Chesapeake Bay Foundation Wedding Inspiration | Annapolis Wedding Photographer

Growing up in western Maryland, one of my favorite things to do was to explore the forest and fields near my home. We didn’t have other children my age who lived nearby, so the woods became my little escape and a place for my creativity and imagination to grow. I’ve lived in Maryland most of my life and really love this small, yet strong state. At a friend’s wedding last fall, a fellow guest from out of town asked “so, what’s with people from Maryland and your flag?” Well, I don’t think the Maryland flag needs much justification - it really is the best state flag! Anyway, we Marylanders are obviously proud of our state and I was so excited to collaborate with 16 local businesses last September to photograph this Made in Maryland styled shoot which put the spotlight on local, ethical, and organic. The wild flower filled fields near the Chesapeake Bay Foundation reminded me of my childhood wanderings and was a beautiful backdrop for this Maryland wedding inspiration shoot. Here are a few more details written by Mallory Jones, owner of Violet Floral Designs, who created the concept for this wonderful shoot:

“Whether through supporting small businesses, making sustainable and cruelty-free choices in beauty products, or buying fair-trade chocolate or locally grown food, there are so many ways we apply our values to the purchases we make. When planning a wedding, how can couples incorporate their love for all things local? In a recent styled shoot with a “Made in Maryland” theme photographed by Katherine Elizabeth Photography and styled by Christine McFarlane Events, 17 local businesses collaborated to create wedding inspiration for sustainability-minded couples who love Maryland. With the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s waterfront setting the scene, natural elements like handmade wood tables by Honeywood Rentals and vivid copper accents created a textured and modern feel. The details that brought the shoot together have one thing in common: whether locally made, vintage, or restored, all were made here in our region. All flowers used for the shoot were grown by Maryland farms and designed by Violet Floral Designs. The two beautiful gowns featured were provided by Modern Trousseau Baltimore’s bridal studio, where brides can order stylish and modern custom gowns, all produced in the United States. The uniquely Maryland custom escort cards and signage created by Signs of Our Lives contributed style and wit, and the gorgeously detailed invitation suites were designed by Ellicott City stationers From Pixels, to Quill.”

If you are seeking ways to make environmentally friendly choices for your wedding, support local businesses, or or buy organic or fair-trade products, here are some key words you can look for when considering your options:

Vintage or Restored - the vintage touch to decor is not only stylish but an eco-conscious choice. At Something Vintage Rentals, couples can rent restored vintage and handmade decor for their wedding. (Featured: http://my.somethingvintagerentals.com/rental-inventory/item/the-bloomington-handmade-plate-set-189144/)
Locally grown - Incorporating locally grown flowers in your wedding are a wonderfully sustainable choice. The Hillen Homestead in Baltimore City, and Plantmasters in Montgomery County, provided the flowers used in the shoot.
Organic - Finding fabulous, locally made beauty products is easier than it may seem! Meghan Whalen from Fleurt Beauty Company opted to use Skin Juice Organics beauty products, based here in Baltimore, for the shoot.
Handmade - From stationery and signage to jewelry, the most special details of your wedding can be created by local businesses and artisans. Since 2012, Maryland jeweler Alison Jefferies of J’Adorn Designs has created custom, contemporary jewelry for weddings and special occasions.
Heirloom - an environmentally conscious and a meaningful choice: incorporating wedding heirlooms passed down within your family or your partner’s is a lovely way to make your wedding feel uniquely your own.