition gowns “off the rack,” but the store also carries three “made-to-order” lines: Rebecca Ingram, Maggie Sottero, and Sottero and Midgley.
The boutique continues to expand and innovate, recently introducing bridesmaid gowns and suits and tuxedos, as well as launching a private label line. This line features exclusive gowns only found at Champagne Taste and all will be named after different wines and champagne. McGuinn joked this was very “on brand” for the boutique.
While it may not have been Julie and Josh’s actual big day — they plan to have an intimate wedding with family and friends soon — both certainly looked the part
thanks to Champagne Taste and KC Artistry. The Rod ‘N’ Reel also looked the part of the perfect venue, though it will be even more so in the years to come.
By 2025, the resort plans to complete construction on a new section. This will add 62 hotel rooms, a banquet facility for up to 500 people, a rooftop pool, as well as a new Rod ‘N’ Reel restaurant. A three-story atrium will connect the current hotel with the new building, with striking views of the bay and beach. This atrium will allow the resort to host wedding ceremonies, live music, and more twelve months out of the year. Additionally, the rooftop deck, (overlooking the bay of course) will be able to host wedding ceremonies, parties and any other private events.
Mary Lanham and her daughter pose in front of the brand new rooftop pool. Photo by Cecelia Shilling.
Lanham and her family are excited to realize her father’s vision for what the resort could be. Even with the stress of construction and planning, she said it will be worth it in the end.
“We’re completely at peace because it was his vision,” Lanham said. “We just get to carry it out.”
As golden hour hit our cover models’ smiling faces and gentle waves hit the beach, one could not help but imagine the future happy couples who will say their “I do’s” at this historic venue.
Find helpful posts about avoiding the jitters, creative invitations, fun favors.
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Location: 1840s Plaza
Photographer: Sebastian Leon
Wolfgang Taylor
MOVIE MAGIC
Location: Chesapeake Bay Beach Club
Photographer: Arbor Lane Studios
CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR OTHER FAVORITE PHOTOS SUBMITTED TO THE
CHESAPEAKE BAY WEDDING MAGAZINE PHOTO CONTEST. WE HOPE TO SEE YOURS NEXT ISSUE!
Location: Haven Harbour Marina
Photographer: Megan Harris Photo
Location: Hannimal Farm
Photographer: MLK Photography
Located on a scenic and historic waterfront, Sparrows Point Country Club in Baltimore, Maryland makes for an ideal wedding venue.
The venue’s history dates back to the War of 1812 when British soldiers sought refuge in a farmhouse on the shores of Jones Creek. Over 100 years later, the home was converted to become the first clubhouse of the Sparrows Point Country Club. This clubhouse has since been expanded to what we find today: a 250acre waterfront property where Sparrows Point hosts outside events, weddings, and casual to fine dining experiences.
What makes Sparrows Point such an excellent wedding venue? Director of Sales for Membership and Events Kiersten Moore noted the club’s location, saying, “It really is a hidden gem with the beautiful waterfront views that we offer along with views of the golf course.” Furthermore, the venue also boasts a bridge that has views of the water and golf course, creating a great place for photo opportunities.
According to Moore, couples who choose Sparrows Point as their venue can expect a great team to work with throughout the entire planning process. The venue helps in developing a timeline, finding vendors if needed, and providing chairs, linens, glassware, china, and more.
Sparrows Point packages feature a one wedding per day policy and four or five-hour receptions for each wedding. Couples can
choose between seated or buffetstyle dining, as well as stationary or passed hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hours. Food is prepared by an Executive Chef who specializes in both gourmet and traditional cuisine.
Moore notes, “Basically the only thing the couple needs to bring themselves are decorations. Our staff sets up everything and breaks everything down, leaving [the couple] only responsible for the decor that they bring.”
All weddings have been incredibly memorable at Sparrows Point, but one story, in particular, stands out to Moore. Due to their wedding being held during the Covid-19 pandemic, a couple had multiple last-minute setbacks
and cancellations, resulting in them having only about 25 people on their actual day.
However, in a happy twist, the couple decided to hold a vow renewal in 2022 at Sparrows Point with over 200 guests attending from all over the country. Moore said, “It was great to see something that was not such a great time for them turn into something later that was everything they wanted it to be.”
Overall, with its waterfront views, dedicated staff, and history providing tailored and attentive wedding experiences, Sparrows Point will help create memories to last a lifetime for any couple who chooses to spend their big day at this venue. CBW
Victorian St yled Venue with lush landscape and private gardens in the heartofEaston, Mar yland.
Customwedding packages available and on-site ordained minister.
Accommodate up to 150 wedding guests, with 6beautiful en suite rooms available.TheInn canaccommodate up to 18 overnight guests.
Avariet yofindoor and outdoor spaces to host your perfect day.
14 N. Aurora St. Easton, MD 410-822-0605
www .hummingbir dinneaston.com
Hand-raised chickens named after the staff, a cat named Squeaky who is in every wedding, and a cottage that used to be a smokehouse are just a few of the charming details that make the Brampton Inn in Chestertown a picturesque getaway and event venue on the Mid-Shore.
It can be true that “the customer is always right” – and, in some cases, the most informed. When Hilari and Dave Rinehart were regular guests of the Brampton Inn in Chestertown, they had traveled enough to know what they liked and didn’t like about hotels and inns. Upon learning that the historic Brampton was in search of new owners, they knew they could curate something special for future guests. “We wanted to create a place that felt like home, like you are part of the family,” Hilari Rinehart said. “A place where you can go to unwind and relax.” True to form, the Rineharts embarked on a years-long journey to restore the inn into a getaway and wedding venue that featured all of the natural beauty and local resources that the Eastern Shore has to offer.
With collaboration and sustainability in mind, the Rineharts attended chamber of commerce meetings in Kent County to
ensure that they were equipped to do things right. Their focus is on supporting small, local businesses that help to create weddings full of delectable dishes, beautiful surroundings, and enchanting surprises.
“With so much talent here on the Shore, it didn’t make sense for us to work with catering companies in D.C. or Philly,” Hilari said. “We wanted to create an environment where guests can immerse themselves in the environment and connect locally while here.”
Brampton works with vendors such as Chesapeake Chef Services in Kent Island, Wildly Native and Cakes by Abby in Chestertown, Crow Vineyards in Kennedyville, and others. The inn’s wedding coordinator connects couples with local vendors ideal for their taste and style — and the vendors get creative. Recently, Chesapeake Chef Services held a cauldron dinner at the Brampton as part of a special event, delighting guests with their old-world take on dining.
The inn also offers special experiences and packages for their guests at local restaurants, complete with wine pairings at eateries such as The Kitchen at the Imperial in Chestertown. For New Year’s Eve, Brampton staff organized a Chester
River boat cruise for guests. Most Friday evenings and during special events, guests are treated to performances by concert pianist Mike Casey, a musician from Kent County who was trained in Europe and returned to his roots on the Shore to share his talents.
Just as the Rineharts pay homage to all the Shore has to offer, so, too, did they jump feet first into a monumental restoration process intended to preserve the deep history of Brampton. The couple bought the inn in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, when it was illegal to hold large gatherings. With a 15-person cap, the inn was restricted by event size, but that didn’t stop some couples: the Rineharts hosted a small wedding at Brampton the second week of ownership.
The 5-year, multi-million-dollar plan for the inn was also slowed down by supply chain challenges, but as a history buff committed to ensuring that the Brampton Inn retained its character and presence,
Dave Rinehart could be found most days, perched atop a ladder, painstakingly restoring shutters.
“Some of the challenges of maintaining and restoring an historic property is trying to recreate the techniques that were used at the time the building was constructed,” Dave Rinehart said. “For myself, I try to be as true as possible to the spirit of those who built the Brampton, and honor their memory by using the same tools they would have available at the time. Finding the initials of the craftsmen that came before me while doing restoration and being able to match their style and quality of work are some of the greatest rewards, as well as knowing it will be around for future generations.”
The Rineharts worked with local masons, builders, landscapers and architects in the restoration and continued to fine-tune the property. Although there is little record of the inn prior to its inception, the Rineharts have learned a great deal of Brampton’s history since 1860. Unlike many large estates that
stay within families, Brampton has changed hands — and appearance. The brick part of the house is second generation; previously, there was a wooden mansion that burned down, leaving only one surviving wing. The house was then rebuilt with brick, using uncommon architectural styles for the time period.
The Brampton Inn is a transitional Greek Revival / Italianate-influenced dwelling, an unusual style for the area and the only one of its kind remaining. The 3-story, main section of the house was constructed with a symmetrical five-bay-wide façade and a depth of two bays. Even the use of each structure has also changed significantly. Russell’s Cottage was the smokehouse (complete with hooks where the meat was hung) and the Robin’s Nest Cottage was an on-site vet clinic, with pet-friendly terracotta floors. What is now the Garden Cottage was the horse barn, which was rebuilt and restored with fireplaces at each end.
“The chimneys were for the horses,” Hilari said, laughing. “That tells you how much they cared about their animals.”
Some more recent changes to the property include a 3-tier Renaissance Terrace Garden with a pergola and fire pit, which guests can access via the inn’s veranda or breakfast room, and has become an outdoor oasis that couples love to customize with flowers and other accouterments for their special day.
The Brampton Inn provides a blend of historic nostalgia and Eastern Shore charm with which guests and couples make lasting memories, and the Rineharts plan to hold true to these principles for years to come.
“We love to talk to our guests about what the property was, what it is now, and what it’s meant to guests over the years,” Hilari said. “Couples are coming for weddings and starting their story here, in a place rooted by such a wonderful history.” CBW
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE MELYNN
The first wedding that I went to, I knew that I was right where I needed to be. Doing makeup is fun, but I fell in love with the wedding industry as well. Family and friends are coming together for people that they love. You’re getting to do what you love in the best environment ever.
For Krystal Cutlip and the team at KC Artistry, that includes breathtaking venues with beautiful lighting filled with love and laughter. A specialty bridal glam squad, the team at KC Artistry arrives with everything that the bride needs to feel special on her wedding day. Unrolling and unpacking makeup kits, hair styling tools, specialized lighting to get the best application, and chairs for the bridal party, Cutlip gets to work.
When she started as a makeup artist in 2016, Cutlip was part of a small niche in the wedding industry. Specializing in makeup, she was part of a team and freelanced on her own. She had always been interested in makeup from a young age, but gaining experience in such a specialized industry took time and a lot of work.
“I always knew that I wanted to do makeup, however, back in high school there was no instagram and makeup was not widely known as a career opportunity like it is now,” she said.
From sitting alongside her mother at her vanity getting dolled up to picking out her first custom palette in 8th grade, Cutlip reveled in the chance to learn more and develop as an artist as she learned.
“I was drawn to it from the confidence that it gives people and the creativity that you can have with it.”
After seeing their eyes light up as they prepared to walk down the aisle, Cutlip decided to branch out on her own. She started KC Artistry, LLC in 2019, specializing in long-wearing airbrush makeup. Even
though certification courses were only available in New York City and Los Angeles, Cutlip knew that this knowledge would be the best thing for humid Maryland summers.
“Traditional makeup starts to separate as brides are outside taking photos,” she said. “But airbrush lasts 24 hours, is waterproof and is transfer-resistant.”
As demand for her services grew, Cutlip added hair to her offerings and put together an entire glam team, all under the KC Artistry umbrella. This helps brides know that they’re taken care of without having to reach out to countless artists trying to arrange availability and contracts.
“I’ve already done the vetting for the bride,” Cutlip said.
This includes interviewing, training and education, and product checks, all under one contract and with one central booking agent.
“This is really important to brides, not having to hire two or more separate people with different contracts and policies. Plus, they don’t have to worry about a vendor canceling at the last minute because we have a whole team of professionals.”
Connecting with clients is also an important aspect of KC Artistry’s approach. While getting the bridal party ready, Cutlip and her team spend hours with the bride and those closest to her. They often see brides that they worked with in the past at the weddings of family and friends, catching up like old friends. Sharing updates on what children are up to and reminiscing over special memories from their special day are common.
“I like to really get close with our clients and build a professional relationship with them,” said Cutlip. “It can be fun and relaxing and enjoyable.”
Some of the most memorable and rewarding moments come when brides see themselves in a new light.
“When you have a bride cry because they’ve never looked at themselves and felt the way that they feel after you’ve done their makeup, those are the best moments.”
Cutlip recently had a grandmother join the bridal party to get her makeup done. She was used to having a full face of makeup when leaving the house but hadn’t been able to do it on her own.
“She couldn’t see as well and hadn’t been able to do her makeup in six months or so,” said Cutlip. “When she looked at herself, she started crying. She said that she never thought she would look this beautiful again. It’s those scenarios where I think about how much I love what I do.”
For glam inspiration or to book Cutlip and her team for an upcoming event, follow KC Artistry on social media @kcartistry_ or visit the website www. kcartistrymakeupartist.com.
I like to really get close with our clients and build a professional relationship with themPhoto by Willow Roots Photography CBW
Getting makeup done for your wedding is a fun part of the day but it doens’t have to make you feel like you look like a different person. Clean, fresh face makeup embraces all of the beauty of your face but gives you the extra confidence you may feel from having makeup on. You look effortless and shine for every photo through the day, from first look to last dance.
Have ceremony space separate from the reception? Reuse your gorgeous florals from your arch, aisle and more to bring even more beauty and life to the reception space. They can play a role in filling out the dessert table, decorate the entrance doors and more. Who doesn’t want to show off the flowers that surrounded you during such a magical moment?
Not everyone can have their entire guest list party with them for a weekend, but some venues offer the option to book the space for 3 days. Staying the night a few days before gives you the ability to be more comfortable in the space, get your decorations exactly how you would like them and not have to rush the day of to the space.
Photo by JennQuinn Creative
Color! Although I love a good neutral color scheme, colorful blooms are here to stay. It’s refreshing to see so many couples branching out and using bright and vibrant florals. From colorful tablescapes to mismatch bridesmaid dresses, it’s a great time to experiment with color.
This wedding season surrounds the year’s biggest holidays which are centered around family. I draw my inspiration from the feelings of warmth and comfort surrounding these gatherings. I love using the different textures and deep colors of fall and winter that bring me back to my days of helping my grandmother decorate for the holidays.
My favorite flower to source locally in fall are Dahlias. Such a diverse and elegant bloom with so many different varieties and ways to style. I also love using mums and all the different evergreens and berry branches available this time of year in my designs as well.
I’m not one who focuses too much on what’s trending as much as I try to focus on honing in on what speaks to the couple. But, if I had to pick something, I would say I am loving the new trend of bridesmaids floral purses. I also always recommend a statement piece. An arch, hanging chandelier, something the guests will remember. Bonus if we can use it for both the ceremony and reception. Regardless of what’s trending and what my couples choose it’s important to remember what the day represents.
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER QUINN OF JENNQUINN CREATIVE
To say “I love you more” has even stronger meaning for Meredith and Conner.
The newlyweds, the Moores, have known each other for over 10 years. At 24 and 26, that’s not always an easy feat. After 4 years of friendship, Conner would not give up on asking Meredith out and took her on a date tailored to their shared interests — fishing. Moments like this have stuck with them throughout their relationship and is what made their wedding day so special.
MAY 15TH, 2017
The first date, an afternoon getting to know each other over wading and fishing.
MAY 14TH, 2022
The day before Meredith and Conner’s 5 year anniversary. Conner gifted Meredith a nature-inspired ring, making the guarantee that the past 5 years had been special to him. “This is for 5 years.”
MAY 15TH, 2022
The couple had planned a 5 year anniversary date to go fishing, taking a nod from their first date and something they have continued to share a passion for.
Starting like the first date, Meredith and Conner arrived at the spot they have been to many times before, setting down their tackle boxes and Meredith attempting to put on her waders. Conner had other plans trying to usher her down to the water but she wouldn’t go until she had her waders fully on, having left her other boots at home.
Down by the water, Conner had his antique tackle box open, waiting for the moment he could catch Meredith off guard. When the time was right, he knelt down and pulled out the ring box. As silly as it seems, being proposed to in her waders couldn’t have been more perfect for Meredith.
Conner told her, “This is for forever.”
five years forever
THIS IS FOR THIS IS FOR
On a beautiful Monday afternoon, Meredith and Conner, along with their wedding parties, arrived at Martinak State Park to get ready in the cedar cabins filling the campgrounds. Martinak holds a special place in their hearts, the first place they ever went camping together, although they didn’t get the luxury of the cabins back in 2021.
After dressing, Meredith and her mother had a moment where she was gifted with a handkerchief with a special message, beginning the assortment of touching details that filled the wedding day.
The amphitheater was decorated with lanterns, tree stumps and greenery but there was a big surprise at the top. Meredith teared up at the sight of a 1951 Chevy truck situated at the beginning of the aisle. Both lovers of vintage vehicles and
Conner being a mechanic, the truck was the perfect way to tie in more of their interests.
“A beautiful surprise, I can’t believe Conner kept this secret,” she said, grinning ear to ear. It made for the perfect place to do their first touch, wanting to keep the first look for the ceremony.
During the ceremony, the couple embraced the beauty of the surrounding nature. The dock was the perfect backdrop, even if they had a few unexpected kayakers as wedding crashers. They wrote their own vows with mentions of fishing, dogs and many pizza nights, getting chuckles out of each other and the guests.
After the ceremony, once the guests, family and friends had left the ceremony space, Meredith and Conner got a chance to enjoy the peaceful
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place. They struck pose after pose for their couples portraits, laughing with each other. Finally they got to enjoy the old Chevy in its glory, taking photos next to it, then convincing the owner to allow them to drive it to their wedding reception. Taking such a cool vehicle down the highway certainly had its challenges but it was worth every moment to pull up to the party with a honk of the horn.
Even the reception held its fair share of meaningful moments. The first dance song was a surprise to the families when Conner’s parents’ wedding song began to play. The tradition of the anniversary song revealed that the oldest married couple was Granny and Gramps, Meredith’s grandparents.
Upon discovering they were the last ones dancing, they invited the family to join in with them, creating a dance circle full of love. Married 59 years, they are a wonderful example of long lasting love, something for Meredith and Conner to look to. The rest of the night was full of dancing, cake smashing and laughs.
Meredith said about the wonders of the day, “Even the hiccups we had made the day special. I wouldn’t change a minute.”
Jasmine Jones wants everyone’s experience at Cherry Blossom Intimates to be a positive one.
“We are very encouraging of body positivity and our bra-fitting experts are body-affirming,” she explained. “We want our customers to feel liberated to
PHOTOS
express themselves and to really lean into what makes them feel empowered.”
Jones is no stranger to embracing challenges, as Miss District of Columbia USA 2016, she is the co-founder of Cherry Blossom Intimates, a lingerie shop in Prince George’s County. It is also a breast health facility and boutique, specializing in a unique bra fitting experience. We first contacted Jasmine to learn about trends in wedding undergarments, but soon found that she and her staff of five offer so much more to their community.
“My grandmother had breast cancer and I remember walking into a medical supply store with her when I was younger and it smelling of Ben-Gay, seeing the walkers and bedpans, taken to a rack in the back of the store for her post-mastectomy bra fitting,” Jasmine said. “I remember thinking no person should have to shop for bras in a store like this.”
A few years later she saw a social media campaign petitioning a popular brand to carry bras for those post-surgery. To her knowledge, nothing came of this, but it got the wheels turning in her mind, with the knowledge that there was a want and need out there for allinclusive underthings. Fast forward to a Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Race for the Cure when Jones represented Miss District of Columbia. At the event, she met Dr. Regina Hampton, a renowned breast cancer surgeon and spent the rest of the race talking and dreaming up a store where everyone would feel welcomed and breast cancer survivors would shop for beautiful lingerie alongside their friends.
“We are in the fifth year of the store, and everything aligned from the very beginning,” Jones said.” The mission is to offer an inclusive space for everyone. Cherry Blossom Intimates is a medical facility, but we do not operate like a supply store. We want our customers to feel safe and pampered, like you are at your best friend’s house.”
When you walk through the doors of Cherry Blossom Intimates, you are given the red carpet treatment. First, you are given a tour of the store and shown the signature Pink Wall, a living, breathing facade, made of tinted moss, emblazoned with the store’s logo. Next, you are shown the angel wall, the “why” of Jones and Hampden, which holds a photo of Jasmine’s grandmother as well as a friend of Dr. Hampton, both of whom lost their lives to breast cancer.
This wall is a beautiful reminder of the inclusive space and makes shopping here even more special. After seeing and touching the racks of lingerie, bras and underwear, you talk through your ideas and vision, while the fitting experts make it a reality. The store encourages byappointment-only scheduling, assuring you and your party will have an intimate experience of choosing undergarments. Your group is treated to drinks while you shop and Jones says the lighting
is perfect for selfies giving a true experience you will never forget.
For those new to shopping for intimates, Jones starts with the basics and gets an idea for the person’s comfort level. Many times people know they need dress undergarments, and Jones and her team give their customers other options for the entire day, night and beyond.
Jones and her team help customers choose underclothing for their big day, starting with a robe to wear while having their makeup applied. Wedding dress undergarments tend to match the dress, so nothing shows while at the altar. Cherry Blossom Intimates provides “breast solutions,” named simply because sometimes that is not a bra at all, but, lifting tape, or corset.
“We will suggest shapewear and seamless underwear for that no-show look. Our customers will bring the dress or photo of the dress and we use that to design the perfect package.”
“We see brides choosing white or cream for their wedding night. Those are usually a chemise or slip, something very traditional. We even have customers who ask for a full, bone-in corset. However, for their honeymoon, many people like to spice it up,” she added, laughing.
She talked of the trends, such as nude undergarments that match the skin tone of the wearer.
“Cutouts are very popular, whether it be on the underwear, or back and sides of a slip,” she said. “Bright colors are trending, of course pink, with the Barbie movie, but also jewel tones that make you feel luxurious.”
With bra sizes from A through O cups and band sizes 26-46, Cherry Blossom Intimates truly has something for everyone and Jones offers a loyalty program for customers.
“We want people to think of us when they get dressed in the morning,” she said. “Many times brides and the wedding party will send us photos from their big day. We love seeing the final result.”
06.04.23
THE PROPOSAL: For Thanksgiving of 2021, Eric and I went on a trip to Florida with his dad and brother. My oldest sister, Gabby also lives in Florida. I had a feeling that the proposal would happen on the trip. However, I did not think it would be at Disney World. We are not that big of Disney fans, but my sister works for Disney, so we have gone many times, and we always have so much fun. Eric proposed in front of the castle with my sister and his brother and dad there. We spent the rest of the day riding lots of rides with our families. It was perfect!
We met in Baltimore, MD, where I was in dental school and Eric was in law school both at the University of Maryland. We had some mutual friendsEric’s friend, Adam, was in the class below me in dental school, and my friend, Cara, knew Eric from college. Both were in our wedding party! Eric had seen me studying in the basement of the law library and the first thing he ever said to me was “You’re the girl who always studies in the basement of the law library.” It was the most charming pick up line of all time. I stored him in my phone as “Eric Law Library Boy” and our first date was a Washington Capitals game. Now, I’m a dentist in DC and he is a lawyer, we live in DC and we have a 3 year old golden retriever named Rudy. Eric is still saved in my phone as “Eric Law Library Boy.”
Venue, catering, alcohol: Herrington on the Bay
Hair and Makeup: Brushed Beauty, LLC
Photography: Lauren Taylor
DJ: DJ FO4 (Matt Behum)
Cake: Nellie Souder
Flowers: Blossom and Basket Boutique
Bridesmaids Attire: Azazie
Bridal Dress: Mary’s Bridal
Officiant: Jake Loken
The best part of the wedding day was having all of our friends and family in one place. For me, the whole weekend was amazing because my three sisters all live in different states (one in Atlanta, one in Tampa, and one here in Crofton), so we don’t have many opportunities to all be together. I was able to get a big VRBO for my entire family and having everyone together was the best part. I remember looking around and being amazed at seeing everyone in one room and seeing everything come together so perfectly. My other favorite part was enjoying the ceremony, being able to stand with Eric and look at his eyes while everything happened. We had my brother-in-law, Jake, officiate the wedding, and it was really meaningful. I had grown up boating on the Chesapeake Bay and so it always held my greatest childhood memories, so even before we got engaged, I knew I wanted a waterfront wedding on the Chesapeake. It was amazing to be in a place that was so special to me, surrounded by people that were so special to me.
We went to school together from elementary school through high school. It was small school so we were always acquaintances but didn’t become close friends until senior year when we had more classes together and both did swim team. We started dating at the end of senior year, unsure what we would do about college, but we ended up trying long distance and making it work.
Chris proposed in front of a Florida sunset while we were on vacation in April of 2022.
Venue: The Tidewater Inn
Photographer: Paige Elizabeth Photography
Videographer: Just Hitched Films
Florist: Murdoch Florists
Cake: Blue Heron Catering
Ceremony Music: Two Rivers Chamber Music
DJ: Melted Wax Entertainment
Hair and Makeup: Studio Two Salon
Attire: Bridals by Elena, Revelry, Jos A. Bank
One of our favorite parts of the day was immediately after the ceremony. We went into the small room where we waited before the ceremony and celebrated with the wedding party and our families. It was very emotional and exciting and we were so glad to have a few minutes to celebrate with the people most involved in our wedding!
One snag in our wedding day was bustling the wedding dress. We had practiced this at the bridal store a month before the wedding but forgot to practice it closer to the day of the wedding. Several people from the venue and from the wedding party tried but couldn’t figure it out. Luckily my sister saved the day minutes before we had to walk into the reception and managed to get it bustled!
We went to school together. We didn’t actually like meet then, we just knew of each other. We started being friends after high-school working at a veterinary clinic together. Then we started dating. We didn’t realize but we were actually on the same T-ball team!
I honestly don’t even know what the best part of the day was. It was all amazing. It went by so fast, but the sunset was beautiful. A suprise during the reception that we didn’t know was coming, was “photo bomb”, we got photos with so many people and it was so fun! Another thing I like that we did, at the end of the night, once we got all cleaned up for bed. We made a video of ourselves talking about the day, reading the cards, and reading our guest book.
HARDEST PART: The hardest part was honestly saying goodbye to all of our guests, everyone really made the day the best day.
THE PROPOSAL:
He said he wanted to take me out to dinner to celebrate my promotion at work. Which I was trying to say we don’t have to because it was a couple months prior, we were trying to save money for a house. But he insisted. He said get all pretty and let’s go to dinner. I didnt pick up the hints he was giving of getting my nails done, of course I was oblivious. Even my coworkers were trying to tell me he was going to propose, I didn’t believe them. But we got to dinner, it was lovely, it was a restaurant called Cliffside, which was literally on the side of the cliff. After dinner, the waiter was taking our dishes. He walked away and Joe “forgot” to give him his fork. He tried giving it to him before he walked away then dropped the fork. Then the flashing lights from a camera was going off (the fork was the que for the photographer) and he got down on one knee. I didnt even give him a chance to say anything and just started saying yes. I didnt even see the ring or anything. It was the best night.
Venue: The Fish Whistle at the Granary Photographer: Misty Dawn Photography
Catering: The Fish Whistle at the Granary
Florist: Twisted Vine Wedding and Event Florals Inc
Cake and Desserts: Bings Bakery
Rentals: Something Borrowed
DJ: Bin Branded Entertainment
Photo Blast: Barnyard Photography
When I first noticed the tiny soaps wrapped in cream tulle and tied with a burlap bow, I breathed an audible, awww. The owner of Heather’s Natural Home looked up.
“Those are our most popular favors,” she told me.
“I can see why,” I answered.
We were at Under the Veil & Beyond the Bowtie Wedding Trend Event at the Kent Island Resort last February and Heather Wiley, founder of Heather’s Natural Home was one of the 25 wedding vendors. Her wrapped soaps and bath salts filled the farmhouse table, each soap individually wrapped and tied with a label,
perfect for personalization. Heather makes her products out of her home in Mount Airy.
The child of “hippie” parents, Heather was always a maker, and got her start making body butters, laundry soaps, dishwasher pods, and chapsticks. She made these for her family’s use and would give them as gifts. Soon she realized people would buy them and started listing the products on Etsy.
Heather moved on to making a lot of other body products. These all sold well and so began experimenting with other products with friends and family to see what they liked or didn’t care for. The transition was easy as she started to see a trend in people asking and wanting more natural products for themselves or their home. This all led to wedding, bridal shower, and baby shower favors that used natural ingredients. Once she started selling those, she received excellent feedback and started pursuing that avenue heavily. Heather got most of her recipes online and over time has made them her own.
Heather makes soap every day. Heating and mixing the raw ingredients, she adds herbs, dried flowers, oil, or even seeds to the trays and lets them sit to cure for a couple weeks. Then she cuts and packages them, ready to be sent. The largest order she has had was for 1,000 soaps.
She had a few weeks to fulfill it and used any free time to make more soap.
BRIDES WANT SOMETHING THAT CAN actually be usedPhoto by JennQuinn Creative
Heather is mother of one, with another on the way. When we first met her at Under the Veil & Beyond the Bowtie Wedding Show, she was a few months pregnant and when we recently caught up, she was officially 9 months.
It has not slowed her down.
Heather plans on creating a website for the business, currently she uses Etsy to showcase the products, and has a few more wedding favors in mind she wants to test out.
We caught up with Heather to talk about wedding favor trends she was seeing.
“What I’ve noticed most is that people want personalized favors for their weddings and shower gifts,” Heather said. “I’m also seeing that brides want something that can actually be used, and not just tossed once the guests go home or time has passed. The soap favors I make are my biggest seller, as it’s a useful product.”
The most popular scents are the earthly, herbal ones, such as lavender.’
“I prefer fruity scents, but those are not my bestsellers,” she said.
Heather creates many of her soaps with a delightful combination of scents: Rosemary Mint, Lemon
Verbena, Oatmeal Honey, and Wildflower. She offers personalization on most of her products, by way of labeling, tags or notes. Most people will want a simple combination of their names and their union dates and Heather tries to fulfill creative requests as best she can. Each of her products is made to easily personalize. On her bath salts, there is a tag that wraps around the container for personalization.
“Sometimes I get specific requests for something different than what I offer, and I try to do the best I can because I want to make it special for the person.”
Heather said wedding favor baskets are also trending.
“I would suggest adding variety to a themed basket, such as a spa basket with mini soaps, or specialty soap, body butter, bath salt, and a men’s soap bar,” she said. “And then adding a personalized note or tag from the bride/groom. Guests love things they can actually take home and use, and when you have a variety of sorts, there will always be something for someone.”
Heather’s Natural Home www.etsy.com/shop/HeathersNaturalHome CBW
