I covered Jessica and John’s lovely engagement photo session in Washington DC at Adams Morgan and the Smithsonians. It was really exciting and I couldn’t wait to document their wedding ceremony at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church as well as their reception at the Calvert House!
Jessica and John chose the Historic Inns because of it’s unique background. They both love historical locations, so when they heard about the hotel’s history they knew it was a natural fit for their wedding venue. It was also perfect because of its location in Annapolis. Jessica wanted something close to the water as she grew up by a lake in Michigan. Despite John being from Philadelphia and Jessica from Michigan, Annapolis was a perfect location for their wedding because of it’s picturesque historical sites and the fact that it’s a city on the water.
Simply beautiful. The wedding gown from Belissima Bridal Salon, Michigan.
The Groom, his Best Man, and the Groomsmen were gearing up at the Maryland Inn. Meanwhile, the Bride, the Maid of Honor, and the Bridesmaids were all getting ready at the Governor Calvert House.
I really cherish capturing the tender moment of the Father of the Bride upon seeing his lovely daughter for the first time in her wedding gown.
The lovely surprise gifts from Jessica to her Mom and Dad.
Love seeing the Bride’s reaction when she opened the personal mementos from John, her Groom.
Soothing colors of pink and purple blooms adorned the wedding bouquet from florist Fantastic Flowers.
After getting ready at Historic Inn’s of Annapolis, it was time for the ceremony at the church.
The Groom’s expression was full of emotion upon seeing his Bride walked down the aisle, while the Groom’s Mother gleamed happily and proudly at her son.
One of the most touching parts in any wedding is to witness the moments when the Father of the Bride gives away his daughter to her future husband.
In awe of the beautiful breathtaking interior of the Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church.
The Crowning ceremony, an important part in a Greek Orthodox wedding. It is to symbolize a couple officially as Husband and Wife, as they are joined as one.
The Koumbara, the female sponsor or witness of the couple’s sacrament of marriage, interchanged the crowns three times, to honor the Holy Trinity and to symbolize that the Bride and Groom have been joined as one.
The Ceremonial Walk signified the Bride and Groom’s oath to preserve the marriage forever.
After the wedding ceremony, the newlyweds went to Annapolis downtown dock for some pictures by the water, followed by more photos by the State House.
During the first dance, John didn’t realize that Jessica’s family were going to perform live for their music. It was a surprise for him!
The loving moments between the Father of the Bride and his daughter during their dance together.
The radiant Mother of the Groom and her Son during their dance.
Next was the cake cutting. Flower decorations on the cake were the same colors as the wedding bouquet. Wedding cake was designed by Sweet Hearts Patisserie.
Congratulations Jessica and John!
May you both live happily ever after! 🙂
Leo Dj
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Vendors
Venue, Catering, and Hotel: Governor Calvert House
Church: Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church
Officiant: Rev. Father Kosmas Karavellas
Make up: Heather, Behind the Veil
Hair: Victoria, Behind the Veil
Dress: Belissima Bridal Salon, Michigan
Tuxedo: Banana Republic
Florist: Fantastic Flowers
Cake: Sweet Hearts Patisserie
DJ: DJ Lenny, C&J Entertainment
Limo: Limousines Inc.
Photo booth: Shutter Booth
Guest book: Cink Art
Decorations: DIY
Wedding favors: DIY