It was a real pleasure for me to do Shannon and Brendan’s romantic engagement session in Washington DC at Lincoln Memorial, because they are truly a nice couple, totally cooperative and great to work with. However, their wedding at the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club was what I had been looking for all along. I was really excited when the day finally came and I got to work with them again! They are one of the nicest couples I’ve ever met.
Shannon and Brendan had always wanted to get married on the water with a strong nautical feel. Unfortunately, Virginia doesn’t have a lot of suitable choices for such venues. Nevertheless, everything was in their favor, because eventually they found the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club. They visited it for a bridal show at the beginning of their engagement just to get some ideas, and immediately fell in love with the gorgeous place, all the incredible staff and amazing vendors who answered all their questions on that first day. Shannon and Brendan were so happy to have chosen this astounding venue with its beautiful views and wonderful team who ensured that their wedding day would be truly amazing and special.
The very talented team of florist from Intrigue Design and Decor provided all the vibrant colored blooms, from the Bride and Bridesmaids’ bouquet, the decorative flowers in the ceremonial canopy, to the table centerpieces in the dining hall. They even blended elements such as starfishes in some of the decors and flower arrangements to match the nautical themed design.
The Bride’s beautiful wedding gown was from White Swan Bridal in Vienna, VA and designed by Kittychen Couture.
At the spur of the moment Shannon decided to do a first look with her Father. It was a touching moment between the two. You could even feel their close bond.
Look at how happy Brendan – the Groom – was, upon seeing his Bride for the first time as she was walking down the aisle escorted by the Father of the Bride.
During the ceremony, love was very much in the air just by witnessing how the Bride and Groom looked at each other. 🙂
Shannon and her Matron of Honor, Anna, are best friends. They wanted to do this pose, a tradition they did during Anna’s wedding.
Shannon and Brendan’s wedding was also blessed with a beautiful sunset sky. That special evening, the guests could see a spectacular view of the Chesapeake Bay with the sun that seemed to be setting right under the bridge.
After we finished taking some beautiful sunset pictures on the beach, Shannon had some sands in her shoes. One of the always helpful and responsive team of CBBC staffs, Amanda, brought water and napkin to wipe off the sands from the Bride’s feet. The caring groom, Brendan, then offered to take over the task. Isn’t that sweet?
This four-tiered beach themed cake was baked and designed by Fiona’s Cakes.
After the delicious dinner prepared by the wonderful chef and all the kitchen staff at CBBC, it was finally time for the first dance of the Bride and Groom, followed by the parents dances.
I just love seizing spontaneous, joyful, and sometimes crazy moments during the reception. There are usually unexpected things that would happen and are absolutely fun to capture!
Finally the night ended with sparkling grand exit!
Congratulations Shannon and Brendan!
May you live happily ever after! 🙂
Leo Dj
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Vendors
Venue and Catering: Chesapeake Bay Beach Club
Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn
Officiant: Ceremony Officiants
Make up and Hair: Up Dos for I Dos
Dress: White Swan Bridal, Vienna, VA by Kittychen Couture
Suit: Joseph A. Banks
Florist: Intrigue Design and Decor
Catering: Chesapeake Bay Beach Club
Cake: Fiona’s Cakes
DJ: Beat2Beat DJs
String Trio: Chesapeake Strings
Limo: Blanchard Limo
Wedding favors: Oh My Chocolate
Shuttle Bus: Towne Transport
Decorations: DIY
Cards: DIY